Official pledges to foster national identity through patriotic initiatives

Editor’s note: The National Security Law for Hong Kong, enacted on June 30, 2020, has become a cornerstone of the city’s restored stability. As its fifth anniversary approaches, China Daily interviews key architects involved to explore the landmark legislation’s lasting influence on Hong Kong’s governance and society

Hong Kong’s top culture official said the special administrative region government will step up efforts to identify and address “soft confrontations” hidden within cultural offerings, while also promoting patriotic education and fostering a stronger sense of national identity among residents.

With the implementation of the National Security Law for Hong Kong, the city has transitioned from chaos to stability, and authorities are now prioritizing patriotism and economic revival through cultural initiatives, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui told China Daily.

Law credited the legislation with pacifying social unrest in 2019 — which had threatened to undo decades of progress in the financial center — and restoring Hong Kong’s reputation as a safe and vibrant global hub.

The law also underpins Hong Kong’s continued success on the path ahead, she said, adding that the achievement merits global recognition.

ALSO READ: Technology, innovation boost cultural offerings

A stable and secure social environment has also given the pandemic-battered tourism industry a lift. In 2024, inbound visits surged by 31 percent year-on-year to over 44 million. The first five months of this year saw more than 20 million visitor arrivals, supported by blockbuster events like Coldplay’s concerts and the Hong Kong Sevens rugby tournament.

Yet challenges remain, she acknowledged, from rooting out “soft confrontations” within the cultural spheres to fostering a stronger national identity among younger generations.

Though declining violations prove the legislation’s effectiveness, she warned against complacency, saying, “We cannot forget the pain once the wound heals.”

Law highlighted the importance of making the detection of subversive content an “subconscious effort” for public servants, especially when reviewing publicly funded cultural projects and venue-based events.

A comprehensive understanding of national security is vital to identifying illegal content in artistic expression, she said.

Law said her team will strike a balance, strategically supporting high-quality cultural productions — from literature to performances — while simultaneously neutralizing security risks.

Landmark celebrations

This year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45) — a milestone that Hong Kong will commemorate through special exhibitions curated with a “correct historical perspective”, Law said.

She highlighted Hong Kong’s wartime contributions, particularly through local guerrilla forces such as the Hong Kong Independent Battalion of the Dongjiang Column, which connected the city to national resistance efforts.

“Countless unsung heroes risked everything to evacuate civilians and intellectuals to safety,” she said, emphasizing how these exhibits will “reinforce national identity and patriotism”.

Law said her bureau plans to revive this significant history through immersive experiences, such as inviting visitors to explore hiking trails featuring war relics.

More in-depth collaborations with the Chinese mainland authorities will elevate these efforts, Law said.

READ MORE: Law: Hong Kong is open, safe, and international

During an April visit to Beijing, she reached agreements with the National Museum of China and the Museum of the Communist Party of China over artifact loans and expert support, which will bolster her bureau’s national-identity-education programs, including the establishment of a museum that showcases the country’s development and achievements in the under-construction Northern Metropolis, and a Chinese Culture Experience Centre in the historic buildings of Kowloon Park.

Law said fostering cultural awareness can ultimately strengthen national security. She cited the launch of Hong Kong’s inaugural Intangible Cultural Heritage Month this month as a good example.

Through showcasing national treasures — including ethnic dances and Peking Opera — these initiatives aim to celebrate China’s rich heritage and boost cultural confidence among Hong Kong residents.

“As patriotism grows, people will naturally safeguard national security,” Law said.

Contact the writer at lilei@chinadailyhk.com