Editorial | Hong Kong’s arrests over talent scheme scam show need for vigilance
Crackdowns on individuals and syndicates trying to defraud the talent pass scheme are necessary to ensure all approvals are worthy ones
Hong Kong has long been a magnet for the best and brightest from overseas, even more so under the government’s ambitious talent trawl in recent years. Regrettably, the much-touted admission scheme has also become an opportunity for scammers to make money. The authorities must stamp out abuses and ensure those recruited can enhance the city’s competitiveness.
The talent scheme has received about 135,000 applications since it was launched in December 2022, with 109,000 approved as of June. The number in connection with the alleged scam is relatively small. But for a recruitment drive of such a wide scale, there is always room for abuse, be it individual acts or well-orchestrated syndicates.
The application mechanism has already been strengthened through the requirement for proof of academic qualifications certified by designated third-party credential verification bodies or the awarding institutions. The authorities have rightly pledged to vet every application strictly and step up random checks.
We hope the latest arrests show the monitoring mechanism is working well, rather than otherwise. The authorities must vigorously check every case to ensure all approvals are worthy ones. At stake is not just the city’s image and reputation, but also its manpower and competitiveness.