The 42nd Asian & Pacific Conference of Correctional Administrators (APCCA) hosted by the Correctional Services Department opened today, with about 140 correctional chiefs and representatives from 29 Asia-Pacific countries and regions, as well as representatives of professional organisations attending.

The conference aims to enable participants to exchange views on correctional services and consolidate and foster regional co-operation.

Deputy Chief Secretary Cheuk Wing-hing, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung and Commissioner of Correctional Services Wong Kwok-hing officiated at the conference's opening ceremony.

In his opening speech, Mr Cheuk said the theme of this year's conference, “Collaboration for Sustainable & High-quality Development”, highlights the determination of correctional officers from various places to advance and deepen regional co-operation, with a view to achieving high-quality development in the field of correction.

He noted that the department has achieved remarkable results in the application of innovation and technology in smart prison development and the implementation of diversified rehabilitation programmes.

During the conference, the department will share its experiences and exchange views with counterparts from various places to promote and strengthen regional collaboration, thereby jointly enhancing the effectiveness of correctional work.

Mr Wong supplemented that collaboration is a key element in the development of sustainable and high-quality development, adding that the conference provides an important platform for correctional practitioners from different places to exchange views and share valuable experiences, and to enhance co-operation among members.

The agenda of the conference, which runs until Thursday, includes participants visiting correctional institutions in Hong Kong to gain a better understanding of the unique advantages and latest developments of the city's correctional system, such as the development of smart prison projects and diversified rehabilitation programmes.

The APCCA is held annually and provides a platform for organisations and representatives engaged in correctional and prison work in the Asia-Pacific region to foster professional exchanges and co-operation.