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新聞稿，焦點
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新民黨 黎棟國議員辦事處喬遷之喜 黎棟國議員：一定會和大家心連心、手攜手，為地區做實事！
新民黨 黎棟國議員辦事處喬遷之喜 黎棟國議員：一定會和大家心連心、手攜手，為地區做實事！
日期︰2023 年 5 月 7 日
新民黨常務副主席黎棟國立法會議員辦事處暨新民黨社區辦事處（大埔），今日（7日）舉辦喬遷典禮，邀得新民黨主席葉劉淑儀女士、保安局局長鄧炳強先生、署理房屋局局長戴尚誠先生、中聯辦新界工作部副部長謝益明先生及大埔民政事務專員陳巧敏女士擔任主禮嘉賓。典禮由新民黨大埔區社區發展主任劉文杰先生主持，並且感謝新民黨副主席容海恩立法會議員、副主席潘國山先生、李梓敬立法會議員，與及一眾地區翹楚、領導出席支持。辦事處設於新界大埔汀角路29-35號榮暉商場16號舖，今後將竭誠為大埔區居民服務。
新民黨主席葉劉淑儀女士致歡迎詞時，首先感謝各位嘉賓在惡劣天氣下仍蒞臨典禮，為新民黨增光。葉太說：「新民黨本身在同一商場內有辦事處，只是隔了幾個舖位，2019年黑暴時被暴徒破壞了，現在很高興能於同一商場開設新的辦事處。另外，很高興現在社會撥亂反正，特區政府推出完善地區治理改革方案，在新的區議會制度下，相信以後的區議員會做實事。的而且確，沒安全，便沒繁榮、沒發展。多謝鄧炳強局長的努力，我們現在有安定、安全的環境，讓我們可以開設新的社區辦事處。」
葉太續說：「這是我們常務副主席黎棟國的立法會議員辦事處，也是新民黨的社區辦事處，在這辦事處服務的社區發展主任劉文杰本身是大埔居民，十分熟悉大埔事務，黎棟國議員也是家住大埔、心繫大埔，我相信這辦事處能為本區居民好好服務。我在這裡多謝各位地區友好、街坊義工一直以來的支持，希望大家繼續支持新民黨的工作，多謝大家。」
保安局局長鄧炳強先生致勉詞時表示：「多謝新民黨的邀請，今日很開心來參加黎棟國議員辦事處的開幕，正如行政長官所說，所有開心的事都是『開心香港』的事。我之前有出席黎棟國議員的大坑辦事處開幕，今日是第二次了。現在我們要撥亂反正，要完善地區治理，希望新民黨有更多朋友在地區服務，讓市民的幸福感得以提升，多謝各位。」
署理房屋局局長戴尚誠先生致勉詞時說：「很高興能參加今天的典禮，大埔是一個很有凝聚力的社區，而新民黨在大埔工作了很久，也是大埔的動力，希望這個新辦事處能為大埔凝聚更多新動力。房屋與地區息息相關，由計劃至開工到落實，都需要大家的幫助，多點向社區講解。議員辦事處當然亦能在完善地區治理下，做好橋樑的角色，我在這裡祝賀黎棟國議員辦事處業務蒸蒸日上，未來有更多黨友到地區服務，和特區政府一起推動政策，造福市民。」
最後，由新民黨常務副主席黎棟國立法會議員致謝詞：「今天除了是星期日，還有『黃雨』、『紅雨』，不過，在『紅雨』高掛下，各位主禮嘉賓、來賓、義工和街坊仍然準時到場，證明風雨並無阻礙大家到來的熱誠，我實在衷心感謝大家！」
黎棟國議員續說：「剛才葉太說，黑暴時我們的辦事處遭破壞了，我認為不要緊，因為我們會重建！我們不怕黑暴！新民黨服務地區的心不會改變！即使黑暴及新冠疫情肆虐，新民黨在地區仍然屹立不倒，我們不怕病毒；疫情期間，社區發展主任劉文杰每日四處派送防疫包，送物資給居民，因為新民黨的理念，就是要為街坊服務！所以我們不畏困難，不怕辛苦，一定會和大家心連心、手攜手，為地區做實事！」
「雖然我是選委會界別的立法會議員，但是在完善選舉制度下，我一樣會落區，一樣會開設辦事處，目前我開設了三個辦事處，未來希望能開設更多辦事處，因此希望各位地區翹楚、領袖，多多支持，我一定會在今日的基礎上，繼續努力，更好地為市民服務！」黎棟國議員總結道。
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港官應細讀《史記》魏信陵君救趙
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我是在香港舊教育制度下長大的，那時候未有新高中學制，我最懷念在聖士提反女校求學時，讀了很多中國歷史經典故事，《史記》、《左傳》和《戰國策》都有讀過，印象深刻的其中一篇是《史記．魏公子列傳》。今日再讀「魏信陵君救趙」，頓覺當時形勢和今天相似，鑑古知今，故事中應對危機的思維策略，值得今天治港者、為官者、擔任公職者參考反思。
