State expectations, poor want a helping hand, not an invisible one

Article Abstract:

The elderly and unemployed in the capitalist mecca of Hong Kong now loudly demand that the govt do more to help them, a plea that may get some response from a Legislative Council that proclaims its sensitivity. While Hong Kong remains an affluent society, it has lost 450,000 mfg jobs since 1988, and the welfare rolls have risen from 83,000 in 1993 to 110,000. Many complaints come via the social welfare groups that the govt funds, while increasing democracy has made legislators more responsive to interest groups.

Analysis, Economic policy, Welfare, Public assistance, Entitlement spending

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Home free: at long last, victory for veterans' rights campaigner

Article Abstract:

Veteran's-rights campaigner Jack Edwards of Hong Kong won a startling victory on Mar 4, 1996 when the govt suddenly gave in to his decade-long pursuit of British passports for the 29 surviving wives and widows of World War II servicemen. Himself a veteran of that war, Edwards spent 44 months as a prisoner of the Japanese under appalling conditions, as recounted in his book 'Banzai You Bastards!' Next he plans to seek an apology and compensation from Japan for himself and his fellow prisoners.

Children, Personalities, Veterans, Military personnel, Children of military personnel

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Malaysia's quandary

Article Abstract:

Malaysia faces the problem of implementing its comprehensive anti-AIDS program due to strong opposition from various religious groups. Suggested measures to combat the disease such assex education programs, blood screening of prostitutes and the promotion of condom use were widely criticized. Deputy Health Minister Farid, together with some Muslim scholars, finally decided that the best solution is a comeback to the basic teachings of Islam.

Health aspects, Social aspects, Social policy, Malaysia, Religious communities, AIDS (Disease)

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