Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee has revealed the outlines of a proposed local security legislation to crack down on what authorities say are activities that could threaten national security.

The new legislation is considered to complement the Hong Kong National Security Law imposed by the Chinese government in 2020.

Lee told reporters on Tuesday that threats to national security could occur suddenly and in an unexpected way. He said such threats can be minimized by enacting a new security law as soon as possible, stressing the need for such legislation.

He explained that the new law will prohibit the theft of state secrets, espionage, intervention in Hong Kong's affairs by foreign forces, and sabotage of national security using computers, among other acts.

The territory's government plans to explain the outlines of the new legislation to citizens, foreign businesses and consulates general, and is to hear their opinions until February 28.

Foreign companies are concerned that the new legislation could affect them.

It is believed the legislation will be swiftly enacted, given that almost all members of the Legislative Council, Hong Kong's legislature, take a pro-Beijing stance, and support the new security legislation.