https://www.scmp.com/rss/321522/feed Bernard Chan, born in 1965, is a Hong Kong businessman. He is chairman of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority board and chairman of the M+ board. The grandson of Chin Sophonpanich, the late founder of Bangkok Bank, he is a former convenor of Hong Kong's Executive Council. He is also chairman of Asia Insurance Company Limited. en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Bernard Chan Bernard Chan The sentencing of Jimmy Lai Chee-ying has been cited by several Western officials and media outlets as further evidence that Hong Kong’s legal system is in decline. Lai, the founder of the now-closed Apple Daily newspaper, faced multiple charges, including two counts of conspiracy to collude with foreign forces and one count of conspiracy to publish seditious publications. He was convicted last December and sentenced to 20 years’ imprisonment in February. That same month, however, the Court of... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3348705/dont-let-geopolitical-rivalry-skew-debate-over-jimmy-lais-sentencing?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3348705/dont-let-geopolitical-rivalry-skew-debate-over-jimmy-lais-sentencing?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 03 Apr 2026 01:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan By the time this column appears, the world will feel very different from when my previous column appeared earlier this month. In just days, a conflict that some in Washington seemed to believe would quickly topple Iran’s leadership has instead become a potentially long and uncertain war, with little clarity on how or when it will end. The front lines will have shifted, more oil tankers will have been stuck at sea and more flights cancelled, and there will almost certainly have been further... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3347056/iran-war-revives-pandemic-era-shocks-and-may-go-further?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3347056/iran-war-revives-pandemic-era-shocks-and-may-go-further?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Mar 2026 01:30:09 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Athletes of Asian heritage have come to the fore at this month’s Winter Olympics. They broke records, reshaped perceptions and inspired millions worldwide. Yet in the United States, the conversation around two of the most successful athletes, Eileen Gu, the freestyle skier representing China, and Team USA figure skater Alysa Liu, has too often drifted from their incredible achievements to questions of identity, loyalty and partisan point-scoring. This speaks volumes about the anxieties of a... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3345433/let-achievements-eileen-gu-and-alysa-liu-speak-themselves?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3345433/let-achievements-eileen-gu-and-alysa-liu-speak-themselves?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Mar 2026 01:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan I travelled to Zurich, Switzerland, last month to attend the Asia Leaders Series, a forum designed to foster candid exchange between Europe and Asia, offering policymakers, economists and business leaders a trusted setting to engage seriously with global challenges. The event took place on the eve of the World Economic Forum meeting. I was asked to moderate a session on a topic that was hardly novel: US-China rivalry. I approached the event with modest expectations. Strategic competition between... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3343913/us-and-china-can-again-find-common-ground-ais-risks?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3343913/us-and-china-can-again-find-common-ground-ais-risks?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 19 Feb 2026 12:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Europe’s political and business elite arrived at the World Economic Forum in Davos this year with nerves already frayed after a bruising first year of US President Donald Trump’s second term. That period was defined by the imposition of a protectionist tariff strategy to gain economic and geopolitical leverage, an often combative approach to the war in Ukraine and renewed doubts over Nato security guarantees. In the run-up to Davos, the White House threatened eight European countries – including... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3342380/after-davos-search-begins-what-comes-after-post-cold-war-order?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3342380/after-davos-search-begins-what-comes-after-post-cold-war-order?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 05 Feb 2026 21:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan The recent drama surrounding US action in Venezuela, its renewed interest in Greenland and tariff threats on governments that object, along with comments on Cuba, Colombia and Mexico, appear disjointed – part diplomacy, part law enforcement, part political theatre. Like many observers, I rely on the news to try to make sense of the policy logic and what it may mean for those who have to live with its consequences. Washington’s rationale for its actions in Venezuela was initially framed as law... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3340704/venezuela-greenland-trump-using-us-power-rewrite-rules?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3340704/venezuela-greenland-trump-using-us-power-rewrite-rules?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Jan 2026 01:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan I attended a memorial service last month for victims of the Nanking massacre, held at the Hong Kong government offices in Admiralty. Such occasions are solemn reminders of history’s darkest moments, forcing us to pause and reflect on the scale of the tragedy that unfolded after the city was seized on December 13, 1937, and the broader suffering inflicted on China during World War II. Government figures estimate that military and civilian casualties exceeded 35 million, with 21 million lives... