In a world of conflict, only dialogue and engagement can build better relations and set a good example for next generation

Respect, understanding and tolerance of others’ cultural values are fundamental to an open, inclusive society
Working more closely across the international community is the only way to overcome the most difficult challenges facing humanity

Bernard Chan

Published: 8:15am, 2 Jun 2023

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Courage, commitment, passion and integrity seem increasingly elusive in today’s society. It falls to parents, the community and business leaders to instil these qualities into our young people. After all, they will have to deal with the major issues thrust upon them by previous generations.

This reality was brought home to me recently at the 30th anniversary gala dinner for the 2023 graduates of Li Po Chun United World College of Hong Kong. The school is a member of United World Colleges, whose philosophy is focused on diversity and intercultural understanding. Their mission is to provide a life-defining educational experience.

I was invited to participate in a panel discussion alongside eminent academic Kishore Mahbubani and Teresa Ma, the founder of Peace Generation. The topic was “Peace in the Future of Asia Pacific”. This is a complex, sensitive subject but one that is relevant amid heightening geopolitical tensions between China and the United States.

This rise in tensions is being driven by a shift in global power. The increasing influence of China and India is the most noteworthy example from recent years, and many Southeast Asian countries have also achieved strong growth, which has enhanced the region’s economic power. This is not the result of war or military threats but pragmatic economic cooperation that has lifted millions of people out of poverty.

As McKinsey partners Jonathan Woetzel and Jeongmin Seong wrote in a 2019 commentary: “In the 19th century, the world was Europeanised. In the 20th century, it was Americanised. Now, it is being Asianised – and much faster than you may think.” They close by saying that, “We have entered the ‘Asian century’, as the author Parag Khanna puts it. There is no turning back.”

During a forum in Hong Kong organised by the Singapore Chamber of Commerce last month, Mahbubani said war between China and the US was unlikely but Hong Kong should prepare to be “kicked around” like a football in the next decade. Such tactics are not advantageous to anyone, particularly our international partners. Many already benefit from our unique status and will do so for the foreseeable future.

How Hong Kong must change to reap the rewards of the Asian century

At the gala dinner, Mahbubani made reference to “three demons” which have led to conflict over centuries, representing the quest for power, money and greed. On a more positive note, however, he encouraged all graduates attending the ceremony to remain optimistic while being pragmatic in seeking solutions to the challenges that lie ahead.

It is evident to me that respect, understanding and tolerance of others’ cultural values are fundamental to an open and inclusive society. This is best achieved through dialogue and engagement. Working more closely across the international community is the only way to overcome the most difficult challenges facing humanity.

We need look no further than the Association of Southeast Asian Nations for an example of what pragmatic diplomatic relations can achieve. The grouping counts democracies, autocracies, communist regimes and a monarchy among its members, and, for the most part, it is prospering and expanding its international influence while carefully balancing relations with Beijing and Washington.

Asean leaders join together for a photo during the 42nd Asean Summit in Labuan Bajo, East Nusa Tenggara province, Indonesia, on May 11: Photo via AP

For me, the highlight of the evening was the introduction of two students who received scholarships at Li Po Chun United World College and had recently arrived from Afghanistan. They represent the future, and they gave the audience more hope and optimism than the adult panellists in the forum.

These courageous students arrived from a war-torn country having witnessed conflict first-hand. Against all odds, they have earned an opportunity to create a new life here and make a positive contribution to the world.

Listening to their story was humbling. Their hopes for a better future resonated with the audience. We should applaud their tenacity and follow their example by fostering good relations through collaboration.

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Scholarship programmes like these can be life-changing for the recipients who are undoubtedly bright but, more importantly, dedicated and hard-working.

I make an effort to meet young people of all ages and from all backgrounds so I can get a better sense of their fears and aspirations. I often share personal stories or experiences to encourage them to believe in themselves and understand they can make a difference.

No matter what their personal virtues or academic achievements, each and every one of them can make a significant contribution to the world. Our paths should seek peaceful collaboration for the benefit of all.

Bernard Chan is a Hong Kong businessman and a former Executive Council convenor