Safe city: Chief Executive Donald Tsang speaks at the Fight Crime Conference.

Chief Executive Donald Tsang says enforcement agencies will maintain vigilance to ensure Hong Kong's security as the city's economy and people's livelihood are affected by the global financial turmoil.

Speaking at the Fight Crime Conference today Mr Tsang said Hong Kong successfully overcame various economic and public health challenges in the past and such experience and the concerted efforts of the whole society will allow the city to maintain its status as the safest in Asia.

Chief Secretary for Administration Henry Tang said Hong Kong's crime figures remain low, with overall crimes reported in the first 10 months down 2.5% on the same period last year and violent crimes falling 2.8%. However, youth drug abuse has become more and more serious, with young abusers surging 34% in the three years ending 2007.

The Task Force on Youth Drug Abuse has proposed introducing legislation allowing compulsory testing of people suspected of consuming drugs. Mr Tang reiterated the proposal will allow identification of young drug abusers and early intervention for treatment and rehabilitation, instead of facilitating prosecution.