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SCED congratulates award-winning comic illustrator (with photo)
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     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mrs Rita Lau, today (August 29) met Hong Kong comic illustrator Lau Wan-kit to congratulate him on his comic series "Feel 100%" winning the Gold Award at the Second International Manga Award organised by Japan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

     Mrs Lau said, "Hong Kong comic illustrators have won the top prize for two consecutive years at this international event, demonstrating that local comic talent has attained an international standard and is recognised in the global arena. I hope Mr Lau and other comic artists will continue to create more quality works to promote Hong Kong's comic culture and foster the development of the comics and animation industry."

     She said that to promote Hong Kong as a creative capital in the region, the Government would continue its commitment to support the development of Hong Kong's comics and digital entertainment sector, which was an integral part of Hong Kong's creative industry.

     The Government has strived to boost the development of the creative industry in recent years. Relevant initiatives included sponsoring the industry to organise international comics events, conducting roving shows locally, and participating in regional exhibitions to tap into the Mainland and overseas markets.

     On the nurturing of talent, the Government also assists the industry to provide more training by sponsoring the production of teaching materials and including comic production in the curriculum of visual arts in secondary schools. It was hoped that youngsters' interest in comic production could be aroused and more people would be willing to join the industry and help it to prosper further.

     Mrs Lau said, "We hope local cartoon talent can continue developing their works across multimedia channels, such as animation, movies, online games and ancillary merchandise, to promote the industry's prosperous growth." She said the Government was also providing support in various means, such as the Film Development Fund, to facilitate the industry's diversified development.

     This year's award received 368 entries from 46 countries and regions. At the First International Manga Award last year, Hong Kong cartoon illustrators Lee Chi-ching won top prize and KAI received an encouragement award.

Ends/Friday, August 29, 2008
Issued at HKT 18:11

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