Why Did Critics Demand “Give Me Back My Forced Money”?

What was the “return my forced money” campaign?

In December 2010, Civic Passion’s Ho Man-kit told RTHK’s City Forum that MPF was riddled with loopholes after a decade, giving workers “ten dark years”. He urged the government to fully liberalise MPF so workers could choose how contributions were used — including mortgage payments on their own homes. For post-80s youth, he argued, a decade of “forced money” meant HK$100,000–200,000 each, enough with savings for a small flat’s down payment as a couple.

What were the critics’ grievances?

High fees, low returns, and risks borne by workers; young people felt MPF crippled their home-buying power and demanded more flexibility in how contributions could be used.

What reforms were on the table then?

The ECA was being legislated to let employees switch trustees yearly; employers were also encouraged to offer two or more schemes. Members can explore today’s fund choices at MPF fund comparison.