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3339076/amid-historical-tensions-japan-hong-kong-must-engage-future?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3339076/amid-historical-tensions-japan-hong-kong-must-engage-future?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Jan 2026 01:30:11 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan China’s National Press and Publication Administration introduced gaming regulations for under 18s in 2019, including a curfew and daily playing time limits of 90 minutes on weekdays and three hours at weekends and on public holidays. When the authorities tightened the rules in 2021, some Western media characterised the measures as draconian and a textbook example of state overreach. Since then, the regulation of minors’ online activity has attracted wider attention as more governments grapple... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3337434/west-getting-same-page-china-childrens-social-media-use?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3337434/west-getting-same-page-china-childrens-social-media-use?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 26 Dec 2025 01:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Within hours of the Wang Fuk Court fire, international news channels were broadcasting harrowing scenes of burning buildings and a community in chaos. Thousands were displaced, the death toll has, sadly, reached 160, and the city is still seeking answers. Hong Kong was thrust into the global media spotlight, drawing its most intense scrutiny since 2019. While the Tai Po fire dominated international coverage, the deadly floods in southern Thailand and landslides in West Sumatra received limited... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3335921/after-tai-po-fire-hong-kong-needs-support-compassion-and-answers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3335921/after-tai-po-fire-hong-kong-needs-support-compassion-and-answers?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Dec 2025 01:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan China’s National Games marked a historic milestone this year: for the first time since the event’s inception in 1959, competitions were held throughout the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area – a clear sign of the region’s increasing connectivity and spirit of cooperation. Hong Kong achieved its highest medal tally, with nine golds, two silvers and eight bronzes, fostering pride in a city discovering a new level of confidence through sport. Behind every medal lies a personal story of... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3334268/national-games-underscored-ties-bind-hongkongers-rest-china?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3334268/national-games-underscored-ties-bind-hongkongers-rest-china?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 27 Nov 2025 21:30:11 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan The election of Zohran Mamdani as New York’s mayor has drawn worldwide attention, resonating well beyond US borders. His self-description as a “democratic socialist” has reignited familiar debates, sparking curiosity and concern. Critics have labelled him a communist and portrayed his political programme as a radical departure from the American mainstream. Meanwhile, supporters view his victory as a sign of a generational shift – a growing impatience with the inequalities present in many... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3332499/why-zohran-mamdanis-new-york-election-win-resonates-beyond-us?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3332499/why-zohran-mamdanis-new-york-election-win-resonates-beyond-us?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 13 Nov 2025 21:30:11 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Few moments in US history have tested academic freedom as much as the present, with US President Donald Trump’s administration releasing a 10-point Compact for Academic Excellence in Higher Education. What started as bureaucratic proposals have hardened into a national doctrine tying federal funding to political conformity. It is changing the nature of US universities and reshaping international education options. The plan, initially sent to nine universities, proposed conformity with certain... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3330793/how-hong-kong-can-capitalise-trumps-attacks-us-universities?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3330793/how-hong-kong-can-capitalise-trumps-attacks-us-universities?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 31 Oct 2025 01:30:09 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan My previous column explored how the fear of repercussions is driving widespread self-censorship within institutions and public discourse. Yet, at the same time, the world of sports is experiencing a troubling increase in toxic behaviour, where once-unifying arenas are becoming battlegrounds of hostility and division. At the recent Ryder Cup at Bethpage Black in New York, Rory McIlroy and the European team faced relentless abuse, including verbal taunts, homophobic slurs and even outright... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3329131/hong-kong-can-showcase-true-sportsmanship-national-games?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3329131/hong-kong-can-showcase-true-sportsmanship-national-games?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 Oct 2025 01:30:09 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Charlie Kirk’s death in the United States was a major political shock. But what followed was more revealing: employees disciplined for social media posts, celebrities facing backlash for controversial remarks and businesses scrambling to distance themselves from the fallout. The controversy highlighted a broader truth of the digital age: a single comment, whether in jest or in earnest, can escalate into a crisis. In today’s hyperconnected world, words travel instantly, reach audiences well... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3327429/even-west-era-consequence-free-expression-over?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3327429/even-west-era-consequence-free-expression-over?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 02 Oct 2025 12:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan China’s recent high-profile diplomatic activity, including the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Tianjin and the Victory Day parade in Beijing in the same week, conveyed more than international headlines suggested. Although much of the media spotlight focused on the optics of Russian President Vladimir Putin, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, I think the real story centres on pragmatic engagement, regional reassurance and the realignment of... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3325907/focusing-pageantry-west-misses-point-chinas-diplomacy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3325907/focusing-pageantry-west-misses-point-chinas-diplomacy?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 19 Sep 2025 01:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Since its launch late in 2022, the Top Talent Pass Scheme has become a central component of Hong Kong’s global competitiveness strategy. By July this year, the scheme had attracted close to 140,000 applications. Of these, around 110,000 were approved, resulting in more than 90,000 new arrivals to the city. This influx of skilled residents is a sign that Hong Kong remains a strong magnet for talent. However, as former chief executive Leung Chun-ying and other commentators have warned, the real... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3324217/hong-kongs-top-talent-scheme-succeeds-if-people-are-really-staying?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3324217/hong-kongs-top-talent-scheme-succeeds-if-people-are-really-staying?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 05 Sep 2025 01:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan The Registration of Same-sex Partnerships Bill, currently before Hong Kong’s Legislative Council, has become a key point in debates about the city’s traditional values and international reputation. Indications suggest it is likely to be rejected: many lawmakers have dismissed the bill as impractical or warned it could set a precedent for advancing same-sex marriage, with only a minority expressing support. Rejecting the bill, however, has serious consequences. It risks portraying Hong Kong as a... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3322539/hong-kong-cannot-afford-ignore-civil-rights-same-sex-couples?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3322539/hong-kong-cannot-afford-ignore-civil-rights-same-sex-couples?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 22 Aug 2025 01:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Fear is a powerful emotion with a profound capacity to influence not only individual choices but also the direction of national and global policies. In today’s polarised world, fear is no longer just a spontaneous reaction; it has become a deliberately used tool to influence public opinion, guide behaviour and shape narratives. This intentional use of fear has wide-reaching consequences, such as subtle changes to societal perceptions. From headlines warning of conflict over Taiwan to data... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3321040/how-fear-became-tool-manipulation-not-just-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3321040/how-fear-became-tool-manipulation-not-just-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 07 Aug 2025 12:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Between 2012 and 2018, Hong Kong experienced substantial growth, partly driven by a notable rise in tourism. During this period, Ocean Park often operated at full capacity, and the MTR was frequently crowded with travellers carrying suitcases. The streets of many neighbourhoods were transformed to provide goods and services mainly catering to mainland visitors. For some locals, daily routines were disrupted as queues formed at bakeries and popular spots, creating a mixture of emotions about the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3319307/tourists-return-hong-kong-has-second-chance-getting-balance-right?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3319307/tourists-return-hong-kong-has-second-chance-getting-balance-right?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 25 Jul 2025 01:30:08 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Hong Kong prides itself on transparency, caution and adherence to the rule of law. Policy proposals undergo scrutiny and seek to strike a balance between legal, social and public interests. However, in an era of increased public scrutiny, the optics of governance often overshadow its true purpose or public benefit. This is frequently the case in large-scale projects, where perceptions of favouritism or collusion undermine public trust even when there are genuine efforts towards progress. The... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3317499/dont-let-perceptions-collusion-derail-hong-kongs-large-scale-projects?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3317499/dont-let-perceptions-collusion-derail-hong-kongs-large-scale-projects?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 11 Jul 2025 01:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan In today’s political climate, perception often matters as much as, if not more than, policy results. This is particularly clear in the United States under Donald Trump’s presidency. Whether one supports him, Trump’s skill in shaping the narrative and rallying support has changed modern politics, even when his proposals are unrealistic or unattainable. Consider Trump’s earlier proposal to impose a 145 per cent tariff on Chinese imports. Economists universally dismissed the idea as unfeasible.... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3315814/us-hong-kong-governance-divided-world-ever-more-complex?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3315814/us-hong-kong-governance-divided-world-ever-more-complex?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Jun 2025 01:30:09 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan Four months into his second term, US President Donald Trump has launched a high-stakes campaign against three pillars of American society: mainstream media, elite universities and the nation’s most influential law firms. Through lawsuits, executive orders and threats to funding, he has exerted unprecedented pressure on many institutions, sparking debate about whether his actions signify genuine reform or personal vendettas. Critics argue that these confrontations reflect a desire to settle old... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3314013/trump-hits-out-critics-damage-america-may-go-far-deeper?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3314013/trump-hits-out-critics-damage-america-may-go-far-deeper?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Jun 2025 01:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan The Trump administration’s astonishing decision to revoke Harvard’s ability to enrol international students has reverberated far beyond the university. This action, characterised by the unpredictability and brinkmanship that defines recent US policy, escalates tensions, dominates headlines and wields uncertainty as leverage. It undermines the very essence of America’s academic and scientific leadership and its role as a beacon to global talent. The impact is personal for the nearly 6,800... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3312169/trumps-harvard-blow-risks-irreversible-damage-us-academic-leadership?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3312169/trumps-harvard-blow-risks-irreversible-damage-us-academic-leadership?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 29 May 2025 12:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan The US-China tariff war has sharply focused attention on global trade, supply chains and economic interdependence, forcing people worldwide to confront the challenges of today’s interconnected economy. While the conflict has highlighted the fragility of supply chains, recent events have also ushered in positive developments, fostering a sense of hope and optimism. At the beginning of the week, negotiations between the world’s two largest economies in Geneva resulted in a 90-day pause on tariff... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3310356/thanks-trump-we-now-have-profound-appreciation-supply-chains?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3310356/thanks-trump-we-now-have-profound-appreciation-supply-chains?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 16 May 2025 01:30:07 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan From Australia to Europe and the United States, Tesla has become a focal point of protests, with demonstrators accusing the company and its CEO, Elon Musk, of embodying divisive political and economic decisions. The recent wave of vandalism targeting Tesla vehicles, showrooms and charging stations underscores a broader trend in which iconic businesses and institutions become lightning rods for public frustration and societal grievances. This phenomenon is not unique. Hong Kong also faced... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3308562/deja-vu-hong-kong-tesla-becomes-lightning-rod-public-anger?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3308562/deja-vu-hong-kong-tesla-becomes-lightning-rod-public-anger?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 02 May 2025 01:30:08 +0000 The global economy is caught in the crossfire of an escalating trade war and policy shifts driven by the US administration. While the world largely dismissed provocative statements such as annexing Canada or Greenland as rhetorical stunts, the Trump administration’s trade wars and tariff policies have far-reaching consequences. They have introduced severe volatility into global markets and undermined the foundations of trade. The lack of a clear international response to the remarks about Canada... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3306772/why-cowed-silence-amid-trumps-attacks-global-trade-and-stability?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3306772/why-cowed-silence-amid-trumps-attacks-global-trade-and-stability?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 18 Apr 2025 01:30:08 +0000 Asia is at a critical juncture. As natural disasters increase in frequency and intensity, the region remains dangerously underprepared, leaving communities, economies and industries vulnerable, especially the insurance sector. This year, events such as the magnitude 7.7 earthquake in Myanmar, which affected neighbouring countries such as Thailand, the magnitude 6.8 earthquake in Tibet, wildfires in South Korea and Japan, and severe snowstorms across East Asia have resulted in widespread... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3304937/asia-racked-natural-disasters-needs-insurers-step?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3304937/asia-racked-natural-disasters-needs-insurers-step?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Apr 2025 12:30:09 +0000 Improving efficiency has become a critical priority for governments worldwide, especially given rising financial pressures. In the United States, gross federal debt had surged to US$35.5 trillion by the end of last year, and servicing it accounts for 16 per cent of federal spending. In response, the new Trump administration established the controversial Department of Government Efficiency (Doge) to reduce public spending. However, its lack of independent oversight and the concentration of power... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3303035/why-hong-kong-must-persevere-reforming-civil-servants-pay?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3303035/why-hong-kong-must-persevere-reforming-civil-servants-pay?