Chief Executive John Lee commended Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism Kevin Yeung for his prompt response to the recent monkey deaths at Hong Kong’s zoo. Two more squirrel monkeys passed away over the weekend, bringing the total fatalities to 11 at the Hong Kong Zoological and Botanical Gardens.
Lee spoke highly of Yeung’s actions, stating that he handled the situation efficiently by containing the problem to prevent further spread, implementing monitoring measures, expediting autopsy examinations and tests, and promptly sharing the results with the public. The authorities are currently investigating whether the two most recent monkey deaths were caused by melioidosis, similar to the previous nine cases.
The Chief Executive’s praise follows a previous announcement in Lee’s Policy Address annex where he mentioned instructing Yeung to complete the blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development, which was delayed. Despite this, Yeung assured the public that he did not feel pressured and that he would complete the blueprint in a timely manner.
In light of these recent events, it is crucial for the government to prioritize the health and well-being of the animals at the zoo. The increased number of monkey deaths is concerning and highlights the need for stricter safety measures and regular health screenings for all zoo animals to prevent future tragedies.
Furthermore, it is essential for the public to be informed and updated on the situation to ensure transparency and maintain trust in the government’s ability to handle such crises effectively. By openly sharing information and taking swift actions, officials like Kevin Yeung can demonstrate their commitment to animal welfare and public safety. It is important for the government to continue monitoring the situation closely and implementing necessary measures to protect the animals and prevent similar incidents from occurring in the future.