VOL. 44 / ISSUE 5 / MARCH 2012

Race for the top Plagued by scandals and dramas, the CE election is right around the corner INDEX

PUBLISHER Steve Guo Zhongshi Editor's note With the election of the Chief Executive right round ADVISORS the corner, the media keep revealing scandals of the Judith Clarke candidates and we have seen a lot of drama. From CY CK Lau Leung’s West-Kowloon Cultural District competition Dean C.K. Cox scandal to the illegal construction in the basement of CHIEF EDITOR Henry Tang’s house in York Road, Hong Kongers have Gary Kwok Ka-lok gone through the most roller-coaster-like election DEPUTY CHIEF EDITOR campaign of the past years. It will be fascinating to see Thomas Chan Chun-wai how things develop in these crucial last days before the Goosie Chan Ho-kiu election takes place on 25 March. ART DIRECTOR leads with 391 nominations, CY Leung has 305 and Albert Simon Yuen Wing-cheung HoThe 188. final That nomination being said, votes a total are of as310 follows: election Henry committee Tang MULTIMEDIA EDITORS members chose not to nominate anyone. Regina Ip and Carlos Cheng Lixing Tsang Yuk-shing, who tried to get on the last minute ride, Xavier Ng Nai-hong both failed to persuade these committee members to cast DISTRIBUTION DIRECTOR them a vote. Claire Chu Ka-yee PUBLIC RELATIONS DIRECTORS the three. With all the recent gossip and dramas, it is very So we are back to where we were: the match between Judith Ki Yik-yu Winnie Yiu Wing-sze slightest scandal may turn things upside down. Be sure to keepdifficult an eyeto determine on this competitive who has got campaign. the advantage. The PRINTER Department of Journalism Gary Kwok Ka-lok School of Communication 10/F, Communication and Visual Arts Building, Hong Kong Baptist Chief Editor University, Kowloon Tong

SACRED SOLEMNITY 22-23 Get a glimpse of some of the oldest churches of Hong Kong

Make your own leather goods 4-5 The emergence of DIY leathercraft workshops

COVER STORY 8-13 The Chief Executive Battle

The original bagels from Canada 16-17 Get a bite of the "healthy-doughnuts"

2 | TYR | MAR 2012 ENVIRONMENT

TSEUNG KWAN O LANDFILL SITE IN BAD ODOUR WITH NEIGHBOURS

Complaints from residents to the Environmental Protection Department have almost doubled due over the past year to the foul smell.

A huge increase in complaints about Tseung Kwan O landfill site has raised public awareness about odour problems that affect the daily lives of residents living near the rubbish dumps. The complaints received by the Environmental Protection Department about the odour problem of the landfill site in Tseung Kwan O increased from 753 in 2010 to 1,120 last year. “I won’t open the windows after rain in summer,” said Ms Hung Tung-yi, a resident of LOHAS Park in Tseung Kwan O, where a landfill site is just less than 1 km away from her home. According to the Environmental Protection Department, the South East New Territories Landfill will be exhausted in 2014. To solve the problem, the government has been undergoing a conceptual and feasibility study on the extension project since early 2004. After a prolonged consultation with all A campaign against the extension of the Tseung Kwan O landfill site. stakeholders, the government proposed scaling down the extension scheme in areas would be covered with a soil layer system had found out the major source of Area 137 from 15.6 hectares to 13 and then Posi-Shell Cover, a cement- bad smell to residential areas nearby. hectares. To avoid the odour problem based cover material. Also, non-active Mr Cheung Kwok-keung, a Sai Kung brought to residents nearby, the topping areas would be covered with district councillor, said that the government proposed that the landfill in temporary impermeable liners. government was short-sighted during the Tseung Kwan O only handle odourless An electronic odour detection system planning of Tseung Kwan O development. construction waste. was installed in Tseung Kwan O landfill At the time of new town planning, the Mr Edward Yau Tang-wah, Secretary last year to identify the nature and choice of landfill site was fine as the for the Environment, previously said in source of odour. residential areas there were not a Legislative Council meeting that the However, Ms Hung, the resident living developed yet. landfill was constructed to a high near the landfill site, said that the odour However, the government should have standard as a secure containment problem was still serious in summer had a big picture in mind at the planning facility incorporating composite after rain. stage and avoided building residential impermeable liner systems. “Apart from the bad smell problem, it is areas near landfill sites later on, he said. Other than the original design, the also not environmentally-friendly in this “The policy on environmental matters government had adopted several new way as it wastes electricity when I need to should keep up with the international measures to minimize the odour problem switch on the air-conditioners in trend and meet the standard of the World of landfill sites to residents nearby over summer,” she said. Health Organization." the past five years, said Mr Yau. Meanwhile, councillors of Tseung Kwan For example, at the end of the daily O said that the department did not STORY / JIM WONG waste reception process, the topping explain clearly whether the monitoring EDITED BY / ALEX HURD

MAR 2012 | TYR | 3

(Page Number) | TYR | (Month 2012) BUSINESS

MAKE UNIQUE LEATHER GOODS YOURSELF DIY leather workshops are gaining popularity among young adults in Hong Kong.

Specific chemicals are applied on the leather to make the surface smooth.

