The first batch of visitors to Hong Kong’s inaugural national security-themed gallery said they were impressed by its rich content and valuable exhibits, and that the visit enhanced their understanding of the importance of national security in safeguarding the city’s stability and prosperity.

Located in the Hong Kong Museum of History in Tsim Sha Tsui, the national security exhibition gallery opened to the public on Wednesday, offering free admission.

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Spanning over 1,100 square meters, the gallery comprises six zones that offer insights into the establishment of the People’s Republic of China, the legislation of Hong Kong’s national security laws, and the central government’s support for the city.

Before the museum opened, dozens of people formed a line outside to gain admission. Once open, the gallery bustled with young people, the elderly and foreigners who had come to explore the exhibits.

Hsu Yan-ling, a Secondary 4 student from the Chinese Foundation Secondary School in Chai Wan, said that the visit allowed her to put the knowledge she has learned in her class into context.

Hsu said she was most impressed by the 5-meter-long and 3.3-meterwide national flag and the display of the national emblem and anthem lyrics in the Motherland and Hong Kong Hall.

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Local resident May Leung said she was excited to see the opening of an exhibition gallery in the city dedicated to national security.

She said she felt deeply moved to learn about Hong Kong’s gradual advancements in national security when visiting the exhibition.

After experiencing the chaos of the 2019 social unrest, which she said had profoundly affected her life, Leung said she recognizes the crucial need for the city to maintain societal stability.

Leung added that she was happy to see many children and young people exploring the gallery, and said that she plans to bring her grandchildren to the exhibition in the future.

“It is necessary to instill the values of national security in children, so that they can foster a deep-rooted love for their homeland while they are growing up,” she said.

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Pau Wai-ming, a visitor in his 60s, said the exhibition reflects the current close and profound bond between Hong Kong and its motherland.

Visiting the exhibition has provided him with the opportunity to reflect on the country’s modern history and the entire process of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland, Pau said.

The exhibition is a worthwhile endeavor as it raises residents’ awareness of the importance of national security, Pau said, adding that national security is fundamental to every Hong Kong resident’s safety at home.

Contact the writers at fangxue@chinadailyhk.com