One country, two different cities
Macau and Hong Kong are both governed according to "one country, two systems". The implementation, however, is somewhat different.
Macau and Hong Kong are both governed according to "one country, two systems". The implementation, however, is somewhat different. The former is often seen as a better example in that its society has less discord. Its Basic Law also enjoys wider respect in the community. On the other hand, it is feared that Hong Kong's development is stalled by incessant political bickering. Government policies and decisions are subject to political and legal challenges from time to time.
The contrast was highlighted again as the former Portuguese enclave celebrated the 15th anniversary of reunification. In a keynote speech in the city yesterday, President Xi Jinping commended Macau for its "accurate" implementation of "one country, two systems". He said that only through upholding the central government's authority and protecting the special administrative region's high degree of autonomy would "one country, two systems" move steadily forward. If not, it would be like the "left foot wearing the right shoe". He also told Macau to fend off foreign intervention, and nurture a stronger sense of national pride among the youngsters.
Although Hong Kong was not specifically mentioned in the speech, the state leader was obviously making a veiled reference to the situation here. The emphasis on adhering to "one country" while respecting the "differences in the two systems" is to be welcomed. It should be a reminder to Macau, Hong Kong and the mainland. The remarks on patriotism and foreign intervention are also food for thought for the two SARs.
Hong Kong's relationship with Beijing is more strained when compared to Macau's. Beijing may also want Hong Kong to follow Macau's footsteps to develop the "one country, two systems". But the two cities, having been ruled by different foreign powers, are fundamentally different. While both adopt the executive-led model in which policies and bills come from the chief executive, the system of checks and balances in Hong Kong is much stronger, thanks to a more vibrant media and an assertive legislature. Our unique socio-political circumstances mean we cannot develop in the same way.
Each city has its own strengths and problems. Xi is right in telling Macau to diversify its casino-dominant economy. Hong Kong also needs to be more mindful of Beijing's expectations on the way it develops. The president's remarks should be taken seriously by all sides.
