Even though the number of people in poverty has increased, but the total population of Hong Kong has increased as well. The Hong Kong government can increase the tax rates or implement the GST. With more tax revenues, they can then redistribute the wealth to the poorer people. Of course, there are always people who would object higher tax rates in Hong Kong.
A few of my friends just moved back to HK last year and this year after working 1-3 years after graduating from university/college.
They feel they don't really have a chance to advance their career if they stay here (even though they like the living condition of Vancouver). Therefore, they decided to try their luck in HK.