Privacy chief Ada Chung reappointed for second term

Hong Kong’s Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, Ada Chung Lai-ling, has been reappointed for a further five-year term, the government announced on Friday.

Chung, who first took up the role in September 2020, will continue leading the Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data (PCPD) effective September 4.

The reappointment was made by the Chief Executive under the provisions of the Personal Data (Privacy) Ordinance (PDPO).

A government spokesman highlighted Chung's performance during her initial term, stating she had fully demonstrated extensive professional knowledge, strong leadership skills, and unwavering dedication. 

The spokesman noted she successfully led the PCPD in navigating increasingly complex challenges to privacy protection over the past five years.

During her tenure, Chung spearheaded efforts to strengthen the PDPO and significantly boosted public awareness and education campaigns. These initiatives focused on promoting respect for personal data privacy and fostering a stronger culture of protection within Hong Kong. 

A key achievement cited was her leadership in supporting the government's amendments to the PDPO, which included establishing a dedicated division for criminal investigation and prosecution. This move was crucial in enhancing the PCPD's ability to effectively combat intrusive "doxxing" acts.

Internationally, Chung actively positioned Hong Kong within the global privacy dialogue. She strengthened the PCPD's connections with key international and national data protection bodies. Notably, she served as co-chair for two significant working groups within the Global Privacy Assembly: the Ethics and Data Protection in Artificial Intelligence Working Group and the International Enforcement Cooperation Working Group.

Expressing confidence in her continued leadership, the government spokesman added that the administration believes the PCPD, under Chung's direction, will reach new heights in further promoting the protection and respect for personal data privacy across society. 

They also expressed their confidence in her to proactively address challenges emerging from rapid developments in new technologies.