Acting Chief Executive Chan Kwok-ki today officiated at the 2023 youthfest@HK kick-off ceremony, unveiling a diverse series of youth activities.

Speaking at the ceremony, Mr Chan remarked that the current-term Government attaches great importance to youth development, and that it released the first edition of its Youth Development Blueprint last year. The festival is one of the blueprint's key projects.

He stressed that by harnessing the strengths of both the Government and different sectors of the community, the festival engages young people to enhance their knowledge, realise their potential, share their experiences and enrich their lives.

The theme of the festival is “Positive Thinking”, and its slogan is “Ignite Youth Power”.

Mr Chan said that young people represent the future, hope and pillars of Hong Kong, and that they are also the engine that drives the long-term development of society and the economy.

The Acting Chief Executive added that cultivating positive thinking from an early age is vital to individuals’ growth and success, and that while ups and downs are inevitable in life, it is important to face them positively and optimistically. Only by strengthening their confidence to face difficulties can young people thrive, he said.

Mr Chan noted that under a tripartite collaboration involving the Government, the business sector and the community, the festival involves staging more than 100 activities to promote positivity among young people. He called on young people to participate and on all sectors of the community to get involved in supporting the festival.

Partner events organised by community groups and other organisations in support of the festival will be included in the official event calendar upon approval of organisers’ applications.

Secretary for Home & Youth Affairs Alice Mak also officiated at the kick-off ceremony.

Click here for a list of festival events.