On October 16, Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee presented his third policy address since taking office. During his address, he emphasized that reform is an ongoing process, without a defined endpoint. The new policy report aims to deepen reforms and uncover new growth opportunities.
In his speech at the Legislative Council, Lee reflected on how more than two years ago, when he was running for Chief Executive, he highlighted the need for a “spirit of change” and a commitment to further innovation. He shared his vision for a results-oriented government, which includes establishing performance indicators to transform the government culture. Some of the proposed innovative measures include forming support teams to enhance community services, launching an initiative to reduce the waiting time for public housing, and addressing intergenerational poverty among students living in sub-divided flats.
Lee expressed his belief in the necessity of continuous advancement and self-renewal, stating the importance of identifying changing circumstances, pursuing change, adhering to core values, and being adaptable to challenges and opportunities.
He noted that in the reform process, it is crucial to determine what must be built from scratch, what requires corrective measures, and what should focus on strengthening existing frameworks. Lee highlighted the need for a systematic perspective, being mindful of the relationships between the overall context and specific situations, as well as balancing immediate needs with long-term goals. He acknowledged the potential of learning from successful practices in other regions, while cautioning against blindly copying them due to differing foundations and systems. Therefore, reform plans must be timely and appropriately tailored to local contexts.
Since taking office, Lee assured that he has adhered to this philosophy in various areas, including the implementation of “One Country, Two Systems,” governance, economic development, and public welfare.
Lee reiterated that reform is an ongoing journey. This year’s policy address will further advance reforms and seek new growth points, such as establishing an international gold trading market, boosting high-value maritime services, developing a commodities trading hub, creating internationally recognized metal warehouses, implementing a development plan for the Lok Ma Chau Loop Innovation and Technology Park, and forming a task force to explore the low-altitude economy.
