Evolving grassroots engagement models to better reflect the needs of a more digitally savvy and diverse population

2772. Mr Darryl David: To ask the Minister for Culture, Community and Youth what is the current strategy for evolving grassroots engagement models to better reflect the needs of a more digitally savvy and diverse population.

 Response:

1. Mr Edwin Tong Chun Fai: Mr Speaker, I am answering in my capacity as the Minister charged with the responsibility for the People’s Association (PA). 

2. Our residents’ interests and aspirations continually evolve. This includes a growing appreciation for digital connection as well as the use of digital platforms to engage communities.

3. The People’s Association keeps a finger on the pulse of such developments, and we continually make adjustments to the way in which digital platforms can be increasingly deployed to better engage as well as assist our residents. This includes the progressive launch of the PA Community App and the digital display panels, which allows residents to know more about their community, programmes, courses, events, and volunteering opportunities.

4. At the same time, we are also mindful that some residents are less digitally savvy and may be unable to connect on digital platforms. For these residents, we continue to find ways to engage and assist them in a manner which is appropriate, whilst at the same time taking steps to encourage them to learn about and embrace the use of technology.

5. Beyond resident-facing engagement, PA also makes use of technology to enhance the quality of community events and improve the efficiency of our internal operations. By continually integrating smarter digital tools into our workflows, PA will be better positioned to direct our efforts and resources towards serving the community better.