Concert attendees listen to a short talk on March 18, 2024. (PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY)

Hong Kong has experienced its fair share of ups and downs over the past 50 years. As a proud resident of this great city, I have personally witnessed significant events that have shaped its history. 

From the bomb on Garden Road near the Hilton Hotel during my youth to the glory days of the Hang Seng Index soaring 1,000 points, I have seen it all. The opening of the MTR, the first cross-harbour tunnel replacing the car ferry, and on July 1, 1997, we Hong Kongers celebrated our return to the motherland. The Asian financial crisis in 1998, the unexpected SARS outbreak in 2003, and more recently, the COVID-19 pandemic — all left their mark on Hong Kong. Not to mention the political disputes that began in 2012, the 2014 Occupy Central movement, and the social unrest and riots in 2019. In the past 12 years, I have witnessed internal and external conflicts escalate like never before.

On March 19, a significant event unfolded in Hong Kong as the Legislative Council voted to pass the Basic Law Article 23 Legislation. This milestone marks the fulfilment of a constitutional obligation that had been delayed for two decades. With this decision, the internal disagreements and conflicts surrounding this issue are poised to reach their conclusion.

In light of this development, it is crucial to recognize the need to turn the page and forge ahead. As a businessman, I am reminded of the saying that sometimes the best deal may not be apparent to everyone involved. However, dwelling on the events of the past and refusing to embrace change is not a viable option. It is imperative that we move forward, adapt to evolving circumstances, and seize new opportunities that lie ahead.

A recent article in the Financial Times titled “It pains me to say Hong Kong is over” by Stephen Roach, a long-time friend of Hong Kong, makes it even harder for us to sell Hong Kong. However, Roach was right — the old Hong Kong he and I knew is gone, and a new and vibrant Hong Kong has emerged.

The day preceding the momentous of the passing the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, I had the privilege of attending the Jebsen x Stretton Society concert, an experience that utterly captivated me. It wasn’t merely the remarkable performance by three immensely talented young musicians — Diyang Mei, Simon Zhu, and Hong Kong’s very own pianist, Rachel Cheung — that left a lasting impression. It was also the profound portrayal of the authentic essence of old Hong Kong, a city where the harmonious fusion of Eastern and Western cultures creates an environment brimming with dreams and boundless opportunities for business and cultural exchange. Hong Kong truly shines as a place where possibilities never dim.

As I conclude this brief note, I would like to take a moment to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Desiree and Michael Jebsen, true Hong Kongers, for orchestrating such an exceptional event. Their efforts have showcased the true essence and potential of Hong Kong, reminding us all of the treasures that lie within our grasp.

What Hong Kong needs to do now is what one of my oldest English mates, the entrepreneur Algy Cluff, titled his memoir: "Get On With It."

The writer is a member of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and chairman and CEO of Newpower Group.