Fear grips Hong Kong’s international students enjoying summer break at home as tensions run high over anti-government protests

Students, who chose Hong Kong because of its location, global exposure and cutting-edge courses, say they don’t want to be caught in crossfire

Security enhanced on campuses, though there has not yet been any official inquiry on political situation or dropout due to violent protests

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Anti-government protesters set things on fire to obstruct Nathan Road in Mong Kok. Photo: Felix Wong

Published: 12:00pm, 17 Aug 2019Updated: 3:05pm, 20 Aug 2019

Matthew Seaward, a 19-year-old Briton studying in Hong Kong, is currently enjoying his summer break back in his hometown, and holidaying around several countries.

He is supposed to return to Hong Kong by late August for his second year in marketing and human resources at Baptist University. But he has been in two minds ever since the political crisis, stemming from the now-abandoned extradition bill, started in the city. He does not know whether he will be able to continue with his studies or will have to return home if the situation deteriorates.

“I am really worried about the escalating tensions. I am politically neutral. But I just don’t want to get caught in a crossfire,” he says.

“My family and friends are concerned about my returning to the city, and I would not like them to be worrying about me like this.”

Malaysian student Ting Jiatyin says she is worried as the violent protests are affecting civilians as well. Photo: Handout

He is among a number of international students being gripped by fear from afar during the three months of summer holidays, as they get to know from news and social media how the peaceful rallies have gradually turned into bloody showdowns with protesters, riot police and armed mobs.

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