Letters | Singapore is now home, but Hong Kong is where the heart is
- Hong Kong can grow on you in mysterious ways, with its natural splendour, ease of movement and, most of all, its warm, friendly people. I left with a heavy heart, but I will always be praying for you
Singapore transfer orders were in, and it was time to bid adieu to Hong Kong – my home for the last two and a half years.
The moment I set foot in Hong Kong, it had been love at first sight. The abundance and beauty of nature took me by surprise, as I found water, mountains, promenades, sunsets, hikes, trails, beaches and sleepy islands – all within a stone’s throw from the city’s urban heart.
03:55
Sounds of the city: a Hong Kong audio engineer’s eye-opening mission to capture moments of life
Hong Kong grows on you in strange ways. However, what I will miss most are the people, those with whom I shared not many words but lots of smiles and warmth. The backpack stall lady at Sham Sui Po who hugged me and gave me a bag as a gift. The fabric stall owner who smiled with recognition and threw in some mask holders.
The day after the first Covid-19 case was announced, everyone was wearing a mask. Through all these months, they kept Hong Kong safe and the coronavirus at bay. I was moved by their concern for the safety of the community. In all instances no one told them what to do – the people knew what was best for the community.