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"2024 Policy Address" Regional Consultation Recommendations

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Yesterday (25th), Chief Executive Lee Ka Chiu held the second "Policy Address" regional consultation meeting in Mong Kok, attracting approximately 120 citizens from various sectors to participate, with several government officials also in attendance. The purpose of this consultation meeting is to further enhance communication between the government and the public, allowing citizens' opinions to directly influence policy-making and resource allocation.

At the outset, Lee Ka Chiu expressed gratitude for the public's participation, emphasizing the government's high regard for regional consultations. According to him, understanding specific issues in different districts is key to finding solutions. He mentioned that at the first consultation meeting held in Tai Po last week, the insightful opinions of citizens helped him gain a clearer understanding of the concerns in various districts, which is crucial for the effective implementation of policies.

During the meeting, representatives from the retail industry pointed out the challenging business environment they are currently facing and urged the government to take measures to stimulate consumption. They suggested promoting convenience measures for residents of the Greater Bay Area to come to Hong Kong, such as policies like "one visa, multiple entries," and hoped the government could issue consumption vouchers to encourage local spending. This reflects citizens' urgent expectations for economic recovery and their hope for a proactive government response.

Furthermore, citizens also raised suggestions regarding housing. Some speakers hoped for the government to restart the public housing sales program and study pricing and management models for public housing estates to address housing issues. This proposal reflects citizens' emphasis on living environments and their expectations for more government measures in housing policies.

During the meeting, some citizens expressed the need for more flexible loan schemes, such as 100% guaranteed loans, and hoped for extended repayment periods. This indicates citizens' concern and expectations regarding financial policies when facing economic pressures.

Sports development was also a significant topic at the meeting. Some citizens mentioned the hope for the government to increase incentives to encourage citizens and businesses to support sports development and consider industrializing sports to develop the sports economy. In response, Lee Ka Chiu highlighted Hong Kong's excellent performance in the Olympics, stating that the government will listen to more opinions in this regard and actively promote related policies.

Regarding issues concerning ethnic minorities, some citizens suggested improvements in mainland travel permit applications and hoped for more elements of national education to promote inclusivity and diversity, reflecting society's concern for inclusivity and diversity.

After the meeting, Lee Ka Chiu emphasized that the government will absorb these opinions and consider various policies to promote economic growth. He pointed out that Hong Kong's economy is undergoing a transformation and reshuffling phase, with certain industries facing challenges, necessitating a revitalization to bring prosperity. He pledged that the government will discuss with mainland authorities to seek strategies to increase foot traffic.

In summary, this consultation meeting not only serves as a platform for the government to listen to public opinions but also as an opportunity to promote participation from various sectors of society in public affairs. Through this meeting, Lee Ka Chiu demonstrated his openness to different opinions and hopes to respond to citizens' needs through effective policies. The upcoming Policy Address will be adjusted based on the results of this consultation, aiming to better align with citizens' expectations and actual needs in policy implementation. This not only signifies the importance placed on public opinions but also reflects a responsible attitude towards the future development of Hong Kong.

 

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