It is difficult to believe that Asia’s World City now remains one of the last cities in the world that still has their borders closed. What was once the most accessible international port, now has one of the highest costs of entry.

Ever since the pandemic, it has been extremely difficult for us to leave. In the chance that we do, our return costs are not only economically astronomical, but also impose a large mental burden. Even after infection rates slowed and herd immunity began to build across the globe, Hong Kong remained at a standstill. So what’s been going on in the city that used to herald the title of Asia’s World City?

1. Quarantine restrictions getting tighter, longer, and more tedious. Many talents and professionals are moving to a place which is more practical in their quarantine measures, contributing to our highest population decrease since 1997.
2. Quarantine is expensive. A 21-night stay in any hotel, forget 5 star hotels, cost most people more than they can afford. This automatically disadvantages the underprivileged.
3. We are one of the only cities in the world that has quarantine restrictions of this extent.
4. The 21 day quarantine period is not scientifically backed. Has anyone in the Government actually undergone this quarantine?
   1. Only 3 of all imported cases this summer were detected after the first week of quarantine. Large majority of imported cases are caught upon arrival.
   2. Probability of hotel acquired infections in 21-day quarantine, is greater than it would be for 14-day quarantine.
5. The mental and emotional impact is far-reaching: loved ones are unable to reunite, family tragedies are dealt with in isolation, and jobs are being lost.
6. Across the world, the more vaccination rates climbed, the more open the borders: however here in Hong Kong, what is the incentive to get vaccinated?
   1. Jabbed or not, quarantine is 14/21 days.
   2. Jabbed or not, you can dine at restaurants.
   3. Jabbed or not, the infection rate is so low your chances of getting the virus is close to 0.
   4. So, how can we blame those who don’t want to take the shot?

The Department of Health has done a fantastic job thus far. We can safely go about our daily lives with close to no fear of the pandemic. But there comes a time when it is time to rethink our strategy, and move along with the times to keep up our standing as the great, international city we are.

Please sign this petition to help raise awareness to the Government of the unjust quarantine regulations imposed on the city. We believe shortening the designated facility quarantine to 7 days, with an added home quarantine with a tracker, is the way forward.