The Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) was honored at the Esri User Conference 2024 with a “Special Achievement in GIS Award” (SAG Award) for their Rescue Map (R-Map), recognizing HKPF’s dedication to excellence in leveraging GIS technology to construct the R-Map. The R-map improves search and rescue (SAR) operations by providing vital rescue information which will help emergency units make instantaneous and well-informed decisions.  It enhances inter-departmental co-ordination and effectiveness during rescue operations and ensure the safety of rescue personnel.  A local ceremony was held on October 24, 2024 at the Caine House of Police Headquarters to confer the award.

Director of Management Services Mr. Lui Kam-ho, on behalf of the Information Systems Wing of the Hong Kong Police Force, received the SAG Award from Dr. Winnie Tang, Founder and Chairman of Esri China (Hong Kong) at the ceremony. Senior Superintendent of the Digital Policing Services Bureau Mr. Mohammed Swalikh explained the capabilities of the R-Map, emphasizing how the GIS-based technology has significantly enhanced the mountain search and rescue processes and saving lives in real operations.  

Mr. Lui Kam-ho (right), Director of Management Services, received the SAG Award from Dr. Winnie Tang (left), Founder and Chairman of Esri China (Hong Kong) during the local SAG Award ceremony.

The award-winning R-Map is a 3D interactive digital map that has helped visualizing crucial rescue information, including topography, real-time biometric data with tagging, and live broadcast features.  Integrated with other smart devices for the HKSOS Rescue Eco-system, R-Map leverages precise positioning technology, biometric sensors, and AI analysis to consolidate essential data for enhancing interdepartmental coordination.

Every year, Esri selects one organization from each region or country, out of thousand of nominations worldwide, to receive the SAG Award.  Among law enforcement agencies globally, only two entries secured the SAG award in 2024- the Hong Kong Police Force from Hong Kong, China and the Criminal Intelligence Service from Austria, Europe.

(from the right) Assistant Commissioner of Police (Information Systems Wing) Ms. Kwan Chui-ching, Director of Management Services and Mr. Lui Kam-ho and Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr. Chan Joon-sun shared the joy of receiving the SAG Award with Dr. Winnie Tang, Founder and Chairman of Esri China (Hong Kong) and Sr Paul Tsui, Chief Executive Officer of Esri China (Hong Kong). 

Deputy Commissioner of Police Mr. Chan Joon-sun (second from the left) shared his thoughts for the development and deployment of the R-Map in mountain search and rescue operations. 

Senior Superintendent of Digital Policing Services Bureau Mr. Mohammed Swalikh explained the practical applications of R-Map for real-time situational awareness and the effective coordination of missions. 

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