Professor Daniel Shek has been appointed the Action Committee Against Narcotics chairman for two years from January, the Security Bureau says.

Prof Shek works at the Chinese University of Hong Kong's Department of Social Work, and is a renowned veteran in the anti-drug field and experienced in community and welfare services.

Five new committee members and three new ex-officio members have also been appointed and 11 members reappointed on the same tenure.

The new appointees are Dr Cheng Chi-man, Dr Susan Fan, Sylvia Siu, So Lai-chun and Sylvia Yau. They are from fields including education and parents' associations, to enlist broader representation and to help in planning and implementing anti-drug programmes.

The Director of Social Welfare, Secretary for Education and the Commissioner of Police, or their representatives, will join the committee to enhance its collaboration with other government departments.

Serving committee chairman Dr Choi Yuen-wan and members Scarlett Pong and Dr Wong Sing-wing - who have all served for six years - will retire.

Commissioner for Narcotics Sally Wong paid tribute to them for their contribution and untiring commitment in the fight against drugs.