Secretary for Justice Paul Lam today officiated at the opening ceremony of the “5th Anniversary of Promulgation & Implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law Thematic Exhibition” at the Museum of History.

Mr Lam reiterated the three "must-nots" – must not forget history, turn a blind eye to reality and stand idly by.

He said traditional Chinese wisdom has it that “history, if not forgotten, can serve as a guide for the future”.

“We all surely remember the 2019 legislative amendment turmoil, which posed a grave threat to national security and severely undermined the peaceful and stable environment we took for granted.”

Mr Lam also stated that “remain vigilant in times of peace” is another traditional Chinese wisdom.

“Although Hong Kong society has restored stability and national security, threats are often not immediately visible. It is obvious that hostile states and forces continue to try to suppress our country's development.

“Since national security is closely related to individuals’ well-being, people must naturally take concrete steps and shoulder responsibilities in safeguarding national security.”

Mr Lam pointed out that a robust legal system has long been the cornerstone of Hong Kong's success. It is the prerequisite for the city to thrive as an international financial, trade, and shipping centre.

On the foundation of three “must-nots”, Hong Kong must uphold the rule of law in safeguarding national security, he added.

Also officiating at the ceremony, Secretary for Security Tang Ping-keung said safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests is not only a constitutional duty of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, but also a fundamental obligation of every citizen.

Mr Tang further stated that hostile forces have not given up and he reminded citizens to remain vigilant against the risks.

The security chief explained that external hostile forces continue to attempt to undermine national security through smears and "sanctions" while anti-China destabilising elements in the city who have fled overseas continue to engage in activities and behaviours that threaten national security.

Local terrorism and "soft resistance", where individuals with ulterior motives exploit fake news and misinformation to divide society and incite hatred are the other risks, Mr Tang added.

The exhibition is now open, with the aim to facilitate the public's understanding of and appreciation for the hard-won situation that Hong Kong is now enjoying, and to motivate all to work together to help the city shine on the global stage.