Hong Kong mourns 150 victims of its worst fires in decades amid mounting anger. As residents grieve for those lost, authorities are working to control and contain the public response to the tragedy. The arrest of a young man demanding answers, along with reports that two others have also been detained, has highlighted how politically sensitive the aftermath has become for China’s government.

Six years ago Beijing criminalised political dissent in Hong Kong through a sweeping national security law introduced following mass protests. Now, that law is being tested. Volunteers are organising and mobilising - this time not to demonstrate, but to support and assist victims of the fire. Still, many are being careful to ensure their efforts are not perceived as crossing political red lines.

Asia Specific host Mariko Oi is joined by BBC Chinese bilingual reporter Martin Yip and Senior Journalist Danny Vincent. This episode was recorded on 1st December. Asia Specific brings you essential insights and conversations on the stories shaping the Asia Pacific region - an economic powerhouse, geo-political flashpoint and the birthplace of global cultural trends.

Asian perspectives on international issues and in-depth analysis on news from a region that’s home to nearly 2.5 billion people.

Whether it is the latest on trade between China and Donald Trump, the rise and fall of political dynasties in Thailand, Indonesia, and the Philippines, or South Korea’s K-pop inspired soft power strategy - we unpack what key players are thinking and dive into the stories that matter.

Hosted in Singapore by Mariko Oi alongside BBC experts in Beijing, Bangkok, and beyond – listen to new episodes twice a week. Episodes of Asia Specific are also available on YouTube here: https://bit.ly/4iJyeVt

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China tries to control anger over the Hong Kong fire

Asia Specific

China tries to control anger over the Hong Kong fire