Letters | ‘Boring’ Singapore is doing quite well for itself

Readers discuss the stereotypical view of Singapore that persists in Hong Kong, and discrimination related to mainland travellers and organ donation

Singapore

Letters

Published: 2:30pm, 29 May 2023

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It’s increasingly boring to read about Hongkongers’ stereotypes of Singapore. Last month, Ronnie Chan Chi-chung, chairman of Hang Lung Properties, spoke of how Hong Kong’s vibrant culture and “moneymaking genes” make it a more attractive city than charmless cities like Singapore.

Over a decade ago, the tycoon predicted that the island state’s venture into the casino business would fail as few high rollers would bother to gamble in a “family entertainment” (that is, boring) city.

Today, the Marina Bay Sands integrated resort is a resounding success, in the midst of a multibillion dollar expansion. It is already one of the world’s most profitable casinos, and a global architectural, lifestyle and tourism icon. Yet, this has not stopped the tycoon from doubling down on his hubris over exciting Hong Kong vis-à-vis dull Singapore.

In the past decade, Singapore has done well in terms of growth. In 2021, Singapore’s per-capita gross domestic product stood at about US$73,0000 by World Bank estimates. In sharp contrast, Hong Kong’s remained somewhat stagnant at below US$50,000.

Even more telling is the fact that in 2022, the median monthly household income in the Lion City was about S$10,000 (US$7,400), about twice what a household earned in Hong Kong, a city brimming with so-called entrepreneurial and commercially minded genes.

John Chan, Singapore

No place for prejudice, whether in the air or on land

The events of the past few days – misconduct by Cathay Pacific flight attendants and a mass withdrawal of registered organ donors – leave a bad taste in one’s mouth.

In the first case, the conduct was despicable. As representatives of Hong Kong’s flag carrier, every member of the Cathay flight crew should realise that they, collectively and individually, represent our city when dealing with the travelling public. As such, they must always put their best foot forward – and not in their mouth.

In the second case, every organ donor should pledge their organs to save lives – anyone’s, not just people in Hong Kong. If the withdrawals were discriminatory or based on politics, then those concerned should reflect thus: why did they make the pledge initially? And what if their loved ones should be denied life because of a political whim?

Our home should be a hospitable, harmonious and happy place where discrimination is always unwelcome.

James A. Elms, Wan Chai