Zeman says John Lee has made HK come alive again

Not many chief executives can do better than John Lee Ka-chiu, Lan Kwai Fong Group chairman Allan Zeman said, praising Lee as one of the city's best leaders.

Zeman, who sits in the chief executive's council of advisers, said 66-year-old Lee is willing to accept suggestions by other people and public opinions.

Zeman's comments came as more than 22 percent of participants in the Sing Tao opinion poll believe the administration is willing to listen to what they have to say while some said the authorities are active and take responsibility.

They also view the administration as a team player, adaptable and forward-looking.

In an interview with Sing Tao Daily - The Standard's sister publication, Zeman said he used to serve as a consultant to several chief executives and "I can honestly say, I feel John has been one of the best."

He said Lee took office during Hong Kong's most difficult time, being among the last regions in the world to reopen borders after the Covid-19 pandemic.

However, Zeman said, Lee has "brought Hong Kong back to life" and he is also the first chief executive to complete the Basic Law Article 23 legislation.

Although Lee is not an economist, he has an open mind and is willing to accept others' opinions in terms of ways to potential revive the local economy following the pandemic, Zeman said.

"He does listen, and if he thinks it's the right thing, he'll act on it."

Lee sincerely wants to benefit Hong Kong, Zeman said, visiting the Middle East and southeast Asia to attract foreign investment while also making Hong Kong a safe and stable city and not many chief executives could do a better job than him.

Legislative Council member Kitson Yang Wing-kit said Lee has been standing firm on his philosophy of being "result-oriented" and was very proactive in rolling out different policies.

"For example, I have proposed the government promote the 'concert economy in Hong Kong' in Legco's question-and-answer session to attract high-value overnight tourists, which Lee attached a great importance to," Yang said.

"It was not long before Lee invited a few lawmakers and myself for a breakfast meeting at Government House for a more in-depth discussion on the issue."