Youth Hong Kong V4N3

a quarterly journal from the hongkong federation of youth groups
September 2012
Volume 4 Number 3
Youth
HONG KONG
Youth, crime and rehabilitation
YOUTH HONG KONG published quarterly by The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups EDITORIAL BOARD Rosanna Wong Elaine Morgan (Editor) Ada Chau (Assistant Editor) Angela Ngai Lakshmi Jacot William Chung Veronica Pearson CIRCULATION (unaudited) 10,000-12,000 in Hong Kong, throughout the region and overseas VIEWS EXPRESSED are the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher REPRODUCTION OF CONTENTS without written permission from the publisher is prohibited INTERVIEWS Elaine Morgan Ada Chau Pang Tsz-ching Wilson Chan Chloe Ng OTHER CONTRIBUTORS Denis Lau Gary Heilbronn Andrew Halton & Tara Hoi Ling Lam Samson Tse & Paul Wong Henry Poon Jay Teo Jun Kai LY Yong-sin Lo Shuk-yi ARTWORK HKFYG e-Services Unit, Edwin Kwok, William Lee Other artwork from archive, acknowledged as captioned or from public domain. DESIGN, LAYOUT & PRINTING DG3 Asia Ltd ISSN 2071-3193 WEB youthhongkong.hkfyg.org.hk CORRESPONDENCE to The Editor, Youth Hong Kong, 21/F, The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point, Hong Kong TEL 3755 7084, 3755 7108 FAX 3755 7155 EMAIL youthhongkong@hkfyg.org.hk ADVERTISING enquiries to Ada Chau (3755 7108) THE HONG KONG FEDERATION OF YOUTH GROUPS was founded in 1960 and is one of the citys largest non-profit youth organizations. Its programmes and activities at over 60 locations are attended by 5 million participants every year CORE SERVICES Counselling, Creativity Education & Youth Exchange, e-Services, Education Services, Leadership Training, Leisure, Cultural & Sports Services, Parent-child Mediation, Research & Publications, Services for Youth at Risk, Volunteer Services, Youth Employment, Youth SPOTs, www.hkfyg.org.hk, www.u21.hk
Youth Hong Kong

September 2012 Volume 4 Number 3
HIGHLIGHT
Youth Crime focus on rehabilitation
Contents
8-17
YOUTH SPEAK
Shoplifting Drug abuse Triad influence Compensated dating
HIGHLIGHT 4 Youth crime: focus on rehabilitation OVERVIEW 6 Young offenders: who, what, where YOUTH SPEAK 8 Shoplifting: why? 11 Drugs: self perpetuating? 14 Violence: short, sharp, shock 17 Compensated but compromised INTERVIEWS 20 Denis Lau The work of a Juvenile Court magistrate 24 Hui Yung-ching, Paul Yeung Hoi-shan & HK Police Public Relations Branch Fighting crime in the community Wilson Chan HKFYG Youth Crime Prevention Centre & Wing Lee Residence Raymond Tang Getting back on track Social Welfare Department Tuen Mun Children & Juvenile Home David Grant Operation Breakthrough
20-31
INTERVIEWS
Judiciary Correctional Services Social Welfare Dept HK Police Force Community
25
32-35
26 29 30
YOUTH WATCH
Common crimes Trends Triads Regional snapshots
YOUTH WATCH 32 Living outside the law 35 Youth crime snapshots
36 -46
FEATURES
Drama Calligraphy Internet Film Sport Letters
FEATURES 36 Drama: Familiar family - Easy money CITY SPACE Andrew Halton & Tara Hoi Ling Lam 40 Calligraphy: brushstrokes to keystrokes INTERNETSCOPE 42 Samson Tse & Paul Wong Internet safety net ARTS & CULTURE 43 Film review We Not Naughty SPORT 44 45 What sport can do: Ajmal Samuel Paralympics: young and inspiring
47-55
HKFYG
Assessment Learning Exposure Media Reading Charity
LETTERS 46 Sport; leadership and human trafficking HKFYG 47 48 50 52 54 55 Congregation House: assessment and learning Dragon 100 in Tianjin: three young writers School news and message from Principal M21: Media centre, Aberdeen New books for sale Charity auction and Chinese antiques course
September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong
Editorial
hand accounts of why young people offend and what repercussions their activities have had on their lives.
his issue of Youth Hong Kong focuses on youth, crime and rehabilitation. We look at a range of criminal behaviour and hear first-
What emerges from these stories, along with analyses and expert opinions, is that punitive treatment alone cannot be the answer for young people. Instead, rehabilitative measures, positive reinforcement and giving them a second chance often provide young people with the best and simplest reasons for not re-offending. Therefore, we look closely at services that address the problems and concerns of young offenders, and describe the support networks which catch those who fall.
This exciting topic has resonance for anyone interested in vulnerable youth and young offenders, as well as those who work with them. We therefore urge you to share your experiences and stories. Only when we all work together will there be a positive impact on young people who have broken the law.
Dr Rosanna Wong, DBE, JP Executive Director, HKFYG September 2012
Photo by deardavidyan
Wan Chai Police Station
Youth Hong Kong | September 2012
Highlight
Youth crime
focus on rehabilitation
by Rosanna Wong
re young people who break the law inherently bad? Are they essentially gullible and easy prey for bad influences? Can there be a genetic disposition to criminal behaviour or are these the wrong questions to ask? Instead, maybe we should ask how to prevent re-offending.
and placed in custody. She pleaded guilty, expressed deep remorse and the magistrate placed her on 18 months probation. The parents nevertheless stood by her and she vowed to get a job to repay them.
Remorsefulness
Such remorse and a pledge not to re-offend are not unusual. Humphrey is an offender confined to a Californian public correctional facility after conviction for assault and criminal sexual conduct. He comes from a broken, dysfunctional home. However, he is now pursuing the educational opportunities offered by the correctional institution and he says it is because of the concern shown to him by the authorities, rather than the brutality that he expected. I want to go to college, he says. Thats one of my motivations, instead of growing up to be like my father. 3
Research1 from around the world shows that young offenders frequently come from backgrounds where neglect, inconsistent parenting, familial instability and abuse is rife. Symptomatic of the effects of such neglect and abuse are truancy, substance abuse, self-imposed exclusion, anger, and peer acceptance by gangs or other malcontents. Offending is often the next step on a continuum.
Reinforcement
What these and many other studies indicate, backed up by qualitative data and accounts of first-hand experience, is that the best way to deal with young offenders is to treat them with care, close supervision and positive reinforcement. This does not eliminate the need for restitution or incarceration, but it does mean using rehabilitative rather than punitive measures wherever possible. Such an approach has been singled out as a key factor in preventing re-offending among young people. Family support and forgiveness lie at the heart of a recent Hong Kong story2 that illustrates this point. It concerns a teenage girl who fell out with her mother and fell in with a bad crowd. In a moment of pique she took over 20 items worth about HK$80,000 (US$10,000) from the family home and sold them for a mere HK$1,500 (about US$200). When her mother found out she called the police, the girl was arrested
Young offenders frequently come from backgrounds where either neglect and abuse is rife.
Mark Johnson, a rehabilitated young offender and former drug user, is now a published author and founder of the ex-offender charity, User Voice4. He has argued that policy-makers are ill-advised to make angry, ill-considered demands for retribution from youth, especially if they do it to gain political capital. Instead, he advocates showing care and seeking a therapeutic approach to help young offenders change their behaviour and life styles.5 Latisse6 comes from a large family with little time for her. She fell in with a girl gang when she was 10, began getting into trouble in school and was eventually expelled. Then, fired from
Highlight
What these efforts show is that rehabilitation works, as does the application of nurturing, encouraging, reinforcing positive values. Young offenders deserve a second chance. However, this will not be possible unless the public changes its perception towards them.
her shop job on suspicion of thieving, she was arrested for drug-related offences and given a 3 year custodial sentence. Nonetheless, she is optimistic about changing her behaviour as a result of support and mentoring, and is now involved in a transition to adulthood programme helping others avoid the mistakes she made. What is apparent from these real accounts is that many young offenders are committed to turning their lives around and making every effort not to re-offend, not because of the sentences they received and the punishment they endured. Instead, it is a result of the way they were treated.
Support initiatives and efforts to enable young offenders to take positive charge of their own lives.
In March 2012, the Sha Tsui Correctional Institution held an open day for the media. The purpose, according to Chief Officer, Frankie Yee, was to encourage the public, especially employers, to give young people who have broken the law a chance when they come out of detention. The hope is that not only will companies like Goldman Sachs get involved but so will all manner of employer. This would give such youngsters an opportunity to become productive, responsible members of the community. Re-offending may occur, but it is important to support initiatives and efforts to enable young offenders to take positive charge of their own lives. With community and family support, concern, care and love, young offenders can and do find their way back.

Reintegration
Another new strategy in dealing with young offenders is through the concept of social impact bonds. In a small classroom, four teenage boys laugh and roll their eyesthe instructor encourages them to think about their futures. Nothing unusual, except that the classroom is on Rikers Island, New York Citys biggest jail and the teens are part of the Adolescent Behavioural Learning Experience programme aimed at helping them take personal responsibility through cognitive behavioural therapy as a method to cut down on re-offending. The programme is funded by using social impact bonds, an experimental method used in financially stressed municipalities and funded by Goldman Sachs. 7
Sources
1
Three examples of research: Cashmore, Judy. The link between child maltreatment and adolescent offending: Systems of neglect of adolescents. in Family Matters No. 89, 2011, Australian Government, Australian Institute of Family Studies. http://www.aifs.gov.au/institute/pubs/fm2011/fm89/fm89d.html; Wikstrm, Per-Olof and Kyle Treiber, Offending Behaviour Programmes, Source Document. Youth Justice Board, Government UK, 2008 http://www.yjb.gov.uk/publications/ Resources/Downloads/Final%20OBP%20source.pdf; Why do young people offend? Oxfordshire City Council at http://oxcentric.oxme.info/cms/content/why-do-young-people-offend Teen avoids jail after selling parents short. The Standard, 15 August 2012.
2 3
Abrams, Laura, Listening to Juvenile Offenders: Can Residential Treatment Prevent Recidivism? Child and Adolescent Social Work Journal, Vol. 23, No. 1, February 2006 http://164.67.121.27/files/downloads/listening_to_offenders.pdf http://www.uservoice.org Johnson, Mark. Children who offend need our help not our hatred. The Guardian, 17 March 2010 http://www.guardian.co.uk/society/2010/mar/17/child-offenders-needhelp-not-hatred St. Giles Trust Breaking the Cycle of Reoffending. Latisses story. http://www.stgilestrust.org.uk/stats-and-info/p522-latisse-s-story.html The Economist, 18 August 2012.
4 5
6 7
Overview
Young offenders in
who does what with and for them
ong Kong is one of the worlds safest cities. The low official crime rates confirmed by both government and UN surveys, are ample evidence. The number and diversity of organizations involved in the prevention of youth crime and the ways in which young offenders are dealt with are illustrated on these two pages.
H
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Police Superintendents Discretionary Scheme School Liaison Officers Police Liaison Office Child Care Protection Unit Operation Breakthrough
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Custodial sentences administered by: Rehabilitation Centres Detention Centres Training Centres Drug Addiction Treatment Centres School for Social Development for Boys amd Girls HK Juvenile Care Centre
(School and Hostel for Boys)
Society of Boys Centre

(for Girls, age 12 to 15) (for Girls, age 14 to 18)
(Schools and Hostels for Boys)
Marycove Centre and School Pelletier Hall and School Temporary residential care eg. Youth Outreach: Crisis Centres for Boys and Girls and transitional housing servicesYouth SPOTs
Re sid tia en lS er vi s ce N by GO s
Overview
Hong Kong
H on g
K o n g Co
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Community Sentences (decided) Bound Over Orders Care or Protection Orders Probation Orders Community Services Orders Residential Services operated by NGOs Tuen Mun Children & Juvenile Home Reformatory School
So
e lf a re D e p a r t m e lW nt ia
(S
D)
Community Sentences administered via: Care and Protection Orders

(may include residential requirement in foster family or childrens home and Family Conference) (may include residential and other requirements) (Maximum 240 hours)
Probation Orders
Community Services Orders
HK
Youth Crime Prevention Centre
FY G
Youth Support Scheme Outreaching Social Work Services Extended Service for Young Night Drifters School Social Work Youth SPOTs
Hong Kongs low crime rate results from many factors. An expert criminologist, Roderic Broadhurst, says these factors include a wealthy, compliant, pro-social population, ethnic homogeneity, active anticorruption strategies, Confucianism-based, familyoriented values, a large professional police force, strict gun laws, effective suppression of cross-border crime, high levels of formal or informal surveillance, and severe punishment of the convicted. 1 These diagrams represent the basics of a highly complex system. Broadhursts conclusion is that Hong Kongs service-oriented policing faces new challenges [which require] balancing the role of state intervention in family disputes with heightened respect for civil rights, while at the same time ensuring social services and police collaborate i n crime prevention.2 Views expressed in the following pages bear this out.
1 2
Roderic Broadhurst, R, Lee , KW, Chan, CY. UN Habitat Survey - The Case of Hong Kong, China. http://papers.ssrn.com/sol3/papers.cfm?abstract_id=2126947 Broadhurst, R et al in Chui, WH & Lo, TW (eds). Understanding Criminal Justice in Hong Kong. Willan: Cullompton, Devon, 2008.
Youth speak
Shoplifting: why do they do it?
by Pang Tsz-ching
live and Bob are brothers, now in their mid-20s. They got into bad company at school and started stealing from supermarkets. After being arrested and receiving a police caution the brothers turned over a completely new leaf.
The boys father owned a fishing trawler and Clive and Bob were brought up by their kind, rather old-fashioned mother. They were not trouble-makers at school and both of them are very contrite about what they did, especially because of the effect it had on their family. Bob I just grabbed it and ran. My heart was beating so fast but nobody chased me. Clive I kept on playing till we finished the game, but I really felt guilty. I knew that boy would be very unhappy when he found out and I vowed never to do it again. Stealing from real people was different from stealing from shops where there is no real victim.
Shoplifting is the most common juvenile crime in Hong Kong. When trying to determine why, several factors must be considered. Youth Hong Kong talked to Professor Dennis Wong of City University*. He said, Was a calculated risk taken? If not then look for an explanation in parents and socioeconomic background, greed and peer group pressure. Vulnerable youth can be goaded by their peers: Well, go on then, lets see if you can do it.
Learning about stealing

Clive was 14 and Bob was 12 when they first stole something. It all started with a Japanese cartoon called Digimon. The popular show spawned Digimon playing cards and some of the boys the brothers played with were stealing them. One day, as the brothers were watching other boys playing with Digimon cards, they noticed a much younger boy with a very special card. They really wanted it and decided that Clive would play with the boy and keep him distracted, while Bob stole the card.
Youth speak
Too tempting
Later on, there was a special offer of Digimon cards in the supermarket. A lucky draw card was packed in with boxes of chocolate fingers. This proved too big a temptation for the boys. Clive At first, we bought the chocolate fingers, but later we realized we could simply cut open the packs, steal the cards and leave the cookies behind. We went round all the supermarkets in Tuen Mun like ParknShop and Wellcome. I think we got over 50. Sometimes we really wanted the cards, but not always. Sometimes we stole just to prove we could do it without getting caught, just like our friends.
I knew it was greedy but I lost all control.

