The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today strongly condemned and opposed baseless slanders and smears against Hong Kong by Western countries, anti-China media, organisations and politicians regarding yesterday's court verdict on the "Hong Kong Alliance" incitement to subversion case.

The Hong Kong SAR Government pointed out that the constitution forms the foundation of Hong Kong’s constitutional order. Under the Preamble to the Constitution, the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) is the core and foundation of the constitutional order of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

No country allows citizens to subvert its constitutionally established order. The Hong Kong SAR Government stressed that the court’s verdict clearly emphasised that the defendants were tried based strictly on law and evidence, not for their political views.

The court noted that the defendants remained hostile toward the CPC and the central government. Following the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL), they refused to back down and pursued the Alliance's resistance line. The defendants ignored the fact that their actions exceeded lawful boundaries of free speech.

The courts earlier clarified the boundaries of exercising freedoms and rights.

The Court of Appeal's judgment in another case affirmed that criticising the Government, the administration of justice including judgments of courts, or engaging in debates about or raising objections to government policies or decisions, however strong, vigorous or critical that may be, does not constitute a seditious intention. The crucial issue is whether there is intent to incite hatred or subversion.

In this case, the defendants intended to undermine the fundamental system of the PRC by stirring up hostility against the CPC and causing division. The conspiracy was clear and required judicial action.

The Hong Kong SAR Government added that many rights and freedoms are not absolute. The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights allows legal restrictions on free speech to protect national security, public safety and public order. The public must distinguish between this subversion case and the lawful exercise of the freedoms of association, assembly and speech.

Hong Kong is a society ruled by law. The HKNSL and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance guarantee the principle of the rule of law. Defendants receive a fair trial by an independent judiciary, as guaranteed by the Basic Law and the Hong Kong Bill of Rights.

The court’s well-reasoned verdict meticulously detailed the legal principles and evidence supporting the conviction.

The Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that safeguarding national sovereignty, unity and the territorial integrity of the PRC is the common duty of all Chinese citizens, including Hong Kong compatriots. Hong Kong residents must clearly recognise that incitement to subversion is a severe offence, and the Government will resolutely combat acts and activities endangering national security.

Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung stressed today that the Constitution is the most important component of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region's constitutional order and of paramount importance to “one country, two systems”, following a court's guilty verdict in an incitement to subversion case. 

Meeting the media this afternoon, Mr Tang said the court's ruling enabled justice to be done in the case against the now-defunct Hong Kong Alliance as well as Lee Cheuk-yan, Ho Chun-yan and Chow Hang-tung, who were charged with “incitement to subversion”.

He highlighted that the alliance, since its establishment, had adopted so-called fundamental agendas and objectives to end the leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and overthrow the fundamental system of the People's Republic of China (PRC) established by the Constitution.

“We must all acknowledge that the Constitution is the fundamental law of the State,” Mr Tang said.

He noted that Article 22 of the Hong Kong National Security Law (NSL) explicitly prohibits the overthrowing or undermining of the PRC's fundamental system or overthrowing the PRC's central power.

“In this case, even after the Hong Kong NSL took effect, the defendants continued with various acts, including attempting to hold unauthorised assemblies, inciting the public through slogans and so-called resistance, publishing content, giving media interviews and speaking publicly, attempting to incite others to subvert state power, as well as overthrow or undermine the CPC leadership status by unlawful means, constituting the offence stipulated under the Hong Kong NSL.

“Finally, I would like to reiterate that regarding any attempt to endanger national security, we will act in strict accordance with the principle of the rule of law and never show leniency,” he added.

Chief Executive John Lee said the defendants’ conspiracy was abundantly clear and they must be brought to justice after the Court of First Instance of the High Court delivered the verdict in the incitement to subversion case of "Hong Kong Alliance".

The court today delivered the verdict in the case concerning the Alliance, Lee Cheuk-yan, Ho Chun-yan and Chow Hang-tung, who were charged with "incitement to subversion".

The Alliance, Lee Cheuk-yan and Chow Hang-tung were convicted as charged after trial, while Ho Chun-yan pleaded guilty earlier and was convicted. The court adjourned the case to next Friday for mitigation.

Mr Lee noted that the Alliance had long been deliberately planting seeds of hatred against the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the central government in Hong Kong society, attempting to incite disaffection, hatred and other sentiments among members of the public against the CPC and the central government through various means, and inciting people to subvert state power.

“The acts of the defendants over a long period of time endangered national security; their conspiracy was abundantly clear, which must be brought to justice,” Mr Lee said.

He emphasised that incitement to subversion is an extremely serious offence. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has the responsibility to safeguard national security, and will resolutely prevent, suppress and punish acts and activities endangering national security.

“This case once again demonstrates that no matter how offenders disguise their real agendas with sophistry and rhetoric, as long as they commit an offence endangering national security, the Hong Kong SAR Government will ensure that laws are observed and strictly enforced to bring the offenders to account."

Welcoming the court's verdict of conviction, the Hong Kong SAR Government highlighted that during the trial of this case, external forces blatantly and repeatedly smeared the Judiciary, the Department of Justice and law enforcement agencies, using political tactics and misleading remarks in an attempt to interfere with the fair trial of the case, and making baseless attacks against the Hong Kong SAR's efforts in protecting human rights and freedoms as well as safeguarding national security.

