John Lee, Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), began delivering his second Policy Address at the Legislative Council on Wednesday (Oct. 25) morning.
Lee said they will press ahead with the digitalization of government services, using artificial intelligence (AI) and opening up more government data to accelerate the development of the digital economy. The Digital Economy Development Committee, chaired by the Financial Secretary, is conducting studies on digital infrastructure, cross-boundary data flow, digital transformation of enterprises and human resources support. The Committee will put forward its recommendations early next year.
According to Lee, the government will set up the Digital Policy Office by merging the existing Office of the Government Chief Information Officer and the Efficiency Office. Led by the Commissioner for Digital Policy, the new office will be responsible for formulating policies on digital government, data governance and information technology.
It will consolidate information technology-related resources within the Government, promote the opening up of data and co-ordinate with departments to offer more digital services, he added.
Lee mentioned that before the end of this year, the Government will publish administrative guidelines to facilitate data flow and ensure data security to drive digital-based development.
"From 2024, we will launch over a hundred digital government initiatives to promote digital government and the smart city. These projects include: issuing and verifying certain licenses and certificates electronically by using blockchain technology; enhancing security in public cargo areas by employing AI technology; providing automated parking systems in newly completed government car parks and short-term tenancy car parks; providing electronic payment options for all government fees within one year; developing smart search-and-rescue mobile applications; and enhancing the 1823 inquiry service through AI chatbot," he said.
The HKSAR government will collaborate with the Guangdong Provincial Government to develop the "Digital Bay Area". Efforts include promoting the "Cross-boundary Public Services" initiative, under which HK residents can log into the Guangdong Government Service Network with "iAM Smart", while Guangdong and HK residents can use the self-help kiosks rather than having to access government services in person, Lee added.
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