Holistic Development and Security Approach to Enhance Hong Kong's Governance and Resilience

Full text of the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026-2030) (8)

Part 6 Adopt a Holistic Approach to Development and Security, Enhance Public Governance Efficacy

6.1 Security is the prerequisite for development, whereas development reinforces security. We will adopt a holistic approach to development and security, so as to drive a shift towards a prevention based model for security governance of the city, enhancing the resilience of the economy and society. While spearheading various initiatives with a reform oriented mindset, we will enhance the risk alert mechanism, step up inter departmental collaboration, map out division of work and responsibilities, do away with unreasonable restrictions and cumbersome procedures, so as to induce development impetus. By leveraging new technologies such as AI, we will promote the digitalisation and intelligentisation of public administration, so as to empower and enhance management standards through technology. We will persistently take forward reforms to the civil service system, with a view to building a team of civil servants that is professional, highly efficient and with patriotic fervour and love for Hong Kong.

Chapter 26 Enhance Security Governance

Section 1 Safeguard National Security

6.2 We will continue to improve the HKSAR's legal system and enforcement mechanisms to safeguard national security, with a view to, in strict alignment with our country's national security framework, establishing the HKSAR's legal system, strategic system, policy system, as well as risk prevention and control system for safeguarding national security under the principle of "one country, two systems". Under the guidance of the holistic national security approach, we will enhance the synergy and collaboration among various government departments to fiercely combat infiltration, sabotage, subversion, and separatist activities by overseas hostile forces and local anti China destabilising forces, thereby ensuring national security and social stability.

6.3 We will strengthen the top level structure to robustly safeguard national security under an authoritative chain of command. We will consolidate and enhance the role of the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the HKSAR in effectively assuming its primary responsibility for safeguarding national security, and actively prevent, suppress, and impose punishment for acts and activities endangering national security, thereby further building up a solid defence for national security in Hong Kong. We will continue to strengthen the duty of the Committee for Safeguarding National Security of the HKSAR to support the National Security Adviser and the Office for Safeguarding National Security of the Central People's Government in the HKSAR in carrying out the mandates for safeguarding national security in accordance with the law.

6.4 We will resolutely ensure that laws are observed and strictly enforced to bring offenders to account. We will enhance the national security risk monitoring and warning regime as well as the emergency response mechanism for major incidents, while strengthening synergy and collaboration among government departments. We will ensure the synergisation between the Law of the People's Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region and relevant local laws, while rigorously carrying out national security related law enforcement, and earnestly upholding the authority and dignity of laws on national security.

6.5 We will strengthen national security education, and put in place a regularised, diversified, and all encompassing national security education and publicity system through a multipronged strategy. We will continue to raise civil servants' self awareness of safeguarding national security, while actively promoting national security knowledge at schools, communities, and enterprises. In the meantime, we will strengthen national security education promotion programmes targeting young people to foster their sense of nationhood, national affection and national identity.

6.6 We will review and improve counter terrorism strategy in Hong Kong, continuously monitor the global terrorism trend and counter terrorism measures, develop specialised counter terrorism training, and optimise various contingency plans. We will also deepen cooperation and exchanges at cross-boundary and international levels, in addition to the expansion of community intelligence networks, with a view to comprehensively enhancing Hong Kong's overall counter terrorism deployment and preparedness, and enhancing counter terrorism governance capabilities.

Table 40 Enhancing Counter-Terrorism Governance Capabilities

1. Strengthening inter-departmental coordination and cooperation Conduct an average of 120 counter-terrorism exercises of different types annually over the next five years, so as to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and co-operation, as well as to test and enhance capabilities in the areas of counter-terrorism intelligence gathering and analysis, response and recovery, etc.

2. Large-scale inter-departmental counter-terrorism exercises Through relevant working groups under the Counter-Terrorism Three-tier Prevention Framework², make preparations for a large-scale inter-departmental counter-terrorism exercise every 12 to 18 months, which will serve as an interim target and a milestone for reviewing the effectiveness of counter-terrorism exercises.

• Conduct an average of 120 counter-terrorism exercises of different types annually over the next five years, so as to strengthen inter-departmental coordination and co-operation, as well as to test and enhance capabilities in the areas of counter-terrorism intelligence gathering and analysis, response and recovery, etc.

• Through relevant working groups under the Counter-Terrorism Three-tier Prevention Framework², make preparations for a large-scale inter-departmental counter-terrorism exercise every 12 to 18 months, which will serve as an interim target and a milestone for reviewing the effectiveness of counter-terrorism exercises.

6.7 We will advance technological empowerment for national security, and enhance national security capability building in key areas and emerging domains. We will bolster our cybersecurity defence system by deepening the HKSAR Government's cybersecurity protection, collaboration, and emergency coordination mechanisms.

