In his latest policy address, the chief executive moved away from the usual policy initiatives and handouts to deal with social problems. As part of that, he announced the establishment of the Community Care Fund.
Under the plan, the government and the business sector will each contribute HK$5 billion to the fund to help the underprivileged, which will, at the same time, help promote a culture of social responsibility and philanthropy. Donations will be used to enhance our existing social security system.
The principle of the fund overwhelmingly supports the theme of the policy blueprint - sharing prosperity for a caring society. It is hoped that the fund will address poverty and the widening wealth gap, and ease growing social conflict to build a harmonious society. That's why the fund has been relatively well-received by the community, especially the business sector. A number of tycoons have already pledged their support, so the HK$5 billion target shouldn't be a problem at all.
But some critics have slammed the government over the fund, claiming it is politically motivated to help bolster the popularity of Chief Secretary Henry Tang Ying-yen, who is chairman of the fund, to pave the way for his running for the top job in 2012.
Those who are interested in the top post have accused the government of using the money to fund Tang's election campaign.
Other ill-informed detractors have also joined the chorus, pumping their fists and shouting slogans such as 'government-business collusion' and 'rob from the rich and give to the poor'. Some legislators have even demanded that the government withdraw the proposal.
We are just around the corner from the chief executive election, and many issues will inevitably be politicised during this sensitive period. But, if we look at the big picture and put the general good of the community first, it is meaningless to waste time on conspiracy theories.