Clive It was nearly two hours before the police came. They took us away in a police van. I was very scared. I had seen those vans on TV, but never imagined being in one myself. And then I remembered Mum, how worried she would be. She was always worried when we were late.
Bob With seven of us together we thought we wouldnt be found out. Some of us acted as lookouts but there was no real plan. We would walk around the shop and check out the guards and CCTV. We were a bit scared but we thought wed be hidden.
A new leaf
Bob Mum and Dad came down to the police station, but they didnt even scold us. I think they just couldnt understand. That made me feel even more guilty. Mum didnt let us out of the house for two weeks. I was so unhappy. I never played Digimon or wanted to see those old friends again. Our older sister and brother didnt talk to us for months. We were so ashamed. Even though we got away with just a caution from the police instead of being sent to jail we decided then and there that wed never steal anything again. Neither of us. Ever. Clive To keep occupied we tried new things: no more playing Digimon and watching TV all day long. Instead I learned to juggle, went camping and did volunteer work. That was all arranged by the Federation after we were cautioned by the police.
Shocked, arrested
Clive One day we were in Tuen Mun Jusco, hanging out as usual. I remember it so clearly. It was 10th August 2002. One of our friends showed us a Metal Fight Beyblade toy in his bag. Hed just stolen it. Then, Bob stole one. At that moment, I didnt even want one but I stole one too. I knew it was greedy but I lost all control. Bob We thought we got away with it, but on the Town Plaza escalator a plainclothes security guard caught us and called the police. It was a terrible shock.
Youth speak
Bob We started volunteering in 2002 and since then weve done all kinds of voluntary work. I even got an award. I have to say that was a really big deal for me. I had never got any prizes before and to be recognized like this meant people thought I was good at something at last. That made me feel so proud. Clive Helping other people makes me feel happy. Money cant buy that kind of happiness. Bob I have lots of goals and dreams now. I love running and want to do a marathon. I want to fulfill all my dreams and now I can, if only I put my mind to it and keep trying.
Even now, nobody else knows what we did, not even our old school.
On the right track

Clive, now 26, plans to study and become a social worker. He has already graduated from the Institute of Vocational Education (IVE), worked in a sports centre for a year and then at HKFYG for 2 years. Bob, now 24 also graduated from IVE and has worked for HKFYG and other NGOs for 3 years. His goal is to be a social worker too. Professor Dennis Wong, with whom we opened this article, is an advocate of restorative justice and a specialist on the sentencing of young offenders in Hong Kong. The voluntary work done by Clive and Bob is a form of restorative practice. Professor Wong commented: The effort to cultivate an adolescents self control requires the co-operation of the social authorities as well as changes in the criminal justice system and its procedures. To prevent recidivism, a new approach must be considered which should emphasize the concept of Chinese collective responsibility towards crime control as well as advocating the values of forgiveness, interpersonal harmony and family values.1
Clive Bob
Notes *Prof Dennis Wong Sing-wing is Associate Dean at the College of Liberal Arts and Social Sciences, City University of Hong Kong. He is also a Volunteer Advisor to HKFYGs Youth Crime Prevention Centre. The boys were cautioned and put on the Police Superintendents Discretionary Scheme (PSDS). For information about PSDS see page 30. In the passage above about voluntary work, the boys are referring to the Youth Support Scheme run by HKFYG as part of its work with youth at risk, in conjunction with PSDS.
Names in this story have been changed to protect identities.
10
source
1.
http://www.restorativejustice.org/leading/wong/
Youth speak
Drugs and Violence a self-perpetuating process?

Wilson Chan
h Duk got into trouble with the police when he was 15, just after his parents were divorced. He was already taking drugs, but it was damage to public property that led to his arrest. He tells the story in his own words.
I dropped out of school in Form 3 and then I got in with a bad crowd. Some of them were kids Id known since I was in primary school, but some of them were triads. They put pressure on me, so I joined too. Maybe I relied on them as friends too much. Perhaps it was because I had no other friends. Im 17 now and I really think Ive left the worst days behind me. Ive got a girlfriend and Ive held down a job for a couple of months. But my past haunts me, especially the time I did in prison. I felt so rocky, no friends, no Mum or Dad, I didnt think I would get through it. And the drugs well, I havent given up yet, but Im trying.
Risk factors for youth crime are similar in various parts of the developed world. As Muncie says in the third edition of his comprehensive and authoritative overview, Children who are exposed to poor child-rearing behaviour are likely to offend [if] they do not build up internal controls over socially disapproved behaviour, while children of criminal families and those with delinquent friends tend to build up antiauthority attitudes and the belief that offending is justifiable. The whole process is self-perpetuating.
Sources * Muncie, J. Youth & Crime. 3rd ed. Sage, 2009. ** http://law.lexisnexis.com/webcenters/hk/News/Main-Topic-1/1191arrested-in-anti-triad-raids/
and Chloe Ng
They have nothing to lose: no family, no girl, no job. Theyd commit serious crimes without thinking twice.
The drugs started a couple of years ago. I took ketamine and Ice when I went round to Ah Mings place. We used to hang out on the back stairs at night. Ah Ming, my old schoolmate sold drugs for the triads and he used to give some to me. Bit by bit I got hooked. It made me feel good and it made my brain buzz. I felt stronger. In fact I used to feel like I could take on the world. Real life was never like that for me. One night I overdosed and the hallucinations started. That scared me, especially when I started vomiting, but I still couldnt stop. I realized the drugs were having so many bad effects then. My skin didnt heal properly if I scratched it. I was always having to go to the toilet. I couldnt think straight and I shivered all the time, but my girl was into drugs too so it carried on.
11
Youth speak
Ive never sold drugs, but I did fight when the Dai Lo* gave orders. Ah Ming is different. Hes just been picked up by the police again. Hes now been a trafficker for the triads for years but he only got about HK$100 dollars each time. His Mum and Dad had triad dealings too so maybe it ran in the family. It was a quick way to make money but it wasnt much. It seemed like a mugs game to me. The risk was all Ah Mings. The Dai Lo would never have been caught. It all got worse because my girlfriend fooled around with the other guys. It made me so mad. Once I lost my temper and nearly hit her. She ran off and I broke the windows of the district council office to let off steam. For a few minutes it made me feel better. Someone reported me and I was convicted for willful damage and ended up at Tuen Mun Children and Juvenile Home for six months. That was last year. They let me out about four months ago. But the hardest period was the 21 days I had to spend in Pik Uk Correctional Institute, waiting for my
report to come through. I felt completely humiliated because I thought Id served my sentence by then. It made me think very hard about what Id done and in the end I decided to quit. Stop drugs, stop triad stuff, stop hanging out in places where Id meet all those guys. These days, Id only fight if one of my real mates was in trouble. Never because the Dai Lo ordered it. But drugs are still a problem for me.
Whats changed me is my mindset. Ive got a future now.

Its strange. I dont think the fact I got arrested has made such a big difference to my attitude and the idea of being punished doesnt stop me doing drugs. To be honest I dont think the police are very effective. Whats changed is my mindset about fighting and the triads. Before, I
12
Youth speak
thought I could make a rational decision to commit a crime for the Dai Lo. I still know a couple of guys like that. They have nothing to lose: no family, no girl, no job. Theyd commit serious crimes without thinking twice. They wouldnt care if they got thrown in jail. Two things have helped me turn a corner. First, Ive got family support. I live with Dad now, just the two of us and we look after each other. No brothers or sisters and Mum left years ago, but its still a family. I feel Ive got a future too. Ive got a new girlfriend and a job. If you have a stake in the future like that you dont want to lose it. But Ive gone back to drugs. Its an addiction, a physical thing, not a mental problem like before. I cant do without them. Not yet, anyway.
Stanislaus Lai, Secretary-General of the Hong Kong Juvenile Delinquency Research Society commented, The biggest drug abuse problem is mostly caused by peer pressure. We need to know about preventive and protective factors. HKFYGs outreach social workers often patrol the streets and parks in Tseung Kwan O district where Ah Duk lives. They seek out youth like him and offer guidance and support which can empower them to become law-abiding. Now Ah Duk comes to Federation outreach activities regularly. His new girlfriend is off drugs and shes helping him as he tries to give up them up for good too.
Illicit use of drugs in Hong Kong contrasts markedly with the practice in Britain where, a study* on drug abuse completed in 2011 and headed by Professor Paul Yip of the University of Hong Kongs Department of Social Work & Social Administration, pinpoints a common trajectory
Names have been changed to protect identities. * Dai Lo means triad leader.
for young drug abusers. The report states that most of them are heavily affected by dysfunctional familiesfamily crisis, divorcelow income and long working hours. Other major risk factors are easy access to drugs in the immediate neighbourhood [and] failure [in] school achievement undesirable peer influence and inter-generational drug addiction. The cooperation of the police, social workers, teachers and relevant professionals is recommended to enhance protective factors. An earlier study**, reported by Dr Francis Lee of the same department, reached some similar conclusions. It also recommended studying the adequacy of the present justice system as it pertains to substance abuse among the young.
Sources * Final Report: A Study on Drug Abuse Among Youths and Family Relationship[sic]. University of Hong Kong, 2011 ** Lee, FWL. Nurturing Pillars of Society. Hong Kong University Press, 2011
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Youth speak
Short sharp h r
It was a day of summer sunshine and showers when the Correctional Services Department took a group from HKFYG to Sha Tsui Correctional Institution. We drove south on Lantau Island through a rural landscape where cows strayed across the road. At Shek Pik Reservoir, we looked down over sea and islands, with magnificent Lantau Peak towering behind. But in the foreground was the maximum security Shek Pik Prison and soon we were at Sha Tsui Detention Centre flanked by the Young Prisoner Section of Sha Tai Correctional Institution. A student of criminal justice describes the experience and tells the story of 18-year old Ah Lam, sent here for breaching a Community Service Order. Detention Centre personnel met us and told us that such institutions are intended to give a short, sharp, shock. Young offenders learn the hard way about self-control and obeying authority. When they get out they never want do anything that could mean going back. By the time our tour was complete we understood very well why. I had seen videos of rebellious teens confronted with prison officers in lectures and I knew about the harsh training, but I wasnt prepared for the thunderous voices of the officers. That really gave me a shock, especially when we were just ten feet away. They were very fierce. Its understandable that newcomers are frightened. It was silent most of the time except when the officers shouted. One of them saluted sharply, stamped his booted foot with military precision as senior officers approached, then turned and yelled a fierce barrage of instructions to a group of a dozen lads in blue shorts and white shirts with wooden faces. There were fewer of them than I expected. Everything we saw was clean and tidy and the gym seemed new, but the cells where they slept were grey, worn and dreary. There was to be no misunderstanding here. One foot out of line and they would regret it. Rows of cells had bare necessities behind forbidding bars. Bamboo mats for sleeping, on grey polypropylene beds, a sink with a single push tap, sharply folded clothes and a grey blanket. All looked starched, perfectly ironed. In fact the inmates look after their kit like soldiers in the old days, with precision manual effort. Blinking as we went out into the sun we saw a dozen inmates standing to attention beside yellow plastic buckets with gardening equipment. They were being told how to put on canvas sun hats, the right angle, the right movements. No sloppiness allowed. Then they started cutting the grass with scissors, a task they did every day. To me they all looked alike, same uniform, very short hair, brown skin, blank faces. But they tensed up whenever the officer barked out an order. Many times, they had to stay motionless in odd positions, waiting for the next instruction. To me that seemed so hard and tedious.
14
Youth speak
shock
It began to rain as we went onto the parade ground and saw foot drill in progress. The rain stopped nothing. The drummer thumped out the beat and the prisoners marched, in wide circles, in step, turning corners as a group without breaking rhythm. They were good at it. Theyd had plenty of practice.
by Elaine Morgan & Chloe Ng
One foot out of line and they would regret it.

When we started the interview I felt a bit uncomfortable. The officers were all focusing on us and I didnt know whether our questions were OK, especially the ones about triads. We knew Ah Lam had triad connections. In such an authoritarian context I thought nobody would ever reveal true feelings or innermost thoughts. I expected our interviewee to be so well prepared that his answers would be totally predictable. Ah Lam marched in, saluted and sat. Polished black leather shoes toeing a thick yellow line on the floor. Back ramrod straight. Hands on knees. Fingers out straight in front. No chance of concealing anything. He began to speak.
Then to the gym. Sit-ups by the dozen. The boys were fit, thats for sure. Fitness is a requirement for a Detention Centre sentence. There was not an ounce of spare flesh on them. They get three meals a day, breakfast at 0615 hours, dinner at 1645 hours.
15
Youth speak
If I can do this, I can do anything. Nothing could be harder than this.

