Some mothers-to-be welcomed the newborn baby bonus announced in the Policy Address, while kindergarten principals said this could stimulate births along with addressing the under-enrolment issue. The birth rate has declined in recent years, resulting in kindergartens cutting staff and being at risk of ceasing operations due to under-enrolment. However, some experts said boosting the fertility rate requires a comprehensive plan rather than relying on a single measure. Yip added that the current fall in the birth rate is attributed to people marrying late or choosing not to marry. He suggests encouraging young couples to marry is also a way to improve the general fertility rate.

Source: The Standard October 25, 2023 17:11 UTC