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The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, today (September 14) opened the Information Services Department 50th Anniversary Exhibition at the Hong Kong Central Library.
Officiating with the Chief Executive were the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang; the Secretary for Justice, Mr Wong Yan Lung, SC; the Acting Secretary for Home Affairs, Ms Florence Hui, and the Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs, Mrs Carrie Yau.
The Director of Information Services, Mr Michael Wong, said ISD has been part and parcel of Hong Kong's extraordinary development over the past 50 years.
"The exhibition and a photo album entitled '50 Years of Dedicated Information Services' succinctly cover the department's experiences at the news frontline for the past 50 years.
"As this is also part of Hong Kong's experience, we thought it was worthwhile to share it with the public."
Looking ahead, Mr Wong said as Hong Kong continues to develop, by building on the tradition established by generations of officers in the last 50 years, the department will continue to serve the Government, the local and international media with quality and efficient services, serving as a communication bridge between the Government and the general public.
Mr Wong said: "All colleagues at ISD will continue to provide dedicated services, aiming at the next 50 years."
The exhibition - "50 Years of Dedicated Information Services" - includes more than 200 historical and contemporary photos, is a visual showcase of ISD's evolution and work.
By learning about the changes the department has undergone, visitors will be able to appreciate the growing sophistication of Hong Kong throughout the years, from colonial times to the present day as a Special Administrative Region of China.
Visitors will also see how technological advances have enhanced the way the department disseminates information to the media and the public.
Another exhibition section will feature award-winning government video messages on topics including Keep Hong Kong Clean, road safety, crime, smoking, elections and environmental protection.
Hundreds of publications, ranging from posters produced in the '60s on public hygiene to the full set of Hong Kong Annual Reports produced in the past 50 years, will be on display.
The free exhibition is open to the public from 10am to 7.30pm on September 15 and 16 at Central Library's Exhibition Gallery on the ground floor, except when typhoon signal number 8 or above is issued.
Ends/Monday, September 14, 2009
Issued at HKT 20:33
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