Hong Kong authorities on Friday kicked off their first cybersecurity drill in a bid to enhance their defence capabilities.

The three-day event involves a number of government departments and public bodies handling cyberattacks carried out by some members of the IT industry.

Innovation and technology minister Sun Dong said cybersecurity is a cornerstone of the digital economy.

"Maintaining online security is an important part of promoting high-quality economic development and building smart cities. This long-term task is always ongoing, and never finished," Sun said in a speech marking the event.

"I sincerely hope that participating teams, as well as observing departments and organisations, will seize this opportunity to test yourself and improve."

Sun added that eight mainland cybersecurity firms with experience with such drills offered technical support and suggestions for this exercise.

The drill was organised by the Digital Policy Office and co-hosted by various departments, such as the police cybersecurity and tech crimes unit.

Officials did not reveal which government systems are involved in the drill.