Government to Keep Physical JoyYou Cards Alongside Mobile Version: Chris Sun
Thestandard · 1 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
The government has confirmed that physical JoyYou Cards will continue to coexist alongside a newly proposed mobile version, prioritising accessibility for senior citizens who may not be familiar with smartphone technology. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han announced the plan affects approximately 2.7 million cardholders across Hong Kong. The mobile version is intended to complement, not replace, the tangible cards, with real-name registration and photograph incorporation remaining the immediate priority .
Key Points
- Physical JoyYou Cards will remain available to protect elderly access to transport concessions amid digital transition
- About 2.7 million cardholders in Hong Kong rely on the fare concession scheme for reduced public transport costs
- Real-name registration and incorporation of cardholder photographs onto physical cards is the primary focus before technical upgrades
- The upcoming mobile version will complement rather than replace existing physical cards to ensure no senior is left behind
- Monthly carer allowance will increase by ten percent from HK$3,000 to HK$3,300 under the Policy Address measure
Why It Matters
The coexistence strategy reflects the government's commitment to digital inclusion, ensuring technological advancement does not marginalise elderly citizens who may lack smartphone proficiency. With subdivided unit households reaching 10,000 and community living rooms expanding to 18 locations by year-end, the measure demonstrates a balanced approach between modernising public services and maintaining essential support for vulnerable populations .
The coexistence strategy reflects the government's commitment to digital inclusion, ensuring technological advancement does not marginalise elderly citizens who may lack smartphone proficiency. With subdivided unit households reaching 10,000 and community living rooms expanding to 18 locations by year-end, the measure demonstrates a balanced approach between modernising public services and maintaining essential support for vulnerable populations .