American blogger Addison Pierre Maalouf recently undertook a social experiment: living in one of Hong Kong's notorious "coffin apartments." His brief stay in the cramped dwelling, just a few square meters, offered a glimpse into the housing crisis plaguing the densely populated city.

These micro-apartments, often no larger than a typical parking space, are a grim reality for many of Hong Kong's low-income residents. High real estate prices and a shortage of affordable housing drive the creation of these subdivided units, offering minimal living space, sometimes barely enough room for a bed. The term "coffin apartment" reflects the claustrophobic conditions within these tiny homes.

During his time in the compact unit, Maalouf expressed shock at the poor living environment. He highlighted the cramped shared spaces, where residents contend with minimal privacy. The air quality was poor, with a moldy odor contributing to an unhealthy atmosphere. Furthermore, insects flying freely within the room underscored the unsanitary conditions common in such dwellings.

Maalouf's firsthand account sheds light on the realities faced by thousands in Hong Kong, where housing is a luxury rather than a basic right. His experience serves as a reminder of the need for humane housing solutions in one of the world's most expensive cities.

By Hoai Anh, from Arab