趙國勢危魏信陵君挺身
「魏信陵君救趙」的時代背景是戰國末期，秦國積極吞併六國，勢要一統天下，各地戰事頻繁。其中，秦國大破趙軍於長平之戰，坑殺趙降卒四十萬，並進兵圍趙首都邯鄲，趙國勢危，列國形勢亦十分緊張。
魏國信陵君，名無忌，亦稱魏公子，是「戰國四公子」之一；其兄長是魏安釐王，其姊則嫁予趙國丞相平原君為妻。當時秦兵壓境，趙國向有姻親關係的魏國求援，惟魏安釐王怯於秦國氣盛，不敢進兵，只是命令將軍晉鄙守鄴駐防。信陵君則意識到魏趙兩國唇亡齒寒，自行湊拼百輛戰車，計劃挺身救趙。
成大事要廣納人才引領驅動
信陵君以愛才聚才、禮賢下士、納得食客三千著稱。當時他聽聞有位年過七十的隱士侯嬴，在大梁夷門做守門小吏。信陵君拜訪送禮，但侯嬴不接。信陵君特意大排筵席，並且待賓客到齊後，才親自驅馬車去夷門接侯嬴，並特意空出馬車左邊的上座，虛位以待。侯嬴考驗信陵君，果然登車便直接坐在上座；之後又著信陵君載他去街市找屠夫朋友朱亥聊天。信陵君不單照做，還手執馬韁在一旁耐心等候，並無不悅，靜待侯嬴聊完天再一起赴宴。自此，信陵君禮賢下士、作風謙遜的美名不脛而走，在往後「竊符救趙」一事中，侯嬴的計策發揮了關鍵作用。
信陵君對侯嬴信任有加，接受其獻計，反映為官者要成大事，除了要自身有擔當，更要懂得禮賢下士、廣納人才。正如國家主席習近平經常強調「人才是第一資源」、「人才引領驅動」、「全面提高人才自主培養質量，著力造就拔尖創新人才，聚天下英才而用之」。近年特區政府積極推出措施「搶人才」，高端人才通行證計劃、科技人才入境計劃、優秀人才入境計劃，以及新資本投資者入境計劃等，方向正確，初見成效。未來特區政府須著力留人才、聚人才，同時亦要積極培育本地人才，大家一起貢獻香港。
侯嬴獻計竊符救趙
回說信陵君湊拼百輛戰車，打算親自上場與秦軍一戰，卻遭侯嬴阻止。侯嬴認為信陵君挺身犯險只是送死，救不了趙。侯嬴獻計，首先要取出魏安釐王的虎符（兵符），才可憑虎符往前線要求將軍晉鄙交出兵權。第二，虎符藏於魏安釐王卧室，只有寵妃如姬知道收藏位置。信陵君曾為如姬報殺父之仇，侯嬴著信陵君找如姬盜符報恩。第三，侯嬴再著信陵君把屠夫朱亥帶上，若晉鄙不肯交出兵權，朱亥立即殺之。第四，侯嬴承諾，若大事得成，他必自刎成就其義勇精神。聽罷侯嬴的計策，信陵君便哭了，因為他預料無辜的老將晉鄙不會交出兵權，這等於必須殺了他才可。
信陵君逐步行事，如姬成功竊符。信陵君帶著虎符到鄴見晉鄙，晉鄙果然不肯交出兵權，朱亥隨即以鐵椎將之擊斃。侯嬴信守承諾，在北鄉自剄。信陵君奪得兵權後，挑選八萬精兵進軍，楚國亦適時派兵支援，在魏、楚、趙三軍合力下，秦軍投降。信陵君成功解除趙國邯鄲危機，不過自知竊符有罪，即使得到魏安釐王原諒，信陵君往後十年留在趙國，沒回魏國。
大爭時代需有擔當銳意改革
我認為「魏信陵君救趙」有另一啟示：若要在大爭的時代成就大事，就得用非常手段，不能因循守舊，只談先例，拘泥程序，躺在舒適圈內難以有所突破。晉鄙謹守崗位，卻欠大局思維，最終成了大計劃的絆腳石。
國家主席習近平聽取行政長官李家超述職報告時（12月13日）明確指示：「特區政府要團結帶領社會各界，銳意改革，奮發有為，積極對接國家戰略，塑造經濟發展新動能、新優勢，在創新創造中推動香港由治及興。」之後在慶祝澳門回歸祖國廿五周年大會上（12月20日）發表講話時再強調，要「搶抓機遇、銳意改革、擔當作為，更好發揮『一國兩制』制度優勢，不斷開創『一國兩制』事業高品質發展新局面」。
習主席一再強調「銳意改革」，是對特區政府所有官員、行會成員、立法會議員，以至公職人員的重要提醒。不論是身處大爭時代、遇上大國鬥爭，還有特朗普上台的非常時期，抑或是面對千億財赤，我們都要敢於擔當，抱持大局思維、危機意識，行事以政策驅動，破除繁複程序，靈活變通，以新手段謀求新發展。
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湯普森槍殺案折射什麼問題 / The Thompson shooting incident reflects what problem?
