Chief Executive John Lee on Saturday said the opening up of Sha Tau Kok has boosted the economy and put smiles on people's faces.

Designated as part of the Frontier Closed Area in 1951, Sha Tau Kok was only accessible to people with a special permit.

But since January 1, the area has been open for tour groups and individual visits with up to 1,000 entry permits per day.

Speaking at the second phase opening-up ceremony, Lee said an important milestone was reached.

"I am thrilled to see that many residents have welcomed this project, which has brought vitality and momentum to Sha Tau Kok. It has also boosted the local economy and increased the number of visitors. Residents are happier, and tourists are also very excited to visit areas that were previously closed," he said.

The CE added that the Sha Tau Kok pier has attracted more than 860 tour groups and 34,000 visitors since it first opened in June 2022.