Reforms 'essential' to enhance quality of life

Michael Shum

John Lee stressed the importance of a systematic mindset in implementing reforms, insisting that reform is a continuous journey aimed at making Hong Kong a better place to live in, with improved education and citizens who value their lives.

He said that Hong Kong must sustain its momentum to effectively navigate challenges and seize new opportunities.

Lee said: "We must embrace change while remaining principled, innovative.

"Reform is essential, but it is important to remember that it is a means to an end, not an end in itself. We must ensure that it does not undermine the established success factors that are already working effectively," he added.

The reform initiatives will begin with enhancing the capabilities of the civil service.

This includes collaboration with cities in the Greater Bay Area, as well as with Beijing, Shanghai, Chongqing, Wuhan, and Hangzhou to initiate civil service exchange programs.

Lee announced plans for seminars and training activities for civil servants on key policies from the central government.

In the realm of national security, Lee aims to bolster counter-terrorism preparedness by introducing a three-tier prevention framework. It will include the establishment of a Chief Executive Counter-terrorism Steering Group, along with inter-departmental groups responsible for specific studies and counter-terrorism initiatives.

Additionally, the administration plans to regularize funding for all 452 Care Teams, increasing support by 50 percent to about HK$1.5 million per team over the next two years.

Lee urged people to maintain confidence and morale, standing firm against any efforts to diminish its success.

"With the wisdom and experience of our people, combined with our spirit of resilience and determination, I am confident that Hong Kong will continue to thrive and reach new heights," he said.

"Through our united efforts in reform and innovation, our economy will strengthen, and our citizens will enjoy an enhanced quality of life, making Hong Kong a shining city."