We will also work in collaboration with institutions in the Mainland and overseas to identify at an early stage the emerging international cyber threats and attack trends, so as to boost our capabilities in ensuring cybersecurity. Meanwhile, we will strengthen the system security and overall resilience of critical infrastructures on all fronts.

6.8 We will safeguard the computer system security of critical infrastructures for maintaining the normal functioning of society, so as to enhance the overall security of Hong Kong's computer systems. In addition to enhancing the framework for data governance, we will proactively align with the safety rules for national and international data to facilitate synergy and collaboration in areas such as standards, technology innovation, and information sharing, etc. We will also enhance the comprehensive management of cyber space and data security.

Section 2 Strengthen Disaster Prevention,Mitigation,and Response Capabilities

6.9 We will develop a smart city management system, leveraging AI to comprehensively enhance the efficacy of city management and security governance. We will proactively explore developing an "AI City Brain" integrated city management system with the use of new technologies such as AI, big data, and the Internet of Things, etc. for real time inter departmental data sharing and smart analysis. Real time perception, risk alert, instant prediction, and synergised processing will be realised in the management and operation of the city, thereby creating an intelligent hub for city management and security governance. We will enhance the resilience of the city through new technologies, so as to lay a solid foundation for the sustainable economic and social development amid the new round of technological revolution.

Table 41 Developing a Smart City Management System

1. Exploring the development of Hong Kong’s "AI City Brain" integrated city management system Explore the development of Hong Kong’s "AI City Brain" integrated city management system with the use of new technologies such as AI, big data, and the Internet of Things, etc., making high-quality contributions to the enhancement of management efficacy and security of our city.

2. Fostering digitalisation and upgrading of infrastructure resilience Capitalise primarily on aerospace satellite remote sensing, phased array radars, integrated high-density three-dimensional land-sea surveillance networks, and AI frontier technologies, to promote sharing of data and information networks with the Mainland, so as to enhance the capabilities of quick assessment and information dissemination in case of inclement weather and earthquake hazards. Conduct R&D on AI model for a smart flood forecast and alert system, which can consolidate real-time hydrometric, precipitation, and tidal data for quick simulation of flood scenarios. Foster the digital intelligence transformation of traditional infrastructures such as transport, energy, drainage, water supply, and communications, etc., and introduce technologies of digital twin, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance.

3. Leveraging the Internet of Things Fire Detection System to enhance building fire safety standards Actively promote the installation of the Internet of Things Fire Detection System as well as specified fire service installations and equipment, as an alternative solution for old buildings to enhance fire safety standards under the statutory requirements. Actively encourage voluntary installation of the Internet of Things Fire Detection System in other suitable buildings to further enhance the overall fire safety standards.

4. Leveraging AI in the Transport Sector Set up a traffic management platform to enhance the overall efficiency of the transport network. Leverage big data analytics and AI to predict traffic fluctuations, identify bottlenecks, and formulate contingency plans, thereby assisting in traffic management and transport planning.

• Explore the development of Hong Kong’s "AI City Brain" integrated city management system with the use of new technologies such as AI, big data, and the Internet of Things, etc., making high-quality contributions to the enhancement of management efficacy and security of our city.

• Capitalise primarily on aerospace satellite remote sensing, phased array radars, integrated high-density three-dimensional land-sea surveillance networks, and AI frontier technologies, to promote sharing of data and information networks with the Mainland, so as to enhance the capabilities of quick assessment and information dissemination in case of inclement weather and earthquake hazards.
• Conduct R&D on AI model for a smart flood forecast and alert system, which can consolidate real-time hydrometric, precipitation, and tidal data for quick simulation of flood scenarios.
• Foster the digital intelligence transformation of traditional infrastructures such as transport, energy, drainage, water supply, and communications, etc., and introduce technologies of digital twin, condition monitoring, and predictive maintenance.

• Actively promote the installation of the Internet of Things Fire Detection System as well as specified fire service installations and equipment, as an alternative solution for old buildings to enhance fire safety standards under the statutory requirements.
• Actively encourage voluntary installation of the Internet of Things Fire Detection System in other suitable buildings to further enhance the overall fire safety standards.

• Set up a traffic management platform to enhance the overall efficiency of the transport network.
• Leverage big data analytics and AI to predict traffic fluctuations, identify bottlenecks, and formulate contingency plans, thereby assisting in traffic management and transport planning.

6.10 We will comprehensively enhance fire safety governance efficacy and improve the relevant legislation and regulatory systems. While inspections and rectifications on fire safety risks will be made, we will implement an accountability mechanism, with a view to raising the awareness on fire and disaster prevention of responsible persons across all sectors. We will improve the response strategy for tackling major fire incidents, and enhance the structure and composition of professional rescue teams, so as to enhance firefighting and rescue capabilities under extreme conditions (including in skyscrapers) and maximise emergency response efficacy at major fire scenes continuously. We will pursue legislative amendments of the Fire Services Ordinance to comprehensively improve the fire safety legislation and regulatory systems, thereby enhancing the deterrent effect and enforcement effectiveness.