The Hong Kong SAR Government strongly condemned their despicable attempt to openly trample on the rule of law. It reaffirmed that the law never allows anyone to openly harm one's own country and compatriots under the pretext of human rights, democracy and freedom.

It added that the court reached its verdict strictly in accordance with the law and evidence, free from any interference, and absolutely without any political considerations. Any suggestion that certain individuals or organisations should be immune from legal consequences for their illegal acts is no different from advocating a special privilege to break the law, and this totally runs contrary to the spirit of the rule of law.

The court emphasised that the defendants were put on trial not because of their political views or beliefs, adding that it only considered the law and evidence relevant to the case to decide whether the prosecution was able to prove the charge beyond reasonable doubt.

It pointed out that when ordinary reasonable persons received the messages of the Alliance and other defendants, they must have understood that the aim of their agendas was to end the leadership of the CPC, and that other people were being encouraged to put the agendas into action.

In addition, the court pointed out that the defendants had all along been hostile towards the CPC and the central government under its leadership, and adhered to the course of resisting the central government and refusing to make any compromise.

After the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, the defendants refused to pull back from the brink and were bent on embracing the resistance line of the Alliance to the very end. Even though the defendants knew that what they had said and done might have already gone beyond the scope of lawful freedom of expression, they paid no regard to it. The defendants intended to cause others to lose confidence in the CPC by stirring up hostility and causing division, so as to achieve the objective of undermining the fundamental system of the People's Republic of China (PRC).

The Hong Kong SAR Government added that the Hong Kong SAR is an inalienable part of the PRC. The state provides the fundamental guarantee for the prosperity and development of Hong Kong, and the highest principle of "one country, two systems" is to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests.

The Hong Kong SAR Government will resolutely safeguard the fundamental system of the state established by the Constitution and the security of state power, and will, in strict accordance with the principle of the rule of law, prevent, suppress and punish acts and activities endangering national security with full force and in accordance with the law.

The Police Force’s National Security Department (NSD) arrested five people in Mong Kok today on suspicion of committing seditious acts.

The operation was launched following a referral from the Customs and Excise Department, which had earlier intercepted an overseas shipment containing a batch of books with seditious intent. 

Following investigations, NSD officers searched two shops in Mong Kok. They arrested two men, aged 37 and 57, and three women, aged between 30 and 59, on suspicion of “doing an act that has a seditious intention with a seditious intention”, contravening section 24 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance.

Police investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly displayed items with seditious intent and sold publications with seditious content inside the shops.

These publications contained content inciting hatred against the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies. A batch of books was seized during the operation.

All five individuals remain in custody for further investigation.

The Security Bureau today launched an interactive drama titled Community Chef Challenge: Security Brings Prosperity at the East Kowloon Cultural Centre to mark the sixth anniversary of the National Security Law’s implementation.

Speaking at the launch ceremony, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung emphasised that Hong Kong is an inalienable part of China. He stressed that safeguarding national security is both a constitutional duty of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and an obligation for every citizen.

The production features national security comics characters Andy and Security Bear. It uses everyday examples to explain key national security concepts to the audience.

Mr Tang pointed out that the format helps spectators, particularly young people, understand how every community member can contribute to national security.

To highlight the theme that “security brings prosperity”, the drama introduces a new character to underscore the importance of a safe and secure home for everyone.

The interactive drama runs today and tomorrow.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today marked the sixth anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the National Security Law (HKNSL), reiterating that the city’s national security frameworks ensure robust protection and steady economic growth.

As mentioned in the white paper titled “Hong Kong: Safeguarding China’s National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems” issued by the State Council Information Office in February, the Hong Kong SAR Government noted that the HKNSL serves as a key stabilising force by providing essential institutional safeguards.

The Hong Kong SAR Government expressed gratitude to the central government for enacting the HKNSL six years ago, enabling Hong Kong’s transition from chaos to order.

To fulfil its constitutional responsibility, the current-term Government achieved a historic milestone by enacting the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) under Article 23 of the Basic Law. The SNSO works in tandem with the HKNSL to achieve full convergence, compatibility and complementarity. These laws, alongside subsequent subsidiary legislation, have significantly strengthened Hong Kong’s legal system and enforcement mechanisms.

Since the implementation of both laws, local livelihoods and the business environment have steadily improved. Notably, Hong Kong was again ranked as the world’s freest economy and led globally in funds raised through initial public offerings, demonstrating strong international confidence in the city’s stable business environment.

In line with the white paper’s call to enhance national security education, the Security Bureau has launched a series of commemorative programmes. A five-episode television series, NS files: Decoded, premiered today to analyse major national security cases, and an interactive drama will be presented in early July.

The Security Bureau today held a launch ceremony for the new TV series “NS-files: Decoded", which is scheduled to premiere tomorrow to mark the 6th Anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law.

The five-episode documentary series will present details of key national security cases, including those involving Tong Ying-kit, the "Sheep Village" picture books, Tam Tak-chi, the "Returning Valiant" group, and the “Project 35+” subversion campaign.

It will also provide an in-depth analysis of the city's national security laws and key points from court judgments, with a view to heightening public awareness in safeguarding national security.

The series also aims to strengthen in the community the spirit of knowing, understanding, observing and upholding the law.

Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said the main idea of the series is to show investigation and evidence-gathering processes and to analyse the court's verdicts.

