To tie in with National Security Education Day on April 15 and celebrate the 180th anniversary of the Police Force’s establishment, the National Security Education Day & Hong Kong Police Force 180th Anniversary Police College Open Day was held at the Hong Kong Police College today.

The event aimed to promote public awareness of national security, enhance the cultivation of national identity and foster communication between Police and citizens while sharing joy and fun.

Addressing the event, Chief Executive John Lee noted that this year marks the 10th anniversary of President Xi Jinping’s proposal of the holistic view of national security, and is also the first National Security Education Day after enacting legislation on Article 23 of the Basic Law.

Lauding the Police Force as an important strength in safeguarding Hong Kong and national security as well as maintaining law and order and protecting citizens since its establishment in 1844, Mr Lee thanked the force on behalf of the Government and citizens for its contribution to Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability.

Commissioner of Police Siu Chak-yee supplemented that he believed the force would continue to safeguard national security and unite to fulfil its mission and strive for excellence.

Also speaking at the ceremony, Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Director Zheng Yanxiong highlighted that enacting Article 23 legislation is a significant achievement of the Hong Kong SAR in fulfilling its constitutional responsibility.

The enactment signifies that Hong Kong now possesses an impenetrable barrier to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, and consolidates as a united front to promote the city’s advancement from stability to prosperity, he stressed.

Mr Zheng also expressed hope that Police would keep in mind their mission to resolutely safeguard national security, and the steadfast and successful implementation of “one country, two systems”, and uphold the rule of law.

The open day kicked off with a grand show featuring music performances, driving demonstrations, a police dog show, and counter-terrorism drill.

To signify the inheritance of the force's professionalism, officers sealed memorable items in a time capsule which will be reopened after 20 years.

In addition, the open day featured four zones - Upholding National Security & Safeguarding Our City, Beyond 180 Years, Police Fun Zone, and Modern Police Professional.

Highlights included an upgraded “NS Express National Security Exhibition”, a virtual reality film showcasing the history of the force, a display of advanced equipment of elite units and police vehicles as well as the 17 police mascots gathering for the first time to meet and greet the public.

The Correctional Services Department, the Government Flying Service and the Immigration Department also held open days in support of National Security Education Day.