Hong Kong should be vigilant in times of peace, said Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok as he warned that national security risks are often not easily visible to the naked eye even though the city has restored order.
Speaking at the opening of a thematic exhibition to mark five years since the implementation of the Beijing-imposed National Security Law, Lam outlined three “must-nots” in safeguarding national security.
First, Hong Kong “must not forget history,” Lam said as he recalled the 2019 anti-extradition bill protests. He described the turmoil as having “severely threatened national security but also shattered the peace and stability of our society.”
“People were unable to study, work, or live normally. We felt the pain deeply, and it made us realize that without national security, none of us can truly exercise the rights and freedoms we cherish or ensure our personal safety, property, or normal lives.”
The justice secretary said the city also “must not ignore reality,” warning that national security threats still exist even though society has regained stability. He warned that hostile foreign forces continue to attempt to suppress China’s development.
Finally, the SAR “must not stand idly by,” Lam said, reminding citizens that everyone in Hong Kong has the responsibility to safeguard national security.
“All institutions, organizations, and individuals in Hong Kong must abide by the Hong Kong National Security Law and other relevant legislation and must not engage in acts or activities that endanger national security.”
When safeguarding national security, the justice chief stressed that the principle of the rule of law must also be upheld, because it is the cornerstone of Hong Kong’s success and its status as an international financial, trade, and shipping center.
(Jamie Liu)