I dropped out of school in Form 2. I was bored. At home there were always arguments but I found a few friends who made me feel one of the gang. We hung out together and took drugs like ketamine (K ), Ice ( ) and pills ( ) that we got free from triads. Sometimes I stole money at home to buy more. Then one day three of us were at the basketball court. Ah Hung was really getting on my nerves. He was always playing jokes on me. Hed been bullying me for years. I completely lost my temper when he made a stupid remark about my jeans and I hit him. Ah Ming grabbed me and it was all over quickly. I didnt think Id hurt him much and certainly didnt expect him to report me but that night the police came looking for me. When I appeared in court the judge said I had to do community service. 100 hours in a year. It was so boring, painting and taking care of old people. I did about 10 hours in the first few months and my mates kept saying it was a complete waste of time. I had no idea how serious the consequences of breaching the order would be and they didnt know any better. I should have listened to that judge. I remembered too late what hed said. I never imagined being sent to jail. Ive been here 4 months now. Every day I get up, do the laundry, the cleaning and the tidying up. I never did any those things at home. I had to learn here. Polishing shoes. Folding clothes. Then foot
drill and cutting the grass. Every day the same things. Every day I concentrate. Maybe Ill get out quicker if i get good marks. Ive learnt how to control myself. It is boring and hard but its made me realize I have to respect the law. Its also helped me see that if I can do this, I can do anything. Nothing could be harder than this. Now, I always regret what I did. I know that hurting people is no way to solve problems. Ive learned to regret that old life of mine. I lost my freedom. I lost home comforts. I lost my friends and I thought Id lose my family too. My old friends never come here. They never write. But its terrible to do without Mum and Dad. I know how disappointed they are. It makes me ashamed. Theyre divorced and yet they come here together to see me. It makes me feel Ah Lam faltered then, stopped, swallowed. Then took a grip of himself and continued. its made me cherish every moment I have with them when they visit and I know that I will feel like that forever, when I get out.
The interview ended. Ah Lam stood. Saluted. Turned and left. We sat silently for a moment. Then, in our turn, we stood and walked out, through the razor wire gate, to the car waiting outside, then towards the green mountainside and our way back to lives in the city, freedom. Ah Lam? Hes still there.
18 4
16
Youth speak
Compensated but compromised

nnie and Kelly*, both 15 years old this year, look like ordinary Hong Kong girls. Long straight hair, short skirts and hot pants. The difference? They date and have sex with older men for money.
by Pang Tze-ching
Dave asked her to come back to the karaoke bar often, each time with other young girls so that he could choose different ones.
Compensated dating, known as enjo-ksai in Japan where it is said to have originated, involves older men giving money or luxury gifts to younger girls for companionship, and often, sexual favours. When sex with underage girls is involved the girls may be prosecuted or put under a court order. Professor Karen Joe Laidler, Honorary Director of the University of Hong Kongs Centre for Criminology, writing to Youth Hong Kong about compensated dating, commented: In some senses, compensated dating exhibits similar characteristics to sex work such as the exchange of money or goods for sex, but many of those who are involved, both provider and customer, may not see it that way.
Annies first experience

I went with Dave on my first compensated date. He was about 30 and I was 14, said Annie, who dropped out of school in Secondary 1. At first, he gave me HK$200 and all I did was sing karaoke with him. Annie was at a karaoke bar with some other girls of the same age. They all knew what to expect. After wed been singing together for a while, he asked me to meet him in the toilets for sex.
Annie asked the other girls first. Shed slept with her boyfriend before, but this was different. They told her it would be fine and wouldnt take long. More importantly, they said she would get HK$1,000. She wanted the money. After that first encounter, Dave asked her to come back to the karaoke bar often, each time with other young girls so that he could choose different ones. They all got paid the same rates and Annie only stopped when she lost her phone with his contact details.
17
Youth speak
Family background
Annies home is in Wong Tai Sin. She comes from a low income family with whom she is not on good terms. Kelly gets on with her mother, but her father swears at her a lot. Both of them get minimal pocket money.
Annie and Kelly together

Annie used to be in school with Kelly and Gigi, a mutual friend, asked both of them if they were interested in part-time jobs. They trusted her. The work was at a private upstairs bar in Tsim Sha Tsui, and again, the money mattered. It turned out that the bar was run by triads.
Photo by lism
hour for this. After a while, they began to go into adjacent private rooms with the men and earned up to HK$1,000 in tips from them. Sometimes I asked for more, said Annie. I got up to HK$2,500 an hour from some of them, but it had to be a secret or the triads would get angry. The standard maximum was HK$600. Most of the men were 30 or 40 but I think one was at least 60. He gave me a lot of money and I got in touch with him privately a few times. He was rich but impotent, so I could cheat him. Most of the customers were afraid of unsafe sex and would use condoms. But the triad staff also had sex with the girls. They gave them money to buy morning-after pills instead. I didnt really want to go with them, but they had power over me and so I had no choice, said Kelly. Actually, neither of the girls worried about the risks involved. It wasnt a big deal, said Kelly, even if it was against the law. Annie used to get
to the bar by about 4pm most days and Kelly arrived a bit later, after school. The triads used to send them home by 10pm because they were so young. For the girls, it was quick, easy money so they kept going for 3 months, till the police raid. The triads were arrested and the girls were put under a Care or Protection Order which meant they had to report regularly to a Social Welfare Department welfare worker who checked whether theyd had sex. If they had they could be sent to a correctional home. The outreach workers also help. We trust them, said Kelly, and we dont want to disappoint them. When asked if they wanted to get married, Kelly said she wanted to find someone who would look after her. Annie likes goodlooking boys and still occasionally goes out with one of her former customers just because she likes his looks. She liked the money too though. I was so bored with nothing to do and I got used to
Sometimes I asked for more. I got up to HK$2,500 an hour but it had to be in secret or the triads would get angry.
To begin with they were scared, but the triads offered them protection, so they kept going back. At first all the girls had to do was talk and have a drink with the male clients in an open area with easy chairs and karaoke. They earned HK$150 an
18
Youth speak
Annie on online compensated dating

I tried it once, but I pretended I was 17. The police track online daters. I made sure I had a girlfriend with me too. It was scary meeting him alone in public. We agreed to go to a movie and then a hotel, but actually we left without telling him. We might have got no money in the end and there would have been nothing we could do. Its different from working in the bar. Theres nobody to protect you. Hong Kong City University academics Cheung Chau-kiu, Lee Tak-yan and Li Chi-mei write, The police rigorously enforce the law against juvenile prostitution there are two distinct ways [of dealing with it.] One is to treat them as offenders and the police follow the prosecution procedures. The other is to treat them as victims who need professional help. The recommendation is to adopt an attitude of rehabilitation rather than punishment.
Source Report on family-centered prevention of adolescent prostitution. (2011) http://www.legco.gov.hk/yr11-12/chinese/ panels/ws/papers/ws0312cb2-1546-2-ec.pdf
eating out, taking taxis and buying new clothes whenever I wanted. When they were involved in compensated dating both girls had regular boyfriends too. They didnt suspect anything, said Kelly. Neither did our parents. In fact, I ran away from home while I was working at the bar because of a row with Dad when he told me not to come back.When asked if they would do it again, Kelly said, Actually Ive wanted to stop this since last October. I was so tired going there every night after school and I worried it was wrong as well. Annie said, I cant definitely say I wont. She didnt care about getting into trouble again. Kelly, who wants to pass her exams and get a good job one day, says shes given it up for good now. Even if my boyfriend found out and didnt mind I still wouldnt do it again. Wed lose something. Trust maybe. And Annie? Im afraid someone will tell my husband when I get married one day. Thats the worst thing I can think of.
Annie Kelly
* Note names in this story have been changed to protect identities.
19
Interview
enis Lau, highly experienced after 12 years as a Juvenile Court magistrate, offered Youth Hong Kong many insights into working with young offenders at the Kowloon City Magistrates Court.
Every young person who appears in court should be given a chance. That is the cardinal principle and the law demands that we only pass a sentence of imprisonment when there is no suitable alternative. After all, as Mr Lau says, infringing the law in some way is not unusual for youngsters. Nevertheless, for most of them it is just a stage of adolescence which passes with increased maturity if they have a proper upbringing. We have a very good juvenile justice system and although its not easy we do make the punishment fit the crime. I try to achieve effective communication with all young defendants, sometimes through their legal representatives, and very often I can elicit some revealing answers. Most of the time, experience helps me tell if they are lying. Discretion exercised judiciously is the key for a magistrate in the Juvenile Court.
If they have no self control they will spend their lives being controlled by others.
Main causes of common youth crimes
Shoplifting extremely deprived family background wrong attitude, susceptibility to advertisements bad peer influence lack of parental control and self-control
triad influences poor parenting (eg corporal punishment) Violent crimes poor self-control against the person bad peer influence lack of forethought desire for revenge after being bullied poor sex education over exposure to pornography poor self-control lack of empathy low achievement, low self esteem poor social skills
Indecent assault
Drug trafficking
triad/organized crime influence easy money failure to recognize seriousness of consequences drug addiction
20
Photo by wikipedia
The law and young people
Interview
Kowloon City Magistrates Court, the citys busiest for cases involving young offenders
Punishment fitting the crime

Family members of an assault victim once complained that the sentence I passed was too lenient. The case involved wounding with a knife and in fact the sentence was a tough, short, sharp, shock. I have only passed formal prison sentences for young offenders on less than five occasions in the last ten years. These were mainly for young illegal immigrants who had committed rather serious crimes. Deterrent sentences have, nevertheless, increased in recent years because of the rapid escalation of drug trafficking by young offenders. Mr Lau continued, A young offender guilty only of drug abuse would receive a much more lenient sentence than a trafficker and I always explain the damage drugs do. Ketamine, for example, is often mixed with powdered glass from light bulbs before being sniffed. This pierces the mucus membranes and accelerates absorption. Most defendants are ignorant of the risks they take and lack self control. They are from the lowest stratum of society and I have to try to send a strong message: that if they have no self control they will spend their lives being controlled by others. Lack of self-control underlies many youth crimes. Take a hypothetical case of an under-age couple caught by the police while having sex. If they told the court they were in love, the boy might get a very light sentence, as long as he was previously of good character and had neither caused serious harm to the girl nor made her pregnant. If no element of exploitation or deception were present I would try to make sure that the boy participated in training or counselling to teach him
the consequences of unsafe sex and the relationship between love, sex and responsibility. Age, future career or study plans, and attitudes of both parties family members would also be considered when sentencing. While still on the subject of sex-related crimes Mr Lau also informed us that a recent amendment removes the previous common law presumption that a boy under 14 is incapable of sexual intercourse. Under the new law a boy of 13 or less can be convicted of rape if he has unlawful sexual intercourse with a non consenting victim. 1 Features of the Hong Kong Juvenile Court
Children under 10 are under the age of criminal responsibility and therefore never prosecuted. Between 10 and 14, children are generally assumed not to know right from wrong but this presumption can be rebutted if sufficient evidence is adduced by the prosecution. Proceedings are not open to the public and are less formal than for adult cases. Parents/guardians must be present as must a duty probation or social welfare officer. Magistrates have discretion to dismiss charges and record no criminal conviction. 10-15 year-olds may be prosecuted but can receive a police caution or a bind over order from the Juvenile Court in their parents presence instead of other sentences. The mass media cannot report personal particulars or publish photographs of defendants appearing before the Juvenile Court.
21
Interview
Factors in sentencing
The nature and consequences of an offence are of foremost importance in sentencing. The law directs that young offenders should not be sent to prison unless there is no other suitable punishment, so rehabilitative sentences such as Care or Protection Orders and Probation Orders are considered first. However if the offence is very serious - dangerous drug trafficking or serious wounding, for example - the court has to consider a deterrent sentence to send the proper message. Remorse is the second most important factor. If a defendant is not genuinely remorseful, their chances of re-offending are higher and the court may consider a sentence with residential requirement in the Tuen Mun Children and Juvenile Home or a Reformatory School. If the case is serious the defendant may even be sent to a correctional institution such as a Rehabilitation Centre, Detention Centre or Training Centre.
Changing powers and responsibilities

To make sentencing more effective, Mr Lau suggested a number of changes. First, he said top quality parenting courses should be organized whereas at present, courts only have the power to order parents to pay a fine/ compensation on behalf of their children. In the case of a repeat offender, especially if there is strong evidence that a parent is responsible for child abuse or neglect, courses in high quality parenting should be compulsory, just as Driving Improvement Courses are required for some traffic offences. Usually its the parents who understand how serious it is for their child to appear in court, not the young offender him- or herself. Co-operation and contribution from parents/ guardians is crucial for successful rehabilitation of young offenders in nearly all of the cases I have dealt with. Schools for Social Development are a good option for
Family support and past records

Level of family support is the third factor. Theoretically, defendants family backgrounds are not directly relevant but in practice strong family support means a higher possibility of successful rehabilitation. Nobody can deny that affluent families can afford more resources for children who have committed crimes but of course a rich parent is not necessarily a responsible parent. Similarly, parents with serious mental health problems or an addiction to gambling or drugs are rarely able to supervise their children properly. The Social Welfare Department has power, under the Protection of Children and Juveniles Ordinance, to remove a child from such a parent. Past record is the fourth factor. A previous conviction, a record of police cautioning, dropping out, suspension from school or running away from home are all relevant. Such bad records should not mean a harsher sentence per se but an extremely bad record is more likely to indicate a strongly deterrent sentence. Level of involvement and parity among sentences in cases with multiple defendants are the next most important factors for sentencing decisions.
In the case of a repeat offender, especially if there is strong evidence that a parent is responsible for child abuse or neglect, courses in high quality parenting should be compulsory.
22
Interview
Prevention better than cure

