Hong Kong enters a new era

The curtain falls on 156 years of British colonialism in Hong Kong at the stroke of midnight on July 1. A historic event, it has attracted unprecedented worldwide publicity. The crux of the controversy over reverting to Chinese rule is a difference in perception as to how the former colony should be run after Beijing assumes sovereignty.

Malaysia's line on Hong Kong is unwavering. Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr. Mahathir Mohamad recently criticized the British push for more democracy. He said last month: "I think it is the height of hypocrisy. For more than 100 years, the British never thought of ruling Hong Kong as a democracy. Now, just before it has to hand Hong Kong back to China, it suddenly decides there must be democracy..."

Dr. Mahathir is not alone in holding this view.

Malaysia welcomes Chinese rule and is optimistic about Hong Kong's future. China is expected to tread carefully in Hong Kong's sensitive transition, knowing that it is being watched and judged every step of the way. The task ahead will not be easy. Problems notwithstanding, with the cooperation of Hong Kong's 6.3 million who, opinion polls indicate, largely welcome Chinese rule and look forward to better days, particularly housing facilities, the transition will be smooth. China has said it is no threat to world peace and wants to have friendly relations with all but will not compromise its sovereignty. It goes without saying that any attempt to destabilize Hong Kong by politicizing it will not be tolerated.

Despite the sound and fury in the run-up, the way ahead does not seem so dark after all. The U.S. extension of the Most Favored Nation status to China during this crucial year and President Bill Clinton's recent remark on the need to maintain ties with China shows reassuring realism. Antagonism begets antagonism, benefiting none.

-- The New Straits Times, Kuala Lumpur