People of Hong Kong must oppose pro-independence movement
The displays of messages advocating independence for Hong Kong at the campuses of local universities is causing grave public concern.
In particular, the eyebrow-raising remark targeting the education undersecretary, whose son recently committed suicide, was condemned as cold-blooded and inhumane.
In defending their actions, student union leaders argued with their opponents, using vulgar language that Hong Kong people would not expect from would-be teachers and future leaders of our society. They hijacked the freedom of speech and crossed a line with behaviour that runs counter to Hong Kong’s core moral values. However, just condemning these actions will not solve the problem – which is caused by various factors.
First, overworked teachers at local schools, as they must cope with a fixed syllabus, stick to rote learning. They make scant effort to provide moral education for students. Second, busy parents, who cannot afford to spend quality time with their children, yield to their unreasonable demands without disciplining them. Third, the social atmosphere, here and abroad, tends to emphasise human rights and has a negative influence on young minds. Fourth, some misguided sections of the media often twist the meaning of personal freedom at the expense of the common good.
Although there is no easy solution, the Hong Kong community at large strongly opposes the independence movement.
It is therefore up to all the stakeholders I have mentioned to review their roles. They should start with a new mindset regarding their responsibilities for post-1990s youngsters and take positive action to correct their faulty attitudes towards Hong Kong’s future.
For instance, teachers can stress the importance of “one country, two systems” under the Basic Law. Parents should demonstrate that they are proud to be Chinese nationals. The community should show its support by respecting the national anthem law once it is enacted. The media should help promote these efforts made by different sectors.
The task in hand is a complicated one with a lofty goal – to stop the Hong Kong independence concept from luring primary and secondary students.
Unless we all work together with a sense of mission and dedication, the independence movement will soon spread like a virus among younger students. Let us make sure that our younger generation will grow up healthy, law-abiding and sensible in the years to come.
Patsy Leung, Mid-Levels
