Every January, the Ceremonial Opening of the Legal Year marks a new beginning for Hong Kong’s legal profession. Yet the occasion is far more than a formal ceremony – it is a long-standing tradition that reflects Hong Kong’s commitment to the rule of law and its close connection with the international legal community.
I still clearly remember when our Past President, Mr Lester Huang, first proposed inviting overseas bar associations and law societies to attend the Opening of the Legal Year. What started as a forward-looking idea in 2008 has since become a defining feature of the ceremony. Each year, the presence of international legal leaders reinforces Hong Kong’s position as an open and outward-looking common law jurisdiction.
This year, more than 100 legal leaders from 24 jurisdictions gathered in Hong Kong for the ceremony. We were honored to welcome distinguished guests such as His Excellency Judge Khalid Ali Al Obaidli of Qatar and the Right Honourable Tun Tengku Maimun binti Tuan Mat, Malaysia’s first female Chief Justice from 2019 to 2025. Their participation reflected the confidence that the international legal community continues to place in Hong Kong’s legal system.
Professionalism lies at the heart of the legal profession. In my address at the ceremony, I emphasized that this is most clearly seen in the daily work of our judges. They decide cases strictly in accordance with the law, the evidence and proper procedure. Through their dedication and integrity, they uphold the dignity of our courts and strengthen public confidence in the administration of justice.
Beyond the ceremony, our overseas guests joined a two-day program that offered a closer look at Hong Kong’s bilingual common law system, legal heritage and openness to collaboration. On the morning of January 19, the Law Society co-hosted with the Hong Kong Bar Association the Presidents’ Roundtable on “Ethics and Technology: Professionalism in the Digital Era.” The frank exchange of views reminded us that while technology continues to evolve, the core values of independence, integrity and competence remain unchanged.
As we look ahead to 2026 and beyond, welcoming legal leaders from around the world remains essential. By doing so, Hong Kong continues to demonstrate that it is a city where the rule of law is trusted, resilient and globally connected.
Roden Tong is President of The Law Society of Hong Kong
