A thorough review of applications for the Environment and Conservation Fund (ECF) will be conducted to ensure resources are appropriately allocated to "patriots," according to Secretary for Environment and Ecology Tse Chin-wan.

In a recent interview, Tse revealed that the bureau is enhancing its review process for organizations seeking funding. 

Applicants will be required to submit a declaration affirming their commitment to comply with all laws, including the Hong Kong National Security Law.

The bureau would also assess the background and operational practices of the organizations to ensure they are patriotic groups.

Following the fund approval, Tse said the government would continue to monitor whether the organizations' works are related to environmental protection and prevent the funding from being misused. 

Tse underlined that immediate action will be taken in cases involving the violations of the National Security Law, in collaboration with law enforcement agencies.

Tse stated that all funded organizations are patriots, as the new regulation has been implemented, which has yielded remarkable results. 

To raise awareness of national security among frontline staff, Tse noted that new employees would be required to undergo training on national security as well as national studies programs.

All staff members are expected to visit a national security exhibition at the Hong Kong Museum of History by next year, Tse added.

(Phoebe Poon and Natasha Ng)