DSJ Cheung Kwok-kwan Visits Indonesia for China-Southeast Asia Conference 2026

Jakarta, Indonesia – February 9, 2026 – Dr. Cheung Kwok-kwan, Deputy Secretary for Justice of Hong Kong, is scheduled to arrive in Jakarta tomorrow to participate in the China Conference: Southeast Asia 2026, a high-level forum examining regional collaboration and transformation between China and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN).

Dr. Cheung’s participation, announced today, February 8th, underscores Hong Kong’s strategic ambition to function as a pivotal “super connector” facilitating stronger ties between Mainland China and Southeast Asia. He is expected to address the conference on February 10th, outlining how Hong Kong’s unique position under the “one country, two systems” framework, coupled with its robust legal infrastructure and professional services sector, can contribute to enhanced regional cooperation.

The China Conference: Southeast Asia 2026 coincides with the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Indonesia, signaling a renewed focus on strengthening bilateral and regional partnerships. The conference is expected to draw diplomats, policymakers, business leaders and technology innovators from across ASEAN, China, and Indonesia, according to organizers.

Hong Kong’s role as a financial and legal hub is central to its self-defined function as a bridge between China and the wider world. Dr. Cheung is anticipated to emphasize Hong Kong’s common law system – a legacy of British colonial rule – as a key advantage in attracting international investment and facilitating cross-border transactions. The city’s legal, financial, and professional services are positioned as crucial components in supporting increased trade and investment flows within the region.

Dr. Cheung’s visit comes amid a broader push by Beijing to deepen its economic and political engagement with Southeast Asia. China has become a major trading partner for many ASEAN countries, and investment from China has been increasing steadily in recent years. However, this growing relationship has also been accompanied by concerns about China’s growing influence in the region and its assertive behavior in the South China Sea.

The Deputy Secretary for Justice’s presence at the conference is also notable given his background. Prior to assuming his current role in July 2022, Dr. Cheung practiced as a solicitor in Hong Kong, holding qualifications as a China-appointed Attesting Officer and Civil Celebrant of Marriages. He has also held various public service positions, including membership on the Executive Council, Legislative Council, and District Council, as well as roles within Hong Kong’s housing and financial authorities.

The Hong Kong government has consistently promoted the city’s unique advantages under the “one country, two systems” principle, which guarantees a high degree of autonomy except in defense and foreign affairs. This framework, however, has come under increasing scrutiny in recent years following political changes in Hong Kong, raising questions about the extent of its continued autonomy.

Dr. Cheung is scheduled to return to Hong Kong on February 11th. His participation in the China Conference: Southeast Asia 2026 reflects Hong Kong’s ongoing efforts to reaffirm its position as a vital link in the evolving geopolitical landscape of East and Southeast Asia. The conference provides a platform for Hong Kong to articulate its vision for regional collaboration and to showcase its capabilities as a leading international business and financial center.

The broader implications of the conference extend beyond economic considerations. Discussions are expected to touch upon issues such as regional security, climate change, and technological innovation, all of which are critical to the future of Southeast Asia and its relationship with China. The event represents a significant opportunity for dialogue and cooperation at a time of increasing global uncertainty.

Notably, Secretary for Justice Paul Lam undertook a similar visit to Malaysia in February 2025 to attend the China Conference: Southeast Asia and related activities in Kuala Lumpur, highlighting a pattern of engagement by Hong Kong’s legal officials with the region.