6.11 To comprehensively enhance building safety governance, we will focus on tackling aged and dilapidated buildings. We will reform building rehabilitation strategies, enhance the support for owners in technical, works tendering, and financial aspects, with an official organisation to gate keep the tender process through rigorous intervention, and combat corruption and bid rigging in maintenance works in a targeted manner. Through promoting preventive maintenance, early intervention, and the use of technology, we will assist owners in a holistic manner enabling them to conduct regular inspections and maintenance for aged and high-risk buildings. We will also amend the Buildings Ordinance to strengthen regulation of the maintenance works sector and increase penalty for non compliance, thereby enhancing professional conduct and upholding works quality.

6.12 We will deepen building management reform and develop a smart community network. We will strengthen the Government's coordination and involvement in building management, step up efforts to support owners' corporations and owners, leverage the platform of the District Councils to facilitate exchanges of management experience, promote the joint property management model² in an orderly manner, and encourage innovative application of smart management solutions.

6.13 We will strengthen flood control and drainage, shoreline management, and slope safety management. We will upgrade the overall flood control capabilities in the aspects of works, ecology, and digital intelligence, etc. We will review the stormwater drainage systems of Hong Kong systematically, implement the works for stormwater interception, rainwater storage, as well as drainage improvements, enhance the city's drainage and regulation capabilities in coping with frequent rainstorms and short duration heavy rainfall, and enhance the synergised layout of drainage networks and flood control facilities in districts. Through multi-layered protection design, flood risks in coastal areas brought by sea level rise and storm surge will be mitigated. In the meantime, we will continuously manage and control slope safety risks in a holistic manner.

6.14 We will deepen the overall prevention and control system for public law and order. We will step up efforts to prevent and combat telecommunications fraud and cyber fraud, drug offences, etc., and enhance the capabilities to intercept the supply of drugs at source at boundary control points and in the logistics chain. We will continuously promote anti deception and anti drug publicity and public education in the community to strengthen citizens' self awareness of guarding against drugs and deception. We will strengthen cross-boundary cooperation by collaborating with Mainland and overseas law enforcement agencies as well as police organisations to enhance intelligence sharing on newly emerged crimes, including cyber fraud and telecommunications fraud, thereby identifying and preventing cross-boundary crimes at an early stage.

6.15 We will strengthen inter departmental emergency coordination capabilities and community support mechanism. We will proactively and systematically step up regularised inspections on various public safety risks (in particular fire, flooding, typhoon, etc.) to identify potential hazards at source, thereby achieving "early identification, early warning, early response". We will refine the complaint mechanism for public safety matters, and transform public concerns into an entry point of risk management, so as to enhance the overall sense of security in the community through inter departmental collaboration. We will implement the "Emergency Responder Scheme" at the community level, and mobilise local organisations, voluntary groups, and residents' committees to participate in training sessions and drills on emergency response, thereby enhancing the resilience of the whole community in disaster prevention and mitigation, building

a "Safe Hong Kong".

6.16 We will strengthen the development and management of the emergency planning system and refine the HKSAR's emergency response mechanism under an overall safety and emergency response framework. We will comprehensively deepen Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao emergency response and rescue collaboration, and continuously enhance the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Ara Emergency Response and Rescue Operational Plan, thereby developing a systematic Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area emergency response mechanism to enhance the capabilities for effecting joint disaster prevention, mitigation, and relief, as well as responding to major public emergencies.

Chapter 27 Enhance Public Governance Capabilities

Section 1 Enhance the Civil Service System

6.17 We have put the "patriots administering Hong Kong" requirement into practice. We will improve the civil service training management system and formulate government wide training requirements. A regular cooperation mechanism for civil service training will be set up with relevant Mainland units, and close exchanges with relevant Mainland authorities will be maintained, with a view to strengthening the sense of "loving the country and Hong Kong" among civil servants, establishing the "people-oriented" philosophy of governance, deepening civil servants' understanding of national strategies, and broadening their international perspectives. This will build a civil service that is highly committed, dares to innovate, and moves with the times.

6.18 We will enhance our governance structure and performance management. We will build up and reinforce the Heads of Department Accountability System, enhance the civil service performance appraisal system, promote a civil service management system that is fair in giving out rewards and meting out punishments, and duly recognise civil servants who have strong sense of commitment, embrace innovation, and excel in performance. We will continue to enhance the use of manpower resources and build a more versatile and streamlined civil service. We will exercise strict control over the civil service establishment, leveraging process digitalisation and application of AI, so that the existing workforce will focus on high value strategic decision making and businesses, with a view to optimising the deployment and efficiency of manpower resources.