PHOTO CREDITS / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD Ms Ruby Ng was preparing something Also starting up the same business two price more expensive than a mass- special for her boyfriend this Valentine's years ago, Cysus Yip of C+ Leather produced one. Senior levels of tutorials day. The 22-year-old office worker was Workshop said, “People are sick of the cost up to $1,000. hand-making a satchel during a lesson at standardized goods and they want The autonomy and freedom of choice C+ Leather Workshop. something unique and special. The best that come along with the workshops are Ms Ng was quite excited about her first way is to make it yourself.” one of the reasons why students are experience in leather craft. “It’s hard to “The number of students joining our paying more. find a desirable leather bag from malls,” workshop is up 30 to 50 per cent when she said. “So I’d rather make my own one.” compared to last year,” Cysus added. DIY’s fun.It gives DIY workshops, using the abbreviation Business is busier during festivals such for “do it yourself”, are no stranger to the as Christmas and Valentine’s Day when you a lot of satisfaction local business sector, with cake shops, people search for special gifts for their accessory boutiques and craft-makers cherished ones. and a sense of success chanting the “make your own” slogan to These workshops operate on a attract customers. small-class tutoring mode, where because what you are Over the past two years, leather craft lessons are conducted at the workshops have emerged as the frontrunner companies’ premises, usually located in making is so special and among various kinds of DIY business, a factory building. providing alternatives to those off-the-shelf They offer tutorials on making stuff different from those you leather goods made from mass production that ranges from small coin bags to lines and satisfying people’s desire to stand Octopus card cases, clutch bags to c an find in a shop. out with their own styles. satchels of variant sizes. Suki, DIY Workshop participant “It’s becoming a trend,” said Mr Ricky Classes are roughly divided into Lau, 33, who co-founded the Farm beginners, intermediates and upper levels. From designing to choosing materials Workshop with his former colleague Annie Beginners’ courses, for example, teach and making the final product, tutors give Fung two years ago to provide DIY classes one to make a simple leather product in students their comments but eventually on leather goods. four hours with a charge of HKD $400, a decisions are made by students.

4 | TYR | MAR 2012 BUSINESS

Finished products designed and handmade by tutors are displayed on the rack.

Students are free to make their preferred stamps on their leather work.

creative industries. Tutors might jump in to help in case workshop instead of making it According to the latest figures published students encounter any problem, said themselves. by the Information Services Department in Cysus. But she encourages them to do it Many of these leather workshops do 2011, there were around 32000 creative on their own. not run on a fixed timetable. Students can industry-related establishments, with ““We want them to experiment with phone up or send a message through more than 188, 000 practitioners everything by themselves. We want them “whatsapp”, an instant message engaged in different sectors. to use their ideas to create their special platform, to make appointments. A good reputation among students, and unique products,” she said. The leather craft business is becoming according to both Cysus and Ricky, is “Hand-making a leather bag is not as a trend at lighting speed. However, the very important in maintaining a difficult as one might think,” said Ruby. successful ones all faced a slew of company’s competitiveness with its “Although the threading part is a little difficulties at the start-up stage. huge numbers of counterparts. tough, you’ll pick up very fast if you put in High rent in Hong Kong and a lack of “If you wanna survive and stand out a lot of effort.” space to accommodate large-sized from other companies, you should get “DIY’s fun,” said Suki, currently a machines, said Ricky, are two biggest your job done, with passion and quality,” student of the City University of Hong headaches. said Cysus. Kong. “It gives you a lot of satisfaction and Cysus, whose company premises was Asked if they are optimistic about the a sense of success because what you are relocated to a rented flat in factory prospect of their business, Ricky and making is so special and different from building in Sang Po Kong a year ago, Cysus both had their own plans in mind those you can find in a shop.” shared the same plight when she started – Farm workshop to sell leather products “Definitely I’m gonna make some more up the business. of their own brand and C+ workshop to unique leather stuff later,” she said. Advertising cost is another concern, as bring in more special and creative leather The majority of the customers are promotions are needed to attract new works to the classes. female office workers and students, students to join. Both companies have At the end of the day, it is a business according to both Ricky and Cysus. used Facebook to spread their names by about creativity and one that sells “Almost 99 percent of them are launching an official page. uniqueness. women,” said Cysus. Men usually order Ricky said the government should STORY / CLARIE LEE tailor-made leather stuff from the allocate more resources to support the EDITED BY / CARLOS CHENG

M AR 2012 | TYR | 5 EDUCATION

LOCAL STUDENTS SOAK UP INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL SEATS International school headmaster urges the government to increase the supply of school places in a bid to attract foreign talent to work in the city.

International schools are designed to A recent city-wide government survey has found that 70 per cent of the applicants to international schools have to wait for six months before being admitted. provide education for foreigners residing in Hong Kong and enhance the city's competitiveness by keeping foreigners here. But international schools are no longer making the city more cosmopolitan as they are increasingly serving local students leading to a shortage of places. To counter this the government is supporting development of international schools or allocating them more land. Arthur D. Enns, Headmaster of Christian Alliance International School, is pleased the school is receiving a green-field site in Lai Chi Kok for the construction of a third campus, partly funded by a governmental interest-free loan. Diploma Programme curriculum, which leadership and innovation in the further "With the increase in demand for is globally accepted.” Mr Ho added that development of the city. international school places in the future, local residents will send their children to But support to local schools is also it could be anticipated that, in due course, international schools if they can afford vital. Mr Enns hoped the government will the Government may respond by providing the cost. keep promoting and facilitating incentives for further international school Some parents may want their children development of appropriate school development,”Ms Tanya Chan, Deputy to avoid sitting for the public examination places, both international and other, in Chairman of Education Panel of the in Hong Kong because of the problem of response to projected demand. Mr Ho Legislative Council said. acceptability and they also worry about said the allocation of lands should focus International schools need more land the new 3-3-4 scheme. more on local schools if the government to cope with the ever-rising demand, "International schools are losing their encourages small-class teaching, “Local which also increases need for more original meaning if the proportion of local schools will have to build more student hostels. Even more important as student is growing,” said Mr Ho, adding classrooms or even expand the campus construction may take a few years, like that the government should improve the for small-class teaching,” he said. the Hong Kong Academy in Sai Kung educational system in order to cut down He added that the government could which, will take 7 years to finish and is the proportion of local students in help relax the shortage of places in expected to open in 2013. international schools. international schools by giving more aid to But the soaring demand for places in But even if the international schools are local students. international schools is perhaps a result losing their original meaning as they are Ms Chan said the government could of wealthy local families sending their serving more and more local students, assist local schools in many ways, such as children to international school instead they are still assets for enhancing Hong turning subjects such as history and of local schools. Mr Enns said Kong's competiveness. "If Hong Kong literature into elective subjects. Ms Chan international schools provide the only proposes to attract increasing numbers of said these subjects could also train viable option for educating non-Chinese foreign professionals, meeting the students’ liberal thinking . speaking children, but they are also an educational needs of their children Mr Ho would like the government to alternative for local Hong Kong students should be of preeminent concern,” Mr support local schools’ development of with aspirations to study abroad.Percival Enns said, adding that international online teaching to enhance local students' Ho Fu-kuen, a teacher at the historical schools can support Hong Kong’s status competitiveness. Wah Yan College Kowloon, said the as ‘Asia’s World City’.He thought local acceptability of a degree is a major students who went to study abroad after concern for many parents,“Many graduating from international schools will STORY / ROY CHAN international schools provide the IB return to Hong Kong and provide EDITED BY / CHRISTIAN JENSEN