He added that the series showcases how anti-China and destabilising offenders were finally brought to justice by law enforcement agencies upholding the rule of law, justice and the city's national security laws.

Mr Tang said the series will serve as a reminder to the public that national security risks still exist, and that safeguarding national security is a continuous endeavour with no end point. He urged everyone to stay vigilant at all times.

The show will be aired on HOY 78 at 8.15pm every Tuesday starting from tomorrow.

The Police Force's National Security Department arrested two shop proprietors in Sham Shui Po yesterday on suspicion committing seditious acts and receiving money from foreign groups.

Following a search of the shop, a 33-year-old woman and a 32-year-old man were detained on suspicion of “doing an act that has a seditious intention with a seditious intention” and “dealing with property known or believed to represent proceeds of indictable offence”, contravening section 24 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and section 25 of the Organized and Serious Crimes Ordinance.

Investigations revealed that the suspects allegedly displayed seditious items and sold publications with seditious content inside their shop, including materials inciting hatred against the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, the judiciary and law enforcement agencies.

The suspects are also believed to have received multiple financial remittances from foreign political organisations. During searches of the shop and a residence, police seized a batch of seditious items, books and case-related documents.

Both individuals remain in custody for further investigation.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government said today that it strongly condemns slanderous allegations made in relation to the Safeguarding National Security (Procedural Matters) Regulation in a Washington Post article headlined “Hong Kong's nightmare gets darker”.

It stated that the article exposes the newspaper's irrational anti-China stance and hypocrisy, falling well short of what is expected of professional journalism.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said that under international law and international practice, each and every sovereign state has an inherent right to enact laws safeguarding national security. It highlighted that the US has 21 items of legislation aimed at safeguarding US national security, adding that The Washington Post's article betrays double standards in criticising Hong Kong's efforts in this area of the law.

Responding to the article in a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said the Procedural Matters Regulation only aims to clarify the existing classification mechanism regarding offences that endanger national security, as stipulated in the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), and bring greater certainty to relevant provisions.

It said that any reasonable person who objectively studies the three provisions in the Procedural Matters Regulation and follows the relevant discussions held at Legislative Council meetings will recognise that the Procedural Matters Regulation has no retrospective effect at all. Furthermore, it does not create any new offences or penalties and is not applicable to legal proceedings that have concluded.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said that The Washington Post's article falsely and maliciously claims that “people can now be charged retroactively for crimes that didn't exist when they allegedly committed them”. It stressed that this claim is a shocking betrayal of the basic tenets of responsible journalism and totally unacceptable.

The statement emphasised that the Procedural Matters Regulation will in no way infringe upon the legitimate rights of any defendant. It outlined that Hong Kong is a place underpinned by the rule of law, and place where the guilt or innocence of a defendant is a matter to be adjudicated independently by the courts, which ensure the right to a fair trial.

Article 4 of the HKNSL stipulates that human rights shall be respected and protected in the course of safeguarding national security. The rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil & Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social & Cultural Rights, as applied to Hong Kong, are protected.

Moreover, Article 5 stipulates that the rule of law shall be adhered to in preventing, suppressing, and imposing punishment for offences endangering national security, and that this includes protecting the rights of defendants in judicial proceedings, such as the right of criminal suspects to defend themselves.

Section 2 of the SNSO stipulates that the ordinance is based on the principle of respect for and protection of human rights and the rule of law.

The Hong Kong SAR Government also highlighted another allegation by The Washington Post about the issuance of certificates by the Chief Executive under Article 47 of the HKNSL or section 115 of the SNSO, stating that the allegation is plainly wrong.

It said the issuance of a certificate by the Chief Executive is a rigorous and solemn process. As the top official with primary responsibility for safeguarding national security in the Hong Kong SAR, the Chief Executive has access to confidential information, including extremely sensitive intelligence and information on acts and activities endangering national security, which is not suitable for public disclosure and may even pertain to threats by state actors.

The Hong Kong SAR Government stressed that it is a well-established principle in common law jurisdictions that the courts accord deference to the assessments and judgments of executive authorities on national security.

In particular, it pointed to a 2010 judgment by the Supreme Court of the US that the judiciary must defer to executive authorities' assessments of national security issues, as it can be difficult for the courts to obtain and assess relevant information on evolving threats. It said that turning a blind eye to the this judgment demonstrates The Washington Post's double standards and ignorance.

The statement added that the legislative process on the Procedural Matters Regulation is entirely in compliance with all legal and procedural requirements.

Regarding The Washington Post's claim that Hong Kong is now “a less secure place to visit or do business”, the Hong Kong SAR Government said that this is baseless and and constitutes a bold-faced lie intended to smear Hong Kong.

It added that a simple “fact-check” will reveal that the newspaper's assertions are at odds with how investors and businesses around the world perceive the Hong Kong SAR. It mentioned that Hong Kong has been heralded as the world's freest economy for decades, ranked third globally in the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025, continues to rank among the top three international financial centres, and was number one in the world in terms of initial public offering fundraising in the first quarter of 2026, besides being the largest cross-boundary wealth management centre.

It stressed that foreign businesses have no reason to worry about the laws safeguarding national security in Hong Kong, adding that many entrepreneurs welcome such laws, which ensure a safer and more stable environment for investment and economic development. It cited a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong earlier this year, which showed increased confidence Hong Kong's business environment for 2026, with 94% of respondents expressing confidence in Hong Kong's rule of law, a marked increase from 83% in 2025.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said The Washington Post must face facts and respect the truth, including honest opinions expressed by their fellow countrymen who invest money and do business in and with Hong Kong.

