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The following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the Fight Crime Conference 2000 today (December 2):

Chairman, ladies and gentlemen,

Today marks the 9th Fight Crime Conference. I am delighted to join you all here at the Conference.

Hong Kong is our home. Each and every member of the community has a role to play in fighting crime and maintaining law and order. We should work with great efforts for the sustained prosperity and stability of our society to enable Hong Kong to remain a world city where people all enjoy a prosperous and peaceful life. This is never an easy task. But building on our solid foundation with the concerted efforts of the Government and the entire community, we will surely be able to achieve our goal.

Under the leadership of the Chief Secretary for Administration, the Fight Crime Committee is always committed to the combat against crime and has made tremendous achievements. Good public order is a key factor in maintaining the prosperity and stability of our society, attracting more investment, promoting further tourism and, most important, giving people assurance that Hong Kong is an ideal place to live and work in. In recent years, the public order of Hong Kong has been well maintained. The overall crime rate has been kept to a low level. Hong Kong remains one of the safest cities in the world. Thanks to our highly professional, dedicated and well-equipped police and other disciplinary forces, we have been able to enjoy good public order. But of course, the great efforts and determination of the entire community to fight crime are equally indispensable. I would like to take this opportunity to extend my heartfelt gratitude to members of the Fight Crime Committee, as well as the 18 District Fight Crime Committees for their constant support and active participation.

Looking into the future, the SAR Government is fully aware of the fact that the fight against crime will still be one of our important missions that demand resolution, perseverance and valour. I must stress that we are ready for all challenges. The Government will continue to render full support to all District Fight Crime Committees in fulfilling the vision of "Participation in the New Millennium For Fighting Crime". I am sure this Conference will help us gather valuable ideas and advice, and boost our confidence further to brave new challenges ahead. I would like to take this opportunity to wish the Conference every success.

Thank you very much.

End/Saturday, December 2, 2000

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