Care or Protection Orders as a preventive measure for youth crime offer close supervision by social welfare officers and the Juvenile Court. The Hong Kong Police and social workers working in Family Services Centres should encourage more parents in need to make applications to the Juvenile Court for Care or Protection Orders if their children are frequently missing or out of control. This is particularly very important for a family with very few resources. A fiercely competitive environment, a widening wealth gap and poor social mobility all contribute to youth crime. We have very few natural resources in Hong Kong so human capital is extremely important for future development. Government should always give priority to investment in such resources, for the sake of social stability. We need to work together to make sure that sufficient investment is made in the care, protection and training of our younger generation, particularly those from the lower strata of society.
Marycove Centre and School for Social Development
providing young offenders with suitable residential care and supervision. There need to be more for girls. They are like boarding schools, with small classes, tight supervision and volunteer teachers who help young people acquire the right attitudes to selfdiscipline. Students learn to look after themselves better and improve their communication and social skills. Examples are Marycove School for girls and boarding schools run by the Society of Boys Centres. More resources are needed to help youth with learning disabilities such as Attention Deficit Disorder and Dyslexia. I have dealt with many young offenders who have such problems and more educational psychologists and psychiatrists are needed to help them cope. Also, in selected secondary schools, compulsory urine tests for illegal drugs should be conducted on a regular basis.
Grateful acknowledgement is made to Mr Denis Lau for his extensive contributions to this article. Due to space constraints, full references to the relevant ordinances have been omitted. Nevertheless, every effort has been made to ensure that legal principles referred to are expressed accurately and correctly, notwithstanding the brevity of the discussion and the complexity of the subject. Readers are welcome to contact the Editor with further comment.
Source 1. http://www.legislation.gov.hk/blis_ind.nsf/CurAllEngDoc/CF89DB42F0B2CCE648257A47002A7ECD?OpenDocument
23
Interview
Fighting crime in the community
three perspectives
At district level At school
Mr Hui Yung-chung, Principal of Queens College Old Boys Association Secondary School and former discipline master:
Pure discipline doesnt work if you want [students] to change for their own good. I always remind myself that my major purpose is to educate not to punish. They have to understand the difference between right and wrong and teachers need to set and reinforce moral standards. We make sure that students know the consequences of breaking the law, but encourage those who behave badly to believe that they can change. I believe Hong Kongs level of social capital contributes partly to the low crime rate as do traditional values; a good police force, an orderly population and parental support for young people into their 20s. There is less teenage rebellion here than in other parts of the world, much more engagement in meaningful activity and a major focus on the future, education and career. Young people must see their future. They must be provided with the opportunity for advancement. If they have no future they will not be engaged. If they are not engaged they become at risk, at risk of becoming delinquent and getting involved in crime.
Territory-wide
From the Police Public Relations Branch:
The Police School Liaison Programme helps schools prevent juvenile delinquency and involvement in drug abuse or other crime-related activity. There is cooperation with Parent-Teacher Associations and the community across Hong Kong to set tactics to prevent youth crime and promote anti-crime programmes. School Liaison Officers, currently totalling 94, regularly visit schools and advise the management on the law regarding unruly behavior. With the involvement of different layers of the community, not only is the publics sense of fighting crime enhanced, but also the relationship between the police and the community is improved. The police organize talks and forums regularly at housing estates, reviewing security measures and facilities as well as providing professional advice for improvement.
MrPaul Yeung Hoi-shan, Chairman of the Kwai Ching District Fight Crime Committee:
The main Fight Crime Committee (FCC), originally called the Fight Violent Crime Committee, was set up to tackle the rising crime rate in the early 1970s, by planning, organizing and coordinating government and public efforts to assist the Police. It has a Standing Committee on Young Offenders and 18 District Fight Crime Committees (DFCCs) which co-ordinate district campaign activities, promote good relationships between the Police and members of the public and advise the FCC on administrative and community involvement measures to combat crimes. FCC members attend DFCC meetings and take district concerns back to the FCC for discussion. FCC members also participate actively in the publicity activities organized by DFCCs to combat crime. One example of a district level campaign is the Moonlight Project, designed for youth-at-risk who are reluctant to stay at home and wander the streets late at night. Police cooperate with NGOs in this project, providing venues and facilities, and activities for youth. It allows the police to keep close contact with young people at risk, understand what they need and how they think. This is vital to assist in formulating strategy to combat youth crime. The programme also minimizes the nuisance created by deviant youth for other local residents.
24
Note With thanks to all who contributed.
NGO
Interview
New look for
HKFYG outreach work

KFYGs outreach teams, its Youth Support Scheme and Extended Programme for Young Night Drifters have been consolidated into the new HKFYG Youth Crime Prevention Centre (YCPC). Its director, Wilson Chan described the innovative services for young offenders and youth-at-risk.
The Centre targets vulnerable youth, those susceptible to criminal influence and those at risk of becoming involved in drugs or sex crimes. YCPC provides guidance, care and support to increase young peoples awareness of the nature of crime. The underlying purpose is to encourage social competence and social inclusion for young people who have strayed off track in the process of re-integration. Areas of focus are theft, violence and criminal damage, triad-related activity, underage sex and prostitution, cybercrime, fraud, gambling and drug-related offences. Multi-media messages and communication platforms are central to its work. YOUTHLAW, an integrated website, and smartphone app provide both young people and parents with information on youth crime, user self-assessment, and instant help. A community network of professionals and multidisciplinary collaboration are key elements. A proactive approach that identifies and connects with hidden youth-at-risk and young offenders means that interaction is effective and motivation is improved. Workshops focus on helping parents and teachers understand more about deviant behaviour so that skilful, timely intervention is possible. Crisis support is by hotline, professional assessment in collaboration with schools, hospitals, the police, and community organizations as well as directly with the young people and their parents. The aim is to prevent crime happening and when it does, to help youth show the court that convicted them that they are worthy of a second chance. Counselling and treatment is given as appropriate, and a number of special projects are underway. They include a mock court with role play, a midnight youth college, a gang counselling project, cognitive behaviour therapy and creative art counselling.
Contacts
YCPC website ycpc.hkfyg.org.hk/youthlaw Hotline 8100 9669 Mon-Fri 10am to 6pm http://www.facebook.com/hkfygycpc Wilson Chan Supervisor YCPC tel 37557064
*Volunteer advisers to YCPC include Professor Dennis Wong City University of Hong Kong Dr Eric Chui University of Hong Kong Mr Stanislaus Lai Secretary-General of the HK Juvenile Delinquency Research Society Dr Kitty Wu Senior Clinical Psychologist at Kwai Chung Hospital Ms Jenny Li Sin Lai-wah barrister Mr Matthew YS Wong and Mr Alan CF Chan solicitors Professional volunteers are welcome to register on the YCPC website.
First Steps: Wing Lee Residence

Problems at home mean some 18-24 year-olds need a transitional place to stay as they take their first independent steps. It needs to be a safe place that provides shelter, care, life planning guidance and support. The Wing Lee Residence has been designed by HKFYG to achieve this. It accommodates about 20 young people. They can stay up to 6 months for a low rent. Referrals are made by registered social workers and assessment of needs is made before they move in.
Address 7-8 Wing Lee Street, Sheung Wan, Hong Kong Email wlr@hkfyg.org.hk & Tel no, 29155532 Contact person Andy Chiu
25
Interview
Getting back on track
r Raymond Tang, Assistant Commissioner (Rehabilitation) Hong Kong Correctional Services Department, reviewed trends in imprisonment and rehabilitation for young offenders. He talked about the territorys penal system, the various facets of rehabilitation programmes, and the need for talented people to work in the department.
Introduction
Statutory measures for dealing with convicted young offenders1 include detention, training and rehabilitation centres run by the Correctional Services Department (CSD). Those who are found guilty of less serious crimes are put under the supervision of the Social Welfare Department2 which operates probation, reform and remand institutions (see page 29). It also supervises community service orders. Young people who have committed minor offences are usually dealt with by police cautioning. Mr Tang explained that good prison services providing humane discipline, and comprehensive rehabilitation and avenues for reintegration into society, are central to the work of Correctional Services in Hong Kong. He emphasized that reintegration for young offenders also involves them making a serious personal effort to get back on track, and community support to maintain their progress outside prison and stop the vicious cycle of recidivism.
More than law and order

CSD has been placing increased emphasis on rehabilitation for some years, as reflected in the change of its name from the Hong Kong Prisons Department in 1982. Other landmarks include: 1983: First half-way house was opened 1986: Hong Kong Examinations Authority recognized prison inmates as examination candidates for the first time 1998: Rehabilitation Division of CSD was set up 2000: In order to encourage more community support, it was agreed to use the term rehabilitated persons instead of discharged prisoners.3
We cannot do a good job alone. We need community cooperation. Getting public support is the most important factor.
26
Interview
Rehabilitation with justice
organized by the LCCI International Qualifications and the City and Guilds International. In 2011, a total Figures for young offenders serving custodial sentences in of 298 public examination papers were attempted by Hong Kong dropped by about 60% from 2001 to 2011. young offenders and the overall pass rate was 70.1%.6 Vocational training courses include technical, commercial Hong Kong is quite considerate. There are various and services streams leading to public vocational non-custodial sentences apart from the custodial ones, qualifications. In 2011, there were 2,797 entries in said Mr Tang. The Young Offender Assessment Panel (YOAP), jointly operated by CSD and the Social Welfare various vocational examinations and the overall pass rate Department since 1987, takes a role in sentencing. The was nearly 95% which may be explained by the absence YOAP interviews youth4 on trial who have been referred of distractions and the opportunity to concentrate. by judges or magistrates. It recommends appropriate rehabilitation programmes to be included in sentencing. Boosting image and transparency
CSD officers have to be prison police, managers, social workers, and sometimes they have to be quasi-parents as well.
In most cases the courts adopt YOAPs recommendations. They are based on such factors as the young persons personality, home background, education, employment and peer group, with reference to the type of crime committed, medical and addiction history. YOAP is unusual in that it coordinates the views of two government departments, Correctional Services and Social Welfare, while working with a third, the Department of Justice. [See boxes on pages 28 for more details. 5]
CSDs rehabilitation arm considers openness essential for success. The communitys involvement and awareness of the penal and rehabilitation system is central to its long-term effectiveness, Mr Tang stressed. We cannot do a good job alone. We need community cooperation. Getting public support is the most important factor. Therefore, great efforts are made to increase public interest in rehabilitation and boost cooperation with stakeholders. Employers are especially crucial to young people coming out of prison and CSD requests them not to ask job candidates whether they have ever been convicted.
A challenging call
CSD needs good recruits to take on multifaceted jobs. They need to know they will sometimes be in control of potentially dangerous people. CSD officers have to be prison police, managers, social workers, and sometimes they have to be quasi-parents as well. A career in the CSD is for those who like challenge, albeit in an institutional, highly controlled context. There is also great scope for volunteer workers in Hong Kongs correctional institutions. CSD plays a very complex role in its efforts to satisfy the demands for the humane treatment of young offenders and the security and protection of the general public. Rehabilitation is at the heart of its work, in the context of strict, paternalistic control, surveillance and discipline.
Education and training for life after prison

It is our duty to provide education and vocational training for young offenders, Mr Tang continued. For young offenders in custody, CSDs Education Unit provides half-day compulsory education. This leads to public examinations, including the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination (DSE), General Certificate of Education Examinations (London Examinations), Hong Kong Institute of Accredited Accounting Technicians Examinations, and examinations
27
Interview
Correctional Services Department Residential Homes for Young Offenders

Detention Centres Training Centres
14-20 year-old males and females
Prisons for Young Drug Addiction Drug Addiction Offenders Treatment Centres Treatment Centres
14-20 year-old males and females on admission 14-20 year-old males and females 14-20 year-old males and females Phase I* 2-5 months Phase II 1-4 months custodial
14-24 year-old males
1-6 months (aged 14-20) 3-12 months aged 21-24)
6-36 months
3 months
2-12 months
custodial
custodial
custodial
custodial
short sharp shock approach
Emphasis on character Prison routine when no reform and vocational other method is deemed training appropriate
Drug abstinence programme
Discipline training then half-way house
*Note Phase I takes place in a correctional facility. It aims to help young offenders learn to exercise better self-control and develop regular living patterns through half-day basic work skills training and half-day educational/counselling programmes. Phase II, takes place in a half-way house from which young offenders may go out to work, attend vocational training and educational courses, and participate in community service programmes.
Enquiries about CSD rehabilitation services : tel 2582 5555
A technical instructor teaches a young detainee about table service
Learning how to weld

1 2 3
The age of criminal responsibility for juveniles in Hong Kong was raised from 7 to 10 years old in 2003. Gaylord, Mark S, Gittings, D, Traver (eds), H. Introduction to Crime, Law and Justice in Hong Kong. HKU Press, 2009. Tam, BKY & Heng, MA. Rehabilitation for young offenders in Hong Kong correctional institutions. Journal of Correctional Education. 59 (1) March 2008, 49-63. 4 Male offenders aged 14-24 and female offenders aged 14-20. 5 See http://www.gov.hk/en/about/abouthk/factsheets/docs/correctional_services.pdf for a list of all residential homes for young offenders. 6 Figures and photographs provided by Correctional Services Department, HKSARG, 2012.
28
Interview
The underlying principle is that imprisonment is a last resource for young offenders.
Classroom education in progress at the Cape Collinson Correctional Institution
s a postscript to the Correctional Services Department the following information is about the Social Welfare Department correctional, residential and communitybased services for young offenders.
Probation Orders include supervision, personal guidance and family counselling through regular interviews, home visits and group work. Young offenders may also be referred to residential homes administered by SWD but the underlying principle is that imprisonment is a last resource.
Final option
SWDs residential service is in a purpose-built training complex, the Tuen Mun Children and Juvenile Home (TMCJH). Opened in 2007, it accommodates 388 and serves as a place of refuge, a remand home, a place of detention, an approved institution (probation home) and a reformatory school. It combines six former correctional and residential homes, namely Fanling Girls Home, Ma Tau Wai Girls Home, Begonia Road Juvenile Home, O Pui Shan Boys Home, Pui Chi Boys Home, and Sha Tin Boys Home. SWD explained: Generally, young offenders with social, environmental, emotional and/or psychological maladjustment such as absconding from home, truancy, association with undesirable peers, severe employment problems, strained family relationship, and those without a home or relative to live with may be considered suitable for admission.
Hong Kongs Social Welfare Department (SWD) offers community-based rehabilitation services including the Probation Service, the Community Service Orders Scheme and the Community Support Service Scheme, in which NGO services such as the Federations Youth Support Scheme collaborate.
Eventual reintegration
The goal of Probation Orders and Community Service Orders is the reintegration of young law-abiding citizens into the community. The emphasis is on diverting low-risk offenders from being incarcerated, help with their personal and social problems, and prevent them from causing further harm to society. i Community Service Orders require unpaid work for up to 240 hours to be done within a year under supervision of a probation officer. The work may include painting, carpentry, gardening or helping the elderly. Offenders continue living in the community and the work benefits the community to which they have caused harm.
New model for Hong Kong

