Coronavirus: are celebrities such as local pop star Keung To the shot in the arm Hong Kong’s vaccination drive needs?
- Government adviser reveals plan to tap star power, while health expert names popular 22-year-old singer as potential candidate
- Communications experts point to distrust in government as main obstacle, and warn any figure chosen must not be tied to administration
Hong Kong celebrities and influencers are being sought by officials to boost the city’s sluggish Covid-19 vaccination drive, with communication veterans underscoring the importance of leveraging on “credible” figures amid distrust in the government.
Executive councillor Dr Lam Ching-choi, a member of Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor’s de facto cabinet, revealed the plan to the Post on Tuesday after a health expert called on authorities to consider asking rising local pop star Keung To to urge residents to get the jabs.
“According to my understanding, the government is finding some KOLs [key opinion leaders] and artists to help,” Lam said without revealing potential names on the list. “Having Keung To is possible if he is willing.”
Confirming the plan, a government spokesman said the administration was partnering with different broadcasters to produce content involving KOLs and artists as part of publicity efforts.
The Post has contacted Keung’s manager for comment.