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Mar 2025 01:30:07 +0000 Hong Kong’s recent budget measures, announced by Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po, aim to balance fiscal prudence with economic recovery by increasing revenue while controlling government expenditure and minimising the impact on the public. They highlight the city’s struggle to implement sustainable solutions to its structural fiscal issues, which have persisted for years. Key budget measures include a pay freeze for civil servants – including personnel in the executive authorities,... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3301198/pay-freezes-wont-fix-hong-kongs-chronic-fiscal-problems?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3301198/pay-freezes-wont-fix-hong-kongs-chronic-fiscal-problems?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Mar 2025 01:30:09 +0000 The Trump administration has fulfilled a central campaign promise by issuing sweeping executive orders representing an unprecedented rollback on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) across the United States. These measures have dismantled DEI initiatives in the federal workforce and military while enforcing a federal policy that formally recognises only two genders. The measures extend beyond the public sector. The administration is targeting private companies by threatening investigations and... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3299309/us-hong-kongs-challenge-balance-progressive-ideals?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3299309/us-hong-kongs-challenge-balance-progressive-ideals?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 21 Feb 2025 01:30:09 +0000 I was among the 50 attendees from Asia and Europe at the recent Asia Leaders Series annual meeting in Zurich, Switzerland. Created in 2016, it is a high-level platform that brings together global leaders, policymakers, academics and business executives for dialogue on critical geopolitical and economic issues. I am a member of its global advisory board. This year’s meeting was strategically scheduled on the eve of the World Economic Forum (WEF) meeting in Davos, making it very convenient for key... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/asia-opinion/article/3297480/world-sound-bites-leaders-need-forum-engage-candour?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/asia-opinion/article/3297480/world-sound-bites-leaders-need-forum-engage-candour?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 07 Feb 2025 01:30:09 +0000 As one of the world’s most densely populated and expensive cities, Hong Kong’s public housing is a vital safety net for its low-income residents. But as the government grapples with the multifaceted challenges of balancing a limited supply of affordable housing with increasing demand, it must also address abuses of the public housing system while ensuring equity and support for its most vulnerable residents. Recently, local media channels and online platforms have highlighted the challenges... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3295835/hong-kong-must-beware-fallout-fixing-public-housing-ills?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3295835/hong-kong-must-beware-fallout-fixing-public-housing-ills?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 24 Jan 2025 01:30:08 +0000 The Chinese economic miracle occurred on a far greater scale than even the most experienced observers could have imagined. It transformed a country with a gross domestic product of US$361 billion in 1990 into an international financial powerhouse and market leader in several technology-related areas. By 2023, its GDP had risen to US$17.8 trillion, an increase of over 4,800 per cent. This economic transformation lifted over 800 million people from poverty, vastly expanded the middle class and led... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3293929/china-will-rein-vicious-competition-root-its-overcapacity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3293929/china-will-rein-vicious-competition-root-its-overcapacity?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 09 Jan 2025 12:30:09 +0000 Bernard Chan Bernard Chan The US presidential election has occupied international media attention for the past year, its twists and turns worthy of a Hollywood film, with friends, family members and donors vying for the next president’s favour, some hoping for roles in the new administration. Unfortunately, nepotism in US politics, as in many countries, is nothing new. Favouring relatives or friends with appointments and contracts, often regardless of qualifications, has deep historical roots and remains a significant... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3292063/against-us-nepotism-and-transparency-concerns-hong-kongs-integrity-shines?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3292063/against-us-nepotism-and-transparency-concerns-hong-kongs-integrity-shines?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Dec 2024 01:30:09 +0000 Hong Kong’s highly anticipated Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development signals the government’s commitment to developing the sector. With the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority at the forefront, key stakeholders, including the Hong Kong Arts Development Council, are committed to driving the agenda forward. The blueprint aligns with the chief executive’s policy address this year. It is designed to reinforce Hong Kong’s position as one of the most prominent players... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3290346/how-hong-kong-can-take-arts-and-culture-next-level?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3290346/how-hong-kong-can-take-arts-and-culture-next-level?