Hong Kong News-Expo Celebrates its Sixth Anniversary Secretary for Justice Mr Paul Lam Ting-kwok Attends Anniversary Forum

The Hong Kong News-Expo celebrated its 6th anniversary today (January 18) and invited Mr Paul Lam Ting-kwok, Secretary for Justice of the Hong Kong SAR, to officiate the celebration event and engage in a dialogue with Ms May Chan Suk-mei in the anniversary forum. This was Lam’s first visit to the Hong Kong News-Expo and he found the News-Expo rich in content and varied in style, showcasing the history and development of the journalism industry and hosting various thematic exhibitions and public talks.

Lam stated that Hong Kong is an international city with a high level of rule of law that has attracted a wide variety of talents, and as such we should cherish this place. When asked about issues regarding the perceptions of Hong Kong overseas, he believed they do not reflect the actual situation in Hong Kong. He felt confident that if foreigners come to visit Hong Kong, they would find Hong Kong to be a free and open society.  He also indicated that more international conferences will be held in the future to enhance communication with the outside world, and that we should respond actively when faced with questions.

Lam stated that as a global financial hub, Hong Kong should uphold the freedom of press and freedom of speech and embrace different opinions. “An international city should maintain free flow of information and I hope the journalism industry cherishes the freedom of press.” In face of problems concerning misinformation online, Lam asserted that citizens should develop critical thinking skills and beware of suspicious information, never blindly believing anything.

Regarding Hong Kong residents being lured to work at “scam centres” in Southeast Asia, Lam states, “Hong Kong enjoys freedom of movement, but there are already legislations that address human trafficking issues. The government will continue to review relevant legislations.” He emphasised that the government is determined to resolve this issue shifty and rescue the Hong Kong residents who were kidnapped.

Lam also visited the “Our Mental Health” thematic exhibition after the anniversary forum and expressed that Hong Kong citizens need to face their mental health squarely, especially the youth. “They should have the courage to face challenges and become stronger mentally. Citizens should exercise more and give themselves more space.” Lam added.

Photo Caption:

Photo 1: Mr Paul Lam Ting-kwok, Secretary for Justice engages in a dialogue with Ms May Chan Suk-mei in the anniversary forum.

Photo 2: Mr Paul Lam Ting-kwok states that as a global financial hub, Hong Kong should uphold the freedom of press and freedom of speech.

Photo 3: Mr Paul Lam Ting-kwok visits a thematic exhibition of the Hong Kong News-Expo.