Return of the Daai Paai Dong

The Hong Kong government is on the cusp of reversing a disastrous policy, one that has resulted in the slow, agonising death of an important facet of Hong Kong's culture.

That's right, the daai paai dong (a roadside cooked-food stall) could be making a comeback.

Fifty-two years ago the Urban Council (now defunct) stopped issuing hawker licenses, taking away an opportunity for Hong Kongers to be self-sufficient. Over time the restriction on the succession or transfer of licences, coupled with a ban on itinerant hawkers in the 1970s, caused the daai paai dongs to disappear from the streets.

In the 1960s, daai paai dongs and hawkers selling everyday groceries lined the road, creating so-called "food streets", which attracted hungry Hong Kongers and tourists. The old policy was put into effect to keep the city clean and tidy, and until now the argument has been that hawkers and food stalls pose environmental and hygiene concerns. But 2008 is not 1956, and these issues can be resolved.

One hawker gave the best possible reason that the policy should be relaxed:

Although the businesses cannot make a lot of money, at least I can support myself and do not need to depend on welfare.

And what's wrong with someone wanting to earn a little extra money? If hawking helps ease the financial burden for unskilled workers or those below the poverty line, then it should be part of Hong Kong's economic fabric.

And if we're lucky, it will bring back some of the flavour of old Hong Kong.

← Older Posts · 早前 | →