Follow Hong Kong Investment and Residency and Hong Kong News: The Hong Kong government agreed in principle two days ago to issue new free television licenses to Cable TV and PCCW, but the application from Ricky Wong's Hong Kong Television was not approved. Yesterday, it announced the layoff of approximately 320 employees, leading to heated discussions among Hong Kong citizens about the "licensing controversy". Many within the industry expressed concern for the future of their colleagues. Stars such as Elizabeth Wei and Gigi Leung have urged other free television stations to hire the laid-off employees from Hong Kong Television. Dr. Leung Nai-pang, Chairman of TVB, stated last night while leaving the television city that they would consider hiring laid-off individuals if suitable positions are available and mentioned that they would increase investment and ensure that employee benefits would not be reduced in the face of increased competition.
Hong Kong Television, having not been granted a free television license by the government, immediately announced layoffs of 320 people. Last night, Dr. Leung Nai-pang told the media that the competition increasing from two to four television stations poses a significant challenge, but he questioned whether the government considered how many operators the market can accommodate. When asked if he would hire the 320 employees laid off by Hong Kong Television, he replied: "I am not aware of their specific roles. If there are suitable positions for TVB, we would certainly welcome them." When asked if he would refuse to hire employees who have previously switched jobs, he replied: "No, Hong Kong is not that large; people frequently switch jobs, including senior and managerial positions." Regarding concerns from employees that TVB might cut benefits, Dr. Leung denied, stating: "Absolutely not. If we achieve good results, we want to share them with everyone. In the future, TVB will face two financially strong groups, which are not ordinary operators; we need to proceed with caution."
Will there be increased investment to meet new challenges? He answered affirmatively: "Absolutely, this will motivate employees to produce better programs, and future expenditures will certainly be higher. We also need to expand income sources in more areas."
Gigi Leung hopes TVB will not cut benefits; Elizabeth Wei does not support protests.
The new TVB drama "New Embrace of Happiness" featuring Gigi Leung, Tammy Hung, Tavia Yeung, and Mak Cheung-ching (Mak Bao) held a blessing ceremony yesterday. Regarding the announcement of layoffs by Hong Kong Television, Sister Gigi expressed that many employees who had switched stations were attracted by high salaries. She stated: "I was shocked when I saw the news; it's unfortunate that more than 300 people are out of work. As actors, we hope the industry thrives, benefiting everyone." When asked for advice for the laid-off employees, she said: "TVB still needs staff. I have heard they said the door is always open; everyone is welcome to return. In fact, TVB has changed a lot in the past two years. Some friends are concerned that with Hong Kong Television not receiving a license, TVB might reduce benefits. I hope the company will continue to provide more benefits."
Elizabeth Wei has previously filmed series for Hong Kong Television. Reflecting on Hong Kong Television not receiving a government license, she expressed with some emotion: "I feel a bit heartbroken. I believe the government has its strategy to grant licenses to established television stations, which is a good thing as it allows artists more choices. With two additional licenses granted, it could absorb the employees who were laid off. If no licenses were granted, it would be even more heartbreaking for my peers!" Regarding citizens planning to protest to express dissatisfaction with the government, Elizabeth Wei indicated that she would support the citizens' opinions but does not agree with protests. She stated seriously: "In the past six months, there has been a lot of hatred, hostility, and negative energy in Hong Kong, so there is no need to take it that far. Protests should not be encouraged; Hong Kong should not harbor this much negative energy, as it could pose a crisis for the city. Everyone should unite and uplift the fortune of this blessed land!"