Equal opportunity: Commissioner of Correctional Services Pang Sung-yuen says the community should treat rehabilitated offenders equally.

More jobs should be offered to rehabilitated offenders to help them reintegrate into society and lead a new life, Commissioner of Correctional Services Pang Sung-yuen says.

Speaking at a symposium today, Mr Pang said most offenders are determined to turn over a new leaf and reintegrate into society as law-abiding citizens.

However, if our community is not receptive and supportive to rehabilitated offenders, compounded with lack of self-confidence, they could easily commit an offence again.

"This would not only affect the stability of the community, but also require the Government to spend a large amount of resources in crime prevention and detection, as well as judicial proceedings and the department's enforcement of the courts' sentences," Mr Pang said.

"It would be more cost effective and beneficial to the community if we succeed in helping offenders out of the vicious cycle of reconviction and reduce recidivism.

"Equal job opportunities are of paramount importance to their smooth reintegration into the community. We have to continue to train up their working habits and build up their sense of responsibility as well as strengthen their vocational training to improve their employment prospects."

His views were echoed by HK Commerce & Industry Associations Chairperson Chan Kam-lam who appealed to all members to give rehabilitated offenders an equal chance by employing them regardless of their backgrounds.

To rectify public misconceptions about rehabilitated offenders, a series of publicity measures including TV advertisements and drama shows, and posters will be launched.