An SWD review of community-based services, including the Probation Service, the Community Service Orders Scheme and the Community Support Service Scheme, resulted in a new integrated model which took effect in July 2012.
Notes and sources For more on sentencing to the various correctional institutions see pages 26-28 i. Chui, WH & Lo, TW. Understanding Criminal Justice in Hong Kong. Willan: Cullompton, Devon 2008, p202.
29
Interview
Operation Breakthrough
ON TRACK
The three founding policemen working in the New Territories realized what was needed. Young males showing signs of getting dangerously bored were being picked up by triad gangs and inculcated into a world of crime. Ian Seabourne, Danny Lawley and Barry Smith began their volunteer work in Tuen Mun, where the HKFYG Operation Breakthrough programmes take place today, with the Police Superintendents Discretionary Scheme (PSDS).
ow do you get rebellious youth off the streets and doing something positive? Whether theyre already in trouble with the police or considered to be at risk of becoming so, Operation Breakthrough can be their salvation.
can drop out at any stage. To begin with, most of them are shy, but as they watch the effort put in by the other kids, and the efforts of the volunteers they respond naturally, David continued. The goals are to prevent re-offending while building self-confidence and self-esteem. Youth are encouraged to accept responsibility for themselves, become team members and develop leadership skills. While this takes place they bond with police officers: a key factor because it changes their perception of members of the police force as well as their own self-perception. We teach them sportsmanship: respect for team members, the opposing team and the referee. These are traditional values they dont necessarily get at home or school. Operation Breakthrough has gone from strength to strength. There are now up to 600 young male and female participants in 14-15 activities run by 40 Cantonese-speaking volunteers. These are mainly serving or retired police officers, but some mentors are former young offenders, like Ah Wing (see box). They work with social workers from 4 or 5 NGOs and coaches for example rugby, hip hop and modern dance. There have been some outstanding individual achievements and one of the rugby players represented Hong Kong at international level.
Friendly interaction with police role models is not foremost in young offenders minds when they get arrested. Yet, since 1996, Operation Breakthrough has been providing the kind of challenging environment which can achieve interaction with respect. It does so by using sport as an outlet for built-up teenage aggression and encouraging youth to stay on track. We found that interpersonal dynamics change considerably within a week, said David Grant Operation Breakthrough director. We started with boxing, and nothing tells you more about yourself than having to stand up in the ring and fight someone you dont know. To a newcomer we would say, So you think youre tough do you? Well maybe you are in a gang of 5 others, but lets see you on your own. Were going to teach you to fight by the rules.
Nothing tells you more about yourself than having to stand up in the ring and fight someone you dont know.
PSDS provides for cautioning instead of a conviction. Superintendents interview the youth concerned in the presence of guardians. Its a third strike and youre out system for young offenders under 18 who have done something minor like stealing sweets once or twice. The aggrieved party has to agree to it, said David Grant. Then a social worker assesses them for Operation Breakthrough. Theres no obligation to take part and they
30
Interview
Ah Wing, once a young offender and now a mentor of the Operation Breakthrough basketball team writes
When I was younger I broke the law, but because of the Police Superintendents Discretionary Scheme I discovered the services provided by the Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups Youth Support Scheme. Their social worker introduced me to the Operation Breakthrough basketball team and I was eager to join and explore my potential. Violence used to be my main way of solving problems but the programme changed me a lot. Learning from police volunteers, I tried to become more self-disciplined and cooperative. The training sessions let me build team relationships with others and learn about communication skills and attitudes. Sometimes there were challenges. Collisions and arguments with other players during the basketball games could make me angry and I might have reacted violently. But with support from teammates and volunteers, I learnt to control myself and calm down. As a result of Operation Breakthrough my relationships with friends, my patience and my endurance all became stronger and after more than 3 years with the team I became one of the mentors.
Cautioned young offenders train with police coach
A lot of these kids have never even been patted on the back and told well done! They are used to being told youre a useless good-for-nothing.
Sometimes we also have kids who are disruptive and negative, but usually a talk from one of the coaches or volunteers, or even the other kids, will sort out any issues. Thats what is good about sport. It is a great leveller and encourages participation and team work. Commitment is the first important step, followed by perseverance.
These young people may have had unpleasant experiences with the police in the past, but they come to see the police as people who can help and understand them. A lot of these kids have never even been patted on the back and told well done! They are used to being told youre a useless good-for-nothing. We say they can all achieve something and maybe even represent Hong Kong in the future. Grant said.
Operation Breakthrough founded 1996

Contact P.O. Box No. 73992, Kowloon Central Post Office, Hong Kong email info@breakthrough.hk http://www.breakthrough.hk With thanks to David Grant who has been Operation Breakthrough Executive Director for the last 4 years and a member of the Hong Kong Police since 1979.
Other similar projects in Hong Kong include the Second Chance Project run by Outward Bound Hong Kong for young offenders who have left correctional Institutions.
31
Youth watch
Living outside the law
s society changes, so do the attitudes of young people. Pressures steer some of them toward criminal activities. Here we look at trends in youth crime in Hong Kong and elsewhere in Asia.
Hong Kongs age of criminal responsibility Common crimes among youth offenders
Under Hong Kong law the term juveniles refers to those aged 10-15 whereas young persons are those aged 16-20. A Commission on Youth report found that although the majority of young people endorsed values such as benevolence, universalism, tradition, and conformity, 20%-30% were materialistic about wealth, hedonism, and sensual stimulation and would use unethical means to achieve their ends.1 The numbers of young male offenders dropped sharply between 2007 and 2009, but rose again in 2010. Again according to police figures4, shop theft is the most common type of offence committed by youth in Hong Kong. In 2010 it represented 36%-47% of overall theft/burglary cases, and is still rising. The second and third most common offences are other forms of robbery. Whereas female juvenile offenders form the larger proportion of offenders in shop theft category, the dominant offenders in the theft/burglary category are male, particularly when violence is involved.
Overall decline in youth crime

From 2001 to 2011, according to Hong Kong police figures, the number of juveniles arrested for all crimes fell from 5,909 to 3,343.2 The figure for young persons fell from 6,145 to 4,350. In the first half of 2012, 3,462 young people were arrested, down 12.7% on the previous comparable period. Shoplifting and stealing are on the rise.3
Covert underage drinking or drug taking

The popularity of entertainment venues known as upstairs bars is a special concern in Hong Kong because they are frequented by drug dealers and other criminals and are often where underage
Figure 1 Overall decline in youth crime over a decade

7000
Juveniles aged 10-15 arrested (all crimes) Young persons aged 16-20 arrested (all crimes)
5250
5909
6145 4350 3343
3500
1750
32
2001
2011
Source http://www.police.gov.hk
Youth watch
drinking occurs. These bars, small and hidden, are often located in single-staircase residential or composite commercial/residential buildings. Police are cracking down on these venues. In December 2011 more than 150 teenagers, some as young as 13, were apprehended by police in one weekend blitz on popular hang-outs in Mong Kok and Yau Tsim Mong districts.5 None of the teenagers were arrested or charged, but police hoped they would assist with related investigations.
2,482 representing 15% of all registered drug users but by 2009 this had risen to 3,359 representing 24% of all users. The mean age of users fell from 18 to 17. CRDA figures and findings from a Narcotics Division school survey showed those under 21 used mainly psychotropic substances. Ketamine, which is cheap and easily available, has become the drug of choice among young people.9 Police say 40% of young people abuse drugs in public toilets and playgrounds.10 Since 1997, there has also been a rise in cross-border adolescent substance abuse. Based on the data from the CRDA, in 2009 the main reasons put forward by youth for using drugs were peer influence (68%), relief of boredom, depression or anxiety (51%) and curiosity (43%).
Drug abuse rising

Adolescent substance abuse patterns are changing in Hong Kong.6 Three peaks have been reported to the Central Registry of Drug Abuse (CRDA) maintained by the Narcotics Division. The first peak was in the mid-1990s, mainly related to tranquillizers. The second peak was in the early 2000s, closely related to the rave party culture. The third peak, in 2008-2009, was mainly related to ketamine abuse in schools.
Compensated dating
Compensated dating started in Japan in the 1990s and involves young girls, some as young as 14, going on dates with men for money. The date often leads to sex and the girl gets paid a high fee. Most girls who get involved do so because they want to buy the latest fashionable clothes and designer bags.11 Hong Kong began paying serious A Narcotics Division survey of about 20% of the total student population of Hong Kong in 2008-2009 attention to the problem dating in April 2008, following found 4.3% of secondary school students had abused the gruesome murder of a 16-year-old girl named Kimi. drugs. Of those, nearly half indicated that they abused A school drop-out, Kimi was was killed after going to a ketamine (49.4%), followed by cannabis (35%).7 CRDA 24-year-old mans apartment on a compensated date.12 figures8 show that in 1999 under-21 drug users totalled Figure 2 Reasons for taking drug 1999-2009
Relief from boredom/ depression/anxiety Relief from withdrawal symptoms Curiosity
62.8%
68.2%
66.0%
58.2%
57.9%
60.0%
68.4%
64.9%
58.8%
64.2%
67.7%
29.8%
28.2%
26.4%
27.6%
28.7%
31.4%
40.4%
41.3%
41.3%
44.2%
51.1%
28.8%
13.4%
9.3%
7.8%
6.6%
6.6%
7.3%
8.9%
12.7%
16.3%
15.2%
35.7%
42.9%
43.4%
38.6%
38.2%
41.0%
35.8%
41.1%
42.7%
45.1%
43.0%
Euphoria or sensory satisfaction Self-medication
26.5%
44.5%
39.6%
38.9%
32.7%
34.6%
43.4%
42.4%
37.4%
33.9%
33.6%
13.0%
0.6%
0.8%
0.5%
1.6%
0.8%
1.3%
1.3%
1.2%
1.6%
2.0%
3.0%
2.3%
1.9%
2.0%
2.4%
1.6%
3.7%
4.6%
4.2%
5.4%
5.6%
Other reasons
4.2%
2.1%
0.7%
0.8%
0.5%
0.3%
0.8%
1.1%
0.7%
0.3%
0.1%
1999
2000
2001
2002
2003
2004
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
Source Narcotics Division, Central Registry of Drug Abuse 59th Report: 20002009 in http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3236402/
33
Youth watch
In a survey of 586 young people aged 12-20 conducted by the Hong Kong Christian Service in 200913, 34% indicated that they would consider compensated dating and 57% said that they would do for quick cash. The police then formed a special task force and began taking measures to track down teenage girls involved in the business of paid dating. By the end of August 2011, about 69 girls had been caught and sentenced. Girls engaging in compensated dating can be convicted of soliciting for immoral purposes. However, if the perpetrators are not caught engaging in sexual behaviour or seduction for sexual acts, they cannot be charged. In July 2009, a group of 7 girls were arrested after they advertised sexual services for money over the internet. They were put on probation for a year.14 By the end of 2011, no girls in Hong Kong had been given a custodial sentence and if caught the most they paid was a fine of $10,000.
at school, with 45% saying it involved verbal threats and teasing. 24% said the bullying meant isolating victims socially while 22% said they had resorted to physical violence. The survey also found that 90% had witnessed bullying at school with one-third of those choosing not to seek help for the victim.15 A survey conducted by the Womens Coalition of Hong Kong in 2010 on homophobic bullying in schools showed about 31% of discriminatory bullying happened on school campuses and sexual orientation discrimination was the most common. The bullies were usually students.16
Triad society membership

Hong Kong has criminalized association with triad societies since 1845. The total number of unlawful society offence cases has dropped in the last decade, from 794 cases in 2005 to 538 in 2010. However, the percentage of arrests of under 18-year-olds among this group has remained steady, between 32% and 46%, suggesting that youth are still commonly targeted as foot-soldiers of triads.17
Violence
In a study of bullying by the Playgrounds Association in 2008 half those aged 6-24 confessed to bullying peers
Figure 3 Persons under 18 years arrested for unlawful society offences
50.00%
41.81%
37.50%
43.72% 35.61% 34.65%
46.28%
32.24%
25.00%
12.50%
0%
2005
2006
2007
2008
2009
2010
34
Source: Fight Crime Committee reports 2005 to 2010 in Kwok, SI & LO, TW "Anti Triad Legislation in Hong Kong: issues, problems and development." forthcoming in Trends in Organized Crime.
Youth watch
Youth crime snapshots

Korea trends
compensated dating cybercrime drug abuse aggressive stand on juvenile prostitution
Japan trends
indecent assault and compensated dating motorcycle theft violent crime Including attacks on homeless people and Oyaji-gari ("dad hunting) in which gangs of teenage boys ambush, assault and rob older or drunken middle-aged salarymen, often using pretty young girls as bait
Hong Kong trends

drug abuse and drinking in upstairs bars drug trafficking cybercrime sex and violent crime death penalty abolished in 1993 in Hong Kong but Mainland China has the death penalty for all ages including under 18s
Taiwan trends

Singapore trends
city motorcycle gangs compensated dating cybercrime drug abuse 2011, 2 15-year-old boys were arrested for pimping at least 12 girls aged 12+ recruited via the Internet.
loan sharking, harassment and related activities rioting caning is the punishment for over 30 oences including rape and trafficking gang/ secret society membership is illegal, as triad membership is in Hong Kong death penalty, excluding under 18s, is mandatory in some cases for drug trafficking and murder ,but July 2012 saw proposals for change
Country / city Hong Kong Japan Singapore South Korea Taiwan
Age of criminal responsibility 10 14 7 14 14
Youth crime trends
Sources
Hong Kong
1.
For a full list of sources contact the editor.

South Korea
18. 19. 20. 21.
Shek, Daniel TL. A Brief Overview of Adolescent Developmental Problems in Hong Kong. Scientific World Journal, 11, 2011. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3236402/ http://www.police.gov.hk http://www.news.gov.hk/en/categories/law_order/ html/2012/08/20120802_141920.lin.shtml http://www.police.gov.hk/ppp_en/09_statistics/csc.html Jennifer Ngo, C2, South China Morning Post December 19, 2011 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3236402/ http://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/201002/25/P201002250262.htm http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3236402/ http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/07/31/hongkong.ketamine/ http://edition.cnn.com/2009/WORLD/asiapcf/07/31/hongkong.ketamine/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enjo_k%C5%8Dsai http://www.ecns.cn/in-depth/2011/12-27/4970.shtml Hong Kong Christian Service. Press release (in Chinese), 2009, http://www.hkcs.org in http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3236402/ http://news.monstersandcritics.com/asiapacific/news/article_1488729.php/Hong_Kong_teenage_ girl_convicted_of_offering_&quotcompensated_dating%22_ http://topnews.in/half-hong-kong-students-admit-bullying-school-237028 http://www.wchk.org/ http://globalvoicesonline.org/2012/02/20/hong-kong-videos-againsthomophobic-bullying-in-schools/ Kwok, SI & LO, TW. Anti Triad legislation in Hong Kong: issues, problems and development, forthcoming in Trends in Organized Crime.
http://ten34.org/physical-abuse-statistics/what-do-you-think-about-juvenile-crime-in-south-korea http://www.police.go.kr/eng/index.jsp http://southkorea.angloinfo.com/family/teenagers/teenage-issues/ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Enjo_k%C5%8Dsai http://www.moi.gov.tw/stat/english/year.asp http://www.liveleak.com/view?i=88f_1251214221 http://academypublisher.com/jcp/vol01/no06/jcp01061118.pdf http://english.cw.com.tw/article.do?action=show&id=10431&offset=2 http://www.bangkokpost.com/news/asia/237594/boys-arrested-in-raid-on-taiwan-teenprostitution-ring http://www.spf.gov.sg/stats/statsmid2012_keyconcerns.htm http://www.spf.gov.sg/mic/2011/110126_annual_crime_brief.htm http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caning_in_Singapore30. Report to the Committee on the Rights of the Child, Singapore. 2009, para. 9.3 http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-18778442 http://www.npa.go.jp/english/seisaku/Crime_in_Japan_in_2010.pdf http://factsanddetails.com/japan.php?itemid=814&catid=22&subcatid=147 http://www.time.com/time/magazine/article/0,9171,257161,00.html
2. 3.
Taiwan
22. 23. 24. 25. 26.
4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13.
Singapore
27. 28. 29. 30. 31.
14.
15. 16.
Japan
32. 33. 34.
17.
35
Feature
Drama
Familiar Family Episode Two
Easy Money
Setting
Apartment living room Hong Kong private housing estate; late Sunday morning, summer holidays Table detritus from breakfast; cereal packet, two places set Two bedroom doors stage left Front door downstage, centre Sofa middle of stage Stand fan beside sofa TV stage right
a one-act play
by Gary Heilbronn
We bring you the second in this series of plays about a typical Hong Kong family. Again it depicts a true-to-life situation on the same theme as this issue of Youth Hong Kong.
Characters
Lynda mother, wearing loose summer dress and sandals Tak father, wearing shorts, summer shirt, slippers Tim elder son, 17, wearing jeans and old, ragged T-shirt Melia daughter, 15, wearing silk pyjamas Luke younger son, wearing football shorts and flip flops
TAK sitting on sofa, reading newspaper LUKE lying on floor watching TV LYNDA in kitchen stage, right MELIA in her bedroom TIM in his bedroom
36
Feature
Drama
(Sound of chopping vegetables on wooden block and TV.)
MELIA
(Enters through bedroom door.)
I hope youve not been drinking alcohol. Youre too young and if the police catch you, therell be trouble.
(Begins to clear table,)
Morning
(Yawns.)
TAK
(Looks up as Melia as she enters, frowning.)
MELIA I havent been drinking Mum. Im just tired

(Returns to eating cereal.)
$
$$
What time did you get in last night Melia? I know you were out with friends but youre not even 16 yet. We worry about you.
(Grimaces. Looks back at newspaper, shakes it, continues reading.)
TAK
(Looks up again from his newspaper)
I dont know where you get enough money to go out so much at night. MELIA
(Stops eating but does not look at father)
LYNDA
(Stops chopping and wipes her hands.)
I dont spend much actually.

