Letter | Hong Kong’s construction sector needs a culture of care

The current situation may be due to a deeply rooted, warped mentality that has created a culture of hierarchy, greed and deprivation. Prioritizing profit over safety, substandard practices and oversight put people at risk. The critical opportunity for industry reform must begin with a fundamental shift in values.

An emphasis on safety, ethics and responsibility can pave the way for a safer industry and help prevent further tragedies. As the industry grapples with unfair contractual practices and poor communication between contractors and employees, may be the perfect time to create a culture of care.

Businesses should prioritize employee well-being and safety by setting new standards that can address common issues and provide a safer, more respectful environment for all.

One solution would be to replace punitive measures with reward systems for positive behavior. Emphasizing positive reinforcement rather than punishment motivates workers to maintain high standards and adhere to safety protocols. This approach promotes open communication and teamwork, which leads to safer and more efficient construction sites.

By recognising good practice among frontline staff, the industry can create a culture of continuous improvement, as well as boost morale and productivity, ensuring the long-term stability and success of the sector.

Implementing a culture of care must be a top-down initiative, emphasizing respect for craftsmen at every level. By showing mutual respect and honoring the contribution of each employee, we can rebuild trust. This is a call to action for all stakeholders to embrace a new ethos that puts people and ethical practices at the forefront of the construction sector.

By shifting the focus from cost reduction to quality and respect for skilled workers, the industry can foster a culture that values craftsmanship.

To prevent further loss of life and property, it is imperative that industry leaders and government work closely together. A united effort is needed to implement reform to provide a safer, ethical work environment.

Choy Hon-ping, Chairman and Managing Director, Hip Seng Group

Let’s buy locally and support our economy

This offers and concessions offered by restaurants, retail stores, museums and the like, initiated by the government, could not have come sooner on July 1. But these are only small steps. To brighten the gloomy economic pictureHong Kong needs more.

As Hong Kongers, we shouldn’t wait for business to fall to us from the sky. We can do our part for our city.

Yes, there is no denying it Shenzhen is attractive. Given that Shenzhen has better service, more competitive prices and a more spacious environment, it is understandable that some Hong Kong residents prefer to spend money and spend weekends there.

But we were born and raised in this city. We owe it allegiance. When our city gets stuck in a rut, who can save it if not ourselves?

So I suggest we look for local brands and products when we shop at supermarkets on weekdays. Central, Wan Chai, Causeway Bay and so on are quite good for shopping, and many retailers offer discounts to survive. For me, shopping in these areas is like visiting old friends. You feel comfortable in familiar surroundings.

Against the tide of masses closuremany catering establishments open these days, such as: Southern District. I admire their gallantry. If you like trying new places, they definitely deserve your support.

As we move towards integration with the Gulf Area, my humble wish remains that the Hong Kong flag will continue to fly high.

Jacqueline Kwan, Sai Ying Pun

English is required in corporate mainland China

I mean letter“Maybe we just don’t know English well” (June 28).

Nowadays, some Hong Kong residents believe that knowledge of Chinese is sufficient to get a job on the mainland.

Speaking from my experience of 13 years in Beijing, China is indeed an international market where people want to learn English well to climb the career ladder. A job candidate from Hong Kong may not survive in this highly competitive market, as there are many young mainland Chinese who can speak English with impeccable accents and write concise essays.

I remember my horizons broadening during occasional breakfasts and lunches with employees of international companies. There was a middle-aged Continental engineer who spoke fluent English and German; another Continental and his assistant spoke English and French. And of course, their native language was Mandarin.

English is the minimum requirement in this competitive market. I hope my story inspires young people in Hong Kong to learn English well.

Edmond Pang, Fanling