Ma's the word on four woes

The next leader of Hong Kong needs to show a broad perspective and to hold correct political beliefs, said former MTR Corp chairman Frederick Ma Si-hang, as he stated that the next chief executive will have the important responsibility of solving the city's deeply rooted problems.

Ma, a former secretary for financial services and the treasury, shared his views in a letter to readers of The Standard's sister publication Sing Tao Daily, saying this year is special for Hong Kong as it is celebrating its 25th anniversary - half of the "50 years no change" as late paramount leader Deng Xiaoping said - and the city will see a new historical turning point.

Ma said despite quitting government 14 years ago, "as a Hongkonger who was born and grew up in this place, of course I care about Hong Kong and am concerned about everything at home."

He said he witnessed some of the challenges Hong Kong faced when he was working in the administration, including economic recession, financial deficit and the SARS epidemic in 2003.

But he said: "With the unity of Hong Kong people and the full support from the central government, we can pass through the difficult times and see a rainbow again."

Although the SAR is in the throes of the fifth wave now, he believed it also faces deep-rooted problems that will not only "take much longer to be solved," solutions also need "a government that is much stronger with decisive leadership."

Ma pointed out four "deep-rooted problems" Hong Kong is facing, the first being the pressing housing issue as property prices skyrocket amid a supply shortage.

"[Housing issues] have fueled negativity and complaints in the society, which directly affected people's happiness index," he said.

The second is the aging population. He said the fifth wave showed up the challenges - in terms of medical resources, elderly care, taxation and social welfare - posed by an aging population.

The third is economic transition. Ma said the SAR relies too much on the financial industry and should focus more on China's development potential in the Greater Bay Area.

The last is the executive power of the government, which he said has proven flawed in the fifth wave.

Ma said when the new government term begins, the most pressing task is to organize a cabinet highly capable of administration.

He cited an adage by late Singaporean prime minister Lee Kuan Yew: "The art of government is to get the right people in the right place."

"I sincerely hope more capable talents can join the government, to whole-heartedly serve the community with a devoting spirit and solve the long-term problems in Hong Kong efficiently," Ma said.