New rules for breastfeeding facilities can help build a more baby-friendly Hong Kong
Bernard Chan says Hong Kong has made a positive step by requiring breastfeeding facilities to be included in new commercial and retail sites – but it still has a way to go to create a supportive environment for nursing mothers
Officials in health, buildings and other areas will work out the details of the new requirements, but essentially it will be mandatory for office developments to include lactation rooms for staff who work in the building. Retail and eating premises will have to include baby care facilities for staff and customers.
These new requirements come in response to growing public demand for a more supportive environment for breastfeeding in Hong Kong. Ideally, babies should be mainly breastfed for at least the first six months or longer, as both my sons were. Mother’s milk is optimal for babies in terms of nutrition and building up the baby’s immunity, and there are health benefits for breastfeeding mothers, too.
Breastfeeding in public must be accepted in Hong Kong
One major barrier is that when women return to work after having a baby, breastfeeding becomes more of a challenge because they need time and space to express milk to use later. It is easy to see why mothers often find it more practical to use formula.
Many government policies seem to create controversy. But the government’s plans to require baby care and lactation space in new commercial premises are not likely to run into opposition.
The new rules affect developers, but no more than previous reforms to building regulations on things like barrier-free access for people with disabilities. Similarly, property management companies will take on some extra responsibilities – but nothing they can’t handle. Breastfeeding activists, the health care profession and mothers will obviously welcome these new measures.
How debunking the myths about infant formula can boost breastfeeding in Hong Kong
Hong Kong this year launched a voluntary code on marketing milk formula. The code is quite detailed on labelling, product promotion and advertising that discourages breastfeeding – but not everyone is convinced it is tough enough. As many parents know, however, formula is incredibly useful. Not only is it convenient when travelling, for example, but it has played a role in enabling women to have babies and maintain their careers. The idea is not to banish formula, but to not deprive women of the opportunity to give their babies mainly mother’s milk.
The ultimate driving force here has been mothers themselves. If they keep campaigning, we will see more steps towards a more baby-friendly Hong Kong.
Bernard Chan is convenor of Hong Kong’s Executive Council