South China Morning Post
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As Hongkongers mourn the loss of a beloved landmark, questions have been raised over the mysterious circumstances leading to the restaurant’s ill-fated voyage. Photo: AFP
Opinion
Editorial
by SCMP Editorial
Editorial
by SCMP Editorial

Lessons to be learned from Jumbo tragedy

  • Many questions remain unanswered following the sinking of Hong Kong’s iconic floating restaurant, leading to a barrage of conspiracy theories
SCMP Editorial
SCMP Editorial
Why you can trust SCMP
Shock waves continue to ripple after the iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant capsized amid reportedly inclement weather in the South China Sea on Sunday. As people mourn the loss of a beloved landmark, questions have been raised over the mysterious circumstances leading to the ill-fated voyage.

There needs to be greater transparency and accountability so that lessons can be learned. When the loss-making tourist attraction – further battered by coronavirus-induced restrictions – left for an undisclosed destination following its closure, few would have thought it would literally end up at the bottom of the sea.

The imperial palace-like vessel that was berthed at the Aberdeen typhoon shelter had been etched into the collective memories of visitors and locals alike.

But like many other businesses, it became a burden to the owner as the pandemic took a heavy toll on tourism and dining industries over the past two years. This was not helped when a half-hearted venture to keep it afloat, with the help of nearby Ocean Park, fell flat.

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Hong Kong’s iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant capsizes and sinks in South China Sea

Hong Kong’s iconic Jumbo Floating Restaurant capsizes and sinks in South China Sea

Many have questioned, in hindsight, whether the decades-old restaurant could have survived a long voyage. The secrecy surrounding the journey fuelled conspiracy theories.

Aberdeen Restaurant Enterprises, the parent company, had all along refused to disclose where the sprawling giant was going. It only said it would be towed away for repairs and storage until a buyer for it could be found.

Only on Tuesday evening did the Marine Department break its silence over the saga, confirming it had given permission for the vessel to leave for Cambodia, after the owner had appointed surveyors to ensure its seaworthiness.

What happened to Hong Kong’s Jumbo Floating Restaurant?

It is sadly too late to wonder whether the tragedy could have been foreseen. But the public is entitled to ask whether it could have been avoided had stakeholders been more proactive in exploring other options.
The sinking has been widely reported by the international media. It is a shame that a Hong Kong landmark that once played host to world leaders and dignitaries is now a shipwreck.

Tourist attractions come and go. But the Jumbo mishap calls for the disclosure of more behind-the-scene details so that lessons can be learned.

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