On May 4, 2025, a flag-raising ceremony took place at Golden Bauhinia Square, marking the 106th anniversary of the May Fourth Movement. The event saw the participation of over 1,200 primary and secondary school students alongside youth members from various uniformed groups, all of whom engaged in singing the national anthem and performing salutes. The ceremony was attended by notable figures including Chief Secretary for Administration Chan Kwok-ki, Deputy Director of the Liaison Office Lau Kwong-wah, and Legislative Council President Leung Kwan-yiu.
This year’s ceremony held additional significance as it also commemorated the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japan and the World Anti-Fascist War. In a poignant gesture, representatives from the youth uniformed groups paid tribute to three veterans over 90 years old who had participated in the War of Resistance against Japan. The flag guard marched over to salute these veterans, acknowledging their sacrifices and contributions during a pivotal time in history.
The May Fourth Movement, which began in 1919, was a significant cultural and political movement that arose in response to the Beiyang government's signing of treaties ceding Shandong to Japan during the Paris Peace Conference. The movement saw over 3,000 students from Peking University and other institutions protesting in Tiananmen Square, leading to a nationwide awakening and ultimately forcing the government to refuse to sign the unequal treaties.
In addition to the flag-raising ceremony, the day also included discussions around various contemporary issues in Hong Kong. On the same day, the Hong Kong Customs reported a significant drug seizure at Kwai Chung, where they confiscated 15 kilograms of suspected MDMA powder, valued at approximately 14 million yuan. A 46-year-old man was arrested in connection with this case and is scheduled to appear in court on June 6, 2025. This incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding drug trafficking and public safety in the region.
Furthermore, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen announced that the government is currently reviewing the results of a consultation period that concluded on May 3, 2025, regarding the regulation of football betting activities. This move comes in light of a significant rise in illegal betting activities, which have reportedly increased from tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of participants in recent years. The government aims to explore whether formal regulation can help curb illegal gambling and protect citizens from potential financial harm.
Financial Secretary Paul Chan Mo-po shared insights on tourism, revealing that nearly 570,000 visitors entered Hong Kong during the first two days of the May Day Golden Week, with almost 490,000 coming from the Mainland. This reflects a remarkable 31% increase compared to the same period last year, indicating a resurgence in tourism as the city continues to recover from pandemic-related restrictions. Chan emphasized the importance of enhancing Hong Kong’s tourism infrastructure and overall visitor experience.
In a separate development, North Korean leader Kim Jong-un inspected a major tank factory, emphasizing the need for modernization within the military through the introduction of the latest tanks and armored vehicles. This inspection underscores North Korea's ongoing focus on military advancements and modernization efforts.
As the events of May 4 unfolded, the significance of the day resonated deeply across Hong Kong. The flag-raising ceremony not only commemorated historical struggles but also served as a reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by the region. The participation of youth in such events signifies a commitment to remembering past sacrifices while also addressing present-day issues.
In the context of the May Fourth Movement's legacy, the call for unity and resilience among the younger generation was echoed by veterans attending the ceremony. One veteran, Lin Zhen, expressed hope that the youth would continue to uphold the spirit of perseverance that characterized the anti-Japanese resistance. "We must remember the sacrifices made for our peace today and pass on this spirit to future generations," Lin stated.
Another veteran, Luo Jinghui, stressed the importance of maintaining a strong national identity, particularly in light of recent political developments. "The flag we raised today is a symbol of our hard-won victories and the responsibilities we carry to protect our nation," he remarked.
The day’s events serve as a reminder of the intersection between historical remembrance and contemporary societal challenges. As Hong Kong continues to navigate its unique political landscape, the voices of its youth and the wisdom of its elders will play a crucial role in shaping the future.
In summary, the 106th anniversary of the May Fourth Movement was marked by a significant flag-raising ceremony at Golden Bauhinia Square, honoring both historical sacrifices and contemporary issues. With a focus on youth participation and remembrance, the day underscored the ongoing commitment to national identity and resilience in the face of challenges.
