While the population ages in Hong Kong, families with elderly members may need more support, and traditional values are still important, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Chief Executive Donald Tsang said here Tuesday.

Speaking at a conference on strengthening Hong Kong's families, Tsang said the aging population may have a profound impact on society. However, this does not mean that the government has to allocate extra resources. Families with elderly members may need more support as the population ages, as well as better coordination of resources and the community neighborhood network,

Noting commercial firms are following the government's five-day week initiative, Tsang said the move shows all sectors of the community have a role to play in strengthening families. Traditional values, such as filial affection, mutual help and close contact also bolster family ties.

Tsang said greater participation from commercial and non-government bodies is necessary to fully develop a family-friendly working environment. He hoped the private sector can introduce more family-friendly initiatives.

Tsang called on the public to treasure their families and spend more time with them.

(Xinhua News Agency September 6, 2006)