12th July 2024 – (Hong Kong) Sai Kung has become a popular destination for nature enthusiasts and adventurers. Recently, an outdoor and photography influencer on the Chinese social media platform Xiaohongshu shared her discovery of a beautiful outlying island in Sai Kung. However, her post sparked controversy as she not only showcased the island’s natural beauty but also revealed her extensive collection and consumption of sea urchins, describing it as an “excellent spot for sea urchin harvesting.”
The influencer, who frequently shares stunning landscape photographs taken in the outskirts of Hong Kong, posted about her recent experience on Xiaohongshu. She described stumbling upon a remarkable location for sea urchin harvesting during a beach excursion, emphasising the stunning scenery and exceptionally clear blue waters nearby. She also provided transportation details, mentioning that Sai Kung Pier is a convenient departure point, requiring approximately 20 minutes by speedboat to reach the island. The influencer openly disclosed the island’s name and accompanied her post with numerous images of herself consuming raw sea urchins, promoting it as an ideal location for such activities.
While some netizens expressed excitement and admiration, praising the large and beautiful sea urchins found in the pristine waters, others voiced concerns about the potential environmental damage caused by such behaviour. Comments expressing worry over the potential ecological impact flooded the post, with statements such as “Once it’s on Xiaohongshu, Hong Kong’s ecology will be quickly destroyed,” “Please don’t harm the environment,” “Do not disturb the natural habitat,” “Is it legal to harvest marine organisms like this in Hong Kong?” and “Go to a restaurant instead, thank you.”
According to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), Hong Kong boasts abundant marine resources, including approximately 27 species of sea urchins. While sea urchins are not listed as protected species under the Wild Animals Protection Ordinance (Chapter 170), individuals who engage in the capture of marine organisms without using boats or fishing gear are not governed by the Fisheries Protection Ordinance (Chapter 171). However, within the boundaries of coastal parks and protected areas, any harm, removal, or disturbance of animals or plants contravenes the regulations set forth in the Coastal Parks and Reserves Ordinance. Offenders can face fines up to HK$25,000 and imprisonment for up to one year upon conviction.
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