Wake-up call for year ahead as smoke clears over Tai Po | Fongmula | Francis Fong

As we step into 2026, I had hoped to launch this new column, “FONGmula,” by exploring the bright technological horizons ahead for Hong Kong. I am deeply grateful to The Standard for inviting me to share insights on the digital landscape. Yet how can we speak of tomorrow when our city grieves today? The catastrophic five-alarm fire at Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court has cast a dark shadow over the New Year.

With over a hundred lives lost and seven buildings charred, this tragedy stands among the deadliest in our history. This is a “Hong Kong Sorrow” that transcends words. 

What deepens the pain is knowing it was likely preventable – warnings about external wall maintenance were reportedly ignored, turning bureaucratic negligence into a deadly outcome.

Questions have emerged about technology’s role in the rescue effort. Many asked why heavy-lift drones or helicopters were not deployed to fight the flames. As a technologist, I must address the harsh realities of physics. Helicopters’ downwash – air pushed downwards by helicopter blades – would have intensified the fire, endangering more lives. 

While the Fire Services Department did utilize drones for crucial reconnaissance, the technology for high-capacity firefighting drones remains in early stages and cannot yet handle blazes of this scale.

We must trust the professional judgment of our rescuers and honor those who fell, including firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who made the ultimate sacrifice. 

As we navigate this painful January, we need more than prayers. We need rigorous investigation by the police, ICAC, and the Independent Committee. 

Though 2026 began in tragedy, it must end with justice served. We must also ensure it ends with lessons learned and meaningful reforms.

Francis Fong is a Hong Kong IT and Telecom expert who frequently represents the industry in public discussions about innovation, digital transformation and technology policies