HONG KONG (Agencies): “When someone is willing to take the first step, a community will begin to experience positive changes,” said Ah Hung [a pseudonym], a former resident of Kim Shin Lane, Cheung Sha Wan, as he led carnival participants on guided tours to showcase the results of their collective efforts in repairing staircases, sealing rat holes, and cleaning rooftop clutter in one of Kowloon’s oldest residential areas.
The Caritas Development Project for Grassroots Organisations held a “Missing you, Kim Shin Lane” community carnival on July 7 at Kim Shin Lane to showcase the changes in the community four years after it launched a community development project in the soon-to-be redeveloped area in 2020 with support from the Community Investment and Inclusion Fund under the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau.
Kim Shin Lane, a once-bustling hub, has faced challenges in recent years. Built in 1959, the buildings were once some of the first high-rises, but over time, they became known as residential areas that lacked proper maintenance and hygiene.
In recent years, residents formed groups to improve hygiene and living conditions.
When someone is willing to take the first step, a community will begin to experience positive changes
Ah Hung
The project sought to encourage interaction among people of various ages, cultural backgrounds and genders by arranging events like communal cooking, Ramadan observances, and storytelling sessions. This was done to foster a sense of community and eliminate social divides. Unused areas like rooftops and alleyways were converted into communal kitchens or distinctive play areas where residents could cook, share meals, and unwind.
The area that is about to be developed has seen many building owners refusing to carry out maintenance. Consequently, several skilled residents have been asked to address electrical, plumbing, and painting issues in order to improve the quality of life in the area.
The carnival was designed to celebrate the success of the project by showcasing the revitalised community through interactive stalls, guided tours, videos and displays. Residents shared their personal stories and the changes they have seen, while visitors explored the history of Kim Shin Lane, interacted with residents, and experienced the warmth of the community.
The project sought to encourage interaction among people of various ages, cultural backgrounds and genders by arranging events like communal cooking, Ramadan observances, and storytelling sessions. This was done to foster a sense of community and eliminate social divides
The event also highlighted the desire for the upcoming redevelopment to retain the unique community spirit of Kim Shin Lane through a model designed by residents. The 21 eight-storey buildings were flanked by shops located in alleys without vehicle access, making the central walkway a communal gathering space for residents. The event recreated this lively atmosphere with stalls and food vendors offering traditional snacks like salted sesame balls, chilled jelly desserts, and handmade cakes.
Participants were also given souvenirs, including small wallets, cloth bags, coasters, and postcards, all featuring designs inspired by Kim Sin Lane, to create lasting memories of the event.
In September 2021, the Urban Renewal Authority launched its redevelopment project and held meetings with owners and residents. Depending on the progress of the land acquisition and relocation, it expects to start construction of the Kim Sin Lane and Fuk Wa Street project in 2026 or 2027. At present, around half of the residents of the lane have moved out.
The opening ceremony of the carnival was officiated by Carmen Lee, director of Social Work Services of Caritas-Hong Kong, representatives of the Community Investment and Inclusion Fund and other guests. Students from Cheung Sha Wan Catholic Secondary School performed a song dedicated to Kim Sin Lane, with lyrics written by the students. At the end of the opening ceremony, guests and residents or former residents released paper aeroplanes with blessings written on them to express their good wishes for the development of the lane.
