Hong Kong’s Legislative Council (LegCo) and the government are exploring new ways to enhance communication and collaboration, with a recent closed-door dialogue between Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and legislators marking a notable step in this direction. The meeting, held last week following lawmakers’ study trip to Beijing, provided an opportunity for direct engagement between Lee and all 67 LegCo members, a first since the current term began in January.

During the dialogue, lawmakers raised various concerns, emphasizing the need to improve existing public service mechanisms. Among the proposals was a suggestion to revamp the city’s 1823 public inquiry and complaint hotline by adopting features from Beijing’s 12345 complaints system. The Beijing model integrates artificial intelligence (AI) and big data analytics to efficiently route public inquiries to relevant authorities. Currently, Hong Kong’s hotline, managed by the Digital Policy Office, forwards complaints to appropriate departments without AI assistance. Legislators argued that an upgrade incorporating AI could enhance government responsiveness, streamline issue management, and promote greater accountability.

Suggestions also included reimagining Hong Kong’s post offices as resident service centers akin to those in mainland cities, leveraging their accessibility and friendly staff to provide broader civic services. Additionally, there were calls to improve digital platforms such as the government’s iAM Smart app, aligning it with the city’s emphasis on connectivity and technological advancement.

The dialogue also highlighted the growing willingness of LegCo members to engage more deeply with government operations. Lawmakers proposed visiting the 1823 hotline office to gain firsthand understanding, with Lee encouraging them to submit concrete recommendations for improving the service. This proactive approach by legislators was seen as a potentially positive model for future executive-legislative cooperation.

However, lawmakers also voiced frustrations over past policies implemented without prior consultation, including the increases in public healthcare fees and the discontinuation of HK$2,500 student grants. Although these measures did not require LegCo approval, legislators stressed the importance of being consulted to foster a more collaborative government dynamic.

Since taking office, Lee has advocated for regular “anticorruption exchange” meetings between lawmakers and senior officials, aiming to sustain dialogue. However, these sessions have been infrequent, with only four held during 2024 and 2025 combined, and two so far in 2026. Observers note that sustained commitment to open communication channels is crucial for translating dialogue into tangible improvements for residents.

While the new “LegCo dialogue” and engagement initiatives mark a positive development, experts caution that their value depends on continued effort and the tangible outcomes experienced by the public. Enhanced communication is meaningful only when it leads to effective governance and better services for Hong Kong’s residents.