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MTR seat row shows Hong Kong is not living up to its own high standards on culture
I am writing in response to the recent column by Alex Lo, “The two faces of Hong Kong: incredible kindness and outright rudeness” (May 1).
The article highlighted a conflict over priority seating on the MTR and provoked much discussion among Hongkongers. The incident not only illustrated how Hongkongers lack empathy but also the racism in Hong Kong.
Hong Kong is an international city, home to people from around the world. It is important to learn how to respect other cultures while protecting Hong Kong’s unique charms.
Hongkongers tend to be nice to tourists to create a good global image but they are sometimes disrespectful towards some countries’ cultures, not to mention that of mainland China.
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Many of the terms Hongkongers use to describe foreigners have negative connotations. It is hard to understand why Hongkongers must boost their egos by degrading others.
The conflict between mainlanders and Hongkongers is always a hot topic. Although not all mainlanders behave badly, Hongkongers tar them all with the same brush, portraying themselves as having better manners and ethics.
However, Hongkongers are far from perfect. Conflicts over priority seating, throwing rubbish everywhere and not respecting other cultures are evidence that Hongkongers do not live up to their own high standards. Hongkongers are quick to point out the mistakes of others but forget to reflect on themselves.
It is time for Hong Kong to aim for a more polite interaction with other cultures. An exchange of ideas and cultures would ensure a brighter future for the city.
Andy Yeung, Tiu Keng Leng
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