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Dec 2024 01:30:08 +0000 Hong Kong’s business community has long recognised the geopolitical and economic challenges we face daily, and I, along with many others, have frequently shared my perspectives on these. In today’s fast-changing world, some industries will fare better than others. For example, the food and beverage sector might find it remarkably difficult to return to its dynamic past, as the city’s operating costs are very high compared to in Shenzhen. In contrast, the prospects for our financial and... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3288385/beijings-message-hong-kongs-business-community-clear-and-simple?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3288385/beijings-message-hong-kongs-business-community-clear-and-simple?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 29 Nov 2024 01:30:10 +0000 Many Americans were shocked when Donald Trump was first elected president in 2016, believing he did not represent American values or have the people’s mandate – Hillary Clinton won the popular vote, with almost 2.9 million more votes than Trump. His presidency highlighted deep divisions within American society and solidified his status as a polarising figure. His aggressive approach broke norms: he openly targeted opponents, team members, politicians from both parties, foreign leaders and the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3286420/does-trumps-victory-reflect-shift-traditional-american-values?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3286420/does-trumps-victory-reflect-shift-traditional-american-values?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 15 Nov 2024 01:30:08 +0000 I was saddened when a small group of Pomona College students in the United States recently barricaded themselves inside Carnegie Hall, causing significant damage and choosing violence over discussion. They were a minority in a group that included masked protesters, some later identified as students from other Claremont Colleges, a consortium of seven independent institutions including Pomona. Faculty members, students and even visiting high-schoolers were intimidated and forced to evacuate the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3284497/what-us-student-protesters-can-learn-their-hong-kong-peers?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/world-opinion/article/3284497/what-us-student-protesters-can-learn-their-hong-kong-peers?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 01 Nov 2024 01:30:08 +0000 I was pleased to read a recent Harvard Business Review article that highlighted four key strengths of the Chinese economy, exploring their positive implications for multinational companies. The analysis of China’s innovation ecosystem, investment in the Global South, ultra-competitive markets and the potential of its 1.4 billion consumers was particularly compelling. The article was co-authored by high school student James B. Estes, who is conducting research at the Fairbank Centre of Chinese... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3282614/future-us-china-ties-hands-next-generation?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3282614/future-us-china-ties-hands-next-generation?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 17 Oct 2024 21:30:08 +0000 Last month, the US House of Representatives introduced more than two dozen bills in what was designated “China Week”, to address issues related to China ranging from trade and economic espionage to biosecurity and farmland acquisition. The bills were introduced in a single package vote and passed using a fast-track procedure requiring a majority of two-thirds of those present and voting. While all 25 bills were approved, their future is still being determined. Given the complexity of the issues... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3280823/real-victims-when-us-politicians-demonise-china-and-attack-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3280823/real-victims-when-us-politicians-demonise-china-and-attack-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 03 Oct 2024 12:30:08 +0000 The Paris 2024 Paralympic Games exceeded the high expectations set by the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. More than 4,000 athletes competed in 549 medal events across 22 sports. The Games showcased the remarkable talents of athletes with disabilities set against a backdrop of iconic Parisian landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower, Château de Versailles and the Grand Palais. The Paralympic Games are immensely important as a global celebration of ability, resilience and inclusion. Established to provide... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3278974/paris-games-and-philanthropy-show-power-human-spirit?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3278974/paris-games-and-philanthropy-show-power-human-spirit?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Sep 2024 01:30:08 +0000 Oxfam’s core mission globally is to combat poverty and social injustice and address the root causes of inequality. The organisation operates through various programmes dedicated to economic justice, gender equality, climate action and humanitarian response, all aimed at fostering a world where everyone can thrive and live with dignity. As a former vice-chairman of Oxfam Hong Kong, I have always been inspired by the organisation’s core values and significant contributions to social justice.... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3277189/why-china-taking-wealth-redistribution-seriously?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/china-opinion/article/3277189/why-china-taking-wealth-redistribution-seriously?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Sep 2024 01:30:07 +0000 The Olympic Games in Paris this summer were a triumph for France. Some 10,500 athletes turned up, representing 206 National Olympic Committees and the IOC Refugee Olympic Team. As always, the Games showcased the diversity of athletes worldwide and were a fitting testament to the human spirit and pursuit of excellence. I watched the track and field events at the 80,000-seat Stade de France and the incredible atmosphere and camaraderie between athletes and their supporters across different... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3275380/olympics-triumph-paris-and-inspiration-all?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3275380/olympics-triumph-paris-and-inspiration-all?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Aug 2024 01:30:12 +0000 Emerging from the ashes of two devastating world wars, the Salzburg Global Seminar was founded in the summer of 1947, at a pivotal moment when the international order was in flux. Recognising the need to foster greater mutual understanding between nations, the organisation’s founders envisioned a platform for open dialogue and exchange across borders. In an era marked by rising nationalism, ideological polarisation and great-power rivalry, particularly between China and the United States , such... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3273549/world-indeed-open-hearing-about-real-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3273549/world-indeed-open-hearing-about-real-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 09 Aug 2024 01:30:10 +0000 Many people in Hong Kong have been closely following the US presidential election. The hostile and venomous nature of the Democratic and Republican campaigns came as no surprise. The campaigns appear to focus on undermining the opponent through slurs and verbal abuse, rather than on policy and the real issues affecting the daily lives of Americans. The latest twist is President Joe Biden’s withdrawal from the contest and the announcement of Vice-President Kamala Harris as the Democratic... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3271694/hong-kong-us-must-heed-lesson-corrosive-politics-breeds-hate?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3271694/hong-kong-us-must-heed-lesson-corrosive-politics-breeds-hate?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 26 Jul 2024 01:30:08 +0000 In the late 20th and early 21st centuries, globalisation drove the interconnectedness and interdependence of the world’s economies, cultures and populations, leading to significant growth and proliferation. But since 2010, escalating geopolitical tensions between major powers, trade disputes and the ascent of nationalism have shadowed globalisation’s progress, steering countries towards greater introspection. Covid-19 exposed the vulnerabilities of our interconnected global systems, disrupting... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3269931/wests-fragmented-geopolitics-offer-little-reprieve-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3269931/wests-fragmented-geopolitics-offer-little-reprieve-hong-kong?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Jul 2024 01:30:09 +0000 The dynamic of the tourism industry has changed dramatically over recent years. A new generation of travellers is increasingly seeking authentic and more immersive travel experiences beyond traditional sightseeing or shopping. So, Hong Kong needs to radically change its offerings in innovative ways that reflect the new demands of travellers to make our inbound tourist market competitive. The era of Hong Kong as a travel destination for mainland tourist to shop for luxury goods or items difficult... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3268214/hong-kongs-natural-tourism-appeal-deserves-new-promotional-strategy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3268214/hong-kongs-natural-tourism-appeal-deserves-new-promotional-strategy?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 28 Jun 2024 01:30:09 +0000 Good waste management is critical for a modern, developed economy. It is essential to achieving long-term sustainability, enhancing urban development, improving residents’ quality of life, safeguarding public health, protecting the environment and aligning with international commitments. Therefore, I was disappointed to learn of the government’s recent decision to postpone the city’s scheme to charge for waste disposal. The plan now is to spend more time reviewing procedures and evaluating... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3266317/hong-kong-must-not-kick-waste-reduction-can-down-road?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3266317/hong-kong-must-not-kick-waste-reduction-can-down-road?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 14 Jun 2024 01:30:09 +0000 Along with several friends from Hong Kong and abroad, I viewed the online broadcast of an event by the Centre for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS). This broadcast followed their report, “The Erosion of Hong Kong’s Autonomy Since 2020: Implications for the United States”. CSIS is a prominent Washington think tank focusing on US foreign policy and national security issues. It provides strategic insights and policy solutions to the US government, international institutions and the private... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3264639/negative-us-narrative-hurts-hong-kong-relations-and-bewilders-many?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3264639/negative-us-narrative-hurts-hong-kong-relations-and-bewilders-many?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 31 May 2024 01:30:08 +0000 Since its inception in 1895, the Venice Biennale has captivated art enthusiasts. This year is its International Art Exhibition, which celebrates contemporary art, film, music, dance and theatre, attracting millions of tourists worldwide. The first biennale was presented in the Giardini della Biennale, a public garden that remains one of the two main locations. In 1907, the biennale introduced national pavilions, providing countries with dedicated spaces to exhibit their art. By 1980, the... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3262790/hong-kongs-art-ambitions-display-venice-biennale?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/hong-kong-opinion/article/3262790/hong-kongs-art-ambitions-display-venice-biennale?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 17 May 2024 01:30:09 +0000