LUKE
(Looks up from the TV and says to his father)
Your breakfast is on the table, dear. Weve all had ours. Its nearly lunchtime. MELIA
(sits down at the table, facing away from her father then turns to Luke.)
Well how do you get all those new clothes then?

LYNDA
(Stops clearing up and looks quizzically towards her daughter.)
Cant you turn down that stupid football! Ive got a headache.
Oh stop it Luke.
LYNDA Melia, Ive been meaning to ask where all those expensive looking clothes come from.
(MELIA carries her breakfast dish to kitchen ignoring everyone then goes into her bedroom. TIM enters through other bedroom door, turning his head to watch Melia leave.)
LUKE
(Looks round at Melia mischievously.)
Youre just hung over. Too many drinks last night, ha! MELIA Mind your own business, you stupid kid!
(Starts eating cereal.)
$ $ $ $ $
LYNDA Stop bickering you two! Melia, whats wrong with you? Youll have to stop staying out late if it puts you in a bad mood the next day
TIM
(Nonchalantly)
What are you all talking about? Whose got new clothes?
37
Feature
Drama
LYNDA We were just wondering how Melia manages to get a new outfit so often.
(Tim, grumbling, gets up and goes to his sisters room and rattles the door handle.)
TIM
(Sits down at the table, looking uncomfortable.)
MELIA
(Calls irritably from off stage.)
What do you want? TIM Let me in. I just want to talk to you.
MELIA
Well, you knowI wouldnt worry about it. But if it makes you feel better, Ill ask her.
TAK
(Stands, looks bemused.)
What about? TIM

(Cajoling)
Youll ask her? Well thats a change! TIM Dont be so sarcastic Dad. But if you dont want me to say anything
LYNDA
(Walks to centre stage slowly.)
Come on, open the door

(Parents and Luke watch. The door opens a crack. Tim enters and bedroom door closes again.)
No son. Your father doesnt mean that. Please do talk to her. It seems as if whatever we say to her it ends up in an argument and I hope she hasnt been borrowing from anyone
LUKE I think shes got a rich boy friend
(Sniggers, crawls closer to the TV and pretends to be absorbed.)
(Scene shifts to Melias room)

(Melia is lying on the bed and Tim is sitting next to her, playing with his shoelaces.)
TAK
(Stares at Luke then speaks slowly and carefully.)
TIM You were out late last night werent youyou know my mates have seen you around the bars with those old guys, singing and pouring drinks for them.. Its stupidand I know thats where you get all that cash.
MELIA
(Defensively)
Tim, please talk to your sister. I am worried about her.

(Sits down on sofa and stares at his palms, fingers interlocked)
What are you talking about? TIM Its so obvious. If youre not careful, youll get picked up by the police. That sort of thing is illegal.
MELIA
(Angrily)
TIM
(Tim turns away, shifts in chair.)
Okay. After breakfast.

LYNDA
(Glances towards Melias bedroom door. Leans forward, pleading with her son.)
38
Im concerned too, Tim. Do talk to her. If shes in trouble
You dont know what youre talking about.
Feature
Drama
TIM Im not a complete idiot you know. Im just warning you thats all. Dont come crying to me when you get caught, OK?
(Stands up and makes a move towards the bedroom door.)
TAK
(Looking at his oldest son.)
Well? What did she say? TIM Not much. But dont worry. Shes not in trouble.
TAK What do you mean? Has she been doing something illegal?
MELIA
(Looking down, shamefaced.)
I suppose you could be right. Going out with them means getting paid a lot but it doesnt really feel right. Theres another girl, about my age, she makes double what I make. She sleeps with them too. Im tempted but TIM Thats crazy! Think what could happen. When school starts everyone will be talking and its then just a matter of time before Mum and Dad hear of it Aiyah! I cant just stop like that. Theres one guy who said he protects me. I told him Id carry on till the end of the holidays at least. TIM Oh no. Melia, thats serious. Youve got to be careful
MELIA MELIA
TIM No Dad. Just something stupid, thats all.

TAK
(Frowning, worried.)
I dont understand you children. So many secrets. When I was young

LYNDA
(Anxiously)
Leave it Tak. We need to show we trust her. At least she knows Tim cares too.
TAK
(Looking at his wife and rubbing his chin.)
I suppose youre right. Tim, youre the oldest. Its good to see you behaving responsibly. TIM No need to make such a big deal about it Dad.
(Preens, proud of his new status in his fathers eyes then goes to sit on floor beside Luke. Lynda goes back to chopping vegetables in kitchen. Tak goes back to reading newspaper.)
What are you going to say to Mum and Dad? Dont say anything to hurt them, okay?
(Tim goes to door. Stands pensively looking at her. Opens the door but does not say anything. Turns back to look at her, hesitates, grunts and goes out. Melia puts headphone on then pulls quilt over her head.) (Scene shifts back to living room.)
THE END
39
City space
s the mainland and Hong Kong face a future defined by technology and digital communication, centuries of calligraphy tradition are being threatened by change. As such change is inevitable, more should be done to encourage the redevelopment of traditional skills alongside modern ones, as both are equally important.
mastered over time. Furthermore, deriving its name from the Greek word for beautiful writing, calligraphy has constituted the bedrock of many forms of East Asian cultural expression and art throughout the ages.
to keystrokes
Tara writes, as a personal introduction to this article: In my final year of university I opted to take a Mandarin module, following a spell of research in Hong Kong and China the previous summer. I knew this would be a challenge, but while I passed my listening and oral examinations with relative ease I floundered when I tried to master the written language. This is an obstacle not just faced by me but by also many British-born Chinese who return to Hong Kong. Whilst they grow up understanding and speaking Chinese in their homes and with their parents, they often never gain comprehensive reading and writing skills. Upon their return to China they face a number of challenges ranging from reading menus, to communicating and applying for jobs.
Brushstrokes
by Andrew Halton and Tara Hoi Ling Lam
Tara Lam has just graduated from the University of York where she read Accounting, Business Finance and Management. Born in Hong Kong but raised in the UK she has a keen interest in contemporary developments in Hong Kong and the challenges faced here by young people such as herself.
The origins of Chinese characters can be traced to 4,000BC when people drew symbols that resembled objects and animals. Gradually the figures evolved and became standardised strokes, dots and shapes throughout the period of Imperial China. This has resulted in a standardised script that is shared across a number of Chinese dialects. Importantly, Chinese calligraphy possesses relevance far beyond mere communication representing the law of writing. It is a precise skill and practice that is learnt, refined and
Unsurprisingly Chinese calligraphy has been adopted as a form of street art. Tsang Tsou-choi was one artist who gained cult status by daubing his distinctive form of calligraphy across Hong Kong, gaining the name King of Kowloon. He claimed to be descended from the original rulers of Kowloon and the contents of his calligraphic graffiti usually included his name, his supposed title, his family tree, the names of illustrious emperors, and even provocative anti-colonial statements such as "Down with the Queen of England!". Despite his constant, incredible claim to royal ancesty, he gained international acclaim selling pieces across the world including at Sothebys auction house in London.
40
Photo by Divine Rapier
City space
However it is amongst young people where calligraphy should be promoted and encouraged. The contemporary digital age has ushered in many new ways of forming Chinese characters as communication has increasingly shifted towards emails, instant messaging and word processing. A number of input methods have been developed that allow standardized keyboards to produce Chinese characters. One example is the Cangjie method that works with a letter code, or Pinyin that is phonetically based. Recent developments in touchscreen technology have even enabled users to draw characters directly on a phone or tablet that recognizes the strokes and shapes. This allows young Hong Kongers to use calligraphy not only to communicate, but also as a skill, not to mention an art form, that is central to what it means to be both Chinese and a Hong Konger. In mainland China there has also been concern recently over the impact of mobile phone and computer use on young peoples ability to form Chinese characters. There is a view that modern technology is destroying centuries of tradition as young people fail to develop style, posture and skills. Input methods such as Pinyin that rely on phonetic spelling of the words have resulted in a phenomenon named tibiwangzi or take pen, forget character. Many young people are so used to typing that they have forgotten how to form characters correctly or in some case forget them all together.1
This variety of multimedia channels that convey creative expressions of Chinese calligraphy are particularly relevant...
Instead, the internet has become a place where young people play with the Chinese language. They have given characters new meanings and even revived old ones that had slipped out of common usage. They combine them in new ways with hybrid mixes of images and Roman alphabets. In particular there is a concern that new digital language is evolving that incorporates numbers, emoticons, symbols and phonetic spelling.2 This has been referred to as huoxing wen or the language from Mars. Many linguists see it as a new hybrid form of Chinese, created by young people for use amongst young people. It is often incomprehensible for the uninitiated, hence its popularity as it can circumnavigate online censors in mainland China, not to mention parental surveillance. In fact, many Chinese youth have even stopped typing all together, instead favouring voice messaging due to its speed and efficiency. New apps like Weixin, which means micro message, allow users to record and send voice messages as well as texting. There is a noticeable shift towards voice recognition software that has become more popular in light of the difficulties associated with typing in Chinese.3 This is not to say that technology and tradition have to be in competition. A number of apps have transformed the ways young people can practice calligraphy whilst a variety of websites and social media sites have created numerous channels to learn, share and experiment with the creative potential of the art form. This variety of multimedia channels that convey creative expressions of Chinese calligraphy are particularly relevant for those young Chinese living abroad where they are not exposed to written Chinese on a regular basis. The reinvigoration of an engagement with and appreciation of calligraphy would encourage many more to learn how to read and write Chinese.
Andrew Halton has just graduated from the University of Cambridge where he read Geography. He spent last summer researching the way in which global economic and technology trends intersect with local and regional youth cultures and identities in Asia.
1 2 3
. http://www.chinadaily.com.cn/opinion/2010-07/13/content_10099757.htm . http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/world-asia-pacific-14693677 . http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-18255058
41
Internetscope
The internet as a psychological safety net

