The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Edward Yau, visited Sai Kung District today (July 27) to get a better grasp of the district's latest developments. He toured the waterfront in Sai Kung town centre, paid a visit to Kau Sai Chau, and met with members of the Sai Kung District Council (SKDC).
 
     Mr Yau first travelled to Sai Kung town centre and took the opportunity to observe ferry services for travellers at the Sai Kung Public Pier. He also visited the Sai Kung Public Transport Interchange to learn about the ancillary transport facilities for citizens and visitors to Sai Kung, which is branded as the "Back Garden of Hong Kong". He then proceeded to Area 4 of Sai Kung, where the Government has planned projects including a sports centre and Town Plaza for provision of various leisure and sports facilities to residents of Sai Kung District.

     Mr Yau then made a visit to Kau Sai Chau by ferry and observed Sharp Island during the ride. Sharp Island, covered by unique rocky outcrops, is part of the Hong Kong UNESCO Global Geopark and one of the popular tourist attractions in Sai Kung District. He said he was pleased to learn that the reconstruction of Sharp Island Pier is expected to complete within the first quarter next year. The new pier will be able to accommodate larger vessels and allow more members of the public and visitors to explore the unique landforms of the Geopark.

     Mr Yau said that the Government released the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong's Tourism Industry in October 2017. One of the strategies is to nurture and develop tourism products and initiatives with local and international characteristics, which in turn includes promoting green tourism by enhancing supporting facilities at popular hiking trails and those with good tourism potential. The Government will continue to maintain close collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board and the trade to enhance the infrastructure and services of Hong Kong's tourism industry so as to reinforce Hong Kong's position as the most preferred destination in Asia.

     Kau Sai Chau is located in the Sai Kung Volcanic Rock Region of the Geopark. Mr Yau inspected the facilities and improvement works of Kau Sai Village Pier and also visited other ancillary facilities in Kau Sai Village. He noted that the Kau Sai Chau Village Office will be converted into a story room, which will illustrate the history and culture of Kau Sai Village and serve as a visitor centre to promote the Geopark.

     Before concluding the district visit, Mr Yau met with SKDC members to exchange views on district matters relating to transport, tourism, broadband services and local economic development.

Ends/Friday, July 27, 2018
Issued at HKT 18:15

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