6.19 We will strive to build an efficient government. Through active recruitment and publicity, we will encourage talent with aspirations and commitment to join the Government. We will further entrench the people oriented service ethos in the civil service and gear our civil servants up for undertaking a "dual role", that is, while discharging their duties conscientiously, they should also be able to swiftly respond to major incidents by providing crucial support for cross-departmental response teams.

Section 2 Advance the Digitalisation and Intelligentisation of Public Administration

6.20 We will leverage AI technology to reform public administration. We will accelerate the implementation of AI projects by the Government and create more real world application scenarios, with a view to enhancing the efficacy of public administration. We will deepen the development and use of data resources and enhance AI and data governance by requiring bureaux and departments to make good use of departmental data catalogues and support a wider application of the Consented Data Exchange Gateway to promote data sharing within the Government, thereby providing more public services that better serve the public and the business sector.

Table 42 Leveraging AI to Enhance Public Services

1. Applying digital tools and technologies in creating a platform of big data analytics to enhance public housing management Progressively develop and consolidate a digital centralised estate management platform for in-depth integration of digital technology into daily management, thereby re-engineering processes in relation to estate management and maintenance, etc. for enhancing both the overall quality and effectiveness of public housing management. Introduce the Internet of Things and smart sensor technologies in PRH estates to conduct real-time monitoring of key infrastructure and common spaces round-the-clock, promoting the adoption of a data-driven estate management model to create a more secure, convenient, and comfortable smart living environment for residents.

2. Leveraging information technology to enhance safeguarding mechanisms and monitoring tools for optimal utilisation of PRH resources Adopt multipronged measures, including optimising the allocation of PRH units and facilitating transition to subsidised home ownership, etc., to encourage PRH tenants who have the means to move up the housing ladder and achieve home ownership, thereby increasing the turnover rate of PRH units to benefit more households in need. Leveraging information technology and data analytics to step up surveillance for combating PRH abuse to ensure that every PRH unit is allocated to those in greatest need, thereby safeguarding a fair, rational, and sustainable public resource allocation system.

3. Introducing new technologies to consolidate smart enforcement Leverage new technologies such as AI, big data, drones, and robotics, etc. to enhance work efficiency and efficacy of law enforcement agencies, build a more robust network to prevent and combat crime, and effectively carry out immigration control, while promoting clearance facilitation, thereby delivering better policing as well as customs and immigration services to the public, and consolidating safeguards for public order.

• Progressively develop and consolidate a digital centralised estate management platform for in-depth integration of digital technology into daily management, thereby re-engineering processes in relation to estate management and maintenance, etc. for enhancing both the overall quality and effectiveness of public housing management.
• Introduce the Internet of Things and smart sensor technologies in PRH estates to conduct real-time monitoring of key infrastructure and common spaces round-the-clock, promoting the adoption of a data-driven estate management model to create a more secure, convenient, and comfortable smart living environment for residents.

• Adopt multipronged measures, including optimising the allocation of PRH units and facilitating transition to subsidised home ownership, etc., to encourage PRH tenants who have the means to move up the housing ladder and achieve home ownership, thereby increasing the turnover rate of PRH units to benefit more households in need.
• Leveraging information technology and data analytics to step up surveillance for combating PRH abuse to ensure that every PRH unit is allocated to those in greatest need, thereby safeguarding a fair, rational, and sustainable public resource allocation system.

• Leverage new technologies such as AI, big data, drones, and robotics, etc. to enhance work efficiency and efficacy of law enforcement agencies, build a more robust network to prevent and combat crime, and effectively carry out immigration control, while promoting clearance facilitation, thereby delivering better policing as well as customs and immigration services to the public, and consolidating safeguards for public order.

6.21 We will empower integration of processes through digital intelligence to build an efficient and co ordinated smart government. We will promote wider adoption of the "digital first" principle in government processes, while strengthening the cloud infrastructure and common data platforms of the Government. We will expand the digital identity functions and one stop e services powered by "iAM Smart" and the Digital Corporate Identity (CorpID) Platform. We will expedite the application of AI and I&T in a safe and orderly manner within the Government to holistically enhance the efficiency and accuracy of decision making support and public service delivery. In the meantime, we will encourage local R&D in and practical application of more innovative solutions with respect to "Smart Mobility" and "Smart Living". We will also continue to promote the open data policy to actively provide data for the public through the Open Data Portal, thereby creating conditions conducive to smart city development.

Table 43 Empowering Process Integration through Digital Intelligence

1. Strengthening the role of "iAM Smart" as a one-stop mobile gateway for the public Continue to integrate e-government services into the single platform of "iAM Smart", which, coupled with the functions such as "mini programme" mode, digital documents, and "AI Assistant", etc., helps ensure "single portal for online government services", and continuously extend their application scenarios to public and private organisations, such as healthcare, property management and cross-boundary services.

