Speech by FS at HKIA Annual Awards 2009 (English only) (with photos/viedo)

Speech by FS at HKIA Annual Awards 2009 (English only) (with photos/viedo)
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     Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr John C Tsang, at the prize presentation and exhibition opening ceremony of Hong Kong Institute of Architects Annual Awards 2009 at Pacific Place today (April 23):

(President) Anna (Kwong) (President of the HKIA), Patrick (Lau Sau-shing, Legislative Council member, Architectural, Surveying and Planning Functional Constituency), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good evening. It is my great pleasure to join you for these annual awards. First of all, congratulations to all the award winners.

     These awards acknowledge the outstanding achievements of our architects, as they have done since 1965.

     Over the years, the awards have evolved to keep pace with the rapid transformation of our city and the world around us.

     Architects have been right at the heart of this transformation - just look at our magnificent infrastructure, stunning cityscape and high quality housing and offices around us.

     This year, the awards have extended to place emphasis on the work of our architects outside Hong Kong. Given the expertise and experience of Hong Kong architects, I am sure they will be in increasing demand on the Mainland as well as overseas.

     I can also assure you that there will be plenty of opportunities for our architects here in Hong Kong too.

     Two months ago, I delivered my Budget, and this week I have spent a good deal of time in LegCo (Legislative Council) attending the Budget debate listening to the varied and diverse views of our legislators.

     It is remarkable how many of our Budget topics affect architects either directly or indirectly.

     Architecture is among the creative sectors that comprise one of the six new priority industries we have identified to help propel our long-term economic growth.

     There are also infrastructure projects under way or in the pipeline as well as revitalisation projects and construction programmes of various scales.  I estimate capital works expenditure to increase to some $50 billion this financial year.

     At the same time, we are promoting research and development, green building initiatives and environmental protection.

     All these areas represent exciting challenges for our architects.

     Taking these annual awards as reference, there is no doubt that our architects will be up to the task ahead.

     I am delighted that many of the award-winning designs have already embraced the concept of sustainability in the built environment.

     The Government also has a role to play in spearheading the movement towards sustainable designs. Last year, we set up the Hong Kong Green Building Council which provides an important platform for the community, professional bodies and Government to set standards and best practices in sustainable designs.

     The council will conduct public education and research in green buildings to promote a greener and more sustainable built environment.  Let me take this opportunity to encourage you to be part of this sustainable design movement.

     Once again, warmest congratulations to all the award-winners.  Keep up the good work. I also wish the institute and all the members every success.

     Thank you and have a great evening.

Ends/Friday, April 23, 2010
Issued at HKT 19:19

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