Students Reflect on Lessons from Hong Kong Budget Press Conference

Published by jmsccoms at 2 April 2025

Three BJ students, Jimmy Jeemin Yoon, Katherine Ke Wang and Joshua Fong Nam Kwok, and two MJ students, Yi Luo and Erin Yixuan Tan, were given an opportunity to observe and participate in the 2025-26 Budget Press Conference, emerging with invaluable lessons about the realities of political reporting.

Student journalist (left to right): Jimmy Jeemin Yoon, Joshua Fong Nam Kwok, and Katherine Ke Wang

Joshua Kwok: Seizing the Moment

Joshua Kwok made the most of a quieter follow-up session with the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism to ask about the Kai Tak development project. "There were fewer mainstream media outlets than the main presser with the financial secretary, hence I took the opportunity," he shared. The experience gave him a newfound respect for veteran journalists' ability to think independently.

"You can always do more research, and there will always be new findings." Kwok's advice to fellow students was simple: "Stay curious and news-hungry, which will bring you closer to the journalistic truth."

Yi Luo: The Prepared Observer

For photojournalism student Yi Luo, the experience reinforced the importance of meticulous preparation. "We need to ask targeted questions and purposely look for answers like experienced hunters," she reflected. Before attending, Luo immersed herself in previous budget reports and related news coverage to identify key trends and public concerns.

Her technical skills were also put to the test. "I learned the importance of securing the best location at a press conference without causing inconvenience to other photographers." When prime spots were taken, Luo adapted by experimenting with creative angles, shooting from below to give officials a more dramatic presence.

Luo noted how different media outlets tailored their questions to their audiences. "Shenzhen TV station may focus on collaboration opportunities in the Greater Bay Area, while foreign press outlets are more likely to emphasise implications for an international audience."

Student journalist Yi Luo at the 2025-26 Budget press conference

Student journalist Erin Tan at the 2025-26 Budget press conference's reporters' room

Erin Tan: Armed with Curiosity

Erin Tan described the press conference as "an unforgettable and inspiring experience." She was struck by how reporters from different outlets — each with distinct editorial priorities — approached the same event. The 21st Century Economic Report journalist asked about Hong Kong's AI investment timelines, while Shenzhen-based outlets focused on cross-border collaboration, she observed.

Although her prepared question about university funding wasn't selected, Tan treated the experience as training. "The process of researching, drafting, and readying to engage sharpened my critical thinking and ability to distil complex policies into concise inquiries," she said. Her advice for her fellow students? "Come armed with curiosity, a notebook, and the courage to dissect every interaction."

Common Lessons

All three students emphasised the importance of preparation, adaptability, and audience awareness. Luo's research, Tan's analytical approach, and Kwok's opportunistic questioning demonstrated different facets of journalistic excellence.

As Luo put it: "We need to stay open-minded and be sensitive to any surprises that pop up, as they might lead to a good new piece."

Photo: Erin Tan