Inauguration of the new Marine Outer Waters District Headquarters and Marine North Division Operational Base opens a new chapter in the history of the development of the Marine Region.

Deputy Commissioner (Management) Fung Siu-yuen said this when he officiated at the opening of the new complex at Ma Liu Shui on August 21 before a large gathering of guests.

Stating that the complex had taken four years from conceptualization to completion, Mr Fung noted, "Today's inauguration ceremony bears witness to the years of effort made by our colleagues and working partners. This new base marks the achievement of all the parties involved in overcoming many difficulties and setbacks during its construction, and may well be said to be the fruit of their painstaking labour."

He expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the personnel that have participated in the project for creating "a comfortable and safe working environment for our officers", in particular the Architectural Services Department, Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, as well as the Force's Planning & Development Branch and Information Systems Wing.

Following completion of the complex, the Outer Waters District Headquarters and all associated personnel are now housed under one roof with the Marine North Division. This integration enhances both internal communication and administrative efficiency.

Mr Fung pointed out that the site of the new District Headquarters & Operational Base complex was in fact used as a pier for ferries until it was converted into a makeshift base 14 years ago. Despite such temporary facilities, the officers posted there through all seasons worked hard to overcome the difficulties posed by the shortcomings of the building's environment, as they maintained their services to the public. "Their professionalism of such a high order surely merits praise."

The complex has adopted the "user-friendly-oriented" concept in its design. Mr Fung said the complex, in addition to high usable floor area ratio, also boasts compliance with green principles and a greatly improved working environment. It is integrated with a well-equipped maintenance workshop, which can provide quality support and logistics services to marine police craft and help further enhance the efficiency of the fleet.

Earlier, Mr Fung said that while the Force faced up to changes and different kinds of challenges in providing a quality service to the public, the Marine Region maintained excellent team spirit and did its utmost in every endeavour with a determined and committed attitude.

"Over the years, you have steadfastly held your ground and united in a concerted effort, to counter the mounting waves of illegal immigration in the sixties and the seventies, and in the nineties the high speed smuggling activities using 'Tai Fei' speedboats, as well as a wide variety of other offences at sea.

"You have done your utmost wholeheartedly in combating all illegal activities that might have shaken local security, and your achievements are plain for everybody to see. It is indeed a feat to be congratulated on," he added.

Looking ahead, Mr Fung pointed out that beginning in 2008, some of Marine Region's patrol craft would be renewed in line with the progressive development of the Force. High-speed vessels will be introduced in time with the phased implementation of the "Versatile Maritime Police Response" creating a modern Marine Police fleet that is even more efficient and responsive.

"In recent years, neighbouring ports trading with Hong Kong have been expanding and maritime transport and logistics have been booming. In order to keep abreast of the times, the Police Force must, in its development strategy, upgrade its infrastructure in various areas and renew its existing hardware when necessary," Mr Fung added.

Also present at the ceremony were the Director of Architectural Services, Mr Yue Chi-hang, and Marine Regional Commander, Mr Au Hok-lam.

The new complex