Tianjin-based HK official's posts on free upgrades spark scrutiny

Posts by Hong Kong government's Tianjin liaison office director Ricky Cheng Chun-sang about receiving free upgrades have sparked public scrutiny, with calls for the Civil Service Bureau to investigate.

Cheng recently posted on social media that he was “lucky” to receive a complimentary suite upgrade at the Ritz-Carlton Tianjin upon assuming his new role, sharing a video and a welcome letter from the hotel's regional general manager.

Netizens also found a May last year post where Cheng thanked a “close friend Alan,” reportedly a TurboJET executive, for arranging a private cabin on a ferry to Macau, posting photos of the cabin’s sofa and TV.

Some online comments criticized the display of luxury travel and accommodation. The posts and Cheng's account have since been deleted.

The Civil Service Code requires officials to avoid actual, perceived or potential conflicts of interest, and not to use their position for private gain or accept benefits that could affect their duties. While entertainment is not considered a "benefit" under the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance, civil servants must avoid overly lavish, generous or frequent hospitality that could cause embarrassment or damage the government's reputation.

Legislator Chan Cho-kwong, a former police officer, said all civil servants are regulated by anti-bribery laws. If the hospitality is related to Cheng’s official capacity, it might violate regulations, but if it is a “normal upgrade” available to ordinary travelers, it may be fine. He urged the Civil Service Bureau to look into the matter.

Legislator Peter Douglas Koon Ho-ming said civil servants should be sensitive when accepting hospitality, and the bureau should follow up if the reports are true.