Have Singaporeans misunderstood the nature of Hong Kong protests?
- Some Hongkongers say that based on what they see on social media, Singaporeans do not understand the situation, and why protesters are fighting for ‘freedom and liberty’
- Reports of Hongkongers relocating to Singapore and moving assets there have fuelled the perception that the Lion City is capitalising on Hong Kong’s situation
Are unsympathetic Singaporeans gloating at the ongoing unrest in Hong Kong, viewing protesters as little more than disruptive troublemakers?
Some Hongkongers believe so, pointing to comments they have heard from their Singaporean friends and remarks made on social media.
Hongkonger Joyce Fung, in her 20s, said: “I keep seeing how they label protesters ‘violent rioters’, and say that Hong Kong people should accept the fact that Hong Kong is part of China.”
These Singaporeans are no different than pro-Beijing Hongkongers, said the social science student at Hong Kong University.
Office worker Andrea Mak, in her mid-30s, knows a few Singaporeans who asked why Hong Kong protesters had turned violent.
“Singaporeans think it is wrong, and that you shouldn’t go against your government,” she said. “They say you are pushing it when you attack the police, when you set fire to police stations.”
Both women felt Singaporeans who criticise the protests and protesters do not understand the situation in Hong Kong.
“They do not think we are fighting for freedom or liberty because in their country, they can’t protest,” said Mak.