The mainland edition of the same newspaper said it was "worth thinking about" the lack of trust in mainland charities that the 23 votes reflected. Meanwhile, its sister newspaper, devoted a full page of its English edition to the topic.

It said the reputation of the Red Cross Society, China's largest government-backed charity, was "in tatters after a series of corruption scandals".

"Scandals happen time and time again with charities like the Red Cross Society of China," said in a front-page commentary. "They must realise that a huge effort is required for them to regain their credibility."

The piece cited figures showing that the video had been forwarded more than 80,000 times on weibo, and that nearly 90 per cent of viewers had clicked the video's "thumbs up" button to show their agreement with the sentiments Wong had expressed.

"While some Web users were offended, many, already outraged at the charity after a series scandals, agreed with him and praised him for speaking the truth," the report said.

It also included remarks by Civic Party lawmaker Claudia Mo Man-ching, another rare mention of a Hong Kong pan-democrat. Mo had also opposed using Hongkongers' money for the donation.

It quoted her as saying that "she was surprised and touched that many mainlanders had the same feelings".

Veteran political commentator Johnny Lau Yui-siu said Beijing regarded the reluctance to donate as a challenge.

"But mainlanders' strong criticism had forced them to soften their stance."