The government will help NGOs to provide hostels for single youths, Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen said in his policy address. The idea aims to help working-age young people to move away from home as they set out on their own.
In his address, Tsang said the government welcomed proposals by NGOs about building youth hostels on land allocated for 'Government, Institution or Community' purpose.
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups has welcomed the move. 'It can boost the motivation of working youths that live in relatively remote areas like Tin Shui Wai,' the group's spokesman said.
Many young people are finding it difficult to make a living after they leave school. Many face long and expensive journeys to work.
'Building youth hostels in areas such as Mei Foo and Tsuen Wan can be a solution,' the spokesman said.
Dr Alice Yuk Tak-fun, the YMCA of Hong Kong's general manager, said it would provide more options for working youths. However, the issue of rental fees would be vital, she said.