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Following is the welcome address by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Gregory So, at the DETOUR 2013 opening ceremony today (November 29):
Alan (Mr Alan Lo, Chairman of the Hong Kong Ambassadors of Design), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. I am most delighted to be here today to join DETOUR for a celebration of design excellence.
DETOUR has over the years become one of the most significant events in Hong Kong's design calendar. It has successfully built a brand which the community finds interesting, particularly in its bold and daring use of historic sites, and its passion and energy radiates through the young participants. DETOUR will once again bring us mounting excitement this year. With five anchor sites along the tramways on Hong Kong Island, DETOUR 2013 will not only connect designers from different disciplines and countries, but also the general public in a fun way to experience the vibrancy and creativity of various neighbourhoods.
I am glad to know that a wide array of spectacular activities have been lined up in this 10-day creative extravaganza. These include cross-cultural and multi-disciplinary exhibitions, installations, stage programmes, workshops, seminars, pop-up stores and satellite events all over the city. I am sure that it will give us another mind-opening experience and endless inspiration.
The Government is committed to promoting Hong Kong as a creative city. We support programmes and events which contribute to generating demand for innovation and fostering a creative atmosphere. DETOUR celebrates the creative aspects of our city and creates a unique platform for designers, artists and the general public to exchange innovative ideas in a dynamic way. It is indeed most worthy of our support.
I am particularly delighted to see our creative landmark, the PMQ, near completion. It is worth remembering that our gathering today also bears a house-warming meaning for the PMQ. Two years ago, I officiated at the opening ceremony of DETOUR 2011 at what was then still known as the Former Police Married Quarters on Hollywood Road. DETOUR was the last major public event held at this historic site before the revitalisation works began. How time flies! Today, we are now celebrating the first public event held at the PMQ after its transformation. The PMQ project is a good example of partnership between the public and private sectors in promoting our creative industries. I am sure the PMQ will soon become a unique hub for co-creation among designers, artists and the general public.
Last but not least, I wish to express my gratitude to the Hong Kong Ambassadors of Design for their dedication and contribution in leading the community to appreciate design and creativity. I would also like to thank the Hong Kong Design Centre for working hand in hand with the Ambassadors of Design in making the event a success. I hope you all enjoy the creative journey that DETOUR brings this year.
Thank you.
Ends/Friday, November 29, 2013
Issued at HKT 19:40
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