Hong Kong’s finance chief and business community expressed strong support for the Legislative Council election held on Sunday, voicing hopes that the new-term legislature will work closely with the SAR government to promote economic recovery, post-disaster reconstruction, and long-term sustainable development.
At 12:30 pm, five hours after polls opened, the turnout rate for the commercial (third) functional constituency reached 100 percent. This constituency, formed under the 2021 electoral reform, comprises 307 corporate members of the Hong Kong Chinese Enterprises Association.
An hour later, the technology and innovation functional constituency, covering 71 national-level research platforms such as State Key Laboratories, as well as innovation- and technology-related public organizations, academic institutions and professional bodies, also reached 100 percent.
After casting his ballot at the Wong Chuk Hang Sports Centre polling station, Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po shared his expectations for the new-term legislature.
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He said the legislative body needs responsible, capable, and visionary individuals who can work with the SAR government to advance sustainable economic and social development. Constructive interaction between the executive and legislative branches, he said, can help accelerate reforms.
Chan said he hopes the newly elected lawmakers will promote systemic reforms and garner united support for post-disaster reconstruction following the deadly Tai Po blaze on Nov 26. He said that the relief and rescue efforts after the fire demonstrated the power of societal unity, and underscored the strong demand for systemic reforms, which will require the support and cooperation of the Legislative Council.
In his Sunday blog, the finance chief added that he recently convened another coordination meeting of financial regulatory authorities to further strengthen collaboration and mobilization of Hong Kong’s financial industry. He reiterated the goal of providing sustained assistance to families affected by the fire with a compassionate attitude and flexible arrangements.
Leaders from Hong Kong’s business community also expressed optimism about the election, emphasizing the Legislative Council’s key role in the city’s development and recovery.
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Sino Group Chairman Daryl Ng Win-kong said the Legislative Council plays a crucial role in enabling Hong Kong to fully realize its development potential. He expected voters to elect outstanding candidates who care about society and are committed to sustainable development and maintaining an international outlook, therefore strengthening Hong Kong’s global partnerships.
Henderson Land Development Company Chairman and Managing Director Martin Lee Ka-shing described the election atmosphere as very positive after he cast his vote.
Raymond Kwok Ping-luen, chairman and managing director of Sun Hung Kai Properties, said he hopes that the new Legislative Council will continue to support and supervise the SAR government in law-based governance, while jointly promoting economic development and improvements in people’s livelihoods.
Bank of East Asia Co-Chief Executive Adrian Li Man-Kiu expressed hope that new lawmakers will work closely with the SAR government to accelerate post-disaster reconstruction and institutional reforms. He added that lawmakers should actively integrate into the nation’s overall development, especially by seizing opportunities presented by the upcoming national 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-30), to inject new momentum into Hong Kong’s long-term prosperity and growth.
Contact the writer at oswald@chinadailyhk.com
