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Following is the speech delivered by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Anson Chan, at the opening ceremony of the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute today (December 12):

First of all, I want to say how truly delighted I am to be here to officiate at the opening ceremony of the Chinese Cuisine Training Institute. This is a development milestone of Chinese cuisine training in Hong Kong and something that I take a personal interest in. Lin Yutang, a famous contemporary Chinese scholar wrote in The Art of Living - "Our lives are not in the lap of the gods but in the lap of the wok", which I entirely agree.

The mission of the Institute is to provide systematic training and trade testing in Chinese cuisine preparation, define clearly the route for professional development and advancement within the industry, nurture local talents in Chinese cuisine and elevate the professional standard of local Chinese chefs. I have no doubt that the institute will help Hong Kong become a regional centre of excellence in Chinese cuisine training.

The establishment of the Institute within a matter of 18 months is no easy task. This is due in no small measure to the tripartite effort of the Government, professional training bodies and the industry. I am sure that with such an excellent beginning, the Institute will soon establish a name for itself. I wish all concerned every success. Happy learning, happy cooking and happy eating. Thank you.

Speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration (Chinese part)

End/Tuesday, December 12, 2000

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