Ella Lei calls for economic growth and employment quality

Lawmaker Ella Lei urged the new government to prioritize economic development and enhance the quality of employment.

In her address yesterday at the Legislative Assembly (AL), Lei acknowledged the challenges faced by the outgoing government under Ho Iat Seng, particularly during the pandemic that lasted three years.

“The government had to lead public servants and the population to fight the pandemic together and try to overcome economic difficulties,” she stated. She commended the current administration’s efforts in economic recovery, urban construction, and improving living conditions but emphasized that more work is needed.

“I hope the new government will commit itself to safeguarding social stability, promoting economic growth, increasing the quality of employment, and optimizing the well-being of the population,” she said.

Lei said, even in light of positive macroeconomic indicators (GDP, consumption, investment, and international trade), “many residents still experience significant pressures related to daily expenses.”

“In a recent survey carried out by an association, many interviewees said work pressure is high and that they face large burdens with day-to-day expenses, house payments, and raising children,” she noted.

Lei outlined three critical areas for improvement. First, she addressed the citywide consumption scheme ending this year.

“Several residents and shopkeepers agree with the government’s measures to promote consumption and relieve pressure from residents,” she said. Lei urged authorities to analyze this program’s effectiveness to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and alleviate resident pressures.

Second, she called for a balanced approach to economic diversification, and stressed the importance of guiding residents into emerging industries while enhancing technical skills among workers.

“The fifth government presented a strategy for adequate diversification of the ‘1+4’ economy,” Lei said.

Lastly, Lei noted concerning trends in wage stagnation within specific sectors.

“In the third quarter of this year, median monthly income from active employment was MOP18,000,” she said.

The lawmaker noted declines in sectors like restoration and civil construction, urging the need for the government to focus on improving wages and working conditions. In tandem, targeted support programs should be created for young people and middle-aged workers facing employment challenges to reduce underemployment and tackle unemployment rates. Nadia Shaw