Chief Secretary for Administration and Chairperson of the Commission on Children Eric Chan Kwok-ki speaks at the the CoC's "Walk with Kids" stakeholder engagement event on Nov 18, 2023. (PHOTO / INFORMATION SERVICES DEPARTMENT, HKSAR GOVT)

HONG KONG - Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki said on Saturday that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government will strive for the early passage of the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Bill and the full implementation of a mandatory reporting mechanism for child abuse cases.

In a speech during the "Let's T.A.L.K. & Walk with Kids" Child Protection Campaign Award Presentation Ceremony 2023, Chan said it will take both government efforts and community participation to ensure a safe and stable environment to foster the development of the next generation.

Chan said that one of the key initiatives is the establishment of a mandatory reporting mechanism to ensure early identification and intervention of serious child abuse cases

He noted that Commission on Children he chairs has been consulting policy bureaus, departments and all sectors of society to provide advice and suggestions in building a consensus.

Apart from launching publicity and promotional activities, the commission also continues to explore and push for the implementation of various policy initiatives to enhance child protection.

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Chan said that one of the key initiatives is the establishment of a mandatory reporting mechanism to ensure early identification and intervention of serious child abuse cases.

“The government has introduced the relevant bill into the Legislative Council. We will fully assist in its scrutiny and strive for its early passage and the full implementation of the mechanism,” he added.

Apart from strengthening relevant support measures, including drawing up a Mandated Reporters' Guide and providing training for different categories of mandated reporters on their statutory obligation, the government will also increase the number of residential child care and foster care service placesto provide emergency placement for children in need.

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Chan added that the government will continue to join with all sectors of society in steadfastly implementing the Youth Development Blueprint, which will enable the next generation of Hong Kong to widen their horizons and grasp opportunities to unleash their potential and build a better Hong Kong.