kakase/hk_gov_press_release huggingface dataset:
SB launches Sunshine Buddies volunteer programme to implement Policy Address (with photos)
29.10.2022

The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, today (October 29) attended the inaugural event of the Security Bureau (SB) volunteer programme Sunshine Buddies, implementing an indicator under item 85 in the Indicators for Specified Tasks of "The Chief Executive's 2022 Policy Address" to establish the SB Volunteer Services Team and support at least 100 children from new arrival families in 2022-23 to enhance their abilities and broaden their horizons, and encourage them to join the Government after growing up. Attending the activity at the Police College in Wong Chuk Hang, Mr Tang said, "The SB attaches great importance to youth development. Following the establishment of the SB Youth Uniformed Group Leaders Forum last week, a volunteer programme Sunshine Buddies was launched today to complement fully the Strive and Rise Programme led by an inter-departmental task force chaired by the Chief Secretary for Administration, working together to deepen the work on youth by enhancing their personal development and positive thinking." The teenagers joining the Sunshine Buddies programme are new arrival Primary Five to Secondary Three students. Mr Tang, together with members of the newly established SB Volunteer Services Team and their family members, met with about 80 teenagers and had lunch with them. He also shared his work and growth experiences with them. The participants got to know each other through games today and visited the Tactical Training Complex, the display of police equipment and Barrack Blocks at the Hong Kong Police College, and spoke with recruit police constables. The Sunshine Buddies programme is running with one-year modules. Diverse activities will be held each month in the coming year, including visits to different disciplined services and government institutions, historical and cultural exploration, adventure training activities and community work. Job shadowing will also be arranged for students to experience a day of work with SB senior officials so that they will have opportunities to explore and learn about the workplace, inspiring them to think about their future and plan for personal development and encouraging them to join the Government when they grow up. At present, about 100 colleagues from different grades have joined the SB Volunteer Services Team. Mr Tang expressed his gratitude for the participation of colleagues and their family members in the Sunshine Buddies programme to interact and share the joy with the teenagers.
CSD and HKMU sign MoU to strengthen learning support for persons in custody (with photos)
24.10.2022

The Correctional Services Department (CSD) and the Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) today (October 24) to further strengthen co-operation and affirm the long-term partnership between the CSD and HKMU in education, so as to provide more comprehensive support for persons in custody (PICs) who wish to continue their studies. The CSD has been committed to providing appropriate rehabilitation programmes and encouraging PICs to pursue further studies. Over the years, the CSD has collaborated with the HKMU to promote higher education and self-enhancement learning for PICs. The signing of the MoU will enable PICs who have suitable qualifications to continue pursuing tertiary programmes with more comprehensive support including enhanced financial assistance, credit transfers and programme articulation. The MoU was signed by the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Wong Kwok-hing, and the President of the HKMU, Professor Paul Lam, and witnessed by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, and the Council Chairman of the HKMU, Dr Conrad Wong. Mr Tang said that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has all along attached great importance to youth development and set out in this year's Policy Address the direction to facilitate youth development, which includes stepping up assistance to rehabilitate young PICs. The signing of the MoU will not only strengthen the co-operation between the two sides in the education for PICs, but more importantly, will let PICs and rehabilitated offenders know that they have not been abandoned by society, and that they should cherish learning opportunities to pursue education and equip themselves to make contributions to society. Dr Wong said that the HKMU, as the only university to provide distance-learning degree programmes for PICs in Hong Kong, fully agreed with the CSD's objective to provide diversified rehabilitation programmes and has co-operated with the CSD to provide higher education for PICs for many years. Dr Wong said that it is not easy for PICs to overcome numerous difficulties to pursue further studies. He expressed the hope that the collaboration can further strengthen the co-operation and work between the HKMU and the CSD, enabling PICs to continue their studies according to their interests and abilities, rebuild positive values, strive for progress and equip themselves for future integration into society.
Civil Aid Service holds music exchange concert "Love in Symphony Hong Kong" (with photos)
18.9.2022

