Editorial | Vibes must be right to attract revellers’ cash
- Push to revitalise Hong Kong’s nightlife has now been joined by discounts over the coming holiday in a bid to promote tourism and consumption
Riding on the momentum of a large-scale campaign to boost the local economy, the Hong Kong government has joined forces with public and private bodies to dish out more concessions and discounts during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holiday. While this will lift the public mood and encourage revellers to spend more during the holiday, economic benefits may be temporary and limited. The authorities should explore more sustainable measures to promote tourism and consumption in the long run.
The free rides on trams, some trains and two ferry services on October 1 are more than goodwill gestures to mark the first post-pandemic National Day. They enable citizens to participate in celebrations across the city and enjoy dining, shopping and cinema discounts. Some government recreational facilities, museums and heritage activities will also be free on the day. Hopefully, the public will further loosen its purse strings.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has sought to play down the lukewarm response to the “Night Vibes Hong Kong” campaign. He said it would take time for people to change their lifestyles and stay out late following the end of Covid-19 curbs, adding the situation had been improving as more businesses extended operating hours.
Be that as it may, the government must go beyond short-term economic stimulus. It is good to hear Lee is prepared to adjust the night vibes campaign when necessary. This should include makeovers for some existing attractions, such as the Temple Street night bazaar. As industry leaders lament, the market in Jordan is losing its appeal to locals and visitors alike. The proposal to add hawker food and open-air performances should be further explored.
That the pandemic has changed lifestyles and travel patterns is a phenomenon to be reckoned with. As the Tourism Board dishes out dining coupons and discounted tour bus trips for visitors to go with the government’s night vibes campaign in the coming “golden week” holiday, mainland authorities are also tapping tourist dollars from Hongkongers, who appear more eager to spend across the border these days. The changing social and economic circumstances will continue to put the government to the test.