6 | TYR | MAR 2012 SOCIETY UNIVERSITY GRADUATES’ HASTY APPLICATIONS SQUANDER PUBLIC HOUSING RESOURCES The government is urged to build youth hostels to meet young adults' housing needs. University graduates have been urged to graduates to settle their housing problems have been announced since then. consider carefully before applying for as their incomes should exceed the Mr Ho said that once the scheme was public housing so as to avoid wastage of stipulated limits by their mid-20s. implemented, the government should public resources. He added that their hasty decision require applicants to offer The Housing Authority reiterated in would result in extra administrative work recommendation letters from their several Legislative Council meetings that by the Housing Authority, as well as universities and examine each the great demand from young applicants administrative costs, which was a waste application carefully to avoid any had aggravated the limited supply of of public money. fabrication cases. public housing resources and Mr Lam Jyun-hou, Employment Service undermined its ability to provide housing Supervisor of the Hong Kong Young to other families with pressing need. If the government Women's Christian Association, said that The authority’s latest figures have rent of the hostels should be capped at shown that of the 152,400 applicants on does not raise the 10 to 20 per cent of the applicants' the waiting list for public housing, 63,400 salaries and the income ceiling should – or about 42 per cent – are “non-elderly supply of public housing, be set at $14,000 per month. one-person” (NEOP) applicants. “Non- Apart from supplying youth hostels, elderly” refers to those aged 30 or below. there will be more lawmakers also urge the administration Mr Ho Wai-man, Executive Director of to build more public housing estates to the Federation of Public Housing Estates, people on the waiting list cut the waiting time for each applicant. said that a university graduate who “If the government does not raise the applied for public housing was like “a and more people get supply of public housing, there will be more healthy guy who queues to see a doctor”. people on the waiting list and more people Under the current system, the annual disappointed. will be disappointed,” said lawmaker Mr allocation quota for NEOP applicants is Mr Lee Wah-ming Lee Wah-ming, who is also a member of the set at eight per cent of the total flats, Hong Kong Housing Authority. subject to a ceiling of 2,000 units. That To meet the public outcry, our Chief “The construction of the hostels can means an 18-year-old has to wait for, on Executive made a promise in his last tackle the temporary needs of a single average, 47 years to get a flat if he year’s policy address that land would be young adults, but public housing estates remains single. allocated for construction of youth can benefit the whole society,” he said. Mr Ho said that applying for public hostels under the Hostels for Single STORY / DENNIS LEE housing was not a way out for the fresh Youths Scheme. But no further details EDITED BY / VISQI HE

The Housing Authority reiterates that the great demand from young applicants aggravates the limit supply of public housing resources.

MAR 2012 | TYR | 7

COVER STORY

THREE-HORSE RACE IN THE UPCOMING CE ELECTION Mr Donald Tsang’s 7-year tenure as chief executive comes to an end in June, and the city will soon be governed by a new head elected by a 1,200-member election committee.

STORY / BETH LIU, FECHON WONG, JOHNNY LO, KRIS LUI, MELODY CHAN EDITED BY / CLAIRE CHU, GINA NG, JASMIN YIU, JUDITH KI, PEARLIE YIU

As incumbent chief executive Mr Donald The city’s next leader will be picked by enough support from the committee. Tsang Yam-kuen is finishing his term by a 1,200-member election committee on Mr Tang faced pressure to withdraw July, the competition among all CE- March 25. With the election around the from the election after illegal hopefuls has intensified over the past corner, candidates did their best to get underground structures were found in his few months. nominated by at least 150 members of Kowloon Tong house in mid-February. Mr the committee to run for the top job. Tang later apologized but said he would Mr Henry Tang Ying-yen and Mr Leung continue to run for the CE election. The Chun-ying, both with a pro-Beijing scandal has sparked off public background, have been viewed as the discussions. Liberal Party chairwoman two heavyweights in the election. Ms Miriam Lau Kin-yee emphasized that Mr Albert Ho Chun-yan, chairman of nominating Tang did not mean that her EDITED BY / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD Democratic Party, will represent the party’s members would eventually vote Pan-Democrats to join the competition for him in the election. after winning the primary election over Mr Mr Tang’s main rival Mr Leung was PHOTO CREDITS / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD Frederick Fung Kin-kee in January. He was also found in scandal swirls as he failed the first candidate to submit nomination to declare conflicting interest in a paper to the Electoral Affairs Commission. design contest for the West Kowloon Mr Henry Tang, who had received 379 arts hub in 2001. But he later denied nominations, also announced candidacy the accusations. for the election on Feb 20. Despite all the scandals, the poll New People’s Party chairwoman Ms conducted by the University of Hong Regina Ip Lau Suk-yee also announced Kong on Feb 16 has shown that Mr she would join the race after scandal- Leung’s support rate is at 48.5 per cent,

Stepping down from his job in June, incumbent Chief plagued Mr Tang turned in his which doubles that of Mr Tang. Mr Ho’s Executive Mr Donald Tsang Yam-kuen's integrity has nomination forms but she failed to gain support rate stands at 17.2 per cent. been questioned after the exposure of his accepting the hospitality of collusions with business tycoons.

Mr Tung Chee-hwa was elected with 320 votes in the first Hong Kong Chief Executive election, beating Yang Ti-liang with 42 votes and Woo The handover of Hong Kong. Mr Tung Kwong-ching with 36 votes. Chee-hwa came into office.

