Speaking to the media after succeeding Raymond Siu on Wednesday, Chow emphasised the importance of enhancing public awareness of national security.
“After five years of the enactment of the national security law, I think, still, the society or even some members of the public… we want them to understand more about what we mean by national security,” he said.
“This is by far the most important because after all we understand… if we don’t have any national security, I don’t think that we have a very stable society at all.”
The police chief also said he would prioritise smart policing initiatives by leveraging technology to improve operational efficiency, work effectiveness and the quality of services.
He also highlighted the need to cultivate cohesion within the force by fostering shared values and belonging through improved career development opportunities and more comprehensive support to officers.
When asked about recent sanctions imposed on his predecessor, Chow stressed the importance of focusing on enhancing police operations amid adversity, rather than succumbing to fear.
“I think everyone can see that the US government has used sanctions, which is a barbaric tactic, in an attempt to intimidate public officials, especially members of the police force,” he said.
“Its objective is to suppress us and divert our focus from national security.
“This very reaction underscores that the measures we are implementing are effective and successful. Thus, it becomes even more important for us to intensify our efforts”
Chow added that he will lead the police force with unwavering courage to confront the challenges.
