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The Secretary for the Civil Service, Mr Paul Tang, today (May 5) visited Yau Tsim Mong District to learn about the latest developments in the district and to meet with Yau Tsim Mong District Council members.
Accompanied by the Deputy President and Provost of Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), Professor Philip Chan, and the District Officer (Yau Tsim Mong), Ms Betty Ho, Mr Tang first visited the Jockey Club Innovation Tower (JCIT) of the PolyU. Funded by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust, the JCIT is home to the University's School of Design and the Jockey Club Design Institute for Social Innovation. During his tour of the JCIT, Mr Tang learned that the tower will help PolyU cement its role as a design hub for Asia and enhance its international reputation for creative design and innovation, thereby contributing to the development of Hong Kong's creative industries.
Later, Mr Tang proceeded to Yau Ma Tei Theatre located on Waterloo Road, Kowloon. Briefed by the staff on facilities and equipment in the theatre, Mr Tang was glad to note that Yau Ma Tei Theatre and the Red Brick Building, which have both been graded as historic buildings, have been revitalised as a territory-wide performing arts venue, boosting the preservation, promotion and development of Cantonese opera. The theatre is equipped with performing and rehearsal facilities to encourage and support budding and upcoming Cantonese opera troupes. The implementation of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department's Venue Partnership Scheme will help promote the venue as a popular training and performing venue as well as cradle for nurturing Cantonese opera talents.
Before concluding his visit, Mr Tang visited Yau Tsim Mong District Council and met with Council members to listen to their views about various developments in the district and exchange views on other related issues.
Ends/Monday, May 5, 2014
Issued at HKT 18:30
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