2. CorpID Fully develop CorpID into a key infrastructure for Hong Kong's digital economy, providing all corporations with a unified and trustworthy framework with respect to digital identity and authorisation.It is expected that all corporate-related digital government services and government forms will support the use of CorpID within 2028.

• Continue to integrate e-government services into the single platform of "iAM Smart", which, coupled with the functions such as "mini programme" mode, digital documents, and "AI Assistant", etc., helps ensure "single portal for online government services", and continuously extend their application scenarios to public and private organisations, such as healthcare, property management and cross-boundary services.

• Fully develop CorpID into a key infrastructure for Hong Kong's digital economy, providing all corporations with a unified and trustworthy framework with respect to digital identity and authorisation.It is expected that all corporate-related digital government services and government forms will support the use of CorpID within 2028.

Chapter 28 Deepen Institutional Reforms

Section 1 Reform the Public Governance Implementation Mechanism

6.22 We will ensure effective implementation of policy measures. Various bureaux, departments, and relevant organisations will formulate specific work that are practicable, assessable, and subject to accountability. By coordinating resources and enhancing communication, we will rationalise critical workflows across different policy areas, departments, and procedures, so as to delineate clearly the division of work and responsibilities. In the light of specific policy requirements and objectives, we will endeavour to enhance procedures, workflows, coordination mechanisms, and allocation of resources. By streamlining arrangements and adopting a result oriented approach, we will take forward policies and key tasks more effectively.

Section 2 Reinforce Public Integrity as the Bedrock of Our Society

6.23 We will step up law enforcement efforts and continue to combat various types of corruption offences. We will spare no effort in investigating corruption and misconduct in public and private organisations with zero tolerance. We will deepen corruption prevention work, promote the better use of technology to strengthen internal supervision, refine power delegation, and upgrade operational management frameworks. Corruption prevention services will be provided for private organisations and non governmental organisations to enhance governance quality. In the meantime, we will reinforce integrity education, build a solid foundation for corruption prevention, and foster an integrity culture.

6.24 We will expand international and regional collaboration to showcase Hong Kong's strengths. We will enhance the strategic function of the Hong Kong International Academy Against Corruption and coordinate the establishment of a high-level regional anti corruption hub. We will deepen exchanges and cooperation with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime as well as anti corruption agencies worldwide. We will sign memoranda of understanding with anti corruption agencies of more countries and regions, delivering Hong Kong solutions in global anti corruption efforts and sharing the experience of the Independent Commission Against Corruption, so as to tell good stories of Hong Kong in fighting corruption.

Section 3 Strengthen the District Governance System

6.25 We will enhance the district governance structure with strengthened coordination. We will refine the high level coordination mechanism for the Steering Committee on District Governance and the Task Force on District Governance to coordinate the work of various bureaux and relevant departments on all fronts, with a view to proactively and efficiently addressing district governance issues of community concern, while ensuring the consistent and effective implementation of policy measures. We will also strengthen District Officers' capabilities in discharging their duties as the top representatives of the HKSAR Government at the district level by enhancing their coordination and execution capabilities.

6.26 We will enhance the efficacy of district governance by bolstering the support and resource assurance mechanisms. We will deepen the collaboration of the "troika" of district governance, i.e. District Councils, Care Teams, and the "three district committees"², and strengthen the mechanism for reaching out to residents and collecting their views to address their concerns and problems, so as to uphold the ethos of "actively responding to the people's aspirations". In recruiting and grooming talent for district governance, we will adhere to the principle of selecting the best candidates who are both able and virtuous so as to build a well structured, diverse, and inclusive district governance team and talent pool.

Part 7 Strengthen the Institutional Safeguards for Effective Implementation of the Five Year Plan

7.1 We will strive to enhance governance efficacy of the HKSAR to ensure the effective implementation of Hong Kong's Five Year Plan. By further refining our governance philosophy, adopting a more proactive and pragmatic approach, enhancing the coordination mechanism within the HKSAR Government, and strengthening collaboration across bureaux and departments, we will more effectively take forward and implement major works projects and policies, while enhancing policy continuity. We will better leverage the two pronged approach of "effective market" and "capable government", while fully stimulating enthusiasm, initiative, and creativity from all walks of life in society to participate in and monitor the Five Year Plan, ensuring the effective implementation of various tasks thereunder.

7.2 To strengthen the implementation mechanism, we will establish a framework where "Five Year Plan leads, Policy Address implements, Budget supports, annual report gives accounts", so as to advance each task in an orderly manner. We will also delineate division of labour and conduct dynamic monitoring, mid term assessment, as well as final reporting.

