'District Councilor Withdraws from Miss Hong Kong Pageant After One Day Citing Public Official Image'

A Decision to Preserve Public Image Amid Internal and External Concerns
Difficult to Balance Full-Time Job with Miss Hong Kong Pageant Schedule

Hong Kong's youngest district councilor announced her participation in the Miss Hong Kong pageant, only to withdraw her candidacy a day later. This decision appears to have been influenced by concerns within her party and issues related to the responsibilities of public office.

On June 26 (local time), the South China Morning Post (SCMP) reported that Angel Chong Nguating, a 24-year-old member of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB), withdrew from the Miss Hong Kong pageant just one day after attending the first interview for the TVB-hosted competition.

Previously, Chong stated her intention to participate in the Miss Hong Kong pageant, saying, "As a young person, I want to promote the daily life of a district councilor and encourage youth participation."

The DAB also commented, "The party respects each member's choice," adding, "We believe that Councilor Chong will manage her time well so that her legislative duties are not affected." However, Chong ultimately decided to withdraw from the competition.

Angel Chong Nguating Member of Parliament
[Image source=Captured from Angel Chong Nguating Instagram]

Political commentator Lo Shiu-hing explained, "The DAB is a party that values discipline, and it has emphasized the principle that district councilors should devote themselves to local issues." He analyzed, "With the December elections approaching and the party in the process of reorganizing its internal structure, there was likely a judgment that it would not be appropriate for a party-affiliated councilor to appear on a popular entertainment program."

The Hong Kong government also responded positively to Chong's decision. Alice Mak, Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, said, "Councilor Chong conveyed her intention to withdraw through her district office," and added, "We see this as a decision that prioritizes her public office duties."

According to Hong Kong district council regulations, councilors are required to attend more than 80% of full council and subcommittee meetings, as well as regularly respond to local complaints, participate in street activities, and attend government meetings. Violations of these regulations may result in warnings, fines, or suspension.

Those with experience participating in the Miss Hong Kong pageant also stated that it is difficult to balance public office and pageant activities. Erica Yuen, a finalist in the 2005 Miss Hong Kong pageant and former leader of People Power, said, "During the competition, there are scheduled activities almost every day, so it is essentially a full-time commitment."

A former contestant, who wished to remain anonymous, also said, "With more than four interviews, presentations, or recordings scheduled each week, it is difficult to combine this with a full-time job."