BANGKOK (AP) — A Myanmar military jet fighter crashed Saturday in a combat zone in the eastern state of Kayah, a military officer and a member of an anti-military resistance organization said. The resistance group said the plane had been shot down, but its claim could not immediately be confirmed.
ARTTA Concept – Local interior architectural design brand winning multiple international awards through strategic commercial design, breaking the monotony of the business world, contributing to societal design value

This approach allows ARTTA Concept to provide bespoke interior designs that cater to the business community, including high-end clients such as the luxury jewelry brand PIAGET, Golden Harvest Cinema, fashion brand Lee Jeans, and the high-end Chinese restaurant “Peony”. Many of these projects have won international recognition and solidified ARTTA Concept’s position amongst leading interior architectural design brands.
Crafting Local Brand Narratives Through Personalized Design
ARTTA Concept valued interior design as in essence practical and straightforward. The basis of project research lies in the company’s intuitive understanding and familiarity with the current commercial market. The initial step involves identifying the brand’s positioning in the commercial landscape. To help the brand stand out, detailed research is carried out, integrating elements that the public is familiar with into the design process, thereby creating designs that not only resonate with the public’s familiarity but also encapsulate the brand’s unique personality. ARTTA excels in leveraging cross-industry and cross-category analyses, embodying the company’s mission of “Design For Impact”. This involves amalgamating elements from different fields into a single unified design, thereby expanding the brand’s reach into other domains. By preserving the brand’s existing stance while carving out an alternative value, they’re able to amplify the brand’s resonance in the market.
Creating Community Value through Design: Golden Harvest Cinema in Tai Po
ARTTA Concept uses interior design to forge connections with society, creating resonances. A case in point is Golden Harvest Cinema in Tai Po, the district’s first cinema in 20 years. Recognizing the significant impact a cinema can have within a community, Arthur Tang, the founder of ARTTA, saw an opportunity to highlight the unique characteristics of Tai Po. Given that people’s movie-going habits are often influenced by geographical considerations, ARTTA’s design approach was tailored to reflect the local area, providing a unique and authentic experience for movie-goers. As part of their design strategy, the team chose vibrant and youthful LED lighting elements, signifying Tai Po’s vitality despite its peripheral location within the New Territories. This design not only appeals to people’s environmental consciousness but also creates a pleasant and welcoming atmosphere, evoking feelings of relaxation, comfort, and natural charm. Its innovative design, rich in architectural aesthetics, won the cinema a gold award in the entertainment category at the “Better Future 2022 – Hong Kong Design Awards 2022”.
Breaking Industry Boundaries with Pragmatic Architectural Design: Peony Chinese Restaurant
Peony Chinese Restaurant, a high-end Chinese restaurant situated in Discovery Bay, is a standout project of ARTTA Concept. Being the only Chinese restaurant in the area, ARTTA’s team applied their unique market insights and comprehensive database to conduct incisive research and surveys. This approach broke through the constraints of interior design, delving into areas such as market studies and architecture. They identified the excellent light transmission of the building’s location and calculated the angle of light refraction to create a tranquil and elegant dining atmosphere filled with warmth and brightness. Furthermore, they effectively managed air-conditioning temperature control, aligning with current demands for sustainable design. This project has won numerous international awards, including the newly established Arch Design Award Winner ’23 Gold Award, presented by Finland. This award recognizes Peony Chinese Restaurant not only for its interior designs, but also as an innovative, well-crafted, and interesting design proposition in the architectural field. The project’s success was evaluated based on environmental relevance, spatial layout, materials used, lighting, and functionality. During its construction, Peony Chinese Restaurant used recycled materials, renewable energy, and waste-avoidance architectural solutions, which are crucial in today’s sustainability-focused society. As energy regulations around the world become increasingly stringent each year, ARTTA Concept’s sustainable design concept is undoubtedly at the forefront of the industry. This is further underscored by the project winning the Silver Award at the Better Future Hong Kong Design Awards 2022 and the A’DESIGN AWARD 2022.
The essence of sustainable interior design lies in beginning with comprehensive market research and analysis
In recent years, the concept of sustainable development has become a prevalent topic of discussion. As the essence of sustainable interior design lies in beginning with comprehensive market research and analysis. This lays the groundwork for the creation of enduring design strategies, encompassing a series of related but subtly different blueprints. These designs allow for ample flexibility, accommodating future modifications and changes in plans. ARTTA Concept’s goal is to ensure that the interior architecture not only encapsulates an aesthetic appeal but also remains focused on the key objectives, optimizing the use of time and resources to produce cost-effective and high-quality designs.