7.3 The Policy Address delivered by the Chief Executive each year will serve as an annual work plan for implementing the Five Year Plan. By adhering to the strategic directions and requirements laid down in the Five Year Plan, the annual Policy Address will set out key tasks as well as specific policy initiatives and projects, thereby translating medium and long term objectives into operable and assessable tasks broken down by phase. The implementation of the Five Year Plan will be monitored, assessed and checked regularly, with mid term adjustments to be made in light of actual circumstances.

7.4 The Budget will provide solid resource support for the implementation of the Five Year Plan and the annual Policy Address through various financial arrangements, public expenditures, and other arrangements facilitating the play of market forces. We will, on the principle of safeguarding the financial sustainability of the HKSAR Government, ensure sufficient funding support for strategic projects and sustained financial commitment in key areas.

7.5 The Chief Executive will report to the President of the People's Republic of China and the Central Government on the implementation of the Five Year Plan in the context of the annual duty visit to review its progress of implementation. By comparing against the objectives and indicators set out in the Five Year Plan, we will be able to methodically assess our performance and contemplate improvements, so as to constantly strengthen the efficacy of the Five Year Plan.

Concluding Remarks

With the support of the Central Government, the HKSAR Government formulated the first Five Year Plan for Hong Kong in less than a year. The Five Year Plan is of monumental significance. Not only is it an action agenda for Hong Kong to better integrate into and serve the overall national development, but also the strategic plan gearing up Hong Kong to capitalise on the aggregate advantages arising from the national and international opportunities, as well as a sustained pathway to enhancing social well-being. It is the blueprint for Hong Kong's economic and social development, a reform as well as a pivotal milestone for Hong Kong's new journey "from stability to prosperity".

Hong Kong's Five Year Plan dovetails with national strategies, consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong's existing strengths, strengthening emerging industries, and promoting the diversified development of industries, so as to provide more opportunities for our citizens, especially our young people. The Five Year Plan drives Hong Kong's high-quality development and allows us to continuously improve peoples livelihood, taking on people's ever growing needs for a better life as our fundamental objective.

We will stay committed to the "people-oriented" ethos, strive relentlessly to sustain economic development and enhance social well-being, so as to build a better Hong Kong!

²The Chief Executive Counter-terrorism Steering Group is the first tier (top tier), which steers and formulates counter-terrorism policies and directions; the Secretary for Security Counter-terrorism Co-ordinating Group, as the second tier, coordinates cooperation of bureaux/departments on counter-terrorism matters; and seven interdepartmental working groups, as the third tier, follow up on specific studies and carry out counter-terrorism work.

²It means through engaging local organisations with community networks and experience in building management, assisting old buildings in the district to jointly appoint a single property management company for collective management of the buildings, so as to share the management costs and obtain daily building management services at a more affordable rate, thereby improving the living environment.

²It refers to the Area Committees, the District Fight Crime Committees, and the District Fire Safety Committees.

Full text of "The Chief Executive's 2026 Policy Address" (1)

Chapter I Formulate the First Five-Year Plan and Start a New Chapter for Hong Kong

(A) Four-Year Review

1. The current-term Government has been in office for four years. During those four years, Hong Kong's economy has gone from negative growth of minus 3.7% to positive growth of 3.6% last year. For the first half of 2026, the economy even grew 5.1% year-on-year, marking the strongest half-year performance in almost five years. Total exports of goods also grew by over 26% year on year. Our Gross Domestic Product surpassed $3.3 trillion in 2025. The numbers of registered local and non-local companies both hit record highs, and the total amount of funds raised through initial public offerings (IPOs) is ranked among the world's top. Median monthly employment earnings among citizens have risen by a cumulative 20% over the past four years. Our achievements have won recognition around the world. We are consistently ranked as the world's freest economy. We have become the largest cross-boundary wealth management centre globally, and reclaimed our position as the world's third-largest international financial centre. Our world competitiveness ranking has climbed to second place, while we have jumped 10 places to rank fourth globally in talent competitiveness. We have been ranked third in education competitiveness, with five of our universities among the world's top 100.

2. Over the past four years, the Government has worked to resolve many deep-seated and long-standing problems, including regulating ride-hailing services by legislation to fill the legal vacuum that has existed for years; rationalising traffic flow among the three harbour crossings to relieve the chronic cross-harbour traffic congestion; enacting the Basic Housing Units Ordinance to eradicate substandard subdivided units (SDUs) in residential buildings in an orderly manner; launching Light Public Housing (LPH); shortening the Composite Waiting Time for Subsidised Rental Housing (CWT) by 1.3 years, from 6.1 years to 4.8 years, setting the lowest level in over eight years for two consecutive quarters; and combating the abuse of public rental housing (PRH) with over 10 000 units recovered, equivalent to two large public housing estates, enabling people to move into their flats sooner.

