Tech Tsar Not Undone By Barbs On Mask Looks

The Secretary for Innovation and Technology, Alfred Sit, on Wednesday brushed away criticism about the look of new reusable masks, with some people saying they resemble underwear.

Speaking on Commercial Radio, the newly appointed technology tsar was asked about such derisive comments.

“Yes... the reusable mask can be worn every day… just like our underwear. After wearing our underwear, we must wash them,” Sit retorted.

He reminded people to wash the mask gently with soap and water, as its filter could be damaged if it is washed with bleach or washing powder.

Sit said the government had uploaded a video showing people how to wear and wash the mask properly.

Despite criticism from some quarters, more than a million residents had applied for them before noon on the first day of a one-month registration period.

Sit said earlier on an RTHK programme that those who have registered will get a text message several days before their masks are delivered, and this will be within two weeks.

He also said that the government is planning to distribute a replacement filter in future, as they can only be washed up to 60 times.