The Civil Aid Service (CAS) held the music exchange concert "Love in Symphony Hong Kong" at Queen Elizabeth Stadium today (September 18), forging friendship through music and cultural exchange. Sponsored by the Hong Kong Jockey Club and co-organised by the CAS and Surein Foundation Limited, the concert aimed at promoting a harmonious and inclusive society and enhancing youth development. The event featured members from the Direction Association for the Handicapped, the New Home Association, My Main Stage and the Hong Kong International Drummer Festival, as well as 10 primary and secondary schools. They played a number of well-known songs, including "Descendants of the Dragon", "Pearl of the Orient" and "Ode to the Motherland". In order to foster cultural exchange and integration between young people from the Mainland and Hong Kong, the national orchestra from Zhongshan Youth Centre (Guangdong Province) staged a performance via online streaming. Officiating at the opening ceremony, the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, noted that the CAS helps young people to build confidence and a sense of responsibility, and nurtures them in various aspects to become future pillars of society. He expressed his belief that the concert could enhance the cultural competence of youths and would have a positive impact on their development. Mr Tang also commended the CAS for, in addition to shouldering anti-epidemic work, its efforts to promote youth development and assist the ethnic minorities in integrating into society, thereby fulfilling the policy needs to build a harmonious and inclusive society. The Chief Staff Officer of the CAS, Mr Leung Kwun-hong, said that the CAS has been upholding the pledge of "Provide Emergency Relief, Serve the Community", adding that the auxiliary service has always kept in mind the policy needs to promote a harmonious and inclusive society and to nurture young people. Launched a few years ago, the School Partnership Scheme aims at providing young people with national education and cultivating care for society and the spirit of loving the country and Hong Kong among them. Currently, there are over 20 schools participating in the Scheme with the annual number of participants exceeding 1 000. The concert incorporated different environmentally friendly elements, including the adoption of electronic pamphlets, and the use of technology in promoting and displaying information. The message cards distributed at the concert carry seeds that can be planted in soil and will bloom into flowers. It is believed that these initiatives are conducive to encouraging members of the public to adopt a low-carbon lifestyle and reduce waste in their daily lives.
Transcript of remarks by S for S after Fight Crime Committee meeting (with video)
26.8.2022

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, at a media session after the Fight Crime Committee meeting this afternoon (August 26): Reporter: So some say that there are much sophisticated laws in Mainland China, which clearly and effectively target trafficking of persons abroad, and with more tougher penalties, and so will the Security Bureau review our laws and consider to toughening it. Second, some experts said that Hong Kong did not conduct enough screening for suspicious departures at the airport to prevent human trafficking cases, and there were not enough collaboration with law enforcement in Myanmar and Cambodia. So what would you do to solve this problem? Thank you. Secretary for Security: First of all, Hong Kong is never an originated or a transit place, or a destination for human trafficking. As a matter of fact, we have over 50 different legal provisions in different ordinances that can handle situation relating to trafficking in persons. Actually we have a very robust initial screening mechanism to trying to identify if there is any persons being trafficked in Hong Kong, or in or out of Hong Kong. As a matter of fact, in the year 2020, we have conducted 6,900 of such kind of screenings, and we have identified three victims. And in 2021, we have conducted 7,700 of this kind of screenings, and we have only identified one victim, so we have either sufficient law and a robust system in handling, if there is any trafficking activities in Hong Kong. And the second question is about co-operation. In fact, we also have a robust co-operation with overseas law enforcement agencies by either bilateral basis or through Interpol channel to tackle those cause cross-jurisdictional offences. Thank you. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)
Chinese-style graduation parade for Customs Youth Leader Corps Summer Training Camp 2022 held (with photos)
20.8.2022