11 DEC1996 1 JUL1997

8 | TYR | MAR 2012

COVER STORY MORE THAN A BID FOR TOP JOB Democratic Party chairman Mr Albert Ho Chun-yan contests the chief executive election in hopes of having the people’s voices heard.

enhance their competitiveness so that they won’t feel neglected,” he said. To achieve his goal, he said that universities should provide a wider variety of study programmes and more resources should be allocated to the education sector. The 60-year-old candidate is discontented that some professionals, such as veterinarians, have to be trained overseas rather than locally. He blames the market-driven educational policies for causing such unhealthy phenomenon. “The current [educational] policies are very shortsighted. The institutions only train what the market currently needs,” he said. He added that youngsters should be given more diversified training so that Mr Albert Ho Chun-yan represents the pan-democracy camp to contest in the upcoming CE election. they could have more chances to develop their career in the long run. Voicing the public’s concerns, Mr Albert Ying-yen and Mr Leung Chun-ying dared The youngsters’ apolitical mindset is Ho Chun-yan believes that his not to challenge the existing hegemonies. something that the pan-democracy participation in the top job wrestle is the For example, the two chief executive candidate wants to make a change in. saving grace of the small-circle election. hopefuls, he said, would never say the “There are different consultation Acknowledging that the chance of government’s village house policies were institutes that enable them to get winning the election is slim, the inappropriate because they did not want involved in politics. In addition, I will set Democratic Party chairman is the first to offend the village representatives who up relevant programmes to let aspiring candidate to register for the election, held 28 ballots in the election. young adults capitalise on their with 184 nominations from the election “It’s clear that a lot of people [those leadership skills." committee members who are responsible who have vested interests in the existing He also encourages youngsters to fight for picking the city’s next leader. system] don’t support me. But for those for what they want. “I hope the values “[My party and I] hope to grasp every who believe in democracy, I feel obligated that they’re trying to uphold today can be opportunity to get people’s voices heard to do something for them.” their life-long pursuit.” and to challenge the small-circle To facilitate the progress of democracy, Mr Ho is the second candidate that the election,” he said. “Joining the race the candidate thinks that the pan-democracy camp delegates to run myself can make the messages clearer.” administration has to put forward more for the top job. Mr Alan Leong Kah-kit was He said that he decided to run for the policies that are tailor-made for the youth. defeated by the incumbent chief election because the two pro- “My policies aim at giving the executive Mr Donald Tsang Yam-kuen in establishment candidates Mr Henry Tang youngsters more opportunities to the 2007 election.

The incumbent Mr Tung Chee-hwa was elected again as he was the only validly nominated candidate. Mr Tung's second term began.

28 FEB 2002 1 JUL 2002

MAR 2012 | TYR | 9 COVER STORY SEASONED GOVERNMENT OFFICIAL BUILDS HIS PLATFORM ON PAST EXPERIENCE Scandal-plagued Mr Tang Ying-yen insists on running the election, getting the support of about 390 election committee members

Mr Henry Tang Ying-yen, 59, is one of the among all the age groups, and university cent so as to support our economy. leading contenders in the coming Chief graduates were not optimistic about their He also plans to implement 15-year Executive election. Tang is well-known for future. free education and introduce small-class his prestigious family background and “The reason behind this is the lack of teaching at all secondary schools. prominent political profile. economic diversity. The government For elderly welfare policy, Mr Tang The former Chief Secretary announced needs to promote cultural and creative suggested that HK $3,000 retirement his election platform on February 14, industries as well as technological support allowance should be given to all with an emphasis on administration, industry by subsidising them in the form eligible elderly every month. labour and housing policies. lower tax rates,” Mr Tang said in a forum The public expects that Mr Tang has the In order to address housing held by the New Territories Association greatest chance to be the next head of problems, Tang pledged to add 10,000 of Societies. the government because of his pro- Home Ownership Scheme units and In the forum, Mr Tang also said he Beijing background. 30,000 extra public housing units on understood that youngsters were facing However, after Mr Tang's illegal top of 75,000 planned units. He also keen competition and they had limited construction at his Kowloon Tong home pledged to construct mixed opportunities to climb up the social was widely reported by the media, a development type public housing ladder. However, he disagreed with the survey conducted by the University of estates for young applicants to live in opinion that the value of a university Hong Kong has found that 51.3 per cent separate units near to their parents in degree was depreciating. of the respondents think that Tang order to facilitate care amongst family “Hong Kong’s success depends on the should withdraw from election, and 80 members. intellectual economy. To create more jobs per cent say the incident has hampered STORY / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD He also announced a plan that offered for youngsters, economic development is Mr Tang’s integrity. dormitory-style rooms with open kitchens of paramount importance,” he said. Mr Tang has insisted on running for the EDITED BY / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD and washrooms for single occupants Mr Tang said that education reform is top job after the scandal and he received aged 35 or below. also vital. He suggested that the 390 nominations from the election Tang admitted that youth government should raise the university committee members, including some PHOTO CREDITS / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD unemployment rate was the highest admission rate from 18 per cent to 25 per influential figures in the city.

Mr Henry Tang Ying-yen is regareded as the most possible candidate to win the election,but he has the least support from public.

Mr Tung Chee-hwa resigned due to As Mr Donad Tsang Yam-kuen was the only validly "health problems". The resignation was nominated candidate in the Chief Executive election, there accepted by Beijing two days later. was no poll conducted and Mr Tsang was returned.

10 MAR 2005 16 JUN 2005

10 | TYR | MAR 2012 COVER STORY

Mr Leung Chun-ying talks about his youth policies at a local school.