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12 月4 日，美國最大的醫療保險公司之一聯合健康保險行政總裁湯普森（Brian Thompson）在紐約希爾頓中城酒店外遭槍殺。他被多次射擊，背部和小腿中彈。美媒指出，槍手顯然知道湯普森將從哪扇門進入，並比他早10 分鐘到達酒店外埋伏。由此可見，這是一宗經過精心策劃的槍殺案。
湯普森遭槍殺的消息震撼全美，紐約警方在經過數日追捕後，終於在追捕行動的第五天（12 月9 日），逮捕了潛逃多日的疑犯。26 歲疑犯曼焦內（Luigi Nicholas Mangione）乃名校畢業科技優才，他在賓州阿爾圖納落網，他當時身處一家麥當勞，被一名職員認出後報警。經警方到場查問，疑犯行為可疑，並攜有多份偽造身分證件和美國護照。紐約市長及警方召開記者會稱，已發現一份3 頁長手寫文稿，上面寫有其犯案動機，指疑犯對美國商界抱有惡意。
除此之外，據CBS News 報道，警方在湯普森遇刺身亡現場所發現的彈殼和子彈，附有deny（拒絕）、delay（拖延）和depose（罷免）的字眼。這幾個字大致呼應保險行業知名著作Delay, Deny, Defend（《拖延、拒絕、抗辯》）所描述行業拒保的方式。警方正研判這可能是兇手的潛在犯案動機——對醫療保險公司的憤怒。
這宗槍殺案在社交媒體引發激烈反應，與預期不同的是，網絡呈現出來的是對死者的冷嘲熱諷。有媒體認為這些調侃背後反映的是無數家庭因保險理賠遭拒而陷入財務困境的真實個案。多年來，有多少患者因昂貴醫療費用被迫放棄治療甚至失去生命，而保險公司高層卻在賺取巨額獎金。有媒體指湯普森去年薪酬達1020 萬美元，當中包括100 萬美元基本薪金，再加現金和股票獎勵。這種反差加劇人們對醫療及保險體系的憤怒。
當年奧巴馬推出醫保（Obamacare）旨在降低保險門檻，但有些保險公司利用法規漏洞，將利益最大化置於患者福祉之上。湯普森槍殺案或許只是冰山一角，折射出美國積壓已久的社會問題。
The Thompson shooting incident reflects what problem？
On December 4th, Brian Thompson, the CEO of one of the largest health insurance companies in the United States, UnitedHealthcare, was shot outside the Hilton Midtown Hotel in New York. He was shot multiple times, with bullets hitting his back and legs. The media pointed out that the shooter apparently knew which door Thompson would enter through and set up an ambush outside the hotel 10 minutes before his arrival. This indicates a carefully planned shooting incident.
The news of Thompson's shooting sent shockwaves across America. After several days of pursuit, the New York police finally arrested the suspect who had been on the run for several days on the fifth day of the pursuit (December 9th). The 26-year-old suspect, Luigi Nicholas Mangione, a tech prodigy who graduated from a prestigious school, was apprehended in Altoona, Pennsylvania. He was spotted in a McDonald's and reported to the police by an employee. Upon questioning by the police, the suspect's behavior seemed suspicious, and he was found in possession of multiple forged identification documents and a U.S. passport. The mayor of New York City and the police held a press conference stating that a 3-page handwritten document had been discovered, detailing his motives for the crime and indicating malice towards the American business community.
Additionally, according to CBS News, shell casings and bullets found at the scene of Thompson's assassination had words like "deny," "delay," and "depose" inscribed on them. These words roughly correspond to the tactics described in the well-known industry book "Delay, Deny, Defend" regarding insurance claim denials. The police are investigating this as a potential motive for the perpetrator - anger towards health insurance companies.
This shooting incident sparked intense reactions on social media. Contrary to expectations, what emerged online was mockery and ridicule of the victim. Some media outlets believe that behind these taunts lies the reality of numerous families facing financial difficulties due to denied insurance claims. Over the years, many patients have been forced to forgo treatment or even lost their lives due to expensive medical costs, while top executives of insurance companies have been earning huge bonuses. Some media reports indicated that Thompson's salary last year amounted to $10.2 million, including a $1 million base salary, along with cash and stock rewards. This disparity has heightened people's anger towards the healthcare and insurance systems.
When Obama introduced Obamacare to lower insurance barriers, some insurance companies exploited regulatory loopholes, prioritizing profit maximization over patient welfare. The Thompson shooting incident may just be the tip of the iceberg, reflecting long-standing social issues in the United States.
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President Xi's message stresses need for reform / 習主席的訊息強調改革的必要性
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On Dec 13, President Xi Jinping, accompanied by three Politburo members, received an annual performance report on Hong Kong's economy, from Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. In a brief press statement, President Xi gave full recognition to Lee for accomplishing the historic task of enacting local legislation to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law. President Xi also highlighted other significant aspects of Lee's work, including reinvigorating the economy, spurring development, striving to resolve housing, improving on health and other livelihood issues, strengthening external engagement and cooperation, and enhancing Hong Kong's international influence. The Hong Kong Special Administrative government's progress in consolidating a positive trend was appreciated, he said.
It is significant that international engagement and enhancement of Hong Kong's international influence were recognized as important areas of the government's work. The HKSAR as a whole has indeed accomplished much in reclaiming its pivotal position as an international meeting place. Government agencies and nongovernmental organizations have joined hands to bring reputable international bodies and global leaders to Hong Kong to engage in dialogues on a wide gamut of financial, economic, technological, environmental and geopolitical issues. Xi's words are a timely reminder that Hong Kong must not lose sight of its unique international character.
The messages embedded in paragraph two of the statement encapsulate the essence of the central government's expectations. In line with the resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee on further deepening reform comprehensively for advancing Chinese modernization, Hong Kong must grasp the historic opportunity to fully utilize its advantages under "one country, two systems". In particular, Hong Kong was urged to implement reform to align its development with national strategies. Reshaping the economy and unleashing more new quality productive forces were identified as priority tasks.
The call for reform is not new. During his meeting with business leaders in Shenzhen on Nov 10, Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, warned that Hong Kong could not expect to continue relying on the old playbook. The HKSAR must accelerate reform to enhance its tourism appeal and grow its tech-based industries, and its traditional advantages as a maritime, aviation and urban hub must be preserved, he said.