âHong Kong Customs ran the Customs Youth Leader Corps Summer Training Camp 2022 this week (August 15 to 19) and the graduation parade was held today (August 20) at the Hong Kong Customs College. The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, inspected a Chinese-style foot drill performed by 85 members who have completed the training. Mr Tang presented Best Recruit Awards to participants for their outstanding performance in recognition of their achievements during the training camp. Also, 18 senior leaders were each presented a Certificate of Promotion. The Customs Youth Leader Corps is a youth uniformed group established under a programme called "Customs YES" and the training camp is one of the group's key activities. With a rich content, the training camp enables members to undergo training in Chinese-style foot drill, physical fitness and leadership. They also learned about national history and developed an awareness of respecting the rule of law through different seminars, such as a sharing session on President Xi Jinping's important speech and a seminar on the Basic Law and the National Security Law. The training camp also included a variety of workshops and group activities to help members discover their talents and enhance self-confidence as well as foster team spirit and leadership abilities, which helped them to set a clear goal and lay a solid foundation for their personal development in the future. "Customs YES" aims to assist young people to achieve whole-person development and to cultivate positive values and law-abidingness through diverse activities in four areas, namely "Calibre", "Customs", "Community" and "Country". As of August this year, over 2 300 young individuals aged between 12 and 24 have become members of "Customs YES". Apart from the training camp, "Customs YES" will also organise a Summer Internship Programme during every summer vacation to enable members to find the direction for their long-term personal development through internship opportunities. More than 80 internship positions have been offered by the programme this year, covering different posts within Customs, as well as posts in different sectors, such as creative media, innovative technology, logistics and transportation, property management and catering and retail. In the future, Customs will continue to organise varied activities through "Customs YES" to help young people to gain a clear understanding of themselves and to develop a better understanding of society. Upon the easing of the epidemic situation, exchange tours to the Greater Bay Area and the Mainland will also be held to guide young people to broaden their horizons and deepen their understanding of the various opportunities in the Greater Bay Area and the country.
Director of Immirgration expresses deep sorrow over passing of Mr Ambrose S K Lee
14.8.2022

The Director of Immirgration, Mr Au Ka-wang, today (August 14) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mr Ambrose S K Lee. Mr Lee joined the Immigration Department in 1974. He was appointed as the Director of Immigration in 1998 and the Secretary for Security in 2003, a post he held until June 30, 2012. Mr Au said, "I had ample opportunity to come into contact with Mr Lee when he was the Director of Immigration. I was deeply impressed by his outstanding leadership, pleasant and friendly character. He is indeed a good role model for all of us. He assumed office as the Secretary for Security some time later to lead various disciplinary forces including the Immigration Department, making exemplary efforts in maintaining stability and prosperity of Hong Kong. "Mr Lee has been dedicated to serving our country and Hong Kong community over the years and made outstanding contributions in different sectors. He commanded the respect and love of government colleagues and members of the pubilc. "Mr Lee's family was approached in the morning. My deepest condolences were extended to them and I expressed that every possible assitance will be provided. He is not just a leader much respected by his fellows, but also a mentor and friend. He will be greatly missed by all of us."
Secretary for Security expresses deep sorrow at passing of Mr Ambrose S K Lee
14.8.2022

The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, today (August 14) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Secretary for Security, Mr Ambrose S K Lee, and extended his deepest condolences to Mr Lee's family. Mr Tang said, "Mr Lee was the Secretary for Security from 2003 to 2012 and assumed the important posts of Commissioner, Independent Commission Against Corruption and Director of Immigration before that. He provided dedicated services to the Government and Hong Kong residents for more than 30 years, making tremendous contributions. He took charge of the work in relation to security for a long period of time and made exemplary efforts in the maintenance of law and order and in exercising effective and efficient immigration and customs control, earning the respect of people both inside and outside the Government. After Mr Lee had left the Government, he still cared about political matters and gave valuable views from time to time, bringing positive energy to society. The Security Bureau is deeply saddened over his passing and he will be remembered fondly."
S for S supports white paper on "The Taiwan Question and China's Reunification in the New Era"
10.8.2022

The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung today (August 10) expressed support for the white paper on "The Taiwan Question and China's Reunification in the New Era" published by the Central Government, and said he would fully facilitate, in accordance with the law, all measures combatting foreign and external elements in their attempts to pursue "Taiwan independence". The Preamble of the Constitution of the People's Republic of China clearly stipulates that Taiwan is part of the sacred territory of the People's Republic of China. The white paper has clearly stated that the fact that Taiwan is part of the People's Republic of China shall not be questioned nor changed. Mr Tang pointed out that attempts to separate Taiwan from the People's Republic of China amount to secession, which is a serious offence endangering national security. It is obvious that safeguarding national security falls within the internal affairs of every sovereign state. The bullying acts of foreign elements in condoning and inciting separatist forces advocating "Taiwan independence" to stir up trouble in a provocative manner, and constantly undermining the peace and stability of the Asia Pacific region have not only seriously violated international norms, but also grossly interfered in China's internal affairs. Mr Tang reiterated that it is the common responsibility of all the people of China, including the people of Hong Kong, to safeguard the sovereignty, unification and territorial integrity of the People's Republic of China. The Security Bureau will lead the disciplinary forces to fully fulfil the constitutional responsibility to safeguard national security, and resolutely combat in accordance with the law acts that challenge national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity, with a view to ensuring the steadfast and successful implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle.
Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station 100th Anniversary Open Days (with photos)
6.8.2022