DETERMINED POLITICIAN SAYS HE IS READY TO SERVE THE CITY Dark horse Mr Leung Chun-ying hopes to sneak in when his rival Mr Tang Ying-yen's intergrity is being questioned. Mr Leung Chun-ying, 57, commonly known hard for them to get a job, and some of would implement policies to encourage as CY, is another frontrunner of the coming them considered setting up their own young people to start their business.” chief executive election. CY is the former business. He said high rental cost hindered the Convenor of the Executive Council. He is Mr Leung is very supportive towards growth of small businesses. He also a member of the Standing Committee teenagers’ dream to start their own suggested that the government should of the Chinese People’s Political business because he also started his revitalise industrial buildings to alleviate Consultative Conference. own company 19 years ago after leaving the problem. “Young people are the ones who will an international surveying company. “If the government can revitalise the rule Hong Kong in the future," Mr Leung vacant buildings, teenagers will be able to said in a public forum organised by the rent them at a lower rate,” said Mr Leung. Kowloon West New Dynamic. Mr Leung Young people have But he said that revitalization of said he spent most of his time on industrial buildings was just a short- education issues and youth policies to speak out too. They term solution. when he was engaged in public policies. As a pro-Beijing CE candidate, Mr He said that even though some can’t just rely on our Leung also shared his views on national youngsters were not mature enough, education in the forum. their voices should not be neglected. He decisions. He said the implementation of national added that those who held the power Leung Chun-ying education in the US and the Philippines should work with the youngsters to map was satisfactory and successful. He out the future policies. “Even if you have a decent job, you urged Hong Kong to learn from these “But young people have to speak out should also think of starting your own countries. too. They can’t just rely on our decisions. business. Your future lies in your own He added that when drafting his We have to let them express their ideas hands, you have to plan for your future,” political platform, he spent a lot of time as well,” said Mr Leung. “The successful stories of different consulting experts who were familiar with According to a survey conducted by the small and medium enterprises has different issues. Kowloon West New Dynamic on proven that Hong Kong is suitable for “If I am not ready to serve Hong Kong, teenagers’ concerns, more than 60 per SMEs to grow,” said Mr Leung. “If I were I won’t spent so much time with them,” cent of the interviewees said that it was elected to be the Chief Executive, I he said.

Mr Donald Tsang Yam-kuen and Mr Alan Leong Kah-kit from the Civic Party ran for the third Chief Executive election. Mr Tsang won with 649 votes. Mr Leong only got 123 votes. Mr Tsang's second term as Chief Executive began.

25 MAR 2007 1 JUL 2007

MAR 2012 | TYR | 11 COVER STORY NO GUARANTEE FOR 2017 UNIVERSIAL SUFFRAGE Politicians warn that the Central Government might rein in the universal suffrage plan at the last minute While Hong Kong people were all the Chinese government dislikes,” Dr members in the Democratic Party assuming that the 2012 Chief Election Pan said. support him. I respect their decision,” would be the last election voted by the Legislative councilor Ms Emily Lau said Ms Lau. 1200 person Election Committee, Wai-hing said that they would need a Another legislative councillor Ms political analysts said that we should not breakthrough in order to achieve Tanya Chan Suk-chong from Civic Party, to be too certain about this. universal suffrage. Rather than the however, said that Democratic Party’s Political commentator Mr Lau Yui-siu increased number of election participation in the “small-circle” was pessimistic towards the possibility of committee members from 800 to 1200 election could help achieve ultimate having universal suffrage in the next CE in this election, Ms Lau aims at the new universal suffrage. election in 2017. ten seats in Legislative Council this Ms Chan pointed out that a competitive “In Chinese political culture, universal September. rival in the election could highlight the suffrage could mean allowing people to “We will describe such a change as a disadvantages of a “small-circle” participate in part of the election,” said breakthrough of impasse and a step election, and thus arouse the public Mr Lau. “The public nominate candidates towards democracy,” said Ms Lau. concerns over the importance of and the Election Committee vote for She said that changes were needed in universal suffrage. them, or vice versa. This can also be the political system in order to strive for “The debates between Mr Alan Leong defined as universal suffrage.” universal suffrage in 2017, when the Kah-kit and our Chief Executive Mr Tsang Mr Lau added that the details of Chinese government asked Hong Kong to impressed many Hong Kong people,” said universal suffrage were vague. It could not do it “step by step”. Ms Chan as she recalled the 2007 CE be settled within a short period of time. Meanwhile, Ms Lau does not election. “Even if the Chinese government said recognise the credibility of the current CE She said that Mr Ho’s participation yes, it could mean no,” said Mr Lau. election. As the vice-chairlady of the could also provide a new perspective for Lawmaker from the Hong Kong Democratic Party, she does not agree Hong Kong people. She emphasised that STORY / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD Federation of Trade Unions Dr Pan with Mr Albert Ho Chun-yan’s decision to whether universal suffrage could happen Pey-chyou said that Hong Kong people participate in the “small-circle” election. in 2017 would depend on how hard the EDITED BY / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD should not take 2017 universal suffrage “But around 70 per cent of the next Chief Executive tried. for granted. He explained that the possibility of Lawmaker Ms Emily Lau Wai-hing talks about PHOTO CREDITS / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD having CE election through universal her views on universal suffrage. suffrage in 2017 actually relied on the consensus among top Chinese officials, Hong Kong government and Legislative Council. He said the consensus was difficult to reach. Dr Pan said that the “One Country, Two Systems” policy would become empty if the progress of achieving universal suffrage was further hindered. But he said the 2012 CE election was manipulated by the central government since Beijing might not be able to control the election result. “Not all of the election committee members are preferred by Beijing. They can nominate or elect a candidate that

Mr Leung Chun Ying, Mr Henry Tang Yin-yeng and Mr Albert Ho Chun-yan received sufficient valid nomination to run for the Chief Executive election. Mr Leung received 305 The fourth Chief Executive election nominations, Mr Tang, 390 and Mr Ho, 188. will be held.

29 FEB 2012 25 MAR 2012

12 | TYR | MAR 2012 COVER STORY

ARDENT ARTISTS SKETCH OUT DEMOCRACY We have no right to vote in the coming CE election, but political cartoonists try their best to promote democracy through their art works

