Work without boundaries: Donald Tsang appeals to experts and researchers from different countries and cultures to share research findings and experience on social cohesion issues.

The Government will try to capitalise on volunteerism and community participation to promote social cohesion, Chief Secretary Donald Tsang says.

Addressing a conference organised by the University of Hong Kong and the Hong Kong Council of Social Services this morning, Mr Tsang said: "In my view, it pays to have a community-building agenda that promotes the development of community self-help and mutual help groups."

He noted that civic organisations provide strategic linkages among different sectors of the community.

"They are important channels for building social networks and positive values in society and valuable partners in any government effort to promote social cohesion," he added.

Nevertheless, the nature of social cohesion in Hong Kong is multifaceted. Cross-sector collaboration in research and the free flow of research findings are both important, Mr Tsang said, adding that an integrated approach and systemic evaluation are necessary to ensure proper co-ordination of resources and efforts across different areas.

He also called on experts and researchers from different countries and cultures to work together to share research findings and experience, and find solutions to common problems.