Chief Executive John Lee said the city was at a pivotal moment in transitioning from stability to prosperity and emphasised that maintaining this trajectory required an unwavering commitment to national security.

Speaking at the 2025 Fight Crime Conference on Saturday, he said the national security landscape remains "complex and severe", making it essential to establish a robust security barrier for the nation's survival and development.

"We must uphold 'a holistic approach to national security', balance development and security and resolutely safeguard national security while persistently promoting high-quality development," Lee said.

"Safeguarding national security is the duty of every citizen and the obligation of the entire society. Only by building a strong barrier for national security can Hong Kong effectively respond to various risks and challenges."

Echoing this sentiment, Chief Secretary Eric Chan, who chairs the Fight Crime Committee (FCC), said that while Hong Kong is a stable and harmonious society that allows the government to focus on economic growth, vigilance is crucial.

"We absolutely cannot let our guard down, especially as Hong Kong is at a critical juncture of determined reform and innovation, actively integrating into the broader national development framework," he said.

"A safe and stable social environment is crucial. Therefore, we must remain vigilant and continue our efforts in safeguarding national security and combating crime and drugs to build a reliable and solid security barrier for the public."

Chan reported positive progress, stating that public understanding of national security has deepened and that the government has achieved tangible results in combating drugs and fraud.

The conference, which brings together members of the FCC and district committees, aims to exchange views on law and order and come up with new ways to fight crime.