The importance of strengthening Hong Kong's financial services, and trade and logistics sectors cannot be over-emphasized. Research by a leading state-owned bank estimates that in 2022, the two sectors accounted for 45 percent of Hong Kong's GDP. The contribution of the tourism sector is much lower on a per capita basis, but it provides large numbers of low-skilled jobs. Inbound tourism is also vital for boosting the local retail and catering industries.
Since Hong Kong's post-pandemic re-opening in February 2023, a combination of factors including changing lifestyles, a strong local currency, and Hong Kong residents' love of outbound travel have combined to dampen the tourism industry's recovery. Weak retail spending and restaurant receipts have caused Hong Kong's economic growth rate to slow to an estimated anemic 2.6 percent.
Xia's comments laid bare the central government's anxiety about Hong Kong's slow progress in technological development and lack of innovation in tourism promotion. Against this background, and the need to safeguard Hong Kong's traditional position as a leading maritime, aviation and transport hub, on Dec 5, Lee dropped a bombshell by announcing the replacement of the two bureau directors responsible for tourism and transport and logistics with younger and more dynamic officials.
Under the political appointment system introduced in 2002, the replacement of bureau directors assessed as under-performing has not been uncommon. Yet this time round, it is evident that a conscious decision was made to appoint veteran civil servants to take the helm. The promotion of women is significant. Even though the HKSAR government does not have an affirmative action program to promote women or minorities, with the appointment of Mable Chan Mei-bo and Rosanna Law Shuk-pui as bureau directors by dint of their hard work, seven out of the 15 bureau director positions, or more than 46 percent, are now filled by women, the largest proportion since 1997.
The appointments have largely been welcomed by the community and the media. There is a general feeling that meritocracy is back. The business community wants leaders who are decisive in implementing reform and supporting industry. The inadequate attention paid to the maritime sector has long been a sore point. With the completion of the third runway, stronger support for the aviation sector is required. Revitalizing the tourism sector also needs bolder initiatives, better judgement and speedier responses. Officials who can communicate with the media and show a common touch are particularly welcome. The two women directors are in their honeymoon period. The first hundred days will test their ability to survive and thrive.
Leadership makes a difference, but the HKSAR government faces other formidable hurdles in its drive to rebuild the economy. The building out of the northern metropolis is taking too long and costing too much. The government pins high hopes on the construction of the San Tin Technopole, a 540-hectare tech park that would help propel and integrate Hong Kong's tech development with the Chinese mainland. Stage one of the works alone, which consists of site formation and provision of roads and other infrastructure, will cost over HK$27 billion. The site will not be ready for occupation until 2031 at the earliest. Given the rapid pace of technological development, Hong Kong will have a lot of catching up to do when the tech park opens.
