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The Hong Kong government is taking a step towards incorporating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its document processing procedures. During the recent Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee announced that the government would be testing a locally trained generative AI system. This initiative will be spearheaded by the Digital Policy Office (DPO), which was established in July to oversee the development of a “digital government.”

The AI system, described as similar to ChatGPT, will be trained using government documents to enhance its accuracy and efficiency in processing official paperwork. While the tool is expected to assist various departments with tasks such as drafting, translation, and character conversion, manual verification will still be required for more complex or critical documents.

In addition to the AI testing, the DPO has issued guidelines for government departments on the use of generative AI, with a focus on improving cybersecurity measures. A cybersecurity drill, simulating a mock cyberattack, is scheduled for November to educate government departments and public organizations on the potential threats they may face. This proactive approach by the DPO aims to promote cybersecurity awareness and ensure accountability for data security within all government entities.

Recent data leak incidents in government departments and organizations have highlighted the pressing need for enhanced cybersecurity measures. The DPO plans to conduct official examinations of eight digital systems deemed at higher risk next year to mitigate potential vulnerabilities. Furthermore, Chief Executive John Lee announced the launch of various digital government and smart city initiatives, including the integration of AI for public inquiries and blockchain technology for electronic certificates issuance.

As Hong Kong embraces digital transformation, the role of AI in streamlining government processes and enhancing public services becomes increasingly significant. The utilization of generative AI for document processing signifies a shift towards efficiency and innovation in governance. With cybersecurity threats looming, the government’s proactive measures and commitment to safeguarding data integrity are crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring secure digital operations.