On June 22, the Central Advisory Board (CAB) of the Animal Watchers Programme (AWP) held its fourth meeting and concluded the achievements of AWP in 2021 and first half of 2022. Despite the pandemic situation, the number of participants of AWP events reached 40 000 in the past 1.5 years. Institutions in collaboration included kindergartens, primary schools, secondary schools, tertiary institutions and special schools. In addition to recognising the community work of AWP, CAB members also commended the Force’s efforts in combating animal crime, especially in the recent cases involving smuggling of animals and illegal trade of endangered species. CAB members also advised on the events of AWP in celebration of the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (AWP x 25A).

The first activity of the “AWP x 25A” trilogy is the coloring and drawing contest, which features a mobile app for participants to scan the self-coloured “AWP Spokesdogs” Sunny and Zander for display on their works through augmented reality.

The other two activities are the “BYOP (Bring Your Own Pet) Treasure Hunt” and the “Animal Care Corner” promotion at schools. The “BYOP Treasure Hunt” will be held at Ocean Park in December. 1 000 participants will be recruited to bring 300 dogs to the park for a treasure-hunting game. Proceeds from the entry tickets will be donated to animal charities. The promotion of “Animal Care Corner” will go on throughout the year. Students are appointed to serve as AWP Student Ambassadors.

CAB of AWP advises on AWP’s community efforts.