Over the past two years, the Force shouldered the sacred responsibility to be the front and the last line of defence for Hong Kong with professionalism, prevented the city from being devoured by violence and successfully restored the public order. The new Commissioner of Police Siu Chak-yee thanked all Force members for their remarkable contribution to society and colleagues’ family members for their fervent support. He said that he was immensely proud to march on with all Force members in pursuit of their aspiration when joining the Force.

Commissioner Siu Chak-yee said, “I believe we all deeply understand that acts and activities endangering national security have far-reaching repercussions on the rule of law and public order. Fortunately, with the support from the Central Government, the National Security Law (NSL) was promulgated on June 30 last year, followed by the establishment of the National Security Department on July 1, underlining the Force’s honour of shouldering the commitment in safeguarding national security.”

“Whilst the positive impact of the NSL on stabilising our society is widely recognised, the stability of Hong Kong and the safety of our people lie on how well we defend national security.” The Commissioner reminded colleagues that though social order had been restored, they must be “prepared for danger in times of peace” and stay vigilant at all times in curbing acts that may endanger national security according to the law with proven rock-solid determination.

He continued, “Our aspirations as a police officer are safeguarding national security, upholding the safety of Hong Kong, and protecting the lives and properties of our people. No matter how hard it is for us, it is with this conviction to live up to our sworn duties and stay true to our motto of ‘Serving Hong Kong’ that we carry on our journey, hand in hand with each other.”

Regarding internal communication, the Commissioner stressed that the fine tradition of internal communication is the pillar of the Force’s unity. “Opinions of our staff are particularly important to the development of the Force – only if we support effective two-way dialogues and take in constructive suggestions can we uphold our solidarity at all times.”

He also pledged to support Force members on every front in the future, adding that the Force management and all supervisory officers would continue to garner views from Force members for enhancing operational efficiency, gearing up equipment, supporting digital policing, optimising procedures, improving staff welfare and strengthening the Force’s collaboration with other government departments and organisations. He also expected supervisory officers to be more proactive, both in understanding the challenges their colleagues facing on the front line, and in putting forward practical recommendations to the management, so that internal communication can be more spot on and pragmatic.

He encouraged Force members to keep in mind why they joined the Force in the very beginning. “As the saying goes, many a mickle makes a muckle. As long as we continue our dedicated efforts in fulfilling our pledge, sooner or later the public will appreciate our unwavering commitment in serving the community, and our professionalism will strike a chord amongst our people.”