Security Secretary Chris Tang on Monday said Hong Kong’s disciplined services are doing their part to help the city’s youth learn more about the country and strengthen their sense of national identity, as the government ramps up its efforts to enhance national education.

In a speech at a flag raising ceremony at Pui Kiu Middle School to celebrate the 25th anniversary of Hong Kong's return to the motherland, Tang said such ceremonies can heighten students' sense of national identity and pride, as well as their loyalty to the country.

“The national flag represents the dignity of a country and fully reflects its sovereignty and values,” he said.

Tang said all six disciplined services offer various activities and training opportunities for young people that not only teach them about the importance of discipline and the need to abide by the law, but also help them understand more about the country and strengthen their sense of citizenship.

Speaking at the same ceremony, Education Secretary Christine Choi noted that President Xi Jinping had stressed the importance of caring for Hong Kong’s youth during his visit to the SAR, and pledged that her bureau would strengthen national education to deepen young people's understanding and sense of belonging to the country.

This, she said, would “allow students not only to gain the knowledge and skills they need, but cultivate a sense of social responsibility along with a national vision and perspective, [to become] a new generation of people who love their country and their home.”