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Ex-Brit explains Hong Kong after 53 years living there
Hong Kong's First Foreign Citizen: A 53-Year Journey
Meet Mike Rowse, the first foreign Hong Kong government official to become a citizen of China. Born into a low-class family in England, he left home at 23 and traveled around Asia by boat until, in 1972, he arrived in Hong Kong to start a new life. Since then, he went from journalism to fighting...
Meet Mike Rowse, the first foreign Hong Kong government official to become a citizen of China. Born into a low-class family in England, he left home at 23 and traveled around Asia by boat until, in 1972, he arrived in Hong Kong to start a new life. Since then, he went from journalism to fighting corruption at the government level and later even helped bring the first Disneyland in Asia to Hong Kong. Mike shared the truth behind the success of China, Hong Kong, and Singapore that has long stayed behind closed doors, what Western media can’t get right about China and Hong Kong, and whether Hong Kong is heading toward a bright future or a sharp fall. Enjoy!
Becoming a Chinese citizen
Why Mike chose a Chinese passport
Singapore vs. Hong Kong
Being a Caucasian Chinese national
Converting from British to Chinese citizenship
How people react to Mike’s nationality
Leaving the UK by boat
First time in Singapore
Travelling in Southeast Asia in the ’70s
Highlights of the Asian trip
First job in Hong Kong
Why Hong Kong is better for living
Fighting against corruption in Hong Kong
Best job in the government
Working on the Disneyland Hong Kong project
What the Disneyland project taught Mike
Relationships vs. hard work
How to stay happy
The future of Hong Kong
Challenges for Hong Kong
The most inspirational people in Mike’s life
Honest view on China
Honest view on the UK
What it’s like being 76 years old
Regrets in life
Advice for young people
The meaning of life
Embark on a captivating journey with Mike Rowse, a former British national who became a Chinese citizen after living in Hong Kong for over five decades. Discover his remarkable transition from journalism to fighting corruption and his pivotal role in bringing Disneyland to Asia. Mike shares profound insights into the success of China and Hong Kong, challenging Western media narratives and offering a unique perspective on the region's future. This interview is a deep dive into cultural identity, personal growth, and the realities of life in one of Asia's most dynamic cities.
Meet Mike Rowse, the first foreign Hong Kong government official to become a citizen of China. Born into a low-class family in England, he left home at 23 and traveled around Asia by boat until, in 1972, he arrived in Hong Kong to start a new life. Since then, he went from journalism to fighting corruption at the government level and later even helped bring the first Disneyland in Asia to Hong Kong. Mike shared the truth behind the success of China, Hong Kong, and Singapore that has long stayed behind closed doors, what Western media can’t get right about China and Hong Kong, and whether Hong Kong is heading toward a bright future or a sharp fall. Enjoy!
Becoming a Chinese citizen
Why Mike chose a Chinese passport
Singapore vs. Hong Kong
Being a Caucasian Chinese national
Converting from British to Chinese citizenship
How people react to Mike’s nationality
Leaving the UK by boat
First time in Singapore
Travelling in Southeast Asia in the ’70s
Highlights of the Asian trip
First job in Hong Kong
Why Hong Kong is better for living
Fighting against corruption in Hong Kong
Best job in the government
Working on the Disneyland Hong Kong project
What the Disneyland project taught Mike
Relationships vs. hard work
How to stay happy
The future of Hong Kong
Challenges for Hong Kong
The most inspirational people in Mike’s life
Honest view on China
Honest view on the UK
What it’s like being 76 years old
Regrets in life
Advice for young people
The meaning of life
Max Chernov's video features an in-depth conversation with Mike Rowse, a remarkable individual who, against all odds, transitioned from a low-class English background to becoming a Chinese citizen and a prominent figure in Hong Kong. Rowse's journey began in 1972 when he arrived in Hong Kong with nothing, sleeping on a friend's couch. He navigated a career path from journalism to fighting corruption within the government and even played a pivotal role in bringing the first Disneyland to Asia. His story is a testament to perseverance and strategic thinking, as he shares insights into the success of China, Hong Kong, and Singapore, often challenging Western media narratives. A significant part of his narrative revolves around his decision to become a Chinese national, a process he undertook not out of obligation but as a deliberate choice to align with his deep connection to Hong Kong. He recounts how, as an expatriate civil servant promoting Hong Kong as a business hub, he realized the importance of "walking the talk" by becoming a local citizen. This decision was facilitated by China's surprisingly liberal nationality law, which he discovered allowed for naturalization under "other relevant circumstances." The interview delves into the practicalities of this process, including the renunciation of his British citizenship, a step he describes as a logical conclusion to his long-standing commitment to Hong Kong rather than an emotional one. Rowse also draws parallels between Hong Kong and Singapore, highlighting their similar world-class infrastructure but emphasizing Hong Kong's superior location for engaging with East Asia and mainland China. He shares personal anecdotes, including a humorous incident in Singapore where he had to wear a wig to comply with their strict grooming policies. His early experiences in Hong Kong reveal a culture of openness and opportunity, where he landed his first newspaper job with a simple walk-in interview. The conversation touches upon his impactful