Commissioner of Police Dick Lee says the Force, under the leadership of Tang King-shing, will continue uphold their fine traditions, build upon their strengths and overcome future challenges.

Mr Lee, who will retire on January 16, officated at a passing-out parade of 13 probationary inspectors and 202 recruit police constables at the Police College today.

He told graduates he had a mixed feeling as it was his first and last time as a reviewing officer.

A day to remember: Commissioner of Police Dick Lee attends the passing-out parade with his son and spouse (left). He thanks colleagues, including Deputy Commissioner Tang King-shing, for their support (centre) and chats with graduates (right).

Balanced life

Noting Police officers often face great pressure and stress due to the dangerous and arduous nature of the work, he said striking the correct equilibrium or balance in life and work is one of the ways to handle stress.

"This does not mean taking a casual and relaxed attitude towards your work. It means that in your private lives you should maintain a balanced diet and participate in sports and other worthwhile activities to develop a sound mind and healthy body.

"At work before making decisions, consider the legal position and the right course of action based on the situation, focus on priority areas and make full use of the resources available to you.

"It is not easy to find the appropriate equilibrium between life and work. This can only be ascertained by yourselves, based on your own aspirations and what you want to take from each," Mr Lee said.

Role model

He also noted four qualities - honesty, tolerance, knowledge and progress - have been covered in the basic training for the graduating officers, and urged them to apply the qualities in their daily lives and work to serve as a role model for the public to follow.

Mr Lee explained: "Honesty requires you to display an honest and sincere character and to be fair and just at work. Tolerance requires you to be tolerant towards others. Be as broad-minded as possible in the course of your duty, listen to the views of others in order that you can respond to the changing demands of different times and situations.

"Yearn for knowledge and adopt the principle of life-long learning to develop your strengths and correct your weaknesses. Progress by conducting regular reviews of your work and life and always try your best to strive for excellence."

Mr Lee said the public has high expectations of the Force, adding its continuous efforts to enhance service quality had received considerable public acclaim. Recent public surveys unveiled the local community are very satisfied with the service provided by Police. 

Positive effect

He said this reflected their confidence in the Force and recognised the positive effect of the Force's transformation into a modern customer-orientated Police service.

Upon leaving the Force after 34 years of service, Mr Lee thanked his colleagues for their support over the years.

"In the years to come, I have full confidence in the Force and deeply believe that serving officers, under the leadership of Tang King-shing, will continue uphold our fine traditions, build upon our strengths and overcome the challenges they will face in the future," he added.