Zhou Yefang (left) and Xu Lihong (second left), who are deputies to local people's congresses in Tongshan town of Zhuji, Zhejiang province, conduct field research at a construction site in Tongshan in September to make sure that livelihood improvement projects are progressing smoothly. XU YU/XINHUA

Closer connection

Wang Zunyi, a deputy to the people's congress in Xiangyang, Hubei province, is closely following the modification of the law. "This piece of legislation is a yardstick for guaranteeing and overseeing my own performance," he said.

"As deputies, we come from the people and need to serve the people," said Wang, who is also head of Gaozhuang community in Fancheng district.

In the past few weeks, he visited residents to learn more about their needs for elderly care services, and also researched on how to strengthen the district's greening through the utilization of industrial heritage.

"I talked to the people living in my residential area and participated in inspection tours organized by the standing committee of the city's people's congress in other regions," he said. "The face-to-face communications made me more broadly aware of the public's ideas on the issues, so that I could better advocate for them."

For Jiang Yuqin, a deputy to the people's congress in Suzhou, Jiangsu province, mini programs on WeChat and websites have become quicker and more crucial channels for her to connect with the people, listen to their voices and collect their opinions.

Jiang, who is also head of Zoujiajiao community, posted QR codes at the entrances of each apartment building. By scanning the code, residents can access an online platform where they can report any challenges they face in their daily lives.

In addition, residents can share their ideas on repairing and renovating old houses on the platform, which is also an issue Jiang is researching, involving joint participation in the maintenance and management of the community, she said.

"Face-to-face talks and group discussions are more suitable for the elderly or for figuring out complex issues," she said. "Online services are more appropriate for young people who can express their thoughts anytime and anywhere.

"The more varied the ways of communication, the greater the likelihood that people's difficulties will be seen, and this also makes the connection between deputies and the people closer," she added.