Protect HK's core interest

The Hong Kong Island Federation, representing 100,000 members from 200 organizations, held a rally on Sunday to voice their rejection of "Occupy Central" and determination to defend the central business district. In a written proposal to all members of Hong Kong society officially announced at the gathering, the federation says "Occupy Central" will hurt Hong Kong's business environment and competitiveness, jeopardize the rule of law, disrupt social order and harm local residents' well-being, which is why it must not be allowed to succeed.

The proposal calls on Hong Kong residents to oppose "Occupy Central" and defend their core interest. Those planning the illegal campaign, aimed at messing up Hong Kong for their own political benefit, should respect popular will and return to the rule of law.

The opposition camp's plan to "Occupy Central" has met with strong condemnation by people from all walks of life. The three leading chambers of commerce have expressed their rejection of the illegal campaign in local newspapers, reflecting not only the business community's concern but also public disapproval of the radical movement. The Sha Tin District Council is the first to pass a motion denouncing "Occupy Central" and the other 17 district councils are expected to do the same soon. The written proposal published on Sunday by the Hong Kong Island Federation on behalf of its 100,000 members is yet further proof that "Occupy Central" is extremely unpopular.

About 80 percent of Hong Kong's business operations in international finance and foreign trade are conducted in Central. The value of the district lies in not just its status as a trade and financial hub but also in the fact that rule of law is part of Hong Kong's core interest and the foundation of its success. Once the Pandora's box is opened there will be no peace for Hong Kong any more. Members of Hong Kong society must join hands in protecting their core interest against the attempt to harm it with "Occupy Central".

This is an excerpted translation of a Wen Wei Po editorial published on May 27.

(HK Edition 05/28/2013 page1)