To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and the 100th anniversary of the establishment of the Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station, the Police Force will hold a four-day "Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station 100th Anniversary Open Days" in two consecutive weekends (August 6, 7 and 13, 14), showcasing the Force's rich history and its remarkable achievements. The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; and the Commissioner of Police, Mr Siu Chak-yee, officiated at the opening ceremony today (August 6), to mark the start of the Open Days of the Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station, which is open to the public for the first time. With the theme of "Policing with the community over 100 years", the exhibition area consists of three zones, featuring respectively the history of Yau Ma Tei Police Station, major incidents in Yau Ma Tei district and its community development. Through pictures, exhibits, interview videos and interactive games, visitors can recall the day-to-day operations of this historic police station, its role in the community, and savour its changes over the past century. In the old detention rooms, there sets an escape game "THE CLUE", sponsored by the Yau Tsim Mong District Office and the Yau Tsim Mong District Fight Crime Committee, which requires the participants' observation and collaboration skills to prevent and detect crimes by deciphering clues. Other activities include an outdoor 3D photo area, a fingerprinting workshop and booth games. After the opening ceremony, the officiating guests toured around the exhibition. Other officiating guests included the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Yuen Yuk-kin; the Director of Operations, Mr Chan Joon-sun; the Regional Commander of Kowloon West, Mr Rupert Dover; the District Commander of Yau Tsim District, Mr Yeung Man-pun; and the District Officer (Yau Tsim Mong), Mr Yu Kin-keung. The old Yau Ma Tei Police Station was relocated to its current location at No.627 Canton Road in 1922. It is a neoclassical Edwardian styled building and is now listed as a Grade II historic building. The admission tickets for the Open Days were made available for online registration in early July and had all been distributed. Members of the public who were not able to obtain a ticket can enjoy a virtual tour via the following website: https://communityengagement.police.gov.hk/en/event/ymt2022 , to explore the history of the old Yau Ma Tei Police Station online.
S for S pays home visits under Celebrations for All project in Tuen Mun District (with photos/video)
19.6.2022

The Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, visited grass-roots families in Tuen Mun District today (June 19) to show his care and concern for them, and distributed gift packs in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). Mr Tang first attended the launch ceremony of home visits under the Celebrations for All project in Tuen Mun District at Po Leung Kuk Vicwood K.T. Chong No. 2 Primary School. Addressing the ceremony, he expressed his gratitude to various non-governmental organisations and local organisations in the district for supporting the home visits event by organising volunteer groups to visit singleton and doubleton elderly households as well as families with special needs in the district, promoting the spirit of unity and inclusiveness in the community. Accompanied by the District Officer (Tuen Mun), Ms Aubrey Fung; the Chairman of the Tuen Mun District Council, Mr Chan Yau-hoi; and other local representatives, Mr Tang then visited grass-roots families at Tai Hing Estate and distributed gift packs to convey blessings to these families on behalf of the HKSAR Government. Mr Tang said that, with this year marking the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, the HKSAR Government has launched the Celebrations for All project in 18 districts and is visiting the elderly and families in need in the community. He expressed the hope to learn more about the daily lives of the public through this event and give them gift packs to share with them the joy of the 25th anniversary celebrations. The Celebrations for All project is one of the major events to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the HKSAR. With funding from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the project has been implemented by the 18 District Offices together with non-governmental organisations and community organisations in the districts.
S for S speaks on enacting legislation on Article 23 of Basic Law
11.5.2022

Following is the transcript of remarks by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, at a media session after attending the meeting of the Legislative Council today (May 11): Reporter: Do you have a timeframe for Article 23 legislation? Do you hope that it will be completed within this term? What do you hope in terms of national security in the future? Secretary for Security: Originally we were thinking that we should take the consultation in the first half of this year. But because of the epidemic situation, we have to focus on the fight against the virus. That's the reason why the work regarding the consultation of Article 23 has been postponed. Because that is also a very complicated and serious matter, we have to make sure that the new legislation is able to handle what happened in the past, in the current moment and also in the future. That is the reason why this is a very serious issue so that we have to be very cautious in working out a detailed and workable plan. We will try our best to do it as soon as possible. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the transcript.)