3. We have fully implemented the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong" and strengthened interactive exchanges between the Executive and the Legislature. We have improved governance at the district level, set up District Services & Community Care Teams (Care Teams) and visited more than 600 000 elderly households and households in need to enhance district support services.

4. We have introduced reforms to the approval system for drugs and medical devices, by establishing "primary evaluation" and preparing for the establishment of the Centre for Medical Products Regulation, enabling people to gain earlier access to more advanced treatment. We have also advanced primary healthcare development and strengthened chronic disease management, so that the public can benefit from early prevention and early treatment. In addition, we have introduced a reward scheme for the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme, allowing shared use of vouchers between spouses, and extending its application coverage to the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Furthermore, we have also improved manpower for public healthcare, brought in talent and started the preparation for establishment of the third medical school. The Chinese Medicine Hospital of Hong Kong (CMHHK) also commenced services.

5. We have abolished the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) offsetting arrangement; changed the Statutory Minimum Wage review frequency from biennial to annual; and improved the threshold under the continuous contract requirement from what has been commonly referred to as the "418" requirement to the "468" requirement. This enables more workers to receive greater protection.

6. The National Games was co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao for the first time and with great success. Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), following its grand opening, has quickly become one of the most popular sports and entertainment venues in the world. This has enhanced Hong Kong's capability and attractiveness in hosting large-scale sports events, concerts and other activities, boosting our mega-event economy.

7. Embracing a result-oriented approach, I transformed government culture, establishing a government-wide mobilisation mechanism. It has been activated in the aftermath of extreme weather and for large-scale drills, raising the Government's overall preparedness and emergency response capabilities.

8. The Government has brought violence to an end and restored social order and is handling key cases concerning offences endangering national security in accordance with the law. The Government has also completed local legislation for Article 23 of the Basic Law, gloriously fulfilling its constitutional responsibility, which took more than 26 years to accomplish, and establishing a comprehensive and effective shield for safeguarding national security. Hong Kong has further strengthened national security, maintaining the city's prosperity and stability, and creating a more stable and predictable environment for business and development.

(B) Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan

9. By formulating successive national Five-Year Plans, our country has thrived through sustained endeavour, and enhanced social development and livelihoods in each of its five-year periods, realising significant achievements that are impressive at a global level.

10. This year marks the opening year of the National 15th Five-Year Plan. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has formulated our first Five-Year Plan (the Five-Year Plan) to proactively align with the National 15th Five-Year Plan, seizing opportunities for development while better integrating into and serving the overall national development. In the thick of accelerating global changes not seen in a century, the vibrant momentum driven by our country's robust strength, enormous market and high-quality development presents Hong Kong with boundless opportunities. We will better develop our economy and boost social well-being, starting a bright new chapter for Hong Kong.

11. The Five-Year Plan is a forward-looking, strategic, and directional guiding document for Hong Kong, a blueprint for the city's economic and social development over the next five years. The Policy Address, meanwhile, is an annual report on the implementation of the Five-Year Plan, together with the Chief Executive's policy priorities for the year having regard to actual circumstances. The two documents are interconnected and inextricably related.

12. The Five-Year Plan is the blueprint for economic and social development. The Policy Address seeks to realise the blueprint by adjusting policy agenda and formulating work indicators annually, in response to the global environment as well as economic outlook and dynamics. It also sets out details of the key policy priorities, major works and infrastructure projects for the year.

13. Over the coming year, as we move ahead with the implementation of the Five-Year Plan, the Government will focus on the key policies and major projects set out in the Policy Address. Through the allocation of resources in the Budget and a cross-departmental co-ordination mechanism, we will regularly review progress and ensure the orderly implementation of objectives.

Chapter II Fully, Faithfully and Resolutely Implement the "one country, two systems" Principle

(A) Fully and Faithfully Implement

"One Country, Two Systems"

14. "One country, two systems" is the cornerstone of Hong Kong's long-term prosperity and stability, and we must stay committed to the cause. With a resolute commitment, we will continue to fully and faithfully implement the principles of "one country, two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy. Practical experience has proven that by upholding the principle of "one country" and leveraging the advantages of "two systems", Hong Kong is able to make better use of its strengths and seize the opportunities presented by our country's development, ensuring the steadfast and successful implementation of "one country, two systems".

(B) Safeguard National Security

15. The fundamental premise of the "one country, two systems" principle is to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests. In the face of intricate risks and complex challenges amid the accelerating changes not seen in a century, we must establish a bottom-line mindset to mitigate risks and hidden threats. Safeguarding national security is a never-ending process and a continuing mission of the HKSAR.

16. The successive implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance has provided better protection for the security of our country and Hong Kong. We will continue to improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security, upholding the unity of the Central Government's fundamental responsibility and the HKSAR's constitutional responsibility for safeguarding national security.