It added that it will continue to resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the HKNSL, the SNSO and other relevant laws safeguarding national security in the Hong Kong SAR, in order to effectively prevent, suppress and impose punishment for acts and activities endangering national security, while also upholding the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people, thereby ensuring the steadfast implementation of the “one country, two systems” principle.

The Chief Executive in Council today approved enactment of the Safeguarding National Security (Procedural Matters) Regulation (Procedural Matters Regulation) under section 110 of the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO).

The Procedural Matters Regulation was also published in the Government Gazette today and came into effect immediately.

The subsidiary legislation was enacted to clarify the classification mechanism for "other offences endangering national security under the law of the HKSAR", as specified under the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKNSL) and the SNSO. The objective is to reflect the legislative intent of the HKNSL and the SNSO, and to better carry into effect the relevant provisions of both.

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it continuously reviews the city’s current legal system and enforcement mechanisms, with a view to fulfilling its constitutional responsibility in relation to safeguarding national security. Where the need for improvement or clarification is needed, it added, legislative proposals will be introduced in a timely manner. 

The statement added that, with reference to the legislative intent of the HKNSL, section 7 of the SNSO and relevant Court of Final Appeal case law define “offences endangering national security” as including: offences under the HKNSL, the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong SAR, and the SNSO itself; as well as other offences under Hong Kong law, as referenced in section 7(d) of the SNSO, where the conduct in a particular case is, by its nature, considered to endanger national security.

In this connection, the Hong Kong SAR Government considered it necessary to clarify the classification mechanism under the HKNSL and SNSO for "other offences endangering national security under the law of the HKSAR" by way of subsidiary legislation, in order to better carry into effect section 7(d) of the SNSO and the provisions applicable to offences endangering national security in the HKNSL, the SNSO and other laws.

The Procedural Matters Regulation states that if the Chief Executive issues a certificate under Article 47 of the HKNSL or section 115 of the SNSO to certify that an act in a criminal case involves national security, then the case will be treated as one involving an offence endangering national security, as mentioned in Article 41 of the HKNSL and section 7(d) of the SNSO.

The Hong Kong SAR Government highlighted that the relevant provisions on certificates issued by the Chief Executive are entirely consistent with common law principles.

It noted that courts in common law jurisdictions including Hong Kong and the United Kingdom are all of the view that executive authorities are in a better position than the courts to make appropriate assessments and judgements on matters of national security. As such, judicial authorities defer to the assessments and judgements of executive authorities in such instances.

The Hong Kong SAR Government also pointed out that the mechanism for the Chief Executive to issue a certificate under Article 47 of the HKNSL or section 115 of the SNSO, and the provisions applicable to offences endangering national security in laws such as the HKNSL and the SNSO, are all existing provisions that have been operating effectively.

It stressed that the Procedural Matters Regulation does not alter those provisions, the scope of application of the HKNSL and SNSO, or the definition of “offence endangering national security”. The regulation also does not create any new offence, penalty or enforcement power.

The statement emphasised that the enactment of the Procedural Matters Regulation refines details of relevant procedural matters and brings greater certainty to the implementation of relevant provisions under the HKNSL, the SNSO and other laws.

The Hong Kong SAR Government iterated that relevant provisions under the HKNSL, the SNSO and other laws are only applicable to a small number of criminals who commit offences endangering national security, and will not affect the lives of the general public, or the normal operation of organisations and institutions.

Law-abiding individuals, organisations and institutions will therefore by no means be affected by the Procedural Matters Regulation, it said.

(To watch the full media session with sign language interpretation, click here.)

Chief Executive John Lee today said that the Government introducing subsidiary legislation for safeguarding national security is purely to make the law even clearer in the classification mechanism for offences that relate to endangering national security.

Speaking ahead of this morning's Executive Council meeting, Mr Lee explained the introduction of the subsidiary legislation.

He said: “The Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, Section 7 makes mention of the offence of endangering national security, and includes other offences endangering national security under the law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.”

Mr Lee highlighted that the purpose of introducing the subsidiary legislation is to make it clear how offences endangering national security under the laws of Hong Kong will be so classified.

“It is not intended, and will not expand the definition of the offences. It is not adding any new offences, any new power or punishment, and it also does not expand the scope of application of the law.

“Having a clearer mechanism of classifying offences endangering national security will have the benefit of reducing the risk of controversies or debates in court about what constitutes an offence endangering national security,” he added.

To promote National Security Education Day, the Auxiliary Medical Service (AMS) held an open day at its headquarters in Ho Man Tin today. 

The event aimed to enable members of the public to learn about the work of the AMS in safeguarding national security, to enhance public awareness of national security and to further deepen their understanding of its daily operations.

Addressing the opening ceremony, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said that safeguarding national security is the common responsibility of all. 

He highlighted that national security is not confined to a single area, but is closely linked to finance, public health, and everyday community life. Among the 20 major fields of national security, biosecurity is closely related to the work of the AMS. 

The AMS’ services include non-emergency ambulance transfer services, first aid coverage during large-scale public events, as well as duty at country parks and cycling tracks. 

