EditorialPublic expects John Lee to deliver after laying down concrete plan for recovery of Hong Kong
- Record policy address covers an array of political, economic and social initiatives, but reality is there is no overnight solution to deep-seated problems
Steering Hong Kong out of a troubled past has always been a daunting challenge for John Lee Ka-chiu. Wednesday’s policy address marks another major step by the chief executive to begin a new chapter.
With a clear focus and expansive initiatives across a variety of policy areas, the 84-page document shows Lee is keen to prove himself a “result-oriented” leader. But the journey to full recovery has barely begun.
The blueprint must be accompanied with concrete action if the city’s deep-seated problems are to be solved.
Taking a record two hours and 45 minutes to deliver, Lee’s maiden policy speech is arguably also the most ambitious. In addition to establishing a plethora of new offices and committees to address short- and long-term economic and livelihood issues, there is no lack of measures to enhance national security, the rule of law and governance.
The highlights are wide-ranging. From a new national integration steering group and overseas rebranding drive to building no-frills public housing units and addressing the smell of sewage, the all-encompassing document stands in stark contrast to his relatively lean election manifesto delivered in April.