HONG KONG - The National Security Law for Hong Kong is “a solid shield” protecting the special administrative region, safeguarding the successful implementation of "one country, two systems", Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki said on Sunday.

Chan also said that the law protects the well-being of Hong Kong residents during a speech at a flag-raising ceremony held by the Security Bureau at the Fire and Ambulance Services Academy to mark the 5th anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the NSL.

The bureau led disciplined services, youth groups of the disciplined services and auxiliary services and, for the first time, collaborated with youth uniformed groups subvented by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau to hold the ceremony, which aimed to enhance public understanding of the NSL and deepen awareness of safeguarding national security.

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Addressing the ceremony, Chan pointed out that the promulgation and implementation of the NSL have laid a solid legal foundation for safeguarding national sovereignty, security, and development interests.

Praising the disciplined services for their commitment to implementing the holistic approach to national security and dedication to ensuring national security and social stability, Chan encouraged young people to be the future pillars of the country and expressed hope that the whole community would continue to work together to protect national security.

During the event, the Police Band, disciplined services ceremonial guard, and youth uniformed groups marched in with Chinese-style foot drill. The Fire Services Department's flag party conducted the flag-raising ceremony during the playing and singing of the national anthem, accompanied by a fly-past by a helicopter of the Government Flying Service. The ceremony concluded with a performance by the Police Band.

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Following the flag-raising ceremony, Chan officiated the award presentation for the Security Bureau and disciplined and auxiliary services' literature and art creation competition commemorating the 5th anniversary of the NSL. The competition encouraged service members to create artistic works conveying how the NSL fortifies the safeguarding of national security and protecting social stability.