Dr Samson Tse*, Associate Professor leading the Masters programme in counselling at The University of Hong Kongs Department of Social Work & Social Administration, has a strong interest in helping people recover from severe mental disorders and addiction through face-toface interventions or internet platforms.
by Samson Tse and Paul Wong
The authors message is that the internet provides not only a handy platform for social networking and a vast quantity of information, but also psychological interventions or prevention platforms for a variety of health and mental health problems.1 We were thrilled to read the June 2011 issue of Youth Hong Kong, Mobile Internet: Blogs on social networking Quoting Rainbow, Online social media is a powerful tool which strengthens bonds but without careful handling it can turn into a weapon. And Joyce, The internet allows us to get information from all corners of the globe with a few clicks. But in 2010, there were 10,000 new fake websites per month, ten times the number in 2004. Lets be cautious, protect ourselves and enjoy surfing the net healthily. As we would like to show, internet-based psychological programmes can contribute to the health of young people. Potentially, they have the power to achieve the following. e-Psychological health interventions
On-line counselling allows counsellors to use MSN, apps or Facebook to build trust with clients and provide immediate crisis support Chatrooms let young people with similar backgrounds, such as those recovering from depression, seek mutual support facilitated by trained professionals. Self-help therapy guides young people through modules or exercises which help them learn to cope with mental health concerns. One example of a Hong Kong initiative is The Little Prince is Depressed which promotes mental health awareness at www. depression.edu.hk. Another local example is Faceteen at www.faceteen.org, designed to deepen understanding of drug abuse.
e-Prevention
Games, video clips, self-tests and other non-threatening, non-preaching approaches can raise awareness of drugrelated dangers, excessive gambling, warning signs of early psychosis and where to seek help and support. They can also be used to find hidden youth. Advanced search engines allow social workers, counsellors and psychologists to identify young people at risk of hurting themselves or becoming involved in undesirable behaviour such as underage sexual activity.
The three-Es
Establish best practice guides to ensure internet-based prevention and therapy is safe, effective and helpful for clients and service providers. Evaluate the effectiveness of e-services and gauge cost-effective delivery. Engage e-counsellors in ongoing training, dialogues and the sharing of experiences in this emerging field of practice in the context of Chinese youth communities.
Dr Paul Wong** is a clinical psychologist, an Assistant Professor and the Deputy Director of the Masters programme in counselling.
Notes and source * Dr Samson Tse serves as the project consultant for www.faceteen.org. This won the Hong Kong Computer Society Outstanding Information Communication Technology Achievement Awards 2012: Innovation category. ** Dr Paul Wong is one of the developers of www.depression.edu.hk. He has led or been involved in several e-health intervention projects in Hong Kong.
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1 Cartreine JA, Ahern DK, Locke SE. A roadmap to computer-based psychotherapy in the United States. Harvard Review of Psychiatry. 2010; 18(2): 80-95
Engagement of such counsellors is an aim of the 2 nd HKU Counselling Conference, Youth Counselling: Dialogue, Practice and Passion, 6-8 December 2012. Key lectures will be given by Professor Richard Young and Professor Mark Bray and a postconference workshop entitled Social Media, the ABC: Accomplishments, Bullying and Counselling (online) will explore issues surrounding social media and e-counselling. Visit www. socialwork.hku.hk/youthcounselling for details
Arts and culture
We Not Naughty
Directed by Jack Neo Featuring Daniel Chan (teacher), Xiang Yun, Shawn Lee, Joshua Ang, Cherry Hsia, Loi Fey Huei, Eric Moo, Yan Li Ming, Jacky Chin, Amos Yee Genre Social comedy Original language Mandarin; subtitles in Bahasa and English Rating
Synopsis Central characters, Wei Jie and Jian Ren are rebellious teenage friends with their fair share of family problems. Wei Jies sister is a cyberbully and his father is a gambling addict. Jian Ren, member of a loansharks gang, has a loathsome younger brother and a careerobsessed single parent. Nonetheless, their new teacher recognizes the lads are inventive and does his best to bond with them. Patience eventually has its rewards. Review This film has many ingredients that make it ideal Hong Kong family watching: side effects of academic pressure, a society driven
The Gala Premiere of We Not Naughty was hosted by HKFYG on 21 August at the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre with the Hon Mrs Carrie Lam, Chief Secretary for Administration as Guest of Honour. With thanks to Film Asia Entertainment Group Co. Ltd.
by the outward trappings of success, cyberbullying on Facebook, generation gap tribulations, gambling addiction, gangs and hypocrisy. 36-year old Hong Kong actor-cum-Cantopop heartthrob Daniel Chan stars as the too-good-to-be true teacher and the rebellious students are played by Shawn Lee and Joshua Ang. The recipe for these ingredients is rather rich. The film goes over the top with a melodramatic, occasionally slapstick plot. Many of the characters are stereotypes and some of the acting is grossly twodimensional. But despite the lack of subtlety there are heart-warming moments, lots of laughs, social relevance and a happy ending. Rounded off with multiple messages about sound moral values, the perils of sibling rivalry and the bonuses of positive thinking, the film can be recommended to those whose expectations are not too high, if they have the time to sit still for 137 minutes.
Comments
Ada The movies message is very clear family support is always the cure. The two teenagers are rebellious but have not given up on themselves entirely and seek the love and respect of others. Through a series of coincidences, they become successful through creative talent and are eventually reconciled with their families. Although the plot might not be very convincing in parts, it still moves the audience to laughter and tears. Michael Some scenes are unforgettable. Wei Jies younger sister, a cyberbully who caused the nearsuicide of a classmate, is attacked by revengeful schoolgirls. The scene where mother shaves daughters head is so realistic. In another scene, teacher KC (Daniel Chan) runs naked around the school because he lost a contest with his bad boy students. Then, near the end, the bad boys help out in a natural delivery. Melodramatic and funny, but memorable too.
With thanks to SKY FILMS for artwork
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Youth Hong Kong |September 2012
Feature
Sport
What sport can do
espite paralysis from the waist down after a road accident, Ajmal Samuel is a member of Hong Kongs single scull rowing squad. He firmly believes that sport and work support one another.
Natural medicine
Ajmals accident meant he was on a very high dosage cocktail of opioids and cocaine, prescribed to dull the pain. The truth is, one lifts you up, the other calms you down, but the morphine dulled my reactions and I could not focus well. This caused serious problems at work. Thats when I learned about endorphins, the bodys natural opioids, and I decided to go cold turkey. I stopped taking pain medicine and took up hand cycling. The doctors said the shock could kill him but Ajmal remembered his first surgeon, also in a wheelchair, who told him nothing was more important than a work-life balance. The accident which put me in a wheelchair really defined my life.
Stopping the painkillers meant that his mind worked out its own natural fix. Usually he can distract himself, with work at the company he launched a few years ago, or through exercise. It happens automatically now. Training for sport has become my new addiction. I learned to convince my body that it felt no pain!
I never thought I would be so serious about sport. It really was simply a method of reducing dependency on medication. Nevertheless, in his first competition hand biking over 30 km in China Ajmal came 2nd. That win was the tipping point. Setting his sights on endurance events, marathons and triathlons, he bought a racing hand bike. At the Inaugural Ironman competition in Singapore in 2007, Ajmal now in his 40s, was again 2nd in his category.
Disabled diving to champion rowing

Adding water sports to his handbiking, Ajmal completed an emergency ascent without oxygen on an open water scuba diving course. Difficult even with fins, I did it with just my arms. Then came dragon boating with ablebodied friends, and one morning on the Shing Mun River, a Hong Kong rowing coach saw him. She asked if he wanted to try the single scull.
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Feature
Sport
Of course I said Yes! and the next day she invited me to join the Hong Kong disabled team. I have now begun the process of becoming a naturalized Chinese citizen so that I could get a Hong Kong passport in time for the London Olympics. Unfortunately, I missed out this time, but perhaps Rio is a possibility!
The accident which put me in a wheelchair really defined my life.
Young people grow up under immense competitive pressure in Hong Kong and Ajmal agrees with his coach. You dont need to put Ajmal is now the Hong Kong yourself under too much pressure disabled single scull champion but to be a success. I think that he has a warning message for other expectations placed on young people athletes. Competition can make are too high. You need to enjoy you a bit crazy. My coach sometimes yourself. I love sports and work, but has to say Stop! Chill! Youre getting I cannot let them destroy me. too serious, too competitive.
Ajmal Samuel is CEO of ASAP Transaction Processing Corp. Ltd (HK / SG) web www.asaptp.com tel 3628 3298. In November ASAP will launch a digital mobile wallet, in competition with Google.
Paralympic sportspersons: young and inspiring

Hong Kong sent 28 athletes to compete in seven sports for the disabled at the Paralympics this year. This years Paralympians include Kelvin Tang, 15, Hong Kongs youngest athlete at the London Games for the disabled. "Im proud to be able to compete as Hong Kongs youngest representative at the Paralympics." said the mildly mentally handicapped student from Choi Jun School in Tai Wai. Kelvin started swimming when he was 7. Very quickly it became my favourite sport. I loved the speedy feeling in water." Yu Chui-yee, 28, is a wheelchair fencer. When she was 11 she had bone cancer and her left leg had to be amputated. First a swimmer, she switched to fencing when 17. At the 2004 Summer Paralympics, she won four gold medals in the individual and team pe and foil events. In 2008 Summer Paralympics, the team matches were cancelled, but she won a gold and a silver medal in the individual events. This year, she won 2 gold medals and 1 bronze. In total, Yu has 7 gold medals and a silver, becoming Hong Kongs most decorated disabled athlete. So Wa-wai, 33, current world record holder in both the mens 100m and 200m was born with jaundice which affected his hearing and balance. He competes in the T36 classification for athletes with cerebral palsy. He began to train at the age of 10 and says, Growing up, Ive received a lot of support from my family, who have never given up on me despite my disability, he says. Theyre always very happy with my achievements, even when I didnt win. In London, So won a silver and in 5 Paralympics, has won 12 medals in all.
Photo by paralympic.org
Photo by Sum_of_Marc
The London 2012 Paralympics closed on 9 September 2012 and Hong Kong was ranked 34 out of the 164 counties and regions which participated. In total, 12 medals were won: 3 gold, 3 silver and 6 bronze. Since 1972, Hong Kongs disabled athletes have won more than 100 medals, including 38 gold.
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Letters
Letter to the editor

Our first Olympic participation was at Helsinki in 1952. As a British Colony, we entered 4 athletes. Since then, we have competed at every Olympics but we supported the boycott of the 1980 Games in Moscow. Our most successful Games came in 1996 in Atlanta, when Lee Lai-shan won our first ever gold medal. We had no success at Sydney in 2000 but in 2004, Ko Lai-chak and Li Ching won us a silver medal in the Mens Team Table Tennis. In 2008, Hong Kong came so close to beating eventual Bronze Team Winners South Korea. In 2016 who knows. Maybe we will win another gold!
Three cheers for Hong Kong

Dear editor, Hong Kongs 25-year-old Lee Wai-see won a bronze medal in the Womens Keirin* at the Olympics. We entered 42 athletes in 13 sports this year and our two most valiant efforts came from Lee and the Hong Kong Mens Table Tennis team that narrowly missed the bronze.
Photo by Steve Ryan
Zaheu Jacot Year 7, Island School, Hong Kong

*Keirin is track cycling in which competitors follow a pace setter on a motorcycle called a derny. The total distance is 2,000 metres. It gets so quick, that some riders have finished at 80 kmh! It started in 1948 in Japan for gambling purposes, it spread to Europe and Australia. The first Olympic keirin was held in Sydney in 2000, for men only. The womens keirin was introduced at this years Olympics.
Lee Wai-see
Do leaders matter?
Dear editor, Its not so much about whether or not they matter, its human nature that dictates that we need them and the question is more about what they do with leadership. If all leaders had the qualities shown on the Youth Hong Kong cover for March 2012 societies wouldnt have such things as war, human rights abuses and social problems. The youth of today need to be given the chance to develop ethical leadership qualities by leaders that share same ethical values. Todays youth are the future and if they get it right in developmental stages then surely changes for good will be the result. Take as an example human trafficking. In general the youth of Hong Kong are relatively unaware that it happens because awareness programmes are not yet part of education and society also turns a blind eye to it. If the subject was introduced into schools, colleges and universities now, the years to come would produce leaders that understand the issue and decisions would be made to correct it. Currently Hong Kong is ranked as a Tier 2 region alongside Nepal, Philippines and Cambodia on the Trafficking in Persons Report 2012. Surely our future leaders will have enough compassion for the victims of human trafficking to at least work to get Hong Kong promoted to being a Tier 1 region. I hope. The number of youth victims of human trafficking in Hong Kong can only be guessed becausethey generally move under the radar and their conditions constantly change. Its widely acknowledged that labourers, sex workers and domestic helpers are trafficked into Hong Kong. Many are literally frightened to speak out. David McCracken. formerly of Li Po Chun United World College
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HKFYG
Assessment and learning at Congregation House
HKFYG will soon offer new services at Congregation House in Causeway Bay. These include the HKFYG Continuous Learning Centre which is expanding into the new premises with an office, classrooms, and teaching equipment. New facilities will provide quality learning courses with more diversity for young people. The new centre will be in full service from early September. Qualified and accredited courses like Advanced Mediation Training and a Certification in Physiotherapy Assistant Training will be offered. Courses related to child counseling, occupational skills training and various new general interest class will also be offered. All courses are well designed and structured, handled by a team of professional tutors who give enrolled students a valuable learning experience. email tel fax Contact clc@hkfyg.org.hk 3755 7021 3755 7031 Mr YS Choi
In the same building, the new HKFYG Youth Assessment and Development Centre will offer assessment of children and youth with special developmental and educational needs. Autism, dyslexia, hyperactivity, learning difficulties and speech problems can be assessed. Social skills training, fine motor skills and sensory integration training, plus writing skills and speech training will be given. Gifted children are also catered for. Individual assessment, training and group activities will be tailor-made to help children improve, develop potential and enhance their ability to study well. The Centre is staffed by a multiprofessional team including social workers, psychologists and therapists. Enquiries, bookings and referrals from teachers and parents are welcome. email tel fax Contact yadc@hkfyg.org.hk 2130 4050 2130 4060 Ms Anna Liu
Address for both facilities 21-23/F, Congregation House, 119 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
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HKFYG
Comparing Tianjin
hese three essays are from participants at the 2012 Dragon 100 Young Chinese Leaders Forum, held in Hong Kong and Tianjin this year. The theme of the Forum was Innovation and Development in Tianjin: Manifestation of Chinas 12th Five Year Plan.
Singapore and Tianjin

by Jay Teo Jun Kai
When striking up a conversation about Tianjin, the tiny island of Singapore is unlikely to be used for comparison. Judging by the scale of new infrastructure, Tianjins potential is far from being fulfilled. Singapore, on the other hand evolved from a fishing village decades ago. It is a knowledge-based economy with one of the worlds busiest ports and an important global financial market. Given Singapores limited space, Tianjins development in terms of speed and scale impressed me the most. The 13 million Tianjin locals plus citizens from nearby provinces mean Tianjin is well equipped to capture economic benefits from these resources and may even boost its status to a tier 1 city in the near future.
In urban planning there is no one size fits all and the delicate balance between design and execution is a tough challenge.
Cookie-cutter approach
However, I saw at first hand a phenomenon called the Ghost City of China. Many of the malls, offices and residential blocks appear to be significantly underutilized and foot traffic is clearly lacking in most parts of the city. With development of the citys hardware taking place at such break neck speed, the software portion of Tianjin is quite obviously lacking. It will be interesting to see what the Tianjin government does to resolve this. Urban planning in Singapore takes into account feedback and suggestions from various interest groups and often incorporates them in the decision-making process. While this ensures that infrastructure caters to a specific demand, the speed of execution may be affected. Tianjin on the other hand uses a more cookie-cutter approach, applying development principles that worked in other cities. This greatly reduces the time taken to execute projects but runs the risk of creating a redundant, culture-lacking white elephant. In urban planning there is no one size fits all and the delicate balance between design and execution is a tough challenge.
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Jay Teo Jun Kai is in his final year of a Business Degree at National University of Singapore. He is a keen backpacker who is passionate about entrepreneurship.
HKFYG
Auckland and Tianjin

by LY Yong-sin
Tianjin, China and Auckland, my hometown, have one thing in common both are port cities serving as major hubs for their respective countries. Such cities play a very important role in the development of a country and are gateways for visitors. This is where the similarity between the two cities ends. The only true comparison I can make is that of scale. Everything in China and in Tianjin is bigger and on a much larger scale than in New Zealand. The multitude of models in each consecutive exhibition hall and museum made it clear and the visit to the actual port put things into perspective. The port of Auckland could fit into the port of Tianjing several times over and still have room to spare.
Balance through wealth flow