Hashtag: #ARTTA #ARTTAConcept #Strategic #CommercialDesign #InteriorArchitecturalDesign
https://hk.linkedin.com/company/arttaconcept
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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About ARTTA Concept
ARTTA Concept is an experienced architectural and commercial design-led consultancy that has won numerous international awards over the years. The company was founded in 2010 by Arthur Tan. ARTTA Concept’s team of globally trained professionals has experience in nearly 100 interior design projects ranging from 80 square meters of retail rebranding to 30,000 square meters of hotel projects.
Having been in operation for 13 years, ARTTA Concept continues to adhere to its philosophy of strategic interior design. Under the leadership of founder Arthur Tang, ARTTA Concept has always started from a strategic design perspective, integrating deep analysis of the characteristics of interior architecture with customer ideas and architectural aesthetics. After thorough consultations with customers on every design project, the team spends 30 to 40% of their time conducting extensive market research and surveys, including field inspections, online searches, and exchanges with multiple project stakeholders. They conduct comprehensive and detailed analyses of customer preferences, focus groups, the geographical location of the buildings, the style of competitors, and more, before extending their observations to the entire project area and even the whole of Hong Kong. They refer to foreign designs and repeatedly refine the artistic elements that customers love.
Therefore, regardless of whether it’s a Japanese style, industrial style, minimalist style, or traditional Chinese style, ARTTA Concept has explored and incorporated all of them. At the same time, because of their thorough and diverse project background analyses, the design team can clearly understand customer needs and the characteristics of the buildings, providing designers with a flexible and broad creative space. On the other hand, they can design exclusive and difficult-to-replicate works for customers, maximizing the benefits of the works and creating a social impact.
The 32nd World Hakka Conference Held in Longnan, Jiangxi
Embracing the Hakka Grand Gathering, Building a Vision of Peace Together
LONGNAN, CHINA – Media OutReach – 12 November 2023 – The sound of Hakka resonates across five continents, and the affection for our hometown extends to every corner of the world. From November 7th to 9th, the 32nd World Hakka Conference was held in Longnan, Jiangxi. More than 2,500 guests, including representatives from over 200 Hakka associations and communities worldwide, as well as renowned entrepreneurs, gathered here to celebrate this grand event.
During the opening ceremony held on the evening of the 7th, performers vividly portrayed the evolution of the Hakka people’s journey back home, the cradle of the Hakka culture, and the flourishing era of the Hakka community through staged singing, creative dances, multimedia performances, and more. The performances showcased the outstanding qualities, fine traditions, rich cultural connotations, and unique charm of the Hakka people.
Prior to the Hakka Conference, the 5th General Assembly of the Global Hakka Chongzheng Association (referred to as “Global Association”) was held in Shenzhen, bringing together Hakka representatives from around the world to reminisce about their hometown and carry forward the glory of the Hakka heritage.
As the organizer of both events, the Global Association has always been committed to uniting Hakka people worldwide, including those from Taiwan, to promote Hakka history and culture and facilitate peace across the Taiwan Strait.
In recent years, the Global Association has endeavored to maintain strong bonds among Hakka compatriots and work tirelessly to safeguard the vital interests of the Hakka community in Taiwan. These efforts have garnered extensive support and praise from Hakka associations worldwide.
Hashtag: #GlobalHakkaChongzhengFederation
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United Terra Enterprises PLC Provides Results of General Meeting
United Terra Enterprises PLC held its shareholders’ meeting which resulted in a share capital increase by contribution in kind and the election of the Board of Directors and management.
The capital increase was based on an expert report of BDO (Liechtenstein) AG and after the completion of the capital increase, the Company will have a share capital of CHF16,476,796.68 divided into 137,306,639 shares.
The Company intends to complete the share exchange for the remaining shareholders who elect to do so through an additional capital increase through the Board of Directors, which was approved at the General Meeting and will take place in the coming weeks.
Additionally, the Board of Directors and management were elected at the General Meeting and details of their election will follow in a subsequent press release.
The Company’s Chairman, Hans-Peter Vogt said: “We are happy with the progress that has been made to date, specifically with the formation of the Company, the appointment of the Board of Directors and management and the high participation rate among the shareholders of Eurybia AG in the share exchange. We note that previously unregistered shares have become registered and take that as a positive sign that more shareholders of Eurybia AG are preparing to participate in the share exchange.”
If you would like additional information, contact the Company either via email info@unitedterra.enterprises or by telephone at +423 236 40 10.
Hashtag: #UnitedTerraEnterprises
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About United Terra Enterprises PLC
United Terra Enterprises is an international energy company engaged in the upstream oil and gas sector and the energy transition to renewable energy. The company is focused on establishing a responsible balance between conventional energy sources and the protection of the environment.
https://unitedterra.enterprises
A fusion of traditional and modern Hong Kong-style egg dishes
Presented by The Japan Poultry Association and TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 10 November 2023 – Japanese eggs have always been highly popular among Hong Kong people. As of 2022, Hong Kong has consecutively ranked as the top region for Japanese egg exports for 18 years, accounting for 93% of the total export volume. The annual consumption of Japanese eggs by Hong Kong people has also shown a rapid growth trend. This year, the “Japan Poultry Association” continues to promote Japanese eggs to Hong Kong people and encourages the local food and beverage industry to introduce Japanese eggs.

As a result, they have collaborated with the Ranou (蘭王) to present three Hong Kong-style egg dishes using the finest Japanese “Ranou eggs”. The featured egg dishes revolve around the renowned “egg tarts”, accompanied by nostalgic “boiled eggs” and “Scotch eggs with preserved meat and dried vegetables”. Each dish incorporates new elements into the classics and enhances the flavors with the addition of Ranou (蘭王) bringing surprises to the taste buds.
The three Hong Kong-style Japanese egg dishes are now available for a limited time at the TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop (大安茶冰廳 ). Additionally, other dishes using Japanese eggs are also being served, such as original flavor egg tarts (HKD 28), bean curd sheet sweet egg cake (HKD 38), and molten custard French toast with milk foam (HKD 68). The “Da An Tea and Ice House” expresses its commitment to continue supporting Japanese eggs, and all egg tarts will continue to be made with Japanese eggs, aiming to attract customers. Please look forward to this sincere fusion of Hong Kong and Japanese culinary cultures!
Egg Tart with Japanese Egg Tasting Event
On November 7th (Tuesday), the Japan Poultry Association invited various media outlets, key opinion leaders (KOLs), and the Consul General of Japan in Hong Kong, Ambassador Okada, to participate in the “Tasting Event: New Japanese Egg Tart Creation”. The event showcased the limited-time products made with Japanese eggs.
To promote Japanese eggs, Mr. Hitoshi Asagi, the representative of the Japan Poultry Association (Managing Director), specially attended the event in Hong Kong. Mr. Asagi expressed his delight and gratitude for the successful execution of the event. He hoped that this opportunity would allow Hong Kong people to experience the unique and safe culture of consuming raw Japanese eggs. During the event, he introduced the characteristics and rigorous production processes of Japanese eggs, aiming to deepen Hong Kong people’s understanding and trust in Japanese eggs. Mr. Asagi also mentioned that they would continue and further promote Japanese eggs in Hong Kong, with the goal of achieving a steady growth in export volume each year.
The limited-time dishes received positive feedback during the event. In addition to evaluating the taste, aroma, and appearance of the food, the guests also expressed their trust and confidence in the preparation of semi-cooked dishes made with Japanese eggs. During the Q&A session, the guests actively raised questions, including inquiries about consuming raw Japanese eggs in Hong Kong. In response, Mr. Yasuyoshi Sankai, the representative of JA Zen-Noh Egg Corporation (Section Chief), explained that due to the transportation time, most Japanese eggs available in the Hong Kong market have exceeded the recommended period for raw consumption. Some Japanese egg packages are labeled as “for heating” and it is not recommended for consumers to consume them raw for safety reasons. As for a small portion of Japanese eggs labeled as “for raw consumption,” they are transported by air with shorter transportation time, allowing them to be safely consumed within the specified raw consumption period indicated on the packaging.
The production process of Japanese eggs
The production process of Japanese eggs is highly regarded internationally due to strict monitoring and management from production to delivery, ensuring safety and health for consumers to enjoy with peace of mind. Before the eggs are sent to the GP center for multiple inspections, the young chickens receive vaccinations to prevent infectious diseases and undergo regular testing for Salmonella to ensure the collection of healthy eggs. Once the eggs arrive at the GP center, they undergo automated inspection, packaging, and production processes. The temperature is strictly controlled in the facility to prevent egg spoilage, and multiple inspection procedures are carried out to eliminate poor-quality eggs with inferior appearance, pale color, or blood spots. These measures contribute to the trustworthiness of Japanese eggs in the market.
Furthermore, there is a rumor that eggs with the “TAMAGO Japan Egg” certification logo can be consumed raw, but this is not entirely true. Fresh Japanese eggs have an optimal consumption period within 20 days after packaging, and the effective consumption period is generally 60 days. If one wishes to consume raw eggs, they should deduct 40 days from the effective consumption period. However, since most Japanese eggs are transported by slower shipping methods, the Japanese eggs available in Hong Kong may have already exceeded the recommended period for raw consumption. Additionally, the “TAMAGO Japan Egg” certification logo represents compliance with three certifications: the Japan Egg Association, the Japan Food Safety Verification Organization, and the hygiene management standards of the GP center for export. It does not specifically indicate suitability for raw consumption.
Introduction of Ranou (蘭王) eggs
Ranou (蘭王) eggs are produced in the city of Kitsuki, Oita Prefecture, which boasts abundant natural resources. The production of Ranou eggs adheres to the food hygiene management standards of “HACCP” and utilizes a special natural feed formula that emphasizes plant protein for feeding the hens. The vibrant orange yolk (Ranou eggs have the darkest hue at 15 degrees) concentrates the aroma and freshness of the eggs, making them visually appealing.
Ranou eggs have their own unique characteristics in terms of yolk, egg white, and eggshell. The use of red bell pepper powder as the main ingredient in the feed gives the eggs their distinctive bright orange yolk. Through research and improvements in feed formulation, the flavor and freshness of the eggs are taken to another level, while also increasing the hens’ preference for the feed, ensuring they consume an adequate amount. Additionally, the farm uses lactobacillus and seaweed powder to eliminate the protein’s odor and promote the growth of beneficial bacteria in the hens’ intestines. Moreover, the farm adds crab shells and calcium to the feed, which helps enhance the hardness of the eggshells and alleviate stress, contributing to the overall health of the hens.
TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop (大安茶冰廳 ) Time-Limited Menu
Release Date (Limited Period): October 30, 2023 ~
Purple Yam Egg Tart(HKD 32)
The sweet and rich aroma of Ranou eggs combines synergistically with the fragrant sweetness of purple sweet potatoes, creating a double satisfaction. The filling consists of two layers, with the upper layer being smooth and flavorful chicken egg custard, while the lower layer is a velvety purple sweet potato paste. The addition of purple sweet potato granules on the surface adds a multi-textural experience to the overall taste.
Poached Egg with Condensed Milk and Espresso(HKD 45)
Experience the rich and authentic flavor of Ranou eggs, and then customize it according to personal taste by adding espresso and smooth condensed milk. This creates a modern twist on the traditional “steamed egg custard” dish, infused with the aroma of coffee and the sweetness of condensed milk.
Preserved Vegetable and Pork Patty Scotch Egg(HKD 62)
The crispy fried coating envelops a smoky and chewy meat filling, creating the classic Mei Cai Rou Bing (preserved vegetable and pork patty) flavor. At the same time, you can enjoy the refreshing crunchiness of the preserved vegetables, creating a delicious and multi-textured experience. The vibrant and enticing yolk of the Ranou egg adds richness to the dish. To complement the flavors, you can pair it with honey mustard sauce, chickpea puree, and salad greens, creating a refreshing taste that is not overpowering.
Hashtag: #TheJapanPoultryAssociation
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About The Japan Poultry Association
The Japan Poultry Association is a non-profit organization established in 1948, dedicated to improving the quality of the nation’s dietary lifestyle and ensuring the healthy development of the poultry industry. Its work includes stabilizing the supply and demand of poultry products and collecting and providing knowledge and information that promote the consumption of poultry products. The association also issues the “TAMAGO Japan Egg” safety certification for Japanese eggs that have passed multiple food inspections, allowing consumers to identify high-quality Japanese eggs.
The Japan Poultry Association’s safety certification assures consumers that eggs labeled with “TAMAGO Japan Egg” have been strictly monitored and tested, meeting the association’s rigorous standards in terms of rearing conditions, food safety inspections, and product quality and hygiene management.
By obtaining the Japan Poultry Association’s safety certification, consumers can trust that eggs labeled with “TAMAGO Japan Egg” have undergone strict monitoring and testing, ensuring they meet high-quality and hygiene standards. This allows consumers to choose and enjoy safe and reliable Japanese eggs.
The Japan Poultry Association :Facebook
About TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop (大安茶冰廳 )
TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop (大安茶冰廳 ) was established in 1969 and has a history of 54 years. In 2022, due to the original owner immigrating, TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop (大安茶冰廳 ) underwent a transformation from a traditional tea restaurant to a café. The restaurant underwent limited renovation while preserving the nostalgic ambiance of an old-fashioned “冰室” that is rarely seen today.
The menu primarily offers specialty coffee, light meals, and desserts. Additionally, it incorporates elements of a tea restaurant and creates original Chinese-Western fusion cuisine, reflecting TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop (大安茶冰廳 ) commitment to blending new and old cultures.
Address: G/F 830 Canton Road, Yau Ma Tei
TAI ON Coffee & Tea Shop 大安茶冰廳: Facebook
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HKPC announces the key findings on the “Hong Kong AI Industry Development Study”
49% of AI enterprises expressing difficulties in recruiting technical talent HKPC provides nine major recommendations for establishing Hong Kong as a well-recognised “International AI and Data Industry Development Hub”
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach – 10 November 2023 – Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) released the key findings on their “Hong Kong AI Industry Development Study” today, focusing on the status of Hong Kong’s artificial intelligence (AI) industry development, domestic and overseas competition and local corporate utility. HKPC also provided nine major recommendations for establishing Hong Kong as a well-recognised “International AI and Data Industry Development Hub”.
As one of the highlights of “2023 Policy Address”, the HKSAR Government has stated “AI and data science” as one of the three focuses of new industrialisation development. Upon receiving LegCo funding a few years ago, Hong Kong now hosts 14 cross-industry AI research laboratories and three universities ranking in the world’s top 30 universities with AI-related subjects and research, the HKSAR Government will also establish a “Digital Policy Office” to accelerate the construction of a high-performance computing (HPC) data centre, which is slated to complete in 2024-2025 and is already gradually applying AI technology into its public services. In order to build Hong Kong into an “AI and Data Industry Development Hub”, how should enterprises and governments respond? In light of this, HKPC collaborated with the Hong Kong Institute of Economics and Business Strategy (HIEBS), HKU Business School at The University of Hong Kong to conduct a “Hong Kong AI Industry Development Study” in mid-2023 to explore the various needs, opportunities and challenges the industry is currently facing. A total of 216 AI-related enterprises participated in the survey, and the key findings of the research are as follows:
Overview of the development of Hong Kong’s AI industry: 49% of participants expressed encountering difficulties in recruiting technical talent
Among the AI enterprises interviewed, 25% are large companies, and 75% are small and medium enterprises (SMEs). Of these, 17% said they are developing at all three levels (basic layer, technology layer and application layer), and 22% said they intend to extend their development to other layers in the future. 55% of the companies are looking to expand their businesses into both international and local markets. In comparison, 14% and 11% of companies will choose to focus their businesses in Hong Kong and the Mainland, respectively.
Financial overview:
- 51% of large companies stated that they are currently profitable, with 31% of overall enterprises claiming to be profitable.
- Funding sources: 43% of companies report receiving funding from the HKSAR Government, while 19% received funding from venture capital/angel investors.
- Cumulative investment amount: 49% of companies invested less than HK$1 million, while 21% invested between HK$1 million and HK$5 million, 6% of companies invested between HK$5 million and HK$10 million, 5% of companies invested between HK$10 million and HK$100 million, and 4% of companies invest over HK$100 million.
Industry development overview:
- 48% of companies are solely developing AI for one industry, while 16% of companies target two industries and 15% of companies target three industries at the same time.
- Targeted industries: 29% telecommunications and information technology services, 24% medical/clinical and health equipment, health products, pharmaceuticals, 23% education, nurturing/training, 22% manufacturing, and 21% Government organisations.
- Main sources of income: 63% from Hong Kong, 19% from the Mainland, and 15% from overseas.
Current major challenges in the industry – insufficient HPC processing power and data, and difficulties in recruiting technical talent:
- Insufficient processing power: 44% of enterprises express having difficulties securing enough processing power, and 71% cover the shortfalls through cloud computing services, of which 31% choose HPC data centres in the Mainland while 26% choose HPC data centres overseas.
- Insufficient data: 44% of companies are having difficulties collecting data, and 16% say it takes a long time to collect sufficient data. Meanwhile, 8% reported that they have no relevant data.
- Recruitment difficulties: 49% of companies are having difficulties recruiting, and some even reduced their hires of technical talent in Hong Kong. 77% of companies reasoned that it is due to Hong Kong’s high operating costs, and 41% expressed that Hong Kong lacks relevant technical talent. Nevertheless, 45% of companies still plan to increase the hiring of Hong Kong technical talent.
Overview of domestic and overseas AI industry development: Governments worldwide are promoting the development of AI-led industries.
In the Mainland, the Chinese Government is actively promoting the development of AI, and the AI industry has already reached significant scale. While Shenzhen’s Pengcheng Cloudbrain II’s HPC computer capabilities have successfully reached world-class level, Shanghai has also been constructing The Shanghai Supercomputer Center (SSC). Additionally, both cities have issued regulatory measures and policies to promote the development of AI industry, covering key elements such as human resources, HPC processing, data, algorithms, primary research, application scenarios, industry chains, industrial park service systems, fund groups, and servicing standard systems. With the Government taking lead in implementing AI, Shanghai focuses on industries such as manufacturing, finance, and shipping, while Shenzhen focuses on public services and urban governance.
For the overseas market, Singapore launched its “National AI Strategy” in 2019, focusing on the interaction among Government, industry, academia and research sectors, as well as talent and data, with resources concentrated in areas such as finance, Government, healthcare and logistics. Singapore places special emphasis on nurturing local AI talent and supports the application of AI in local SMEs. Their AI Apprenticeship Program provides local talent with skills training and hands-on opportunities with a decent monthly allowance. The Singapore Government also provides AI readiness index assessment services, matching funding with projects, platform engineering teams, HPC cloud clusters, etc. for SMEs to promote their AI applications.
As an international financial centre, New York provides an excellent financing ecosystem and environment for AI companies in the United States, and is home to several top-tier research centres for AI tech giants. The New York City Government is also committed to building a healthy AI ecosystem and continue to explore additional opportunities for public sector applications of AI and safeguard citizens’ digital rights. Meanwhile, Switzerland’s significant investments in research and education have created a first-class innovative environment for local AI development. The country has nurtured world-class innovative universities such as the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology Zurich, giving rise to local AI star companies and attracting numerous top-tier global technology companies to establish a presence in the country. These collaborations between public and private institutions have made significant contributions to AI technology research and industrialisation of research outcomes, which in turn drives development of AI in Switzerland.
Concluding the situation in different regions, Governments worldwide have implemented policies to create a favourable development environment for AI to thrive. These trends indicate that AI has become a key focus for Governments around the world.
Overview of Hong Kong enterprises’ application of AI: 41% of Hong Kong enterprises are using or will use AI
To understand the overall situation of Hong Kong enterprises’ use of AI, this study has also collected additional data from 267 companies, of which 81% were SMEs, and 19% were large companies, covering multiple industries, including retail and catering, personal services, and professional service industries. Of all companies surveyed, 41% are or will be using AI, with 32% of them already applying the technology in multiple levels, such as marketing (58%), operations (44%), and internal management (33%). The average cumulative investment in AI has reached HK$830,000. For the remaining 9% of companies preparing to integrate AI technology into their business operations, their average investment budget is approximately HK$140,000. In terms of plans to expand the use of AI, 59% of companies that have already integrated AI stated that they will further expand their AI applications and increase their investment. 61% of them are considering to expand their investment by HK$300,000, and the average expected additional investment amount is as high as HK$1.22 million.
Mr Edmond LAI, Chief Digital Officer of HKPC, said, “As a scientific research institution, HKPC has strong experience in AI applications and practical capabilities in developing AI. We are committed to promoting the development of the AI industry and have successfully developed relevant technologies as we assist enterprises in upgrading and transforming their businesses. According to the latest data, 49% of companies that have applied AI believe that its effects are in line with their expectations, and 14% even pointed out that their investment have even exceeded their expectations. However, a small number of companies even said that their AI applications may need more work to achieve the targeted effects. Through this valuable data research, HKPC aims to further promote the application of AI across various industries, helping businesses optimise their operations and production processes, enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and facilitate the development of the AI industry in Hong Kong while providing practical recommendations.”
Professor TANG Hei-wai, Associate Director of HIEBS, concluded that, “AI has empowered the development of thousands of industries and brought in huge growth potential to the economy. This research focused on the AI policies and development of five distinctly different countries/regions: Singapore, New York, Switzerland, Shanghai and Shenzhen, and we have discovered that all regional Governments have introduced specific policies and measures to create a fostering development environment for AI technologies. Among them, Shenzhen even proposed to cooperate with Hong Kong to build an AI HPC centre. In addition, the report also reflects that a good number of Hong Kong enterprises intend to further develop their AI businesses or apply AI. The HKSAR Government can refer to the experience of other regions and analyse the current challenges faced by local enterprises to formulate targeted incentive measures to ensure that our city can seize the opportunities that AI brings. By injecting new impetus into the post-epidemic and digital economy, we can upgrade our industries and create new opportunities.”
Over the years, HKPC has made remarkable achievements in research and development (R&D) of AI technologies and promoted the development of AI industry. Mr Edmond LAI continued, “HKPC established the Hong Kong Industrial Artificial Intelligence and Robotics Centre (FLAIR) at the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation, dedicated to utilising AI to drive productivity by combining technical expertise, network, innovative R&D and patents. As the sole founding institution, we have jointly operated FLAIR with our partner, RWTH Aachen Campus in Germany, over the years. After years of hard work, FLAIR has become a member of HKSAR Government’s world-class innovative platform ‘AIR@InnoHK’. In addition to cooperating with international research institutions and key industry players, with the goal to assist enterprises in establishing AI applications, and effectively supporting Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology centre, FLAIR also developed the ‘Hephaestus: Industrial Artificial Intelligence Application Platform‘, enabling industry professionals to store and access data storages, AI model storages and generate codes from their subsequent industries’ database to develop, train and use various AI technologies. HKPC will continue to promote the development of innovative technologies, support new industrialisation in Hong Kong, and promote Hong Kong’s rise as an ‘International AI and Data Industry Development Hub’. In order to achieve this, we have put forward nine recommendations in their core segments, which may hopefully improve infrastructure development, accelerate industrialisation and expand our AI talent pool.”
Nine recommendations to promote Hong Kong’s development as an “International AI and Data Industry Development Hub”
Improve Infrastructure
- Construct an Asia-leading HPC centre: The Government invests in establishing a “public” HPC Centre and introduces preferential policies to attract local and foreign enterprises to build “private” HPC centres in Hong Kong and attract enterprises to carry out AI R&D in Hong Kong along with other public supercomputing resources (e.g. Universities).
- Establish an “International Big Data Hub”: Develop data policies through the newly formulated “Digital Policy Office” and establish regulations to create a “privacy policies-free” environment. Further promote Government departments and Government-operated or funded institutions to provide “privacy policies-free” big data and APIs, and negotiate and implement data circulation with Mainland and overseas cities. This will facilitate the circulation of big data involving personal privacies (e.g. medical data), while at the same time safeguarding individual citizens.
- Formulate regulatory policies and guidelines for the development and application of AI technology: The Government must strike a balance between promoting the development of the AI industry and safeguarding public interests, while enhancing the confidence of the industry and the public in the application of AI. We may refer to experiences and practices of other regions to stay in line with Mainland and overseas industry development.
- Strengthen cooperation with the Greater Bay Area and other countries to improve the AI and data industry, while Hong Kong focuses on developing its advantages: AI chip design, algorithms, AI frameworks, AI application software, etc.
Accelerate Industrialisation
- Take the lead in promoting large-scale AI applications: In line with the development vision of smart city and smart government, the HKSAR Government should develop and launch large-scale AI applications by example to lead the development of the AI industry and attract AI companies to develop in Hong Kong.
- Empower industries in Hong Kong by upgrading and transforming with AI: Encourage industry chambers to cooperate with the AI industry, share successful AI use cases, explore new application scenarios, utilise Government funding to provide AI training to employees, apply AI to help traditional industries upgrade and transform, accelerate the development of emerging industries, and create business opportunities for the AI industry.
- Develop an “International Financing Centre for AI Companies”: The Government should cooperate with relevant public and private institutions to promote and publicise the newly launched “Specialist Technology Company Listing Rules” (Chapter 18C) by the Hong Kong Stock Exchange, which allows pre-revenue, pre-profit specialised technology companies to list in Hong Kong, along with the new changes to HKEX’s GEM board’s listing rules. These reformed listing rules will attract more AI companies to list in Hong Kong and more venture capital funds to come to Hong Kong.
Foster an AI Talent Pool
- Popularise AI education and accelerate the fostering of interdisciplinary “AI+ talent”: Universities and community colleges may incorporate AI education into their compulsory courses and in more disciplines, and secondary schools may also integrate AI education in multiple stages.
- Promote Hong Kong as “The Most Internationally Livable City for AI Talent”: The HKSAR Government may promote the city’s AI industry development plan and the convenience of being in an international city. Additionally, formulate preferential policies to encourage AI companies to relocate non-local AI tech employees to Hong Kong and attract AI talent from across the globe to develop in Hong Kong.