career at the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC), where he witnessed and fought against widespread police corruption. He reflects on the challenges and the systemic nature of corruption he encountered, underscoring the importance of integrity in public service. Later, he transitioned to administrative roles, including the monumental task of negotiating the Hong Kong Disneyland project. This segment highlights his negotiation skills, strategic thinking, and the meticulous attention to detail required to balance commercial viability with political defensibility. He recounts the intense, round-the-clock negotiations, emphasizing the collaborative mindset needed to achieve a win-win outcome. Rowse also shares his perspective on the future of Hong Kong, expressing confidence in its role as a leading financial center, while acknowledging the challenges posed by negative Western narratives about China. He advocates for a long-term, generational perspective, contrasting it with what he perceives as the short-termism prevalent in Western politics. His reflections on life, happiness, and advice for young people underscore a philosophy of continuous learning, resilience, and embracing opportunities. He shares poignant life lessons, such as the importance of a positive mindset and determination, illustrated by his early struggles to find work and his eventual success. His advice to young people emphasizes perseverance and not giving up in the face of challenges. Finally, Rowse expresses contentment with his life, rating his happiness a "12 out of 10," attributing it to a life filled with purpose, laughter, and a deep connection to Hong Kong.
This video features an insightful conversation with Mike Rowse, a unique figure who became a Chinese citizen after a distinguished career in Hong Kong. Rowse shares his extraordinary journey from humble beginnings in England to becoming a key player in Hong Kong's development, including his roles in journalism, anti-corruption efforts, and the establishment of Disneyland Hong Kong. He explains his decision to embrace Chinese nationality, driven by his deep connection to the city and his desire to fully integrate. The discussion highlights the opportunities Hong Kong presented, the challenges of corruption, and the meticulous process of negotiating major projects like Disneyland. Rowse also offers his perspective on Hong Kong's future, its economic strengths, and the importance of long-term vision, contrasting it with Western short-termism. His reflections on happiness, life lessons, and advice for younger generations provide a profound look at a life well-lived.
Mike Rowse, a former British citizen, shares his remarkable journey of becoming a Chinese national and his impactful career in Hong Kong, from fighting corruption to developing Disneyland. He reflects on opportunity, integrity, and the future of the city.
Mike Rowse: From British to Chinese Citizen in Hong Kong
4:35 Consider using a translation device like Vasco Translator Q1 for seamless communication abroad, as it offers instant voice translation in over 80 languages and free lifetime internet for translation.
9:07 When promoting Hong Kong to international audiences, it's more effective to first praise Singapore, acknowledging its strengths, and then highlight Hong Kong's advantages, particularly its strategic location for East Asia.
14:13 To obtain a Hong Kong passport as a non-Chinese national, one must naturalize. The process involves an application reviewed in Hong Kong under delegated authority, considering factors like residency duration, relatives, language learning, and tax payments.
17:54 When traveling in the 1970s, be aware of local regulations, such as Singapore's strict rules on male hairstyles, which might require adherence to avoid issues with immigration.
23:23 In Hong Kong, opportunities can arise unexpectedly. Even without formal qualifications, walking into a newspaper office and expressing a desire to write could lead to an immediate job offer, showcasing the city's open and accessible nature.
30:21 Hong Kong established the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in 1974 to combat rampant police corruption, demonstrating a commitment to integrity and good governance.
35:31 For a versatile career in government, consider becoming an administrative officer, a role that offers exposure to diverse policy areas and requires adaptability.
42:14 When negotiating major projects like Disneyland, clearly define goals for both parties, balancing commercial viability with political defensibility, and be prepared for detailed discussions on everything from land value to landscaping.
52:34 To maintain a world-class city status, it's crucial to be detail-oriented, knowledgeable in your field, and able to translate that expertise into practical solutions and contractual agreements.
56:07 For a happy retirement, consider engaging in activities you've always enjoyed, such as hosting a radio show, writing a newspaper column, or lecturing at universities, while also maintaining physical and social connections.
4:35 Consider using a translation device like Vasco Translator Q1 for seamless communication abroad, as it offers instant voice translation in over 80 languages and free lifetime internet for translation.
9:07 When promoting Hong Kong to international audiences, it's more effective to first praise Singapore, acknowledging its strengths, and then highlight Hong Kong's advantages, particularly its strategic location for East Asia.
14:13 To obtain a Hong Kong passport as a non-Chinese national, one must naturalize. The process involves an application reviewed in Hong Kong under delegated authority, considering factors like residency duration, relatives, language learning, and tax payments.
17:54 When traveling in the 1970s, be aware of local regulations, such as Singapore's strict rules on male hairstyles, which might require adherence to avoid issues with immigration.
