In Western law, intent is important, but Chinese culture uses strict liability. They don't accept excuses like, "Oops, my engine failed and that's why my plane hit the apt. building."
Over Singapore, you're not allowed to overfly buildings, so you have to fly along rivers or marshes.
For international flights, you're treated like an airline.
US, Australia and Canada have a GA culture, but most countries cater only to airlines, and tolerate flight training for airlines.
> Chinese culture uses strict liability. They don't accept excuses
Daily life in mainland China or South Korea gives such a different impression. “Oops, I was late/bored/tired/on the phone and that’s why I drove on a red light.”
Now, Hong Kong does accurately match your description.
Over Singapore, you're not allowed to overfly buildings, so you have to fly along rivers or marshes.
For international flights, you're treated like an airline.
US, Australia and Canada have a GA culture, but most countries cater only to airlines, and tolerate flight training for airlines.