Port cities are very important for creating wealth and jobs so investment is needed to ensure potential is fulfilled. Tianjin is still at the development stage whereas Auckland is well established. Nonetheless, Tianjin, already the fifth largest port in the world, still seems to have much potential for growth. Whether that potential is fulfilled will depend on whether the city invests appropriately, not only in infrastructure and buildings but also in the people that are required to sustain and support the growth of a city. The biggest challenge facing all cities undergoing economic development is ensuring that the wealth created through growth flows to the people and businesses that support them. That wealth needs to be re-invested rather than eaten up by large multi-national corporations. If Tianjin can manage to find that balance, it will contribute much to the economic growth of China.
30 year-old LY Yong-sin is an IT Specialist at 2 Degree Mobile NZ.
Hong Kong and Tianjin

by Lo Shuk-yi
Chinas rapid development has been in the spotlight all over the world. As a Hong Kong citizen I sense the huge influence this has had on the local community and this has given me a thirst for understanding China better. I was deeply impressed by Tianjins clear urban planning, large-scale infrastructure, and vision as an international financial centre, port and eco-city.
Intangible development
Hong Kong has developed more slowly than Tianjin in recent years and few can dispute that tangible development was better planned in Tianjin. However, Hong Kong is ahead in essential intangible development, including human resources, and financial and legal systems. Its uniqueness among other Chinese cities is evident in its well-established, mature political and legal systems. These give much confidence to local citizens and foreign investors who do business in the city.
An architects view
As an architect, I believe properly designed buildings and urban planning help to form the identity of a city. There is no doubt that there are office blocks, residential developments and shopping malls of similar design in both cities and I think both Hong Kong and Tianjin have well developed cityscape. However, in the near future, the main question for both of them will be how to find the most suitable form in which to develop their individual characters fully.
The Dragon Foundations annual Dragon 100 Young Chinese Leaders Forum is attended by 100 ethnic Chinese from around the world. Participants have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership skills and commitment to their home community. The 2012 itinerary began in Hong Kong, went on to Tianjin and concluded in Beijing. Visits to museums with exhibitions on local urban planning and economic development, universities, Tianjin Economic Technological Development Area, the Free Trade Zone, Tianjin Yicoo Creative Industrial Park were included. More information at http://www. dragonfoundation.net/ indexe.htm.
Lo Shuk-yi became a HK registered architect in 2010 and now works for Cheung Kong (Holdings) Ltd
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HKFYG
Education
Reflections on education in Hong Kong
n July 2012, Mr Henry Poon completed a 31-year career as a secondary school principal. This message from him comes at the point when he is actually retiring for the second time.
a message from HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College principal, Henry Poon on his retirement
I started as the founding principal of Sheng Kung Hui Bishop Mok Sau Tseng Secondary School in Tai Po in 1975. I served there for 18 years before emigrating to Canada in 1993. On my return to Hong Kong in 1997, I became principal of Tin Ka Ping Secondary School in Fanling. In 1999 I was invited to return, as principal, to my alma mater, St. Pauls Co-educational College. Under my leadership, it became a DSS school in 2002 and I retired in 2004 at the age of 60. However, by Gods grace, I was then invited by The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups to start another new school in Tin Shui Wai in 2006: The HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College.
We have seen the push for using Chinese as a medium of instruction and the thrust in curriculum reform that emphasizes creativity, critical thinking and multipleintelligence. Then came the new 6-year secondary education system coupled with a new public exam, the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education.
Good intentions
I must admit I have been amazed by the frequency, the urgency and the intensity of these reforms, which were initiated through good intentions but often created more problems than those they were intended to solve. Of course, from a positive perspective, we have invested millions and millions of dollars in providing a better education for our children, and doubtless our students have benefited from this huge investment in education and the variety of opportunities thus created. But several major problems remain. They need to be resolved if our education endeavours are to be re-directed into their proper course. In terms of curriculum reform, we lack proper planning and coordination. Teachers are often not adequately prepared or trained for the teaching of new subjects and contents that require a totally new approach.
Time of reform
I have been lucky enough to witness and to be involved in some most unprecedented and drastic reforms in education in Hong Kong. The pace of change quickened noticeably after 1997 with the establishment of the HKSAR.
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Education
HKFYG
Excessive pressure
Worse still, we are exerting too much pressure on teachers and students through an unconscious obsession with the power and reliability of formal assessments. Take the subject of Liberal Studies in the New Secondary School curriculum, for example. I have always insisted that it should be taught, but not assessed in a public exam. I believe that in order to provide quality education for our children, we need 3 Ps, namely, purpose, passion and professionalism. The first step is to redefine the purpose of our education and decide on our priorities.
Professionalism, with purpose and passion

Next we should ignite passion in the commitment to educate the young. This is needed in our educational leaders, both in government and in schools, as well as in teachers and parents. Finally, we need professional people to do the job. All our stakeholders, be they Education Bureau officials, school principals, teachers or parents, need to enhance their professionalism. We should not allow amateurism to dictate the direction of our education any more. Make our investment in education truly worth the money!
The HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College

The HKFYG Lee Shau Kee College (HLC) was established in 2006 as Tin Shui Wais first English-medium Direct Subsidy Scheme (DSS) Secondary School. It is dedicated to the nurture and encouragement of all its students, challenging them to be the best they can be, in and out of the classroom. HLC is committed to the pursuit of academic and intellectual achievement, the development of physical prowess, and the building of moral character and conscientiousness. Passion for learning and knowledge, and the broadening of horizons, are hallmarks of an education at HLC. It is believed that greater curiosity, not only with regard to academic studies, but also towards life and the world around them, will encourage students to achieve these ends.
Enquiries
Address: 12 Tin Kwai Road, Tin Shui Wai, Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong. Tel: 2146 1128 / Email: hlc@hlc.edu.hk
The HKFYG Lee Shau Kee Primary School

The HKFYG Lee Shau Kee Primary School was founded in 2000, aiming to provide quality education by nurturing Courtesy, Participation, Creativity and "Care. The school emphasizes holistic development of students and integrates information technology and diversified learning in both learning and teaching. The schools team of professional teachers focuses on building firm language foundations for students and catering for diverse learning needs. It achieves this by supporting all its students, including those who are gifted and those who are less able.
Enquiries
Address: 11 Tin Wing Road, Tin Shui Wai, Yuen Long, New Territories, Hong Kong. Tel: 2448 1011 / Email: lskps@hkfyg.org.hk
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HKFYG
M21 gives high fives

The HKFYG Jockey Club M21 is a multimedia centre for young people, providing a platform for imagination, innovation and creativity. M21 is made of up three parts:
Media Lab which consists of the uTV, uChannel, uMobile, uCinema and u21 where the Youth Production Team will produce all the programmes. Media Academy which will provide training courses and skills upgrade programmes. Media Counselling which takes counselling services into a new dimension of social media and the internet. M21 has three forms of members, individuals, schools and corporates, which will help link up M21 with schools and community multimedia channels.
It is all about YOUth
uTV
M21s vision
to provide opportunities for young people to take charge of todays technology to produce professional programmes of quality and substance to prioritize responsible, healthy, affirming experiences to partner similar minded youth projects to promote diversity in participation, thinking and creating
The online uTV educational network links Hong Kong secondary schools. It provides a platform for youth-oriented programmes, including news and interviews, for public viewing. The aim is to enhance youths sense of responsibility, communication skills, creativity and awareness of current affairs. Youths interested in media production will be recruited for the uTV production team. Facilities Live broadcasting set up Prompter with camera Chroma key set up Upcoming M21 Programme Host Selection Contest All-round Courses in Multimedia Production Campus TV Management Training Live Liberal Studies
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HKFYG
uCinema
Facilities 262 seats Full HD projector, LED lights Control room
uCinema is the only cinema in Hong Kong that is specially designed for showing youth interest films. It acts as a platform for youth to screen their productions and holds workshops and seminars to promote film appreciation in young people.
u21
u21 connects young people through internet with useful, current information plus videos and interactive games. u21.hk also run campaigns and competitions to encourage learning about new media and stimulate creativity. It has live TV chat programmes with guests such as the Chief Executive, university vice-chancellors, authors and artists. Facilities iMac computers, projector Upcoming IT Quiz 2012 for secondary and primary school groups: late 2012, Online Value Videos Archive creation
Upcoming M21 VIDEA Micro-film Competition M21 Sony Chinese Youth Film Contest M21 International Chinese Youth Film Festival
uMobile
uMobile serves a boundaryless environment for mobile application development and experimentation by youth. To enhance skill sets and keep up with media trends, uMobile organizes training courses, particularly for iPhone, Android and Microsoft Kinect. Space, equipment, training, experimental idea exchange and technical skill development mean that uMobile intends to become a youth-led mobile application lab. Facilities iMac and PC notebooks with mobile application developing software, Kinect 3D sensor Upcoming M21 App For A Better Life Mobile Application Design Contest iPhone Apps Workshop Android Apps Workshop Microsoft Kinect Apps Workshop
uChannel
All uChannels radio programmes are hosted and produced by young people. In order to cultivate a new generation of broadcasting talent, programmes include live and recorded shows, phone-in and online counselling sessions, entertainment, music, and public affairs. uChannel also produces radio drama and features news on campus life and community life. Facilities Facilities Live radio broadcast system Phone in system Upcoming M21 Programme Host Selection Contest Disc Jockey Training Programme
Address HKFYG Hong Kong Jockey Club Media 21, LG 2/F, Shek Pai Wan Shopping Centre, Shek Pai Wan Estate, Aberdeen, Hong Kong. Tel 3979 0000
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HKFYG
10 books from HKFYG for 2012

Training parents in how to tackle youth drug problems and real life stories by former young drug users.
Anti-drug Training for Parents

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-4-0
Essential Lessons For Youth Entrepreneurship
Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-1-9
A collection of 10 true stories of successful young entrepreneurs from Youth Business Hong Kong.
Practical Guide for Modern Parents
Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19689-0-6
School social workers talk about dealing with 10 typical problems that children have.
Problem Solving - Youth Work Practice

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-7-1
Individual activities and group games for teachers and social workers to deal with lifes daily challenges.
LEAD Creative Class Learn, Unlearn and Relearn LEAD

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-3-3
This is the third in a series of books, the author explores what it means to undertake tasks of school improvement.
Web Positive 3.0 A Collection of Youth Online Blogs 3.0

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-5-7
The last in the Web Positive series, this issue focuses on the positive blog competition organized by the Youth Online Outreach Counselling Scheme.
Give up? No Way!

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19689-9-9
19 Felix Wong Youth Award winners share with readers true stories of overcoming difficulties or hardship.
Fly High with Us Stories of Young Savers

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-6-4
Fly High with Us is a pioneer project of the Child Development Fund, with six participants sharing their experiences of the past three years. As part of the Neighbourhood First, Youth Stand Up for Community Project, young people explore the issue of poverty.
Neigbourhood First Experiencing Proverty

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-8-8
The Cat Talks

Price: HK$80 ISBN: 978-988-19690-2-6 Discounts:
An adventure with Genius Cat and his family, all of whom share the same curious disability split ears.
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Students and u21 members 30% off Bulk purchase Schools and NGOs, 1-29 copies 30% off, 30 copies or above 40% off Other readers 1-29 copies 20% off, 30 copies or above 30% off
All books available from 21/F, The Hong Kong Federations of Youth Groups Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point, Hong Kong, or online at u21.hk Please contact Ada Chau tel 3755 7108 or email cps@hkfyg.org.hk
Charity Auction of Exquisite Chinese artefacts
HKFYG
C
By Invitation
ourtesy of Lisas Collection, HKFYG will be holding a Charity Auction in December, with auction lots that reflect Chinas culture and tradition, an opportunity not to be missed. It will be preceded by a course in the appreciation of Chinese artefacts.
Certificate Course in Chinese Artefact Connoisseurship
Ahead of the charity auction, Chinese antique connoisseur, Mrs Lisa Cheung will share her vast store of professional knowledge and expertise with students registered for this course. They will be taught how to identify and appreciate the nuances of Chinese artefacts and antiques. Course content Introduction to Chinese Art Antiques and Culture Learning about Jade Designs and Patterns of Jade Appreciation of Chinese Art Students will also have the chance to learn how auctions are run and will have the opportunity to help organize and participate under professional guidance in the Charity Auction on 9 December. A Certificate of Completion, issued by Instructor and HKFYG, will be awarded to all who complete the course satisfactorily. Organizer HKFYG Continuous Learning Centre Target audience Aged 16 or above Schedule Saturdays from 17 November to 1 December 2012 Time 4.30pm-7pm Venue 21/F, Congregation House,119 Leighton Road, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong Fee $400 Tel 3755 7021 Website clc.hkfyg.org.hk
Preview 8 December 2012 (Saturday) 10am 8pm Auction 9 December 2012 (Sunday) Begins at 10am Venue HKFYG Museum, 5/F, HKFYG Building, 21 Pak Fuk Road, North Point Lots Ceramics Jade & Jadeite Jewellery Works of Art Tel Ms Cheng (852) 3755 7101, Ms Yip (852) 3755 7102 Website charityauction.hkfyg.org.hk Fund raised will go towards the Federations diversified and professional services for young people in Hong Kong.
More about Mrs Lisa Cheung

Lisa is a highly respected antique jewellery designer and artefact restorer who has become well known for her skill in authenticating and restoring Chinese works of art. For more than thirty years, she has focused on bringing out the historical and cultural background of antique pieces. Lisa is an active participant and supporter of charity events.
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Youth Hong Kong V4N3

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a quarterly journal from the hongkong federation of youth groups

Youth, crime and rehabilitation

Youth Hong Kong

YOUTH WATCH 32 Living outside the law 35 Youth crime snapshots

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Wan Chai Police Station

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

Society of Boys Centre

(Schools and Hostels for Boys)

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Community Sentences administered via: Care and Protection Orders

Community Services Orders

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

Shoplifting: why do they do it?

Learning about stealing

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

I knew it was greedy but I lost all control.

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

On the right track

Names in this story have been changed to protect identities.

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Drugs and Violence a self-perpetuating process?

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

Whats changed me is my mindset. Ive got a future now.

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

by Elaine Morgan & Chloe Ng

One foot out of line and they would regret it.

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

If I can do this, I can do anything. Nothing could be harder than this.

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Compensated but compromised

Annies first experience

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

Annie and Kelly together

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Annie on online compensated dating

* Note names in this story have been changed to protect identities.

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

The law and young people

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Punishment fitting the crime

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

Changing powers and responsibilities

Family support and past records

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Prevention better than cure

Marycove Centre and School for Social Development

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

Fighting crime in the community

Note With thanks to all who contributed.

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

New look for

HKFYG outreach work

First Steps: Wing Lee Residence

Youth Hong Kong | September 2012

Getting back on track

More than law and order

September 2012 | Youth Hong Kong

Rehabilitation with justice