The artistic, cultural, and economic value of Hollywood Road Antique Street in Sheung Wan is significant in Hong Kong's tourism sector. After several years of social unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic, the government is focusing on economic recovery.
During difficult times, various measures such as tax reductions, cash handouts, and subsidies for important enterprises have been effective, resulting in a significant fiscal deficit. This year's budget proposes numerous methods to increase revenue and stimulate economic growth, especially considering the relatively stable political environment, low baseline, and anticipated interest rate cuts in the United States. It is believed that achieving a substantial economic growth of around 3% is feasible.
Traditionally, Hong Kong's economy relies heavily on real estate and financial investment, both of which have been severely affected by the pandemic, with a decline of about 25-30% last year. This negative wealth effect has led citizens to be more cautious with their spending habits, further complicating the government's search for economic growth drivers. While the development of the innovation and technology industry is a feasible direction, it requires specific planning and time to implement, with short-term effectiveness being challenging.
China's "14th Five-Year Plan" advocates for the development of culture as a new strategic industry. As a key player in the Greater Bay Area, Hong Kong has a responsibility to expand and strengthen its artistic and cultural enterprises. Recognizing this, the government has introduced measures to encourage the strengthening of traditional culture through creative innovation. Therefore, it is imperative to formulate policies and measures to align with national strategies.
Hong Kong's previous tourism policy focused on "eat, shop, play," which does not fully meet the expectations of modern travelers. The younger generation seeks new experiences when traveling abroad and desires to explore the unique cultural charm of different regions.
Hollywood Road Antique Street, ranked second by Time Out magazine as one of the world's coolest streets, has the potential to significantly contribute to Hong Kong's tourism development if appropriately utilized by the government. Revitalizing Hollywood Road is a complex task involving urban planning, cultural preservation, and tourism development. Government departments need to comprehensively consider various factors to ensure the sustainable development of the antique street while preserving and inheriting its historical culture.
As a cultural and arts enthusiast, I propose the following suggestions:
- Formulating comprehensive plans: Collaborate with stakeholders to develop long-term development plans for Hollywood Road, clarifying its positioning, development direction, and policy framework.
2. Protecting historical buildings and cultural heritage: Implement measures to protect the precious resources of Hollywood Road, including restoring old buildings, enhancing management, and establishing heritage conservation areas.
3. Enhancing public facilities and services: Improve roads, lighting, parking facilities, and environmental hygiene to enhance the attractiveness and comfort of Hollywood Road.
4. Supporting the development of the antique industry: Support the antique industry through tax policies, financial subsidies, and simplifying approval procedures, and organize exhibitions and exchange activities to promote transactions and cooperation.
5. Strengthening management: Strengthen supervision and management of Hollywood Road, including law enforcement patrols, regulating market order, and safeguarding consumer rights.
6. Cultivating cultural and creative industries: Encourage cultural and creative enterprises to settle in Hollywood Road, promoting the integration of antiques with modern design and artistic creation.
7. Enhancing promotion: Strengthen promotion of Hollywood Road through media, internet, and tourism promotion activities, showcasing its unique charm and rich culture to the outside world.
In conclusion, by implementing these comprehensive measures, the government can effectively promote the development and cultural atmosphere of Hollywood Road Antique Street. While challenges may arise during the process, government departments can adjust policies and measures in a timely manner to ensure the continued prosperity of the antique street and make positive contributions to the city's cultural construction and economic growth.
Author
Mr. Robert T Li graduated from the Economics Department of the University of Hong Kong and has served as the Head of Liability Insurance in the Greater China region for an international insurance company. He has a passion for traditional Chinese culture and enjoys collecting art. He is actively involved in promoting awareness of traditional Chinese culture, music, and art among young people. He can be contacted at litaichai@gmail.com.
Uploaded on 2024.3.22
