Letters | As mainlanders return to Hong Kong, let’s learn to respect one another

Readers discuss how an international city has no place for intolerance, and the importance of kindness to animals

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Passengers arrive at Hong Kong West Kowloon station on January 15, as high-speed rail services are resumed between the mainland and Hong Kong. Photo: Sam Tsang

Published: 11:30am, 24 Jan 2023

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Since the Hong Kong-mainland border reopened on January 8, the city has been optimistic that normalcy is just one step away. As mainland visitors start to return, businesses are optimistic about the city’s rebound. Yet even if Hong Kong is back, the problem of Hongkonger-mainlander tensions remains unresolved.

It is true that some mainland visitors caused problems in the past, such as the non-resident pregnant women who abused the city’s healthcare system, or the parallel traders who turned local communities like Sheung Shui into pharmaceutical bazaars. However, mainlanders should not be made the scapegoats for all our city’s woes.

The deteriorating quality of life in Hong Kong, coupled with the government’s inability to secure the interests of residents, fuelled anger at mainlanders. Localist groups emerged, blaming mainlanders for the city’s problems and exacerbating tensions.

Some went as far as to chant hostile slogans at tourist destinations and label mainlanders as “locusts”. The objectification of any group of people is outrageous in a civilised society like Hong Kong.

How can we blame our guests, who fuel our jobs and wealth, for the failures of our government? Historically, mainlanders have always been part of our city and our success. Many of our ancestors are from the mainland. Many have contributed to this magnificent city. Just like us, they consider Hong Kong their home. They love the city as much as we do. They admire our culture, music, films and food – some even learn our language.

Hong Kong has always prided itself on being a culturally tolerant international city. Instead of marginalising our guests, we should extend our hospitality and try to impress those from the mainland as we would any other visitor.