Internet users' creativity was seen the complex ideas clear,” he said. when the proposed anti-subversion full-blasted in the recent Mr Henry Tang Inspired by lawmaker Mr Raymond legislation required by the Article 23 of Ying-yen’s illegal basement scandal. Wong Yuk-man’s eloquent opinions the Basic Law sparked off heated debate The public has greater acceptance towards politics in a radio program, Mr Lo in 2003. He then returned to Hong Kong towards complicated political issues, published his first comic book to illustrate and participated in July 1 Protest for such as elections, that are illustrated in how the Legislative Council members several times. ironic and humorous visuals. triggered the Five Constituencies Mr Tso Wing-ho,24, is a fan for “Hello In political artists’ eyes, the coming Referendum through by-election in 2010. World” comics. He said that political Chief Executive election is not just He received positive comments from artists addressed political issues very another event that they could draw about, friends and the public, saying that the well. "It is a new way to stimulate but an opportunity to achieve something comics have raised their awareness understanding among the public and to higher—democracy through arts. towards politics. “But I think it is only the promote democracy," he said. “So we have to grasp the opportunity to starting point as public engagement is express ourselves, seize the platform to important.” show our determination and to unfold our Concerning the coming election, vision. And my way will be by publishing another political cartoonist Mr Justin political comics,” said the 40-year-old Wong Chiu-tat said the CE candidates political illustrator Mr Cuson Lo Chi-kong, seemed to be playing a role because who draws political comics for AM730 none of their political platforms could newspaper. push democracy forward. Mr Lo is sceptical about the coming His political comic series “Hello World” CE election, which he describes as a was first published in Ming Pao Daily five small-circle election. He said that years ago. He believes in the power of democratisation was unlikely to happen political cartoon on newspaper. under restrictions imposed by the Basic “Publishing in the newspaper is a more Law and opposition from the effective way to spread the ideas as it conservative parties. serves a larger group of audience,” Mr. “I know it is sometimes difficult for the Wong said. public to develop an in-depth view towards He found demonstrations too Mr Wong Chiu-tat promotes the idea of democracy politics, so I started drawing to help make agitating. He was studying overseas through his art works.

The winner of the Chief Executive election will take office.

1 JUL 2012

MAR 2012 | TYR | 13 INTERVIEW

THE DEDICATED REVOLUTIONARY Mr Kung Chi-shing vows to redefine the local perception of music

He is committed to promoting street music audiences, as well as nurturing a street campaign “Make Some Noise, Hong concerts in Hong Kong; he launched a music culture. Kong” to protest against the protest against the government’s Noise Ms Doris Lee Pui-ying, 22, who has government’s Noise Control Ordinance, EDITED BY / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD Control Ordinance to give way to outdoor been attending the Street Music Concert under which "noise from domestic performance; and he started a band Series regularly since last September, premises and public places" are called “The Box” in his earlier years. Mr says the concerts serve as a way for her regulated. PHOTO CREDITS / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD Kung Chi-shing, a local musician, wants to to get to know local and foreign bands, as Mr Kung feels confused why people give music a voice in Hong Kong. well as new kinds of music. complain about the “noise” from the On February 17, 2012, The Street “It introduces something new and street music concerts, while they can Music Concert Series held its 33rd event fresh every time,” Ms Lee says, “and it bear the noise from construction sites. outside the Hong Kong Arts Centre in might change the public’s view on art He wants to define more specifically what Wan Chai. Mr Kung has organized street and music performance”. noise is in this campaign. music concerts and put on over 40 shows Although each outdoor concert is Though the campaign failed, Mr Kung is in three years. In this concert, the Hong exhausting and physically demanding, Mr still firm in his faith in arts. “One has to keep Kong Welsh Male Voice Choir contributed Kung has no regret and says that he has a making effort to make people aware of its their first street performance. clear idea of what his purpose in life is: to existence as an artist,” he said. “It takes “Good music can inspire people and bring music to society. time to leave impressions on people.” cheer them up,” Mr Kung said. In May In March 2010, Mr Kung launched the As a musician, Mr Kung wants to help 2009, Mr Kung organized the first street people appreciate the art of music and to music concert in Hong Kong. Besides the enjoy the sounds. But people in Hong 33 concerts outside the Arts Centre, Mr Kong are too busy to stop and listen to the Kung also organized outdoor concerts in music, and Mr. Kung often finds it difficult other public spaces, including Central to teach people about music literature. Library, former Police Married Quarters During the past few years, Mr Kung and Choi Yuen Village. opened a music workshop which is held Street music refers to the practice of three times a month. During these performing music in public places. workshops, he makes it his priority to According to the website of Hong Kong teach the public about the importance of Arts Centre, the initiative aims at finding their own voice through music. providing a platform for non-commercial “Arts education starts from the mainstream music, breaking through the community level,” he said. boundaries and enhancing the The tattoos on Mr Kung's arms are designed to match STORY / SOPHIA FU his violin performance gesture. interaction between performers and EDITED BY / PETTER LARSSON

14 | TYR | MAR 2012 INTERVIEW

STREET HAIRSTYLIST The roadside barber has been cutting hair for her customers in the open air for more than two decades

Mrs Wong is hairstyling one of her clients along a diverged hiking trail in Tai Wai. Mrs Wong's "barber shop" is made simply out of bedsheets and planks of wood

With her effortless smile and her bright just to cut hair. "My customers are machines, and then we owned a factory orange windbreaker, Mrs Wong is no happy with this," she said. "It's fast, of 100 people in China. But we moved to ordinary 60-year-old. Every five minutes practical and cheap!" Mrs. Wong Hong Kong, and that was no longer a she was greeted by neighbors and charges her clients $25 per haircut, and good means of income. So I went back friends as they walked past us on the on some days, she even has a long to cutting hair.” street. Her approachable personality queue. However, she often runs into makes a friendly chat out of any formal problems with the Health Department. interview. I don't need a lot of According to Mrs Wong, the Health Mrs Wong has been a hairstylist for Department is strongly against her more than 20 years. But she’s never money and I don’t business, especially since her gear may owned a decent barber’s chair and has not be the safest in terms of cleanliness never worked inside a legitimate salon really need much to and hygiene. “I’m not a hawker,” Mrs. or barber shop. All she’s ever used to cut Wong explained. “But I do get into a lot hair was a functional pair of scissors live life. of trouble when it comes to hygiene and a mirror. “Unconventional” may be Mrs Wong issues with the Health Department.” an understatement, as she moves from She uses three pairs of scissors place to place--sometimes under a throughout one day at work and she highway bridge, other times along a “Cutting hair is a skill I learned back in simply sweeps the hair to any ditch or hiking trail--to work. "It's difficult Guangzhou,” Mrs. Wong explained. She gutter nearby. "If it doesn't disturb because I have to work with the took hairstyling classes from her anyone, it should be fine," she said. weather," Wong said. “When it’s raining, relatives for $60 a month. After she got “I love this job,” Mrs Wong said. “I don't I have to find a sheltered area.” married about 18 years ago, she and need a lot of money and I don’t really Her “office” comprises several planks her husband owned a clothing factory in need much to live life. It's an of wood, a plastic chair and a mirror that China. “This was way back when we unpredictable job, but that's what makes is hung on wire fences. “It’s enough,” were still using the old manual sewing it enjoyable.” she said. She explained that it is not machines [where we used foot power],” STORY / KRISTINE BASILIO necessary to have fancy equipment, Wong said. “My husband got better EDITED BY / HELEN WU

MAR 2012 | TYR | 15 REVIEW

Surrounded by publishing and construction materials shops, Yo Bago is not located in the most eye-catching site.