Mr Hui said the AMS spares no effort in safeguarding the safety and health of the general public and thanked its members for their unwavering dedication and commitment to protecting the public.

The open day featured national security-themed game booths, first aid demonstrations, band foot drills, medical and health seminars, health screenings, as well as displays of ambulances and first aid bicycles.

To support National Security Education Day, the Immigration Service Institute of Training & Development (ISITD) and the Hong Kong Customs College held open days today.

The ISITD’s open day aimed to showcase the Immigration Department's (ImmD) unwavering commitment to fending off national security risks and firmly guarding the country's southern gateway, raise public awareness of national security, and strengthen public sense of national identity.

Thematic exhibitions and interactive booths were set up to introduce the public to the technologies used by the ImmD in areas such as the detection of forged documents, counter-terrorism operations, management of detention centres and tactical equipment.

The ISITD also opened training facilities, including the mock immigration clearance hall and the mock courtroom for members of the public to gain a deeper understanding of the ImmD's work in safeguarding national security.

It has drawn the participation of over 2,500 citizens.

Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki attended the open day and toured the exhibition booths and interacted with the public.

He also encouraged members of the Immigration Service to continue to uphold their mission and remain steadfast in safeguarding national security.

As for the Hong Kong Customs College Open Day, apart from members of the public, dignitaries of the community, youth groups and more than 2,000 students from 82 schools were also invited. More than 7,000 admission tickets were distributed.

Visitors enjoyed not only performances by the Customs Detector Dog Team, the Customs Pop Band and the Dragon and Lion Dance Team, but also the display of firearms and weapons, as well as an exhibition of customs clearance equipment. 

Secretary for Justice Paul Lam also attended the event.

The Labour Department’s Registry of Trade Unions (RTU) organised the Seminar on National Security for Trade Unions today to enhance the awareness and sense of responsibility of trade unions in safeguarding national security.

Featuring exchanges of measures taken by the labour sector to safeguard national security, contributing to the security and development of the country and Hong Kong, the seminar attracted around 420 participants on-site and online.

In his opening remarks, Secretary for Labour & Welfare Chris Sun said that the successful conclusion of the eighth-term Legislative Council General Election last year, which fully implemented the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong" and faithfully upheld the principle of "one country, two systems", was a crucial realisation of strengthening the national security shield. 

The voter turnout rate in the functional constituency of the labour sector was nearly 90%, fully reflecting the proactiveness of the labour sector in safeguarding the country and home. 

Noting this year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, Mr Sun said it is incumbent upon all sectors of the community to consider and act on how Hong Kong can make full use of its strengths to serve the country's needs and further integrate into the overall national development. 

He encouraged the labour sector to seize the opportunities from the National 15th Five-Year Plan, and help contribute Hong Kong's strengths to the country's development. 

The labour chief added that apart from the establishment of solid institutional safeguards, every individual and institution must also have the commitment to national security. 

The National 15th Five-Year Plan clearly states the need to strengthen national security education and fortify the defensive line in people. 

According to the Hong Kong National Security Law, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region shall promote national security education through social organisations, including trade unions, to raise the awareness of national security and law-abidingness among Hong Kong residents. 

He called on the labour sector's concerted efforts to safeguard national security.

The seminar featured two keynote presentations and a panel discussion session in which four guests shared the measures and practical experiences of labour organisations and trade unions in promoting national security education.

The seminar was co-organised by the Hong Kong Federation of Trade Unions and the Federation of Hong Kong & Kowloon Labour Unions.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government tonight said it strongly disapproves of and refutes untruthful remarks, slanders and smears against various aspects of the Hong Kong SAR contained in the US’ “2026 Hong Kong Policy Act Report”.

In a statement, the Hong Kong SAR Government demanded that the US immediately stop acting against international law and the basic norms of international relations by interfering in Hong Kong matters, which it said are purely China’s internal affairs.

It iterated that the Hong Kong SAR is an inalienable part of the People’s Republic of China, and that as a local administrative region that enjoys a high degree of autonomy under the principle of “one country, two systems”, it comes directly under the jurisdiction of the Central People’s Government.

The statement said the US report repeated fallacies about Hong Kong with a political purpose – that of maintaining US hegemony – and confounded right and wrong, but that such attempts by the US to undermine the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong exposed its slyness and will not succeed.

With regard to safeguarding rights and freedoms, the Hong Kong SAR Government said that since Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, human rights in the city have been robustly guaranteed by both the Constitution and the Basic Law.

It added that since the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO), the media landscape in Hong Kong has remained vibrant, while the media environment in the US is becoming increasingly severe.

It highlighted that, according to statistics, US law enforcement authorities arrested more than 30 journalists in 2025 alone, while there were more than 170 cases of violence against journalists, including instances of them being forcibly pinned to the ground, beaten them with batons, and even shot, with 90% of such incidents involving law enforcement officers. It is commonplace, the Hong Kong SAR Government said, for US officials to ban certain media outlets from attending press conferences or verbally abuse reporters who ask questions, while they have even threatened to prosecute media outlets for treason. US fabrication of facts about freedom of speech in Hong Kong is therefore utterly shameless, it added.

The Hong Kong SAR Government remarked that it strongly opposes absurd and false claims regarding its efforts to safeguard national security. It said the US Government had vilified the Hong Kong SAR's legislative work, as well as the city's law enforcement agencies, and its prosecutorial and judicial authorities, in claiming that fulfilment of their duties constituted a systemic “degradation” or “impediment” of rights and freedoms.

