CE says Five-Year Plan aims to benefit all

Chief Executive John Lee announced Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan on Thursday, emphasizing that the plan aims to improve the well-being of the entire population, not just certain individuals. The blueprint, alongside the annual Policy Address, addressed a range of concerns, including the city's low birth rate, housing supply, youth opportunities, and employment.

Leaving birth rate discussions, Lee stated that the government would do its best to support people who wish to have children. The plan proposes 11 measures to boost fertility, such as extending the HK$20,000 newborn cash incentive for an additional three years. He acknowledged that reversing the decline in birth rate is challenging and a global issue.

To address this, the government needs to create a comprehensive environment that fosters fertility, aiming to make people aware that the government encourages childbirth and reduces obstacles.

Regarding the economy, Lee expressed a positive outlook, but he acknowledged that individual and industry conditions vary. He assured that the government would provide maximum support to prevent disparities in benefits. Lee emphasized the importance of correctly targeting support, such as social welfare, and providing assistance where needed. However, there might be instances where direct individual targeting through a single measure is not possible; in such cases, policies must influence people through broader measures.

For youth support, Lee revealed a two-year HK$30,000 Youth Employment and Internship Programme, launched with the business sector, to aid youth employment and development, particularly for those with limited or no work experience. He explained that simply handing out cash is not a solution, as "if you write a cheque, you also have to settle the bill."

Lee affirmed that the current policy is appropriate, acknowledging that the government must balance risk management, particularly concerning AI's misuse, such as fraud, bullying, and deepfake crimes. The Law Reform Commission would study legislation on AI misuse.

Lee highlighted the government's focus on educating students about AI's correct use and enhancing their AI literacy. A dedicated task force would be established to review risks associated with minors' social media use, including interaction with AI, and assess the need for targeted solutions, including legislative and administrative measures.