Letters | John Lee must address fear of Hong Kong quarantine arrangements

Readers discuss how the city’s quarantine policy has deterred many from coming home, and how Covid-19 policy can go hand in hand with science hub ambitions

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An aerial view of Penny’s Bay Quarantine Centre on Lantau Island. For many, the threat of being incarcerated in a government facility, if one tests positive for Covid-19, is a worse threat than the disease itself. Photo: Sam Tsang

Published: 11:30am, 20 Jul 2022

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This is an open letter to Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu about the current Covid-19 quarantine arrangements in Hong Kong.

Dear Mr Lee, I have been a resident of Hong Kong for over 40 years, and I am now a senior citizen.

My husband and I have stayed overseas for a year already, primarily because of the current restrictions which are impacting and disrupting the lives of so many people. For many of us, the threat of being incarcerated in a government quarantine centre, if one tests positive for Covid-19, is a worse threat than the disease itself.

Quarantine hotels are also unsatisfactory, with their closed windows, and the cleanliness and hygiene in some is questionable. For many people, especially the elderly, being allowed to isolate in their own home, if their homes are spacious enough to isolate safely and effectively, would be so much safer.

For people who live in small homes and crowded conditions, the government quarantine facilities would be safer. Please free up these spaces for the people who really need them.

I totally agree with the mask mandate, electronic wristbands and a colour-coded “Leave Home Safe” app. Strict penalties should be enforced if these rules are flouted.