Chief Executive John Lee on Wednesday paid a community visit to Sham Shui Po District where he talked to residents to gather views ahead of his Policy Address next month.

Lee first came to Un Chau Estate in Cheung Sha Wan, spending about 15 minutes inside Un Shing House to check on an 88-year-old woman.

Lee said he was glad to hear that the elderly resident was satisfied with her recent follow-up check-up at an ambulatory care centre, saying that reflects the government's policy in promoting ambulatory care service had achieved results.

Ambulatory care surgery allows patients to undergo procedures and return home the same day without an overnight hospital stay.

Lee then headed to a nearby elderly centre to learn about the various types of activities and services provided there before taking to the streets to chat with residents.

Many locals expressed excitement about his visit, with some taking the chance to snap a selfie with the city's leader.

"He really shows his care for us elderly, and the government is doing a good job," one resident said.

Others urged Lee to "strive for the public's welfare."

Lee promised that the government would keep building on its efforts, saying that "there's no best, only better."

Lee noted that many elderly residents have lived in the estate for a long time and share a deep connection with the neighbourhood.

The chief executive encouraged seniors to stay active and reminded them that the local district health centre offers a wide range of primary healthcare services.

During his walk, Lee came across a community sports event and decided to try out an exercise bike.

Lee said while he enjoys exercising, he rarely gets the chance due to his busy schedule.

He also chatted with one of the participants, a secondary school student, telling him that young people are the future of Hong Kong.

"It was my first time meeting the chief executive," said the student, surnamed Kong.

"I thought I'd be really nervous, but once we started talking, it felt like chatting with a friend.”

Lee also visited a 1823 contact centre to learn about how the 24-hour hotline applies AI tools to expedite the handling of public enquiries.

Officials including Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs Alice Mak, Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau and Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong joined Lee in different parts of his visit.



Edited by Tony Sabine