HONG KONG – Secretary for Justice Paul Lam Ting-kwok said on Saturday that the rule of law is the cornerstone of Hong Kong’s success, with the city’s police force being the first line of defense in upholding it.
Policing is not only about enforcing the law but, more importantly, about providing assurance to citizens and creating a safer society through its operations, he said at the passing-out parade for 34 probationary inspectors and 165 recruit police constables at the Hong Kong Police College.
He witnessed their official transition from trainees to law enforcers, taking on the responsibility of serving and protecting society with utmost professionalism.
Pointing out that Hong Kong is at the crucial stage of advancing from stability to prosperity, the justice chief said despite the challenges ahead, he has full confidence in the graduates, who have undergone the most professional training and have shouldered the expectations of the community.
The challenges in policing nowadays have become increasingly complex, he said, adding that whether it is safeguarding national security, combating technology crimes, or managing large-scale events, police officers have to possess legal knowledge and be able to make the right decisions in dynamic environments.
A harmonious and stable society is built upon mutual trust between the police and the community, Lam said. He expressed his hope that every graduate would carry out their duties in the future with fairness and impartiality, safeguarding the rule of law while attending to the needs of the public.
Identifying the graduates as the future of the Hong Kong Police Force and the special administrative region, he encouraged them to stay true to their original aspirations.
They should uphold the rule of law and serve the people in the spirit of the HKPF’s motto “Serving Hong Kong with Honour, Duty and Loyalty”, the secretary said, encouraging them to steadfastly contribute to safeguarding national security and ensuring the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong.