Dear members

Our Institution has been abuzz with activities that align closely with the core values of the HKIE.  Recently, we have seen significant achievements that highlight our collective progress.  From sharing my vision during the Presidential Address to exploring new avenues of collaboration and influence, our journey as engineers continues to be truly exceptional.  In case you missed the Address, it is available for viewing on the HKIE website at https://events.novaweb.live/presidentialaddress2024/.

One of the most significant milestones worth celebrating is the HKIE’s newfound status as a Recognised Professional Body by the Property Management Services Authority.  This achievement allows Members and Fellow Members from eight Disciplines to apply for the Property Management Practitioner (Tier 1) Licence.  This accomplishment not only broadens the scope of opportunities for our members but also paves the way for enhanced professional growth in the property management sector.  By integrating our engineering expertise into property management services, we are raising the standard of excellence in Hong Kong.

On a regional level, our recent delegation to Beijing underscores our commitment to fostering knowledge exchange and collaboration with leading talents across borders.  The success of this initiative reinforces our belief in the power of partnerships and shared learning to advance the engineering profession.

To deepen our members’ understanding of the country’s important development plans, we conducted a briefing session on the 2024 Third Plenum (三中全會) Decision.  Thanks to the insights shared by our Vice President Ir Prof Frank CHAN, participants now have a clearer grasp of how Hong Kong engineers can contribute to and benefit from these advancement plans.

As a pivotal “super connector,” Hong Kong plays a crucial role in bridging the mainland with the global arena.  By aligning with President Xi Jinping’s vision of “new quality productive forces” (新質生產力), our city is poised to lead in innovations, infrastructure development, and technological advancements that are vital for maintaining its global standing.

In line with this vision, we have presented our perspectives to the Administration for the formulation of the 2024 Policy Address.  Our recommendations across seven key areas, including “innovation and new industrialisation”, “streamlining procedures”, “talent acquisition and development”, “education”, “land and housing supply”, “aviation hub” and “infrastructure development, smart city and sustainability”, demonstrate our unwavering commitment to driving progress and excellence in the engineering landscape.  Through our collective expertise and passion, we are shaping a future where Hong Kong stands at the forefront of global innovation and development.

Moreover, we have engaged in constructive dialogues with key government officials such as Ir Winnie HO, Secretary for Housing, and Ir LAM Sai Hung, Secretary for Transport & Logistics. These discussions underscore our dedication to influencing public policies and amplifying the voice of the engineering profession.  Through strategic alliances, we are actively crafting the landscape of engineering in Hong Kong.

As engineers, we are not mere builders; we are visionaries who steer a future where engineering thrives, innovations flourish, and communities prosper.  The HKIE remains steadfast in its mission to empower engineers, foster collaborations, and advocate for policies that propel our profession forward.  With upcoming engagements with government bodies, including luncheons with key officials from Development Bureau, Environment & Ecology Bureau, and Innovation, Technology & Industry Bureau, we are well-positioned to continue our collaborative efforts towards a brighter and more sustainable future for engineering in Hong Kong.

Ir Eric MA Siu-cheung
President
The HKIE