Claims that civil liberties have been curbed since the handover are unfounded, a Malaysian envoy said yesterday.
In rejecting criticism of changes to the Public Order and Societies ordinances, Consul-General Zakaria Sulong said: 'It is not for other countries to tell what is good for Hong Kong. The laws are not meant to make life difficult for Hong Kong people.
'How you run your own house is your own business . . . you have to discipline your own children. You want a peaceful and prosperous family.' Mr Sulong said Tung Chee-hwa, who will meet Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his deputy, Anwar Ibrahim, in Malaysia next week on his first official visit as Chief Executive, was dedicated to his post.
A lot of people thought he would be insensitive to social issues, but it has turned out he is concerned about housing problems and more facilities for the elderly, he said, adding he believed Mr Tung had handled his job and the press well.
'He is also quite eloquent, quite good at responding to questions, very far-sighted.
'I am glad that the right person has been chosen to lead Hong Kong in the initial stage of 'one country, two systems'. I believe Hong Kong is in his good hands,' Mr Sulong said.