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Housing crisis solutions
Chan Ho-him, Fanling Rhenish Church Secondary School
I am writing to address the structural housing crisis in Hong Kong. To truly resolve this crisis, we need to tackle the root causes.
Hong Kong’s geography poses a significant challenge.
Much of the terrain is mountainous, leaving only 20 to 30 per cent of the land flat. This scarcity, combined with a population of over 7 million, has forced many residents to live in unsafe subdivided units.
The situation is further complicated by lengthy land acquisition cycles and annual production targets that consistently fail to meet demand.
To reduce pressure on overcrowded urban centres, the government should accelerate the transformation of rural areas into high-density metropolitan hubs.
A prime example of this is Kwu Tung North in the Northern Metropolis. Converting low-density village land into well-planned new towns, supported by the Northern Link railway, will help the government create hundreds of hectares of developable land.
This decentralised approach encourages self-sufficient communities. Focusing on long-term structural solutions will provide dignified, affordable housing for all citizens.
Unity in resistance
Henry Wang Yihao, Lung Kong WFSL Lau Wong Fat Secondary School
The Chinese people’s War of Resistance Against Japanese aggression was a long and challenging struggle for national liberation in modern Chinese history.
As the primary theatre of the Eastern Front in World War II, China’s resistance effectively disrupted and drained the main forces of Japanese militarism, making an unprecedented contribution to the triumph of the global anti-fascist movement.
Japanese imperialist aggression brought disaster to the Chinese nation.
However, China remained resolute. Responding to the call for national salvation, workers, farmers, intellectuals and patriots from all walks of life, and overseas Chinese people, united as one to form a national united front.
Frontline soldiers fearlessly charged into battle, while those in the rear areas supported the front line with all their strength.
The victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression ended Japan’s colonial rule over China and significantly enhanced China’s international standing. Today, we reflect on this history not to sow hatred but to cherish the hard-won peace and honour the martyrs.
Centenary celebrations
Angel Chum, Pope Paul VI College
During the Easter holiday, I discovered The Magician’s Nephew from The Chronicles of Narnia at the library. I was captivated by the story of Digory and Polly as they travelled through the Wood Between the Worlds using magic rings.
After finishing the book, I realised I was on the brink of my own journey, coinciding with my school’s centenary celebration. Standing on the highest floor of the school, I gazed down at the green playground and the red school gate that had seen 36,525 days and nights. An indescribable emotion welled up within me.
The school opened its doors to guests from various backgrounds on March 7 and 8. I eagerly explored the intriguing displays in the geography room and enjoyed the demonstrations in the chemistry lab.
As a student volunteer, my main role was at the English booth, which was full of literary flair. I took on the responsibilities of a photographer, photo editor and email collector.
Although I was exhausted by the end, the pride I felt in witnessing the results of our team’s collective efforts was immense. This experience gave me a deep appreciation for the joy and glory that come from teamwork.
Peace over conflict
Gohan Fan, Lung Kong WFSL Lau Wong Fat Secondary School
In recent months, there have been wars involving Iran, the United States and other West Asian countries. I learned about these events through social media, and it seems that the conflict was triggered by issues related to petroleum.
The Middle East has abundant petroleum resources, which strongly attract the US. Under President Donald Trump’s leadership, the US has employed various methods to obtain these resources.
War results in countless families being torn apart and millions of people becoming homeless. Gunfire, guided missiles and nuclear weapons fly through the air, creating a grim and terrifying atmosphere.
I believe the United Nations should implement policies to prevent and end wars.
I want to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining relationships between countries to ensure the well-being of civilians. Everyone deserves to live in peaceful environments where they can build comfortable homes.
As a global society, we can better protect the Earth from devastation and war. Instead of causing harm, we should focus on fostering positive relations.
