Members of the public in China's Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) have expressed support and offered "positive" feedback to Hong Kong authorities who are gathering opinions from the public on how to tackle social problems, particularly high real estate prices and a land supply shortage.
The city's largest political party in the legislature – the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) – proposed to the SAR Government on Thursday that planning new development areas or public development projects, and implementing the land ordinance would be effective ways to increase short- to middle-term supply for public housing. The ordinance allows the SAR's chief executive to order the requisition of any land for public purposes.
Noel Shih, a DAB member, said he hoped people could work together to solve major social problems, especially housing issues.
"This will help youngsters and other people improve their livelihood and encourage them to be more active in contributing to Hong Kong's prosperity," he said.
People from all walks of life in Hong Kong also expressed the hope that the government will give priority to the needs of young and single people and help them solve their problems through construction of small units.
Yip Man Pan, a councilor of Hong Kong's Tuen Mun District, said the demand from small families and young individuals is surging.
"An increase in public housing programs to meet demands from these age groups is a compassionate move from the government," he added.
