However, whale movement might be unpredictable. It seems difficult to determine the best size of such a restricted area, especially if it covers busy channels. Therefore, education should be the key to preventing such a tragedy from happening again.

02:19

Hong Kong buries Bryde’s whale found dead after days feeding off Hong Kong waters

Hong Kong buries Bryde’s whale found dead after days feeding off Hong Kong waters

We should all be educated on common-sense marine life protection such as not getting too close to these animals just for the sake of snapping photos. Many people “do it for the ’gram”, but that does not mean animals should die “for the ’gram”.

How can we learn from this incident? Perhaps the Bryde’s whale skeleton could be showcased at Sai Kung pier as a memorial. The sign should clearly state that the whale was found dead in Hong Kong waters in July 2023, following visits by overexcited whale watchers in vessels that got extremely close to it.

This way, the whale will not have died in vain. Its death will be made a reminder of our shameful behaviour, and every photo of the memorial will be a warning of the dangers of overexuberant social media posts, chasing likes and cheap gratification.

Christopher Ip, North Point

World’s universities can advocate for change together

Recently, I had the privilege of attending the World University Presidents Forum in Beijing, where I spoke on how academia can play a crucial role in addressing the world’s pressing challenges.

In confronting critical issues such as climate change, income inequality, geopolitical tensions and food security, there are four key areas on which academia must focus its efforts.

Firstly, the establishment of a collaborative framework is crucial. We need to create a platform that fosters collaboration and knowledge sharing beyond national boundaries and political positions, enabling seamless cooperation among institutions worldwide. This framework should facilitate joint research projects, exchange programmes and sharing of best practices, thus enhancing the collective impact of universities.

Secondly, the importance of aligning research efforts must be emphasised. Universities’ primary mission is to generate knowledge and contribute to society. By aligning our research endeavours with real-world problems, we can surely produce impactful outputs that make a tangible difference.

Thirdly, we must encourage all regional and national alliances of academics to integrate discussions and actions related to global challenges. Thus, we can form a unified front that amplifies academia’s collective impact.

Lastly, universities must adopt a proactive approach to policymaking and advocacy. Our research strengths and intellectual capabilities uniquely position us to influence policy decisions and advocate for meaningful change. Engagement with international organisations such as the United Nations and the World Economic Forum ensures that our insights are heard and can contribute to both existing and new policy frameworks.

I firmly believe that the forum marks the beginning of a transformative era for academia, united in purpose and vision.

Professor Mohd Hamdi Abd Shukor, vice-chancellor, Universiti Malaya

City University should rethink its campus access policy

With the end of the Covid-19 pandemic, while most universities in Hong Kong have reopened their campuses to the public, City University continues to control access. Visitors need QR codes, and staff and students must present ID cards to enter the campus, causing inconvenience and wasting manpower.

Such a campus access policy, while intended for safety, hinders academic exchange and undermines the university’s role as an intellectual hub. For example, it becomes inconvenient for holders of JULAC (Joint University Librarians Advisory Committee) cards from other public-funded universities to visit the university’s library.

I call on the University Grants Committee and the Legislative Council to review the policy and persuade CityU to balance safety with its commitment to open exchange and public accountability.

Simon Wang, Kowloon Tong