As the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) enters its 5th year, the Commission is taking the lead in advocating the adoption of equal opportunities policies in the business sector.

"A Closer Partnership with Business" was launched today (5 July 2000) at the EOC anniversary reception. Officiating at the ceremony was The Hon. TUNG Chee Hwa, the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region.

In her welcoming speech at the ceremony, Ms. Anna WU, Chairperson of the EOC said, "It is crucial for this Commission to forge a strategic alliance with the sector that creates employment opportunities. We hope to be able to identify, together with the business community, the best way in which we can join forces to establish a culture of excellence, equality and enterprise."

Ms. WU explained that the concept of equal opportunities was about investment in human resources which was a most important and enduring asset for a community. It was about getting the best talent for a business without which a business could not compete effectively.

"Progress in the larger community can only be built on the basis of a level playing field for all and a culture of meritocracy." Ms. WU emphasized.

Ms. WU pointed out that with the increasing globalization of the economy, customers' sensitivity to corporate responsibility had immense influence over business. Many business leaders adopted voluntary industry charters and sought third-party certificate of their practices by certification bodies like the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA).

In delivering his speech at the ceremony, Dr. T.L. NG, Chairman of the HKQAA introduced the SA 8000 social accountability management system which is an "auditable" code of conduct and a new global standard that specified requirement for social accountability.

"Companies that adopt and implement equal opportunity policies have long recognized that creating a work environment of fairness, equality, integrity and effective use of human resources yields decreased turn-over, improved productivity and enhanced community relations and reputation." Dr. NG said.

Dr. NG added that the HKQAA was committed to assist industry and commerce in achieving and sustaining their quest for responsible corporate citizenship through this certification process.

In order to assist the business sector to comply with the equal opportunities legislation and to implement anti-discrimination practices, the EOC will be discussing with business leaders and chambers on areas for co-operation.

More than 400 people attended the anniversary reception, representing the private and public sectors.

Enquiry: EOC Hotline     25118211