Arts chief calls for railway operator to share in city's creative spirit and show understanding for musicians carrying large instruments
OLIVER CHOUoliver.chou@scmp.com
PUBLISHED : Friday, 23 October, 2015, 12:00am
UPDATED : Friday, 23 October, 2015, 11:28am
Chinese zithers such as the one Chief Secretary Carrie Lam (left) is playing would be banned on the MTR along with double basses, according to sources close to the review process. Photo: SCMP Pictures
A leading arts figure has urged the MTR Corp to embrace the city's creative culture and allow people to carry large musical instruments on trains.
READ MORE:Face the music: MTR's stance on musical instruments a glitch compared with express rail link fiasco
"I hope things will become as artist-friendly as possible, and that's in line with what we do to encourage the city to be more artistic and provide more opportunities for young people," he said by phone from Tokyo.
"We often talk about nurturing creativity and cultural industries - this is a measure that could be conducive to artists."
The MTR Corp is reviewing its luggage regulations after a campaign by musicians in support of the expelled students turned into a protest early this month.
Results of the review are expected to be announced next week. Sources close to the review process said cellos would be allowed after owners registered them, but double basses and zithers would be banned.
"We hope to handle the registration of cellos in a simple way," said an MTR spokeswoman, adding that a total of 560 suggestions on ways to tackle the issue had been received from the public.
"But we see difficulty with large instruments and are still thinking how to handle it."
Wong called for greater understanding.
READ MORE: Hong Kong musicians oppose MTR ban on large instruments with one voice
"Musicians don't travel with their large instruments often, and when they do there must be a purpose, such as going to a performance or for repair. We have to find a way to meet their needs, especially those who can't afford a taxi or van," he said.
"They regard their instruments as being as precious as their own lives and we need not be concerned about their safety, say in a crowded situation, where musicians are more concerned than anyone."
Wong suggested "some discretion" to strike a compromise, such as allowing instruments during non-peak hours or a special check-in.
"Be embracing - a wish no doubt applicable to the community too," he said.
http://m.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education-community/article/1871124/travel-harmony-arts-chief-urges-mtr-embrace