It is also time for the government to face its fiscal challenges head-on. The government faces a fiscal deficit for the current financial year in the order of HK$100 billion, and by some accounts, including debt issued, of around HK$200 billion. The government needs to bite the bullet and put forward a concrete plan for restoring fiscal balance.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
It is significant that international engagement and enhancement of Hong Kong's international influence were recognized as important areas of the government's work. The HKSAR as a whole has indeed accomplished much in reclaiming its pivotal position as an international meeting place. ... Xi's words are a timely reminder that Hong Kong must not lose sight of its unique international character.
中譯本：習主席的訊息強調改革的必要性
12月13日，習近平主席與三名政治局委員一同接見行政長官李家超，聽取其年度工作報告。在簡短的新聞發布會上，習主席對李家超取得的歷史性成就，即通過本地立法實施《基本法》第23條的任務，給予充分肯定。習主席還強調了李家超工作的其他重要方面，包括振興經濟、推動發展、努力解決住房問題、改善健康和其他民生問題、加強外部合作與交往，以及提升香港的國際影響力。他表示贊賞香港特別行政區政府鞏固積極發展趨勢所取得的進展。
重要的是，國際交往和提升香港國際影響力被認定為政府工作的重要領域。整個香港特別行政區在恢復其作為國際交彙點的重要地位上確實取得了很多成就。政府機構和非政府組織攜手合作，將知名國際機構和全球領導人引入香港，就各種金融、經濟、技術、環境和地緣政治問題展開對話。習主席的講話及時提醒香港不能忘記其獨特的國際特性。
聲明第二段中蘊含的信息概括了中央政府的期望。根據中國共產黨第二十屆中央委員會第三次全會通過的關於全面深化改革促進中國現代化進程的決議，香港必須抓住歷史機遇，充分利用“一國兩制”下的優勢。特別是，香港被敦促實施改革，使其發展與國家戰略相契合。重塑經濟和釋放更多新的生產力被確定為優先任務。
改革的呼吁並非新鮮事。在11月10日與深圳商界領袖會面期間，國務院港澳事務辦公室主任夏寶龍警告稱，香港不能指望繼續依賴舊有的模式。他表示，香港特別行政區必須加快改革，提升其旅游吸引力，發展科技產業，同時必須保留其作為海洋、航空和城市樞紐的傳統優勢。
加強香港金融服務、貿易和物流等行業的重要性不可言而喻。一家領先的國有銀行的研究估計，2022年這兩個行業貢獻了香港GDP的45%。旅游業的貢獻相對較低，但每人平均貢獻較少，但它提供了大量的低技能工作崗位。入境旅游對於推動本地零售和餐飲行業也至關重要。
自2023年2月香港疫情後重新開放以來，包括生活方式的改變、本地貨幣強勢以及香港居民熱愛出境旅行在內的多種因素共同抑制了旅游業的復蘇。消費疲軟和餐飲收入下降導致香港經濟增長率放緩至預計的疲弱2.6%。
夏寶龍的評論揭示了中央政府對香港在科技發展進展緩慢和旅游促銷缺乏創新的焦慮。在這種背景下，為了維護香港作為領先的海洋、航空和交通樞紐的傳統地位，李家超於12月5日宣布重磅的消息，起用年輕而更有活力的官員取代負責旅游和交通物流的兩位局長。
自2002年引入政治任命制度以來，評估為表現不佳的局長被替換並不罕見。然而，這一次，顯然做出了有審慎的決定，任命資深公務員掌舵。提拔女性具有重要意義。盡管香港特別行政區政府沒有通過肯定行動計劃來促進更多女性或少數族裔參與，但憑借陳美寶和羅淑佩憑借辛勤工作被任命為局長，現在15個局長職位中有7位女性，超過46%，為1997年以來最高比例。
這些任命在社會和媒體中大部分受到歡迎。人們普遍感到精英主義回來了。商界希望領導者能果斷實施改革並支持產業。長期以來，未對航運業及相關服務給予足夠重視。隨著第三跑道的完成，航空業需要更強有力的支持。振興旅游業也需要更大膽的舉措、更好的判斷力和更快的反應速度。能夠與媒體溝通並具有親和力的官員特別受歡迎。這兩位女性局長正處於蜜月期。前一百天將考驗她們生存和繁榮的能力。
領導力確實能夠產生影響，但香港特別行政區政府在重振經濟過程中還面臨其他巨大障礙。北部新都市的建設時間過長，成本過高。政府寄望於建設新田科技城，這是一個占地540公頃的科技園區，將有助於推動和整合香港與中國大陸的科技發展。僅第一階段工程，包括場地整理和道路等基礎設施的建設，就將耗資超過270億港元。該場地最早也要到2031年才能准備好供人居住。考慮到科技發展的迅速步伐，當科技園區開放時，香港將需要趕緊追趕。
政府也應該直面財政挑戰。根據一些報告，政府在當前財政年度將面臨大約1000億港元的財政赤字，包括債務發行在內，金額可能達到約2000億港元。政府需要下定決心，提出一個恢復財政平衡的具體計劃。
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我是在香港舊教育制度下長大的，那時候未有新高中學制，我最懷念在聖士提反女校求學時，讀了很多中國歷史經典故事，《史記》、《左傳》和《戰國策》都有讀過，印象深刻的其中一篇是《史記．魏公子列傳》。今日再讀「魏信陵君救趙」，頓覺當時形勢和今天相似，鑑古知今，故事中應對危機的思維策略，值得今天治港者、為官者、擔任公職者參考反思。
趙國勢危魏信陵君挺身
「魏信陵君救趙」的時代背景是戰國末期，秦國積極吞併六國，勢要一統天下，各地戰事頻繁。其中，秦國大破趙軍於長平之戰，坑殺趙降卒四十萬，並進兵圍趙首都邯鄲，趙國勢危，列國形勢亦十分緊張。
魏國信陵君，名無忌，亦稱魏公子，是「戰國四公子」之一；其兄長是魏安釐王，其姊則嫁予趙國丞相平原君為妻。當時秦兵壓境，趙國向有姻親關係的魏國求援，惟魏安釐王怯於秦國氣盛，不敢進兵，只是命令將軍晉鄙守鄴駐防。信陵君則意識到魏趙兩國唇亡齒寒，自行湊拼百輛戰車，計劃挺身救趙。
成大事要廣納人才引領驅動
信陵君以愛才聚才、禮賢下士、納得食客三千著稱。當時他聽聞有位年過七十的隱士侯嬴，在大梁夷門做守門小吏。信陵君拜訪送禮，但侯嬴不接。信陵君特意大排筵席，並且待賓客到齊後，才親自驅馬車去夷門接侯嬴，並特意空出馬車左邊的上座，虛位以待。侯嬴考驗信陵君，果然登車便直接坐在上座；之後又著信陵君載他去街市找屠夫朋友朱亥聊天。信陵君不單照做，還手執馬韁在一旁耐心等候，並無不悅，靜待侯嬴聊完天再一起赴宴。自此，信陵君禮賢下士、作風謙遜的美名不脛而走，在往後「竊符救趙」一事中，侯嬴的計策發揮了關鍵作用。