It said that the US routinely ignores the non-interference principle under international law, wantonly and arbitrarily interfering with other countries' internal affairs, grooming agents, instigating “colour revolutions”, and even creating social unrest and humanitarian disasters through acts of economic and military coercion, thereby causing suffering to innocent civilians in many countries.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said it must perform its constitutional duty to continue to improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security. It emphasised that the report entirely disregards this constitutional duty and the practical needs of the Hong Kong SAR to enact legislation, and overlooks the circumstances stipulated for the exercise of relevant powers as laid out in the Safeguarding National Security (Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Regulation. It said the US deliberately turns a blind eye to the positive effects brought by the implementation of relevant laws on economic development and the protection of human rights, demonstrating hypocrisy and a “my-way-or-the-highway” hegemonic logic.

In relation to November's fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, the Hong Kong SAR Government said it firmly rejected the report's malicious attacks on the city's law enforcement actions and attempts to sow discord. It condemned any attempts to use the disaster to stir up chaos in society and disregard the rescue operations and support work enacted by the Hong Kong SAR Government and all sectors of the community. Regarding those arrested over alleged seditious speech, it added that criminal acts exploiting the fire cannot be tolerated and must be handled in accordance with the law.

In respect of a case that involved the offence of “dealing with funds or financial assets or economic resources belonging to, or owned or controlled by, a relevant absconder”, the statement stressed that the court in question made clear that the defendant's conviction and sentencing followed a fair trial in which he was found to have dealt with funds belonging to an absconder in contravention of the SNSO. It said this was totally unrelated to whether the defendant was a relative of the absconder, and highlighted that the defendant has withdrawn an appeal.

The statement also highlighted that in handling cases concerning offences endangering national security the Hong Kong SAR Government applies the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. The Chief Executive, in conjunction with the National Security Committee, recently introduced the 2026 Implementation Rules for Amending the Implementation Rules for Article 43 of the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

The statement outlined that the 2026 implementation rules enhance measures that the Hong Kong SAR's law enforcement authorities may take, while clarifying relevant legal procedures and technical arrangements, so as to strengthen the enforcement powers of law enforcement authorities, allowing them to prevent and investigate cases more effectively, thereby mitigating risks to national security.

The Hong Kong SAR Government reiterated that it steadfastly safeguards national sovereignty, security and development interests, and will resolutely, fully and faithfully continue to implement the HKNSL, the SNSO and other relevant laws so as to prevent, suppress and impose punishment against acts and activities endangering national security in accordance with the law. At the same time, it will safeguard the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong people, ensuring the steadfast and successful implementation of “one country, two systems”.

The National Security Education Day was held today featuring an opening ceremony with a keynote address delivered via video link by Director of the Hong Kong & Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Director of the State Council Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office Xia Baolong.

In his video speech, Mr Xia highlighted that President Xi Jinping has identified the 15th Five-Year Plan period as a crucial stage for reinforcing development foundations. He noted it is essential for pushing ahead on all fronts to basically realise socialist modernisation.

“We should place greater emphasis on ensuring both development and security, with a comprehensive assessment of domestic and external risks and challenges, improve the national security system, strengthen our capacity to safeguard security, facilitate the virtuous interaction between high-quality development and high-level security through high-efficiency governance, and ensure the new development pattern with a new security architecture," he added.

Mr Xia outlined four guiding principles for implementing the spirit of President Xi's speech, focusing on balancing development and security to advance the "one country, two systems" principle during the 15th Five-Year Plan period. 

First, he emphasised the need to thoroughly understand the inner logic of Hong Kong's transition from chaos to order and then from stability to prosperity, noting that the city’s hard-won progress must be cherished.

Second, the Director stressed that security should never be taken for granted. He called for constant vigilance against various risks and dangers that could threaten Hong Kong's prosperity and stability.

Third, Mr Xia urged the city to seize strategic opportunities arising from major global changes. He highlighted the importance of proactively aligning with the National 15th Five-Year Plan to accelerate high-quality development.

Fourth, he noted it is imperative for all sectors of the community to join forces to safeguard security and work together to build a better Hong Kong.

Mr Xia stressed that security is a prerequisite for development, noting that progress is not possible without a secure environment. He urged the community to strengthen “bottom-line thinking” and maintain constant vigilance against all potential risks, particularly external interference and geopolitical or public security threats.

Turning to the 15th Five-Year Plan, Mr Xia pointed out that Hong Kong should enhance its scientific forward planning. He identified the Northern Metropolis as a strategic priority and called for the use of education and technology as primary engines for growth.

The Director also highlighted the need to promote synergy among industry, academia and research. He emphasised the importance of fostering the integrated development of education, technology and talent to drive the city’s new chapter of development. He added that the planning should also elaborate on constituent projects, and forge new platforms and new drivers for development.

Chief Executive and Hong Kong National Security Committee Chairman John Lee thanked Mr Xia for delivering the keynote speech, adding that it was rich in substance and profound in exposition.

“It comprehensively elucidates the inherent logic between safeguarding national security and promoting economic and social development in Hong Kong, and profoundly points the way forward for the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region," Mr Lee said.

Mr Lee said the Hong Kong SAR Government will proactively align with the 15th Five-Year Plan to formulate Hong Kong's first five-year plan.

