Hong Kong's Controversial Sex Ed Guide Suggests Badminton as Intimacy Deterrent

Hong Kong's education authorities have recently released a controversial sexual education guide for teenagers, sparking debate about its approach to addressing adolescent intimacy. The 70-page document, published last week, is intended for students aged 12 to 14 and includes unconventional suggestions for managing sexual urges.

One of the most notable recommendations in the guide is for teenagers to engage in badminton as a means of curbing sexual desires. The document advises that if a boy and girl studying together become aroused, they should "go out to play badminton together in a sports hall." This suggestion has drawn criticism from various quarters, with some lawmakers deeming it unrealistic and out of touch.

Doreen Kong, a legislator, questioned the practicality of the advice, stating, "How can [they] book a court on such short notice to play badminton?" Her comment highlights the logistical challenges of implementing such a recommendation in a densely populated city like Hong Kong.

The guide also includes other examples of how young people should handle potentially intimate situations. For instance, it suggests that if a young couple encounters another pair engaging in intimate behavior, they should "leave the scene immediately" and instead enjoy "the sight of flowers and trees in a park."

Critics have labeled the document as "regressive" due to its characterization of premarital sex as "deviant." Gary Zhang, another lawmaker, expressed concern about the potential societal impact of such guidance, asking, "Do we want to regress and allow such outdated thinking to resurface and gain ground once more?"

In addition to the guide, students are required to complete a "commitment form" that involves promising to develop "self-discipline, self-control, and resistance to pornography." The document also cautions against wearing "sexy clothing" to avoid "visual stimulation."

Despite the backlash, Christine Choi, Hong Kong's education secretary, has defended the guide. She stated that its aim is to "protect" children and prepare them for a "complex society and environment" as they mature.

"The guide aims to protect children and prepare them for a complex society and environment when they grow up."

It's worth noting that Hong Kong has a long-standing tradition of comprehensive sex education, with curricula in place since the 1970s. The city also boasts one of the world's lowest teenage pregnancy rates. However, young people in Hong Kong face significant pressure due to high academic and social expectations.

The controversy surrounding this guide reflects the ongoing challenge of balancing traditional values with modern realities in a city known for its unique blend of Eastern and Western cultural influences. As Hong Kong continues to navigate its distinct position within China's "one country, two systems" framework, debates like this highlight the complexities of addressing sensitive topics in education.