Shopping malls may face early closure in Lunar New Year

Authorities are looking into the possibility to order shopping malls to close earlier to minimize infection risks, calling citizens to exercise self-discipline and observe social distancing, according to Hong Kong’s health chief.

With Lunar New Year just around the corner, Hong Kong’s epidemic is yet to be contained, reporting 60 local Covid cases in the territory yesterday.

During a Legco meeting today, lawmakers are concerned that people will again flock outdoors for Lunar New Year gatherings or reunion dinners.

Health secretary Sophia Chan Siu-chee said authorities may order shopping malls to close earlier, but stressed it also takes citizens to exercise self-discipline in order to clamp down the infections.

Lawmakers also questioned the app “LeaveHomeSafe” introduced by the government is not living up to its name.

Jimmy Ng Wing-ka, a lawmaker who represents the Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong, said the government has not provided incentives for people to use the app.

He also suggested that the app can record user’s data such as their Covid testing results, building sewage test results, or their vaccination records.

Chan said the Innovation and Technology Bureau have long been studying to make use of the app to facilitate citizens entering certain premises in the future, after the easing of the social distancing measures.

“We may also require operators of some currently closed premises to make sure visitors have installed the “LeaveHomeSafe” app, after they were allowed to reopen,” Chan added.