23:23 In Hong Kong, opportunities can arise unexpectedly. Even without formal qualifications, walking into a newspaper office and expressing a desire to write could lead to an immediate job offer, showcasing the city's open and accessible nature.
30:21 Hong Kong established the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC) in 1974 to combat rampant police corruption, demonstrating a commitment to integrity and good governance.
35:31 For a versatile career in government, consider becoming an administrative officer, a role that offers exposure to diverse policy areas and requires adaptability.
42:14 When negotiating major projects like Disneyland, clearly define goals for both parties, balancing commercial viability with political defensibility, and be prepared for detailed discussions on everything from land value to landscaping.
52:34 To maintain a world-class city status, it's crucial to be detail-oriented, knowledgeable in your field, and able to translate that expertise into practical solutions and contractual agreements.
56:07 For a happy retirement, consider engaging in activities you've always enjoyed, such as hosting a radio show, writing a newspaper column, or lecturing at universities, while also maintaining physical and social connections.
0:01 Introduction of Mike Rowse
1:12 Becoming a Chinese national
4:35 Vasco Translator promotion
6:10 Promoting Hong Kong for business
7:07 China's nationality law explained
9:07 Promoting Hong Kong vs. Singapore
14:13 Process of getting a Hong Kong passport
16:02 Emotional aspect of citizenship change
17:54 Early travel experiences
23:23 First job in Hong Kong
30:21 Creation of ICAC
37:28 Role as Administrative Officer
38:36 Negotiating Hong Kong Disneyland
56:33 Future of Hong Kong
57:22 Challenges for Hong Kong
1:00:35 Most fascinating people met
1:06:10 Lessons learned in life
1:13:14 Happiness level
1:14:28 Regrets in life
1:15:36 Advice for young people
00:00 INTRO
01:10 Becoming a Chinese citizen
05:54 Why Mike chose a Chinese passport
08:34 Singapore vs. Hong Kong
12:36 Being a Caucasian Chinese national
14:10 Converting from British to Chinese citizenship
16:58 How people react to Mike’s nationality
17:53 Leaving the UK by boat
18:30 First time in Singapore
19:28 Travelling in Southeast Asia in the ’70s
20:36 Highlights of the Asian trip
23:19 First job in Hong Kong
24:47 Why Hong Kong is better for living
30:12 Fighting against corruption in Hong Kong
35:28 Best job in the government
37:25 Working on the Disneyland Hong Kong project
49:36 What the Disneyland project taught Mike
54:53 Relationships vs. hard work
56:05 How to stay happy
56:32 The future of Hong Kong
57:18 Challenges for Hong Kong
01:00:30 The most inspirational people in Mike’s life
01:06:03 Honest view on China
01:07:48 Honest view on the UK
01:10:24 What it’s like being 76 years old
01:13:08 Regrets in life
01:15:34 Advice for young people
01:19:59 The meaning of life
max chernovHong Kongchina citizenshipmike rowsecareer journeyanti corruptiondisneyland hong kongasian economyexpat lifetravel storieslife lessonsWhy did you decide to become a Chinese national?
It was a strategic decision driven by my commitment to Hong Kong and a desire to fully integrate, especially after promoting the city as a business hub. China's nationality law made it possible.
What was the process like to become a Chinese citizen?
It involved applying for naturalization, proving residency and ties to Hong Kong, and renouncing my British citizenship. The process was bureaucratic but ultimately a logical step for me.
How does Hong Kong compare to Singapore for business?
Both are world-class, but Hong Kong's location is superior for engaging with East Asia and mainland China, offering greater efficiency for businesses focused on that region.
What was your experience working for the ICAC?
It was impactful, fighting widespread corruption. I witnessed systemic issues, but the establishment of the ICAC was a crucial step towards integrity in Hong Kong.
What were the biggest challenges in negotiating Hong Kong Disneyland?
Balancing Disney's commercial demands with Hong Kong's political realities and public interests required meticulous negotiation, long hours, and creative problem-solving to ensure a mutually beneficial agreement.
What is your outlook on Hong Kong's future?
I'm optimistic about its role as a global financial center, believing it will eventually surpass London and even New York. We need to maintain our strengths and focus on long-term vision.
What are the main challenges facing Hong Kong?
Negative Western narratives about China and internal tendencies to over-appease Beijing are significant. Hong Kong must maintain its high degree of autonomy and unique systems, like the common law, for its future.
What is the secret to a happy life?
Laugh a lot, sing often, be focused, get things done, and always strive to be the best you can be. Embrace life's opportunities and learn from your experiences.
What advice do you have for young people?
Don't choose to fail, don't give up easily. Stick with challenges, find solutions, and keep moving forward. Give yourself a chance to succeed.
Do you have any regrets in life?
No, because you learn to cope and move on. While I've made bad decisions, life isn't a dress rehearsal, and you must live with them and keep performing.
