Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu attended the second consultation session at a Yuen Long secondary school this morning to gather public feedback for his upcoming Policy Address, which is set to be announced in September.
The city's leader emphasized that collaboration between the government and districts -- likening the government to a major artery and districts to capillaries -- is essential for achieving success and reaching out to the citizens.
He stated that the district councils, committees, and care teams play key roles in addressing local issues. The government will implement policies proactively, supported by district consultations, to ensure effective execution and goal achievement.
Lee reiterated a perspective shared by a citizen in the consultation session, noting the importance of "work together" among government bureax and the local communities in order to promote the city’s prosperity.
A recruitment worker urged the government to boost competitiveness by creating more high-end jobs and attracting foreign firms, not just mainland companies.
Lee noted Hong Kong's rising global rankings, citing record numbers of overseas companies registering in the city.
He stated that Hong Kong's economic transformations are irreversible and key to staying competitive, with local talent and national backing, progress and reform will drive better development. Lee added that the private consumption in Q2 grew nine percent year-on-year and overseas firms in Hong Kong reached a record 10,000.
A South Asian student called for better Chinese-language support to aid integration and job prospects in the Greater Bay Area. The Chief Executive agreed, stressing that ethnic minorities are part of Hong Kong and deserve tailored education measures.
A secondary student said government cuts to education subsidies, like the HK$2,500 student grant, have forced schools to charge for extracurricular activities, causing many students to quit. She fears this harms holistic development and urges more youth investment to balance development needs with school funding.
Other concerns included objections to Lung Kwu Tan Reclamation, with residents citing existing undesirable facilities and urging better transport
infrastructure.
"I attended the District Forums on two consecutive Sundays to exchange and interact directly with the public, learning about their views on the Policy Address and understanding their expectations for Hong Kong's development," Lee said after the session. "The participants' remarks have shown me their passion and confidence in Hong Kong, and have also inspired me as I prepare the Policy Address."
(Updated at 2.40pm)
ANSON LUK