“We will complete the work within this year, providing a clear guidance for socio-economic and livelihood development,” he added.

The State Council Information Office released the white paper earlier this year titled “Hong Kong: Safeguarding China's National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems”.

Mr Lee said he will lead and co-ordinate the executive authorities, the legislature and the judiciary of the Hong Kong SAR to effectively prevent, suppress and punish acts and activities that endanger national security in accordance with the law. “I will create high-standard security for the high-quality development and implement six important initiatives,” he said.

“First, upholding the unity of the central government's fundamental responsibility and the Hong Kong SAR's constitutional responsibility. Second, keeping the power to govern the Hong Kong SAR firmly in the hands of patriots. Third, respecting the rule of law and ensuring human rights. Fourth, following a holistic approach to development and security. Fifth, safeguarding security with greater openness. Sixth, improving the governance system for public security.”

Also speaking at the ceremony were Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR and National Security Advisor of the Hong Kong National Security Committee Zhou Ji; Head of the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong SAR Dong Jingwei; Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong SAR Cui Jianchun; and Political Commissar of the Chinese People's Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison Lai Ruxin.

The Hong Kong SAR Government said it will continue to promote and deepen national security education in innovative and diversified ways to encourage all citizens to safeguard national security.

As of the end of March, the National Security Exhibition Gallery has attracted over 1.7 million visitors.

The Hong Kong SAR Government also noted that it will continue to deepen the National Security Education District Tutor Training Scheme. As of early 2026, approximately 3,300 individuals completed the training.

The trained tutors have organised more than 7,400 promotional activities for national security education, reaching a total of over 750,000 person-times. 

The National Security Youth Ambassador Training Scheme, which was launched in February 2025, has successfully trained about 200 youth ambassadors to date. 

To mark National Security Education Day, the Department of Justice (DoJ) today held the National Security Legal Forum on the theme of the White Paper titled "Hong Kong: Safeguarding China's National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems".

The forum invited renowned legal experts, academics and representatives from different sectors to discuss Hong Kong's endeavours in safeguarding national security as well as the experience and insights gained in the process.

The goal is to deepen the awareness and correct understanding of all sectors of the community on the city's role in safeguarding national security, actively fulfil the practical requirements of the white paper and to achieve high-quality development of the "one country, two systems" policy under the auspices of high-standard security.

Delivering his opening remarks, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam said that the white paper not only reviews Hong Kong's endeavours in safeguarding national security and the experiences and insights gained in the process, but also sets out six fundamental principles in building high-standard security in order to support the high-quality development of Hong Kong.

Mr Lam said that Hong Kong does not pursue "absolute security" or "generalised security" in safeguarding national security, but rather "relative security," which is also the definition of national security in the country's national security laws. 

He noted that the white paper states that Hong Kong should follow a holistic approach to development and security, and achieve a dynamic balance between the two; safeguard security with greater openness; respect and ensure human rights; safeguard security under the rule of law, especially with the judicial authorities exercising adjudicative power independently and free from any interference in trying cases pertaining to national security in accordance with the law.

Mr Lam stated that national security, like air and sunshine, is something without which one cannot survive, yet too often, mistakenly, is taken for granted. 

To arouse the awareness and vigilance of people in this respect and provide them with a proper and sufficient understanding of the fundamental principles that Hong Kong follows in safeguarding national security, he urged various sectors of the community to study the white paper carefully.

This year's forum invited the Chinese Association of Hong Kong and Macao Studies Vice President and Professor of the Tsinghua University School of Law Prof Wang Zhenmin to deliver a keynote speech to share his insights on the main content and principles of the white paper.

Two panel discussions followed, beginning with the first titled "Clearing up confusion and misunderstandings - Hong Kong's endeavours in safeguarding national security". 

Speakers from the legal sector reviewed the development of Hong Kong's laws for safeguarding national security, discussed relevant judicial cases, and conducted a comparative study and analysis of the relevant national security cases and laws in other countries, demonstrating Hong Kong's consistent adherence to the rule of law and respect for and protection of human rights in implementing national security laws.

The second panel discussion - featuring a member of the Committee for the Basic Law of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region of the Standing Committee of the National People's Congress, an esteemed leader of the local business sector, and a Rule of Law Education (ROLE) ambassador under the DoJ’s ROLE Stars Train-the-Leaders Programme - explored how Hong Kong can achieve a dynamic balance between development and security, and how promoting national security education can build social consensus to safeguard the steady and long-term implementation of the "one country, two systems" principle with high-standard security.

Deputy Secretary for Justice Cheung Kwok-kwan, in his closing remarks said that the white paper has significant guiding value to Hong Kong. He pointed out that the white paper reminded people once again that Hong Kong has the constitutional responsibility of effectively safeguarding national security, and that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and all sectors of the community should proactively implement the practical requirements of the white paper.

He noted that speakers of the two panel discussions conducted in-depth discussions from various perspectives on issues such as the development of Hong Kong's laws for safeguarding national security, and how to achieve a dynamic balance between development and safeguarding national security. 

The discussions provided an excellent starting point for the participants to understand the essential requirements of the white paper, Mr Cheung added.

Citing the white paper, Mr Cheung said that safeguarding national security is a responsibility shared by all members of society. Everyone is a stakeholder and beneficiary, and no one can be a mere spectator. He expressed hope that the forum today would further enhance public awareness of safeguarding national security and enrich public understanding of the importance of the white paper, and encouraged the community to cherish today's safe and stable environment.

