Following is the opening speech by the Acting Secretary for Innovation and Technology, Dr David Chung, at the APAC Innovation Summit 2017 "Smart City. Connected City." today (September 7):
      
George (Chief Technology Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation, Mr George Tee), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
      
     Good morning. It is my great pleasure to join you today at the APAC Innovation Summit 2017 Series. I would like to first congratulate the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation for putting this reputable annual event again with a timely theme for us all, smart city development. Let me also extend a warm welcome to you all, especially guests from overseas.
      
     Strategically located at the heart of Asia, Hong Kong is superbly connected to the world and the Mainland. Our city's highly efficient public transport system and most sophisticated and liberalised telecommunications are highly acclaimed. Hong Kong's mobile penetration rate of 235.5 per cent is among the highest in the world, as are our fixed broadband penetration rate and average broadband speed . Widespread wireless connectivity also ensures the people of Hong Kong to embrace the age of mobility. The Government collaborated with the industry to promote a common Wi-Fi brand Wi-Fi.HK under public-private partnership. There are more than 19 000 public Wi-Fi hotspots in the city and the number continues to grow.
      
     Hong Kong is a connected city that is smart and sustainable, full of innovation and technology in different aspects of our daily lives. We are the most connected place in the world. Our city ranks first for the popularity of computers, mobile and wearable technology, and smart home gadgets, outranking other economies.
      
     To maintain Hong Kong's competitiveness and sustainability is never easy. Rapid urbanisation, ageing population, and resource scarcity are just a few examples of our urban challenges. To further enhance our global competitiveness, a consultancy study has recently been completed to assist the Government in formulating the Smart City Blueprint for Hong Kong. The findings and proposals in the report provide a good reference basis for us to examine the strategic framework and feasible initiatives, having regard to Hong Kong's unique circumstances and relevant policies. One of the recommendations in the report is to start early planning and make provision for new development areas in supporting smart city development such as the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park at Lok Ma Chau Loop. I think this is quite insightful. We are currently conducting a two-month public consultation on the contents of the consultancy report to solicit views and suggestions from stakeholders and the public at large. The Government Chief Information Officer will share with you later this morning more insights into the findings and proposals put forth by the consultant.
      
     The journey towards a smart city does not stop at the completion of the consultancy study. In fact, it is just the beginning. The Government needs concerted support and collaboration from the entire society, including the participation from the industry, to move forward. Please join us in building Hong Kong into a smarter city.
      
     Thank you.

Ends/Thursday, September 7, 2017
Issued at HKT 10:19

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