The trauma over
Hong Kong’s deadliest blaze in decades will not fade any time soon as the death toll continues to rise from the Tai Po tragedy. As the city slowly emerges from the poignant grief and embarks on a long and difficult journey of healing and recovery, following
three days of mourning, there needs to be continuous support for the needy as well as thorough investigations and timely reflections for reforms to enhance public safety.
Hongkongers have revealed the best of themselves, with individuals, community groups and businesses coming together spontaneously for
relief aid and donations. The remarkable display of Hong Kong spirit has been joined by an outpouring of condolences, support and financial aid from the mainland, underpinned by Beijing’s firm commitment to helping the city overcome the challenging times. Earlier, President Xi Jinping expressed his condolences and called for all-out rescue efforts from the Hong Kong and mainland authorities. Compassion and solidarity have brought Hong Kong and the nation closer than ever as we strive to forge ahead.
The post-disaster relief and support must be further enhanced as the victims struggle to get back on their feet. The provision of immediate and long-term accommodation, as well as other forms of material and psychological support, will affect how quickly people can rebuild their lives. A more orderly and coordinated approach to relief work is also essential, not least to prevent scammers from
taking advantage of the vulnerable in times of a public tragedy. The roll-out of a government online platform for donations and other relevant information is the first of many more steps needed to enhance public trust and guard against abuse. With a government relief fund and donations hitting at least HK$1.2 billion, close supervision over the proper use of money is paramount so that timely and sustainable support will be provided for those in need.
It will be premature to rush to any conclusions over the causes and responsibilities at this stage. But the unanswered questions must be addressed through thorough investigations and full accountability. The catastrophe also calls for deeper soul-searching on policies and regulations. Beijing has swiftly ordered a nationwide review of building safety, while urgent checks on renovation works are also carried out by the Hong Kong authorities. The incident is a wake-up call for closer public scrutiny over estate management and maintenance, an area which is prone to abuse but is not given the attention it deserves.
The government’s intention to go ahead with the
Legislative Council vote on Sunday, despite the prevailing circumstances, signals it is time for Hong Kong to recover and slowly move on. With solidarity and perseverance, we shall overcome and rebuild on the foundation of unity, resilience and hope that defines the city.