The Security Bureau (SB) and its disciplined services and auxiliary services held a flag-raising ceremony, a national security knowledge challenge and other activities to mark National Security Education Day today.

The SB and its disciplined services jointly held a flag-raising ceremony at the Police College this morning.

Officiating at the ceremony, Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki said the theme of this year’s National Security Education Day, “Proactively Align with the 15th Five-Year Plan Follow a Holistic Approach to Development and Security”, aimed to remind Hong Kong to better integrate into and serve the overall national development, and to contribute Hong Kong’s strengths and commitment to the journey of the country's modernisation.

He noted that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will spare no effort to strengthen its capability in law enforcement and co-ordination, deepen national security education, and adhere to the principle of “patriots administering Hong Kong”, so as to prevent and neutralise security risks.

Mr Chan then officiated at the Safeguarding National Security Cup awards presentation ceremony to commend the contestants of the SB, disciplined services and auxiliary services for holding sports competitions, which showcased their flexibility and team spirit to inject impetus into the promotion of safeguarding national security.

In the afternoon, the Department of Justice, the SB, the Education Bureau and the Hong Kong Shine Tak Foundation jointly organised the finals and award presentation ceremony of the Territory-wide Inter-school National Security Knowledge Challenge 2025/26.

The challenge attracted a record number of more than 132,000 students from 651 primary and secondary schools. The content of the “Hong Kong: Safeguarding China’s National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems” white paper was also incorporated into the challenge, keeping national security education abreast of the times.

In a video speech, Mr Chan thanked the principals and teachers for their support to help students gain more national security knowledge through the competitions. He noted that teachers and students of the winning school teams were invited to join a study tour to the Mainland to know the country’s latest developments and experience stability and social advancement under the safeguard of national security.

He also encouraged students, teachers and all sectors of society to proactively shoulder the duty of safeguarding national security and be the guardians of national security with a sense of responsibility and vision.

Also officiating at the ceremony, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam supplemented that since the promulgation and implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, order in the community has been restored, and steady economic development has been ensured. To maintain the current hard-earned situation, citizens have to safeguard national security of their own accord.

The highlights of the finals and the award presentation ceremony will be broadcast at 10.30 tonight and 7.30pm on April 19 on HOY Infotainment.

Apart from the above-mentioned activities, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung also attended the National Security Education Day Opening Ceremony & Seminar held by the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administration Region at the Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Mr Tang’s other related engagement was the book launch ceremony of a national security children’s picture book, organised by the Federation of Hong Kong Guangdong Community Organisations.

The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today announced that the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region will host the National Security Education Day opening ceremony and seminar tomorrow morning at the Convention & Exhibition Centre.

CPC Central Committee Hong Kong & Macao Work Office Director and State Council Hong Kong & Macao Affairs Office Director Xia Baolong will attend the opening ceremony and deliver a keynote speech via video link.

Hong Kong SAR Chief Executive and Hong Kong National Security Committee Chairman John Lee extended a warm welcome to Mr Xia, expressing sincere gratitude for his ongoing guidance and support for Hong Kong.

Mr Lee noted that this year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, a critical period for Hong Kong as it transitions from stability towards prosperity. The fourth session of the 14th National People’s Congress approved the “Outline of the 15th Five-Year Plan”, setting the strategic design for the nation’s economic and social development over the next five years.

“Hong Kong will proactively align with the 15th Five-Year Plan. We are formulating at full steam Hong Kong’s first five-year plan to provide clear guidance for Hong Kong’s future economic, social and livelihood development, and drive Hong Kong’s better integration into and service of the overall national development,” Mr Lee said.

Mr Lee also noted that the State Council Information Office released a white paper on February 10 titled “Hong Kong: Safeguarding China’s National Security Under the Framework of One Country, Two Systems”. The document provides a comprehensive review of the city’s efforts and experiences in protecting national security.

"The white paper states clearly that the central government bears the fundamental responsibility for affairs concerning national security in Hong Kong, while the Hong Kong SAR shoulders the constitutional responsibility for safeguarding national security. We must adhere to a holistic approach to national security as its guiding principle, grasp the practical requirements of safeguarding national security under the framework of ‘one country, two systems’, and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests,” the Chief Executive said.

To mark National Security Education Day, the Hong Kong Committee for Safeguarding National Security is organising the opening ceremony, a seminar and various school and community activities. Mr Lee added that these initiatives aim to enhance public awareness and encourage all citizens to proactively fulfil their responsibility in safeguarding national security.

The Fire Services Department today staged an open day at the Fire & Ambulance Services Academy in Tseung Kwan O, in support of the National Security Education Day, with more than 9,000 people attending.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan watched a parade of fire and ambulance appliances in the morning. He then visited national security-themed game booths and toured the National Security Education & Resource Centre at the academy.

Interactive exhibition boards and game booths at the open day provided engagement aimed at facilitating public understanding of the importance of national security.

A flag-raising ceremony was also held, with the department's Guard of Honour performing a Chinese-style foot drill.

In addition, training facilities – including a simulated Pak Shing Kok railway station, the Fire & Ambulance Services Education Centre & Museum, and the National Security Education & Resource Centre – were open to the public.

Information on the department's recruitment activities was made available throughout the day.