Lifelong learning, dedication to service and impartial application of the law are the three rules that I have followed throughout my service." So said Deputy Commissioner Mr Lau Yuk-kuen whilst reminiscing about his 37-year policing career. He is now on pre-retirement leave.

Deputy Commissioner Mr Lau Yuk-kuen at a PTS passing-out parade

"Such knowledge and experience has not only had a big impact on me as a person, but has also allowed me to understand the aspirations of all sectors of our community.

"During my time with the Force, I have had the chance to work in various formations where a multitude of different challenges have come my way. Police work has given me opportunities to meet people from all walks of life, and to work closely with colleagues with a view to developing long-term strategies for the Force in its efforts to deliver a better service to the public."

Mr Lau has commanded a variety of Police formations both in the Uniformed Branch and Crime stream. In recent years, he has overseen the Force's commitment to operations, support services, crime detection and security matters.

He believes that the professional training and unique working experience provided by the Force has helped its members to deal with an increasingly challenging mission.

Joining the Force in 1965, Mr Lau has witnessed many changes in the Force both in terms of its growth and professional development.

Unfailing efforts of members of the Force

"Today, the Hong Kong Police Force has gained a substantial international reputation for its professionalism and effectiveness. This has been achieved through the unfailing efforts of the Force's greatest asset, the men and women who work within the organisation. I would like to express my gratitude to all for their remarkable contribution to the tremendous achievements the Force has made.

"In the last 20 to 30 years, great improvements have been seen in the Force's overall professional standards, as well as the equipment we use and the capabilities of those officers taken on strength. As a result and most importantly, the public now has much stronger sense of trust and respect for the Force."

In practical terms this is never an easy task for any law enforcer

Commenting on public concerns over Police officers' handling of public processions and related issues, Mr Lau told OffBeat: "there are clear guidelines on the handling of such issues in the Force."

He continued: "It has always been the Force's policy to give every possible assistance in order to facilitate peaceful public gatherings, protecting participants' rights to express their views on the one hand, whilst ensuring that other members of the public can go about their daily lives without undue disturbance. In practical terms this is never an easy task for any law enforcer."

"Although we act impartially when carrying out our duties, the Police are always sandwiched between people with opposing views because Hong Kong is a metropolitan city where diverse values and views coexist."

"Whilst everyone has their personal rights, they also have the obligation to abide by the law. Police officers are just doing their job to maintain law and order in our city and ensure Hong Kong remains a free and stable place where everyone can enjoy their lives."

Mr Lau was glad that the majority of local residents understood the difficulties faced by Police officers and is grateful for the strong support the community has given to the Force.

Unforgettable memories recalled

During his 37-year service in the Force, Mr Lau has received numerous accolades, including the Colonial Police Medal for Meritorious Service, Colonial Police Long Service Medal, Queen's Police Medal, HKSAR Police Long Service Medal, and Silver Bauhinia Star. Notwithstanding his pride in receiving these awards working with the Force has given Mr Lau a great sense of satisfaction just from being part of a first class law enforcement agency.

"I have so many unforgettable memories, such as the experience of working with a number of international law enforcement bodies and our Mainland counterparts in the fight against crime.

"I have been most impressed by the close partnership formed in recent years between the Hong Kong Police Force and Mainland law enforcement authorities as we have worked together in the fight against serious cross-boundary crime. The success of our actions to interdict the influx of illegal firearms must be attributed to the effective communication and cooperation between our Mainland counterparts and us. I have the utmost appreciation for the enthusiastic support Mainland authorities have given to our policing work."

Mr Lau prepares to do more community work during his retirement so that he can continue to serve Hong Kong - his home and a city that he loves.