信陵君對侯嬴信任有加，接受其獻計，反映為官者要成大事，除了要自身有擔當，更要懂得禮賢下士、廣納人才。正如國家主席習近平經常強調「人才是第一資源」、「人才引領驅動」、「全面提高人才自主培養質量，著力造就拔尖創新人才，聚天下英才而用之」。近年特區政府積極推出措施「搶人才」，高端人才通行證計劃、科技人才入境計劃、優秀人才入境計劃，以及新資本投資者入境計劃等，方向正確，初見成效。未來特區政府須著力留人才、聚人才，同時亦要積極培育本地人才，大家一起貢獻香港。
侯嬴獻計竊符救趙
回說信陵君湊拼百輛戰車，打算親自上場與秦軍一戰，卻遭侯嬴阻止。侯嬴認為信陵君挺身犯險只是送死，救不了趙。侯嬴獻計，首先要取出魏安釐王的虎符（兵符），才可憑虎符往前線要求將軍晉鄙交出兵權。第二，虎符藏於魏安釐王卧室，只有寵妃如姬知道收藏位置。信陵君曾為如姬報殺父之仇，侯嬴著信陵君找如姬盜符報恩。第三，侯嬴再著信陵君把屠夫朱亥帶上，若晉鄙不肯交出兵權，朱亥立即殺之。第四，侯嬴承諾，若大事得成，他必自刎成就其義勇精神。聽罷侯嬴的計策，信陵君便哭了，因為他預料無辜的老將晉鄙不會交出兵權，這等於必須殺了他才可。
信陵君逐步行事，如姬成功竊符。信陵君帶著虎符到鄴見晉鄙，晉鄙果然不肯交出兵權，朱亥隨即以鐵椎將之擊斃。侯嬴信守承諾，在北鄉自剄。信陵君奪得兵權後，挑選八萬精兵進軍，楚國亦適時派兵支援，在魏、楚、趙三軍合力下，秦軍投降。信陵君成功解除趙國邯鄲危機，不過自知竊符有罪，即使得到魏安釐王原諒，信陵君往後十年留在趙國，沒回魏國。
大爭時代需有擔當銳意改革
我認為「魏信陵君救趙」有另一啟示：若要在大爭的時代成就大事，就得用非常手段，不能因循守舊，只談先例，拘泥程序，躺在舒適圈內難以有所突破。晉鄙謹守崗位，卻欠大局思維，最終成了大計劃的絆腳石。
國家主席習近平聽取行政長官李家超述職報告時（12月13日）明確指示：「特區政府要團結帶領社會各界，銳意改革，奮發有為，積極對接國家戰略，塑造經濟發展新動能、新優勢，在創新創造中推動香港由治及興。」之後在慶祝澳門回歸祖國廿五周年大會上（12月20日）發表講話時再強調，要「搶抓機遇、銳意改革、擔當作為，更好發揮『一國兩制』制度優勢，不斷開創『一國兩制』事業高品質發展新局面」。
習主席一再強調「銳意改革」，是對特區政府所有官員、行會成員、立法會議員，以至公職人員的重要提醒。不論是身處大爭時代、遇上大國鬥爭，還有特朗普上台的非常時期，抑或是面對千億財赤，我們都要敢於擔當，抱持大局思維、危機意識，行事以政策驅動，破除繁複程序，靈活變通，以新手段謀求新發展。
12 月4 日，美國最大的醫療保險公司之一聯合健康保險行政總裁湯普森（Brian Thompson）在紐約希爾頓中城酒店外遭槍殺。他被多次射擊，背部和小腿中彈。美媒指出，槍手顯然知道湯普森將從哪扇門進入，並比他早10 分鐘到達酒店外埋伏。由此可見，這是一宗經過精心策劃的槍殺案。
湯普森遭槍殺的消息震撼全美，紐約警方在經過數日追捕後，終於在追捕行動的第五天（12 月9 日），逮捕了潛逃多日的疑犯。26 歲疑犯曼焦內（Luigi Nicholas Mangione）乃名校畢業科技優才，他在賓州阿爾圖納落網，他當時身處一家麥當勞，被一名職員認出後報警。經警方到場查問，疑犯行為可疑，並攜有多份偽造身分證件和美國護照。紐約市長及警方召開記者會稱，已發現一份3 頁長手寫文稿，上面寫有其犯案動機，指疑犯對美國商界抱有惡意。
除此之外，據CBS News 報道，警方在湯普森遇刺身亡現場所發現的彈殼和子彈，附有deny（拒絕）、delay（拖延）和depose（罷免）的字眼。這幾個字大致呼應保險行業知名著作Delay, Deny, Defend（《拖延、拒絕、抗辯》）所描述行業拒保的方式。警方正研判這可能是兇手的潛在犯案動機——對醫療保險公司的憤怒。
這宗槍殺案在社交媒體引發激烈反應，與預期不同的是，網絡呈現出來的是對死者的冷嘲熱諷。有媒體認為這些調侃背後反映的是無數家庭因保險理賠遭拒而陷入財務困境的真實個案。多年來，有多少患者因昂貴醫療費用被迫放棄治療甚至失去生命，而保險公司高層卻在賺取巨額獎金。有媒體指湯普森去年薪酬達1020 萬美元，當中包括100 萬美元基本薪金，再加現金和股票獎勵。這種反差加劇人們對醫療及保險體系的憤怒。
當年奧巴馬推出醫保（Obamacare）旨在降低保險門檻，但有些保險公司利用法規漏洞，將利益最大化置於患者福祉之上。湯普森槍殺案或許只是冰山一角，折射出美國積壓已久的社會問題。
The Thompson shooting incident reflects what problem？
On December 4th, Brian Thompson, the CEO of one of the largest health insurance companies in the United States, UnitedHealthcare, was shot outside the Hilton Midtown Hotel in New York. He was shot multiple times, with bullets hitting his back and legs. The media pointed out that the shooter apparently knew which door Thompson would enter through and set up an ambush outside the hotel 10 minutes before his arrival. This indicates a carefully planned shooting incident.
The news of Thompson's shooting sent shockwaves across America. After several days of pursuit, the New York police finally arrested the suspect who had been on the run for several days on the fifth day of the pursuit (December 9th). The 26-year-old suspect, Luigi Nicholas Mangione, a tech prodigy who graduated from a prestigious school, was apprehended in Altoona, Pennsylvania. He was spotted in a McDonald's and reported to the police by an employee. Upon questioning by the police, the suspect's behavior seemed suspicious, and he was found in possession of multiple forged identification documents and a U.S. passport. The mayor of New York City and the police held a press conference stating that a 3-page handwritten document had been discovered, detailing his motives for the crime and indicating malice towards the American business community.
