KIMBERLY YONG LI PING
0343281
THE WALLED CITY OF KOWLOON
REFLECTION
Kowloon Walled City was located in Kowloon City, Hong Kong, and it spans just 6.4 acres. At its peak, it was estimated to have 50,000 residents giving it a population density almost 120 times greater than New York City.
This 'City of Anarchy' was built without any planning. No architects and engineers were involved in the development of Kowloon's walled city.
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Due to the absence of professionals of this tightly-packed residence, sunlight was at the bare minimum - it was pure darkness even during the daytime. The environment was always humid and dense, with foul smells wafting through the atmosphere from the unattended rubbish that piled up in massive amounts. As well as that, sewage system facilities were not provided for the community too.
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This clearly shows us that building laws are important for the effective function of any building. It is to ensure an orderly development of localities in urban areas. For example, proper ventilation, efficient sunlight and personal space from neighbouring residents. Which is why buildings should be situated in a pleasant environment that can cater to a healthy lifestyle as well as an aaesthetic asurroundings and should have an aesthetic appearance.
The importance of abiding building laws to ensure healthy, safe and positive life quality
An impactful scene
One of the scenes that impacted me would be when the woman was terrified of being filmed. This demonstrates the dark theme of how isolated the people living in there were to the point where they fear having any aspect of their life exposed - just like the lack of exposure from the sunlight. Personal privacy does not exist here. Hence, this exemplifies on how hurt her pride is, thus avoiding the cameraman.
The environment that the woman resides in portrays the gloominess which reflects the conservative lifestyle she goes through on a daily basis. As the lamp is the only source of light, hope is not present in the walled city. The struggle of living in Kowloon, the 'City of Anarchy,' shines as bright as the blocked out light.