Hong Kong’s national security efforts are still at the early stage of building systems and capabilities, according to Chief Executive John Lee.

In an interview with the Wen Wei Po and Ta Kung Pao newspapers, the CE summed up his work since taking office three years ago.

He said his administration has brought safety and stability to Hong Kong, and that the city has emerged from social disorder to stability and prosperity.

With the SAR marking the fifth anniversary of the implementation of the National Security Law at the end of the month, Lee said there's still a need to strengthen intelligence networks, adding that threats to national security are often highly concealed and sophisticated.

By gathering intelligence, the CE said Hong Kong can gain a better understanding of how national security can be undermined, including how financial resources, logistics and manpower could be used to harm Hong Kong.

He went on to say that awareness and alertness have to be raised among the people, hoping that safeguarding national security will become a culture.

Asked about his major achievements over the past three years, Lee said he has transformed the government’s culture to focus on results.

He said key performance indicators are listed in the policy address, with government goals and work progress all transparent to the public.

Officials are also more proactive and responsive, especially in dealing with emergencies, the CE said.

In terms of efforts to attract talent to the SAR, Lee stressed that Hong Kong has the edge with its open and tolerant attitude, on top of its quality education system and resources.

He said multiple SAR universities have made the top 100 in world rankings and offer a wide range of subjects.