Additionally, according to CBS News, shell casings and bullets found at the scene of Thompson's assassination had words like "deny," "delay," and "depose" inscribed on them. These words roughly correspond to the tactics described in the well-known industry book "Delay, Deny, Defend" regarding insurance claim denials. The police are investigating this as a potential motive for the perpetrator - anger towards health insurance companies.
This shooting incident sparked intense reactions on social media. Contrary to expectations, what emerged online was mockery and ridicule of the victim. Some media outlets believe that behind these taunts lies the reality of numerous families facing financial difficulties due to denied insurance claims. Over the years, many patients have been forced to forgo treatment or even lost their lives due to expensive medical costs, while top executives of insurance companies have been earning huge bonuses. Some media reports indicated that Thompson's salary last year amounted to $10.2 million, including a $1 million base salary, along with cash and stock rewards. This disparity has heightened people's anger towards the healthcare and insurance systems.
When Obama introduced Obamacare to lower insurance barriers, some insurance companies exploited regulatory loopholes, prioritizing profit maximization over patient welfare. The Thompson shooting incident may just be the tip of the iceberg, reflecting long-standing social issues in the United States.
On Dec 13, President Xi Jinping, accompanied by three Politburo members, received an annual performance report on Hong Kong's economy, from Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu. In a brief press statement, President Xi gave full recognition to Lee for accomplishing the historic task of enacting local legislation to implement Article 23 of the Basic Law. President Xi also highlighted other significant aspects of Lee's work, including reinvigorating the economy, spurring development, striving to resolve housing, improving on health and other livelihood issues, strengthening external engagement and cooperation, and enhancing Hong Kong's international influence. The Hong Kong Special Administrative government's progress in consolidating a positive trend was appreciated, he said.
It is significant that international engagement and enhancement of Hong Kong's international influence were recognized as important areas of the government's work. The HKSAR as a whole has indeed accomplished much in reclaiming its pivotal position as an international meeting place. Government agencies and nongovernmental organizations have joined hands to bring reputable international bodies and global leaders to Hong Kong to engage in dialogues on a wide gamut of financial, economic, technological, environmental and geopolitical issues. Xi's words are a timely reminder that Hong Kong must not lose sight of its unique international character.
The messages embedded in paragraph two of the statement encapsulate the essence of the central government's expectations. In line with the resolution adopted at the third plenary session of the 20th Communist Party of China Central Committee on further deepening reform comprehensively for advancing Chinese modernization, Hong Kong must grasp the historic opportunity to fully utilize its advantages under "one country, two systems". In particular, Hong Kong was urged to implement reform to align its development with national strategies. Reshaping the economy and unleashing more new quality productive forces were identified as priority tasks.
The call for reform is not new. During his meeting with business leaders in Shenzhen on Nov 10, Xia Baolong, director of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, warned that Hong Kong could not expect to continue relying on the old playbook. The HKSAR must accelerate reform to enhance its tourism appeal and grow its tech-based industries, and its traditional advantages as a maritime, aviation and urban hub must be preserved, he said.
The importance of strengthening Hong Kong's financial services, and trade and logistics sectors cannot be over-emphasized. Research by a leading state-owned bank estimates that in 2022, the two sectors accounted for 45 percent of Hong Kong's GDP. The contribution of the tourism sector is much lower on a per capita basis, but it provides large numbers of low-skilled jobs. Inbound tourism is also vital for boosting the local retail and catering industries.
Since Hong Kong's post-pandemic re-opening in February 2023, a combination of factors including changing lifestyles, a strong local currency, and Hong Kong residents' love of outbound travel have combined to dampen the tourism industry's recovery. Weak retail spending and restaurant receipts have caused Hong Kong's economic growth rate to slow to an estimated anemic 2.6 percent.
Xia's comments laid bare the central government's anxiety about Hong Kong's slow progress in technological development and lack of innovation in tourism promotion. Against this background, and the need to safeguard Hong Kong's traditional position as a leading maritime, aviation and transport hub, on Dec 5, Lee dropped a bombshell by announcing the replacement of the two bureau directors responsible for tourism and transport and logistics with younger and more dynamic officials.
Under the political appointment system introduced in 2002, the replacement of bureau directors assessed as under-performing has not been uncommon. Yet this time round, it is evident that a conscious decision was made to appoint veteran civil servants to take the helm. The promotion of women is significant. Even though the HKSAR government does not have an affirmative action program to promote women or minorities, with the appointment of Mable Chan Mei-bo and Rosanna Law Shuk-pui as bureau directors by dint of their hard work, seven out of the 15 bureau director positions, or more than 46 percent, are now filled by women, the largest proportion since 1997.
The appointments have largely been welcomed by the community and the media. There is a general feeling that meritocracy is back. The business community wants leaders who are decisive in implementing reform and supporting industry. The inadequate attention paid to the maritime sector has long been a sore point. With the completion of the third runway, stronger support for the aviation sector is required. Revitalizing the tourism sector also needs bolder initiatives, better judgement and speedier responses. Officials who can communicate with the media and show a common touch are particularly welcome. The two women directors are in their honeymoon period. The first hundred days will test their ability to survive and thrive.