17. We will follow a holistic approach to development and security. Security must never be overlooked in promoting development. High-quality development must be safeguarded by high-level security; in turn high-level security must be underpinned by high-quality development.

18. Our implementation of measures safeguarding national security has brought a sense of stability, certainty and predictability to the market. Hong Kong is a "safe harbour", and a "safe harbour" is a "harbour for development". Security has become a clear advantage for Hong Kong's development.

19. To respect and abide by the national security laws is not only a responsibility, but also an obligation of each and every one of us. The HKSAR Government will continue to reinforce promotional and educational efforts in respect of national security. The National Security Exhibition Gallery, the first physical national security education base in Hong Kong, has attracted over 1.9 million visitors since its launch in August 2024. The Government will expand the gallery and enrich its contents to promote the concept that "security brings prosperity".

(C) Uphold and Enhance the Executive-Led System

20. The HKSAR Government will uphold its executive-led system and assume its main responsibility. It performs the roles and functions of a co-ordinator, facilitator and enabler, and enhances its working mechanism for advancing various areas of work through pragmatic and effective measures. These measures maintain social stability, support high-quality economic development, and enhance people's well-being.

21. Under the principle of executive-led governance, the executive authorities and the legislature check and balance and co-operate with each other. Both focus on jointly addressing social issues, developing the economy and improving people's livelihood.

(D) Implement the Principle of "Patriots Administering Hong Kong"

22. Since the improvement of the HKSAR's electoral system in 2021 and district governance system in 2023, the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong" has been fully implemented, providing solid institutional safeguards for the steadfast and successful implementation of "one country, two systems".

23. The HKSAR will devote its efforts to preparing for the Election Committee Subsector Ordinary Elections to be held on November 22 this year, as well as the Chief Executive Election and the District Council Ordinary Election next year. We will ensure that these elections are conducted in a fair, just, honest, safe and orderly manner.

24. We will strengthen patriotic forces with affection for the country and our city, placing particular emphasis on nurturing young people and uniting patriots from all sectors in the community. By establishing communication platforms, we will create a more extensive network of patriotic groups, working in unison to resolve challenges.

(E) Promote Patriotic Education

Strengthen Affection for and Sense of Belonging to the Country

25. We will align with the strategic initiative of "fostering virtue through education in the new era" under the 15th Five-Year Plan, as well as enhancing students' sense of national identity and building their cultural confidence. To that end, we will extend the promotion of activities for the Constitution and Basic Law Student Ambassadors Training Scheme to all publicly-funded primary and secondary schools. We will also launch a new national security education online platform to tie in with the updated Curriculum Framework of National Security Education in Hong Kong, and provide more learning and teaching resources as well as teacher training courses on national geography.

26. We will deepen patriotic education for young people by making good use of the Mainland's resources to deliver multi-faceted and content-rich exchange and internship activities as well as designating annual themes, such as the country's aerospace achievements and the supply of Dongjiang water to Hong Kong. This will enable young people to witness first-hand the country's development and achievements, deepening their understanding of the nation's history and culture as well as its enduring bond and kinship with Hong Kong.

Promote Hometown Culture

27. Since the launch of the Clansmen Culture Promotion Scheme in 2024, annual funding of $10 million has been provided to subsidise the organisation of activities in promoting hometown culture. The Scheme has so far funded over 100 such activities of clansmen associations. Starting from the 2027-28 financial year, the Government will continue to earmark funding of $10 million annually to support clansmen associations in organising more activities, with particular emphasis on deepening young people's understanding of and sense of belonging to their hometowns.

Enrich Patriotic Education Resources

28. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Long March. Yan'an is a sacred place of the Chinese revolution and the cradle of New China. With the support of the Central Government, we will list the Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall in Shaanxi Province as the second patriotic education base for the youth of the HKSAR in the Mainland, and encourage students and young people to visit the place for study. We will continue to communicate with relevant Mainland departments on the inclusion of more patriotic education facilities to enrich Hong Kong's patriotic education resources.

Establish a Museum to Showcase the Development and Achievements of Our Country

29. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) is collaborating with relevant national museums, including the National Museum of China and the Museum of the Communist Party of China, to take forward the preparatory work for the establishment of a museum in Kwu Tung North. The museum will focus on the development and achievements of our country, showcasing our country's rapid progress and remarkable achievements in such areas as technology, sports and culture. It will also highlight Hong Kong's role in national development and the unique advantages of "one country, two systems".

Promote Chinese Culture

30. The Chinese Culture Promotion Office has since its establishment in April 2024 organised various well-received exhibitions, with the Chinese Culture Festival and the General History of China Exhibition Series curated as annual flagship brands. The Chinese Culture Festival will continue to feature high-quality projects, showcasing profound traditional Chinese culture to tell the good stories of China to the world.

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