My Hong Kong | Wearing a mask has little to do with cultural differences
- Hongkongers don’t like to be ‘different’ from others and their conforming mentality provides a sense of belonging and security
- People can choose to behave in whatever way they like, but common decency will always transcend cultural differences
In my last column, I wrote that wearing a mask during a viral outbreak is not simply a means of protecting oneself from infection, but is also a way to show respect and care for those around us.
Shortly after publication, I received some constructive feedback, alongside some hate mail that accused me of being ignorant to the issue.
One reader pointed out that the same respect should be extended to the proper disposal of used masks in public places, and I couldn’t agree more.
Meanwhile, another reader mentioned their fear of being targeted amid rising anti-Asian sentiment taking place in Europe, Australasia, and the Americas.
Selfish behaviours need to be sanctioned and so do racists, who will always act in a belligerent manner and find a way to victimise others.
Hopefully, people the world over will learn quickly that in order to overcome the ongoing public health crisis, we must act as a team and be “at the ready” for the worst-case scenario; this means we cannot afford to be complacent.