Leadership makes a difference, but the HKSAR government faces other formidable hurdles in its drive to rebuild the economy. The building out of the northern metropolis is taking too long and costing too much. The government pins high hopes on the construction of the San Tin Technopole, a 540-hectare tech park that would help propel and integrate Hong Kong's tech development with the Chinese mainland. Stage one of the works alone, which consists of site formation and provision of roads and other infrastructure, will cost over HK$27 billion. The site will not be ready for occupation until 2031 at the earliest. Given the rapid pace of technological development, Hong Kong will have a lot of catching up to do when the tech park opens.
It is also time for the government to face its fiscal challenges head-on. The government faces a fiscal deficit for the current financial year in the order of HK$100 billion, and by some accounts, including debt issued, of around HK$200 billion. The government needs to bite the bullet and put forward a concrete plan for restoring fiscal balance.
The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.
It is significant that international engagement and enhancement of Hong Kong's international influence were recognized as important areas of the government's work. The HKSAR as a whole has indeed accomplished much in reclaiming its pivotal position as an international meeting place. ... Xi's words are a timely reminder that Hong Kong must not lose sight of its unique international character.
中譯本：習主席的訊息強調改革的必要性
12月13日，習近平主席與三名政治局委員一同接見行政長官李家超，聽取其年度工作報告。在簡短的新聞發布會上，習主席對李家超取得的歷史性成就，即通過本地立法實施《基本法》第23條的任務，給予充分肯定。習主席還強調了李家超工作的其他重要方面，包括振興經濟、推動發展、努力解決住房問題、改善健康和其他民生問題、加強外部合作與交往，以及提升香港的國際影響力。他表示贊賞香港特別行政區政府鞏固積極發展趨勢所取得的進展。
重要的是，國際交往和提升香港國際影響力被認定為政府工作的重要領域。整個香港特別行政區在恢復其作為國際交彙點的重要地位上確實取得了很多成就。政府機構和非政府組織攜手合作，將知名國際機構和全球領導人引入香港，就各種金融、經濟、技術、環境和地緣政治問題展開對話。習主席的講話及時提醒香港不能忘記其獨特的國際特性。
聲明第二段中蘊含的信息概括了中央政府的期望。根據中國共產黨第二十屆中央委員會第三次全會通過的關於全面深化改革促進中國現代化進程的決議，香港必須抓住歷史機遇，充分利用“一國兩制”下的優勢。特別是，香港被敦促實施改革，使其發展與國家戰略相契合。重塑經濟和釋放更多新的生產力被確定為優先任務。
改革的呼吁並非新鮮事。在11月10日與深圳商界領袖會面期間，國務院港澳事務辦公室主任夏寶龍警告稱，香港不能指望繼續依賴舊有的模式。他表示，香港特別行政區必須加快改革，提升其旅游吸引力，發展科技產業，同時必須保留其作為海洋、航空和城市樞紐的傳統優勢。
加強香港金融服務、貿易和物流等行業的重要性不可言而喻。一家領先的國有銀行的研究估計，2022年這兩個行業貢獻了香港GDP的45%。旅游業的貢獻相對較低，但每人平均貢獻較少，但它提供了大量的低技能工作崗位。入境旅游對於推動本地零售和餐飲行業也至關重要。
自2023年2月香港疫情後重新開放以來，包括生活方式的改變、本地貨幣強勢以及香港居民熱愛出境旅行在內的多種因素共同抑制了旅游業的復蘇。消費疲軟和餐飲收入下降導致香港經濟增長率放緩至預計的疲弱2.6%。
夏寶龍的評論揭示了中央政府對香港在科技發展進展緩慢和旅游促銷缺乏創新的焦慮。在這種背景下，為了維護香港作為領先的海洋、航空和交通樞紐的傳統地位，李家超於12月5日宣布重磅的消息，起用年輕而更有活力的官員取代負責旅游和交通物流的兩位局長。
自2002年引入政治任命制度以來，評估為表現不佳的局長被替換並不罕見。然而，這一次，顯然做出了有審慎的決定，任命資深公務員掌舵。提拔女性具有重要意義。盡管香港特別行政區政府沒有通過肯定行動計劃來促進更多女性或少數族裔參與，但憑借陳美寶和羅淑佩憑借辛勤工作被任命為局長，現在15個局長職位中有7位女性，超過46%，為1997年以來最高比例。
這些任命在社會和媒體中大部分受到歡迎。人們普遍感到精英主義回來了。商界希望領導者能果斷實施改革並支持產業。長期以來，未對航運業及相關服務給予足夠重視。隨著第三跑道的完成，航空業需要更強有力的支持。振興旅游業也需要更大膽的舉措、更好的判斷力和更快的反應速度。能夠與媒體溝通並具有親和力的官員特別受歡迎。這兩位女性局長正處於蜜月期。前一百天將考驗她們生存和繁榮的能力。
領導力確實能夠產生影響，但香港特別行政區政府在重振經濟過程中還面臨其他巨大障礙。北部新都市的建設時間過長，成本過高。政府寄望於建設新田科技城，這是一個占地540公頃的科技園區，將有助於推動和整合香港與中國大陸的科技發展。僅第一階段工程，包括場地整理和道路等基礎設施的建設，就將耗資超過270億港元。該場地最早也要到2031年才能准備好供人居住。考慮到科技發展的迅速步伐，當科技園區開放時，香港將需要趕緊追趕。
政府也應該直面財政挑戰。根據一些報告，政府在當前財政年度將面臨大約1000億港元的財政赤字，包括債務發行在內，金額可能達到約2000億港元。政府需要下定決心，提出一個恢復財政平衡的具體計劃。