"LITTLE CANADA" IN HONG KONG Have a bite of authentic Canadian bagels in the buzzing city STORY / ADA YEUNG EDITED BY / SADIE LO

Tucked inside a quiet corner of Quarry because of their similar roll-with-a-hole Bay, sandwiched by construction look. But bagels are generally healthier material shops and publishing shops, Yo than doughnuts, which are usually Bago is like an oasis in the desert. deep-fried while bagels are just boiled This small bagel shop at Pan Hoi Street bread. is just a five-minute walk away from the The owner of the shop, Mr Chris Quarry Bay MTR station. As soon as Leung, used to live in Canada. He seeks 2008 customers walk in, they can smell the to bring the Canadian savoury bites to Canadian-born astronaut Gregory tempting aroma of freshly baked bread. Hong Kong. He not only serves Tim Chamitoff is the first person who took a Although bagels, a Jewish bread Hortons Coffee, the famous Canadian batch of bagels into space on his product, are popular in the western coffee, but also names his bagel mission to the International Space countries like the United States, sandwiches after Canadian cities like Station. Canada and the United Kingdom, it is Vancouver, Montreal and Toronto. rare to find an eatery serving fresh The bagels have the Canadian flavour bagels in Hong Kong. but are not as chewy as the original The Vancouver Breakfast is one of the Being unfamiliar with bagels, people because Mr Leung found that Hong Kong most popular sandwiches. The mouth- may confuse them with doughnuts people prefer softer bagels. watering bagel, topped with a cherry-

16 | TYR | MAR 2012 REVIEW

Unbaked rings of dough which turns into fresh mouth-watering bagels are hung in the shop.

tomato, has a slightly crisp crust but is dense in texture. The pineapple tastes good with the smoked salmon by bringing a complementary sweet and sour taste. The veggies inside are Bagels are often mistaken as doughnuts due to the resemblance of the two. exceptionally fresh with leafy lettuces and juicy tomatoes. Along with a thin etc, are in sections. customers, mostly the local white-collar layer of original cream cheese, it is a Yo Bago operates like a fast food workforce nearby and foreigners great treat for the palate. restaurant but the simple yet chic orange especially Canadians, to chit chat from Newcomers to the shop do not need to and white décor gives the customers a the weather to politics. worry about which set to choose. They warm feeling. Having a cup of Tim Hortons Coffee in can choose the ingredients they like to There are paintings hanging in the hand, along with the relaxing create their own style of bagels. walls and English songs on the atmosphere, Yo Bago is a world away Bread has toppings in many flavours, background. The design of open kitchen from the massive skyscrapers at TaiKoo ranging from spinach, honey wheat to also relieves the worries of hygienic Place or the cramped Quarry Bay along poppy seed. And for cream cheese problems. the tramway. A meal there surely makes spread, Oreo, mint chocolate, blueberry, It is comfortable enough for the people’s day.

MAR 2012 | TYR | 17 REVIEW

A TRIP TO THE PAST OF DENMARK Den Gamle By of Aarhus, Denmark, shows the fascinating history of this lovely country

18 | TYR | MAR 2012 REVIEW

Tired of the hustle and bustle of modern lime-washed and half-timbered with merchants in Den Gamle By. There you city life? Den Gamle By in Aarhus, rooms arranged and furnished as they can explore a merchant’s home and Denmark, is a haven to get away from the might have appeared in the old times. business in the late 18th century and hubbub and take a journey to the past. A burning fire in the fire place; view the unique interiors at that time. Den Gamle By, which in Danish means newspapers and letters randomly put on Entering the Mayor’s House, a wide “The Old Town”, is the world’s first open-air the table as if they have just been read; merchant’s counter come into sight with museum of urban history and culture. Just there is even a knife with residual butter several drawers and shelves filled with about 20 minutes’ walk from the very resting on a cut-board as if it has just goods for folks to purchase. heart of Aarhus, it is a totally different been used by a cooking lady. Every room Furniture of the old merchant’s office world where everything dates back to as is meticulously recreated as if somebody has a mix of Baroque and Rococo styles, early as the 18th century. has just been there. giving you a feeling of flowing in times. All the 75 historical buildings at Den People living here had inspired Mr Besides a blink at the history, a taste Gamle By originated from towns across Anderson and some even became the of delicacy is also a way of penetrating the country, keeping away from cities’ characters of his stories and fairytales. into Danish culture. evolution and development. They were Mr Anderson recalled the first greeting Take a rest at the town’s tea garden moved here either brick by brick or wall by here by Madame Bunkeflod – “This lady and enjoy an afternoon tea with wall, and then rebuilt in 1909 based on opened to me her door, and hers was the traditional Danish snacks and coffee, the original old town. first house belonging to the educated including Danish open-faced sandwiches Instead of appreciating exhibits through class into which I was kindly received.” and desserts such as almond cakes, display windows and reading placards, After the discovery of Mr Anderson’s chocolate truffles and Danish cookies. visitors can experience and have a childhood, the journey continues into the If these cannot satisfy your appetite, go glimpse of the history by wandering centre of the “old town.” to the bakery. A peek through the window around this genuine old Danish town. Small as it is, the town has everything. will make you salivate. Surrounded by exquisite houses Walking on the rugged flagging, you can Stepping inside, an agreeable old lady constructed of patterned masonry, see bookshop, bakery, brewery, cigar dressed the 19th century costume will greet carved wood, chimney pots and red tile factory, clock store, post office, windmill you with a warm smile behind a counter piled roofs, the town gives a surreal feeling that and so on, with visual symbols on the with various cakes and pastries, including seems to only appear in Hans Christian doors showing what they are. sugar pretzels, spice buns and honey-cake Anderson’s fairytales. Every house can be entered and is a hearts. Most cannot be found elsewhere Many buildings can be traced back to mini museum showcasing its own history. nowadays. the days from 1810s to 1870s, when Mr For example the watchmaker’s shop has Wandering on the streets is also an Anderson, the great Danish writer, was about fifty delicate watches and clocks in enjoyment. You may encounter people still alive. The building “The Eilschou different sizes showcased in the dressed in old times, like an old lady in Almshouses” right beside the entrance of cupboards and on the counter. gown with kerchief, cloak and a basket, or Den Gamle By is the re-creation of Mr Surprises unfold as you move on. The a gentleman in tuxedo who will cap and Anderson’s favorite place in his childhood street Algade in the centre of the town is give you a fascinating smile while passing at his hometown Odense. the Renaissance street of Denmark, with by. You may also stop by the bridge across The Eilschou Almshouses was a charity the Mayor’s House from 1597, the a river and feed the ducks, which foundation built in the 1700s to provide Three-Storey House from 1585 and the happens to relate to Mr Anderson’s most free lodgings for vicars' widows and Stone House from 1634. “Ugly Duckling”. respectable young ladies. The single- The Mayor’s House is the best- These items of “living history” are storey apartment with white façade is preserved Renaissance complex of essential for Den Gamle By as they flavour the town with a rich fairytale-like atmosphere. Den Gamle By is a place where you can set your curiosity free. You will never get bored as there are always surprises waiting behind the doors, in the backyards and around the corners for you to discover. Each house is worth a gaze; each street is wor th a walk; and each gourmet is worth a taste. Just forget about the present and throw yourself into a life-changing adventure at hundreds years ago. STORY / PEYTON GUAN An old lady is selling traditional Danish dessert in the bakery. EDITED BY / XAVIER NG

