Government plans Hong Kong handover 30th anniversary events
AM730 · 3 SOURCESabout 4 hours ago5 MIN
Summary
Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak Mei-kuen (麥美娟) said on October 14 that the Hong Kong government is fully advancing preparations for celebrations marking the 30th anniversary of the city's return to Chinese sovereignty next year. Replying to a lawmaker's question in the Legislative Council, she said detailed arrangements would be announced in due course once plans are finalized. Mak said the programme will cover a wide range of areas and incorporate national education elements. She also said the government wants the celebrations to showcase Hong Kong's distinctive role under “one country, two systems” and its opportunities under the national 15th Five-Year Plan.
Key Points
- Mak made the remarks on October 14 in the Legislative Council while replying to a question from lawmaker Chan Yung (陳勇) about the 30th anniversary celebrations
- Under Chief Executive instructions, the government has set up a steering committee chaired by the Chief Secretary to provide overall direction for planning.
- A task group chaired by the Deputy Chief Secretary operates under the steering committee, while a project planning office has been created to support implementation.
- Policy bureaux and departments are preparing a series of diverse activities for a full rollout in 2027, covering different sectors and themes.
- Mak said the events will deepen public understanding of national and Hong Kong history, strengthen national identity and belonging, and promote patriotic sentiment.
Why It Matters
The anniversary programme is being positioned not only as a commemorative exercise but also as a government-wide public messaging effort about identity, history and Hong Kong's place within national development. For Hong Kong residents, the eventual programme will indicate how the administration intends to combine celebration, civic education and international promotion ahead of 2027.