Street Scene

In Shantou during the 40s many shipping merchants travel the world in

search of new soil to settle. A multitude of immigrants came to South

East Asia and became successful merchants trading and becoming

business icons in their new country - the Philippines, Thailand,

Myanmar, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia etc.

However since their motherland is not in the tourist belt in China

Shantou has been very much neglected by China. Main areas are left as

it is during the early years and developments is still in the doldrums

in this city. It is like a land where time stood still for the

residence. I was visible shocked by the deserted road and tattered

building in Downtown Shantou. I am also surprised that those who were

successful did not come back and contribute to rebuilding their

motherland.

It also show the importance of the country to develop regional

provinces instead of looking only at monetary gains before urban

planning can follow.