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The following is a speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mrs Rita Lau, at the opening ceremony of DETOUR 2010 at the former Victoria Prison in Central today (November 26):
Alan (Mr Alan Lo, Chairman, Ambassadors of Design), Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,
I am most delighted to join you at the opening of DETOUR 2010 today.
Over the past few years, we have witnessed DETOUR developing and transforming into an annual event on our creative industries calendar, aiming at exploring and enhancing our community's creativity. Indeed it has created an engaging environment for designers, artists, students and the general public to interact, and has provided a unique platform for the participants to experience the creative culture and exchange innovative ideas in a dynamic way.
DETOUR this year brings us back to the historical culture, with the former Victoria Prison as the anchor venue. The incongruity between the penal prison of the older days and the vibrant design mart of today gives us a deep contrast and a mind-opening experience, providing us with endless inspiration in the wide domain of creativity.
As in previous years, DETOUR 2010 will embrace a series of creative activities, including a designer exchange programme with Japan, as well as some 40 satellite events on a broad range of subjects with diverse formats, which will take place all over the city in the coming two weeks. These events and activities will no doubt arouse the wider public interest in design in Hong Kong.
I am grateful to the Ambassadors of Design for their dedication and contribution in leading the community to appreciate design. I am also thankful to the Hong Kong Design Centre which has worked hand in hand with the Ambassadors in making the DETOUR a success. With our concerted efforts, let's work together to strengthen and enhance Hong Kong's position as a creative capital in the region.
Thank you.
Ends/Friday, November 26, 2010
Issued at HKT 18:22
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