Moreover, a parade like this facilitates the exchange of culture among different countries. As the performing groups include both local and overseas performers, both spectators and the performers can learn about and admire diverse cultures through the parade.

For instance, this year’s parade included unicyclists from Japan, diabolo performers from Taiwan, jugglers from the Czech Republic and pogo performers from the US.

This year, however, the days leading up to the new year were a time of sadness for Hong Kong, with the city facing the tragedy of one of its deadliest traffic accidents: 19 people died and more than 60 others were injured on February 10 when a double-decker bus flipped on its side in Tai Po.

As the city tries to recover from this tragedy, it is hoped that the new year parade has marked a good start to the Year of the Dog.

Katrina Lo, Tseung Kwan O

Not fair to litter Victoria Park grounds

I was very happy to see more secondary school and university students setting up their own booths at the fair. I think it was a good chance for students to gain job experience and learn entrepreneurial skills, to face business challenges later in life.

Some students even designed their own products to sell. This can help them explore and develop their creativity, which is something that cannot learned from textbooks.

However, there was one discordant note. Many booths were selling food, such as dragon’s beard candy, traditional candy, coconut wrap and maltose crackers. I found a lot of rubbish strewn on the floor around these stalls, such as plastic wrappers and bags, and toothpicks.

I think most people dumped the rubbish on the ground because they were unable to find a rubbish bin nearby, as there aren’t too many of them around, especially in Victoria Park.

But even if there are no rubbish bins, people should be aware that they must dispose of their trash responsibly, not just dump it on the ground.

The government could think about having extra rubbish bins in the park next year, especially near the booths selling food items, so that we do not see a repeat of such littering.

Lastly, I found many people buying a lot of “Fai Chun” calligraphy banners at the fair to decorate their homes. I understand that this is a New Year tradition, but I think they were buying far too many. I suggest that people reuse their Fai Chun, so that they do not need new ones each year, and so celebrate in a much more environmentally friendly way.

Kitty Lui, Hang Hau

Give Hong Kong children room to play

A survey also showed that 68 per cent of primary schools studied allocated less than 40 minutes for recess, while 74 per cent allowed under 50 minutes for lunch. Both are below the Education Bureau’s recommendations of two 20-minute recesses and an hour-long lunch break daily.

This is not the age for children to be always cooped up in class or at home, finishing hours of assignments. I believe it is far better to encourage students to go outdoors and engage in physical activities, as that is good for their physical and mental health, and will help them to learn better as well. Schools could hold more outdoor activities related to course work. That way, students can learn more easily and are not under constant stress.

Chloe Kwok, Kwai Chung

Ageless Federer is an inspiration in so many ways

Federer’s drive to regain primacy and dedication are an inspiration. Nicknamed Fedex for his winning ways, the Swiss star is an example for professionals in all fields pursuing excellence, not merely in sports.

Moreover, he is a perfect gentleman on and off the tennis courts, with his exemplary manners, politeness and decency.

Despite his phenomenal achievements and wealth, he continues to be very humble and unassuming. He is a role model for all, even those who, like me, may have never picked up a tennis racket.

Rajendra Aneja, Mumbai