MAR 2012 | TYR | 19 REVIEW

CAN YOU HANDLE THE TASTE? Dr Pepper enchants the world with its unique flavour STORY / ALVINA HUNG EDITED BY / AMANDA MUNKSGAARD

20 | TYR | MAR 2012 REVIEW

At first glance Dr Pepper looks like cola. It “I love visiting with guests from all Pepper with ice cream on top. is brown and fizzy and comes in a red can around the world, welcoming them to As the Coordinator of Student Union – just like the world famous rival Coca Waco, teaching them about the history of for Facilities and Operations, Jordana Cola. But on closer inspection it becomes the World's oldest major soft drink, and Irene Dickey gets to share her Dr Pepper clear that Dr Pepper is something then watching them as they taste a Dr enthusiasm with other students, when different. Some say it tastes like Pepper served up fresh in the soda she helps arrange the Dr Pepper Hour marzipan,others say it is like medicine. fountain,” she says. every week. She has even tried to renew Perhaps the slogan “Can you handle the Dr Pepper gets its distinct flavour the traditional Dr Pepper Hour, which taste?” should be seen as much as a from a mix of no less than 23 different was first held in 1953. “We have tried to warning as an enticing marketing trick. spices and flavourings, and since its provide hot Dr Pepper with lemon slice But no matter if you find the taste strange taste is not like anything else, Ms during cold months, but we received or unique, the almost 130 years old soda Jennie Sheppard is almost certain to mixed reviews. Some said it tasted like is more than a soft drink. It is the pride see some interesting expressions every old coffee,” she says. and glory of the city of Waco in Texas where it was first made. Dr Pepper was invented in Waco by Dr I love visiting with guests from all around the Charles Alderton in 1885. This makes Dr Pepper the oldest major soft drink in world, welcoming them to Waco, teaching them America. From the beginning Dr Pepper was a big hit in Waco and it still is. It fact, about the history of the world's oldest major in the beginning it was even called “a Waco”, but Dr Alderton’s employer later soft drink. renamed it Dr Pepper. However, no one Ms Jennie Sheppard, Director of Visitor Services knows where that name came from. “There was a saying that Dr Morrison was trying to woo a lady, and so he used now and then. For the people in Waco, Dr Pepper the name of the lady’s father,” says Dr Pepper is also a big part of campus runs in their veins. But the drink would Jordana Irene Dickey, Dr Pepper fan and life at Baylor University. Dr Pepper has not have been world famous today, if the Coordinator of Student Union for been a sponsor of the university’s foreigners had not fallen in love with it. Facilities and Operations at Baylor sports team for many years, and This happened with Miss Yang Yueqin, University in Waco, about the mystery of whenever you go to the dining halls, you an international student from China. the name. will see students washing down their She says, she is addicted to the soda, If you want to know more about the lunches with Dr Pepper. though it was not love at first sip. Yang famous southern soft drink, the Dr The student union even arranges Dr first tried Dr Pepper in 2009 when she Pepper Museum in Waco is a good place Pepper Hour. This is an informal get- arrived in Waco. At that time, she did to start. Here, Director of Visitor Services together every Tuesday afternoon, when not care much for the taste, but as she Ms Jennie Sheppard is proud to tell students and staff can relax and enjoy a stayed in Waco, the strange taste grew visitors about the special drink. Dr Pepper Float, which is a glass of Dr on her.

MAR 2012 | TYR | 21 SACRED SOLEMNITY Hong Kong has preserved the spiritual life inherited from its 150 years of British colonization. Some of the oldest churches, standing with faith to serve and unite, have majestic style and are even classified as historical buildings. Every Sunday, when visitors pack tourist attractions and shoppers flock the malls, followers head to churches for their Sunday services. Today in the city, there are more than 300,000 Protestants while about 353,400 Catholics PHOTO / COCO ZHENG attendEDITEDBY religious/ CECILIA CHA services.N There are 40 churches, 30 chapels and 28 halls in Hong Kong, accord- ing to the Census and Statistics Department. STORY / COCO ZHENG EDITED BY / CECILIA CHAN

EDITED BY / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD

PHOTO CREDITS / NAMES IN DINPRO BOLD

22 | TYR | MAR 2012 Saint Andrew’s Church is the oldest Protestant church in Kowloon. Saint Teresa’s Church celebrates the 80th anniversary this year.

Rosary Church is the oldest Catholic Church in Kowloon.

MAR 2012 | TYR | 23