Yi O Rehabilitation Programme

Challenges and Objectives

Yi O village, located adjacent to Tai O village in the southwestern part of Hong Kong, boasts a rich history predating that of Tai O. Positioned on an expansive and fertile plain with ample water resources, it was once a prominent paddy field in Hong Kong. At the peak of its existence, the village was home to 1000-2000 residents. However, due to it remote location, villagers gradually began migrating to urban areas in pursuit of livelihood opportunities. The village was ultimately deserted in 1990 with villagers only coming back during festival time.

Hoping to revitalise Yi O, Mr Lam Siu Lo approached the villagers and negotiated with the Yi O village head. The Yi O Agricultural Cooperation Ltd was formed to facilitate the collaboration between Yi O villagers and external party. The Yi O village head and Mr Alan Wong are both the Director of Yi O Agricultural Cooperation Ltd, and Mr Lam Siu Lo is the sole shareholder. The collaboration began in 2011/12, with an agreement for the cooperation to use the farmland for 30 years, starting with farmland rehabilitation. The main goals of the Yi O Rehabilitation Programme are to restore abandoned farmland, encourage resettlement and revitalise village, promote sustainable agriculture and local farm produce, and preserve and promote local culture and heritage.

Collaboration Partners and Roles

As the project initiator and main funder, Mr. Lam Siu Lo initiated the project and negotiated land use rights with villagers. Yi O Agricultural Cooperation Ltd formally coordinates the collaboration between farmers, villagers, and external partners. The Yi O villagers granted land usage rights and provided local knowledge. New farmers and volunteers contribute their manpower and farming expertise. Besides, product developers lend their skills in utilising local ingredients. Recreation activities organisers were engaged to attract urban dwellers to participate in farm and nature activities.

Revitalisation Activities

The project rehabilitated abandoned farmland by replanting rice and improving the irrigation and drainage system. Due to logistic difficulties, the project primarily grew spices, herbs, and selected vegetables with longer shelf life and economic value.

The project also promoted and practiced sustainable farming methods such as permaculture and organic farming. The project created products like rice, local collection paste, dried fruit, spices, and organic food. New services offered include eco-tourism, farm experiences, camping, cooking classes, and handmade workshops.

The project connected with the public through participation in various markets and pop-up stores, marketing and promotion, and operating a shop in Tai O that sold Yi O products. It also collaborated with experts to support the use of local produce. The project also thrives to improve community relationships, support traditional cultural activities, and empower youth. It facilitated conflict resolution and encouraged the return of old villagers and settlement of new ones. The project connected with outside experts for training and capacity building. It also provided an entry platform for city dwellers to participate in sustainable agriculture and preserve the natural environment.

Revitalisation Outcome

The project yielded social, environmental, and economic improvements. Economically, the project generated income from regular farm produce and activities, promoting a sustainable village economy. Socially, the project connected urban and rural communities and provided opportunities for people to experience farming and rural life. It also promoted sustainable agriculture and educated people about the importance of respecting and treasuring the natural environment. Environmentally, the project rehabilitated abandoned farmland, resulting in an enhancement of wildlife species (with over 300 wildlife species identified, including endangered species such as Romer’s Tree Frog) and an improvement in drainage and catchment areas.

While there were no formal evaluations except an ecological survey carried out for more than six years, the project received public interest and media coverage, showcasing its success and impact. The project has recently been granted a three-year fund from the Lantau Conservation Fund offered by the HKSAR Government for conservation efforts. It also plans to achieve self-sustainability by increasing farm visit activities. The collaborative and self-funded nature of the project allowed for diverse stakeholder involvement. Overall, the Yi O Rehabilitation Programme provides valuable insights for future rural revitalisation projects, showcasing the importance of shared trust, relationships, and interconnectedness in achieving sustainable development.

This is the abridged version of a case prepared by AIRI Fellow Choi Chung Yan Joanne. For further information, please email The University of Hong Kong’s Centre for Civil Society and Governance at ruralsd@hku.hk.