Please click here to view the key findings of “Hong Kong AI Industry Development Study” (Chinese only). The full report will be available for download from HKPC and HKU Business School website in due course.
Please click here to download high-resolution pictures.
Photo captions:
At the media briefing of “Hong Kong AI Industry Development Study”, Mr Edmond LAI, Chief Digital Officer of HKPC (left), and Prof TANG Hei-wai, Associate Director of HIEBS (right), announced that 49% of AI companies expressing difficulties recruiting technical talent. They have also put forward nine recommendations in three core segments hoping to establish Hong Kong as a well-recognised “International AI and Data Industry Development Hub”.
Hashtag: #HKPC
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About HKPC New Industrialisation
New Industrialisation is one of the eight major development focuses of the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC). To support the goal of achieving new industrialisation as stated in the “Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint” promulgated by the HKSAR Government and promote high-quality and sustainable development of Hong Kong economy, HKPC New Industrialisation provides comprehensive technical support and training to move enterprises and industrial chains toward higher-end, smarter and greener transformation, achieving new industrialisation. The New Industrialisation Development Centre, established in mid-2023, provides an exchange platform for all sectors to learn about and master the latest technological solutions, with all-round services including testing and certification, certified new industrialisation courses and Government funding consultation, and more. This will drive and accelerate the realisation of new industrialisation in Hong Kong and other cities of the Greater Bay Area, speeding up the formation of new productivity. To promote the high-quality development of new industrialisation and the digital economy, HKPC New Industrialisation has also established “Celesphere”, dedicated to combining metaverse, Industry 4.0, artificial intelligence and human-machine interface technologies to further promote industrial metaverse applications and their adoption, optimising product life cycles, enhancing enterprise productivity and competitiveness, and jointly driving and implementing new industrialisation.
For more information, please visit HKPC New Industrialisation’s webpage: https://u.hkpc.org/HKPC-NewInd-EN.
About the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC)
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a multi-disciplinary organisation established by statute in 1967, to promote productivity excellence through relentless drive of world-class advanced technologies and innovative service offerings to support Hong Kong enterprises. Being a key enabler of Industry 4.0 and Enterprise 4.0, HKPC strives to facilitate new industrialisation in Hong Kong, as well as bolstering Hong Kong to be an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city. The Council offers comprehensive innovative solutions for Hong Kong industries and enterprises, enabling them to achieve resources and productivity utilisation, effectiveness and cost reduction, and enhance competitiveness in both local and overseas marketplace. The Council partners and collaborates with local industries and enterprises and world-class R&D institutes to develop applied technology solutions for value creation. It also benefits a variety of sectors through product innovation, technology transfer, and commercialisation, bringing enormous business opportunities ahead. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades.
In addition, HKPC offers SMEs and startups immediate and timely assistance in coping with the ever-changing business environment, and strengthens talent nurturing and Hong Kong’s competitiveness with FutureSkills training for enterprises and academia to enhance digital capabilities and TechEd competencies. For more information, please visit the HKPC website: www.hkpc.org
Showtime Wuhan

Photo: Chen Liang

Photo: Chen Liang
Hashtag: #WuhanInternationalCommunicationsCenter
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Taiwan-Japan Heartfelt Documentary “After the Snowmelt” and Filipino Fantasy Feature “Mother Maybe” Win Big at TCCF 2023

The event, organized by the Taiwan Creative Content Agency (TAICCA), secured an impressive number of local and international sponsors for its 30 pitching awards including Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, Far EasTone and France’s Centre National du cinéma et de l’image animée (CNC). The total award prize surpassed the NT$6 million or nearly US$200,000. Homme Tsai, Chairperson of TAICCA, opened the evening saying that the support for this year’s TCCF had been unprecedented, “the agency has actively collaborated with South Korea, France, Japan, and the three major telecommunications companies in Taiwan. Our goal is to provide creators with more funding while seeking additional international collaboration opportunities.”
The grand prize, the US$30,000 TAICCA X CNC Award, went to the documentary After the Snowmelt. The Taiwanese-Japanese co-production is a heartfelt tribute from director Lo Yi-Shan to her best friend Chu, who passed away while trekking in Nepal. The director highlighted that there are not many opportunities for documentary pitches in Taiwan and was thankful to the organization for featuring a documentary session for the first time, “the fact that TCCF specifically caters to documentary submissions is a significant encouragement.” However, the biggest surprise of the night came right at the end of the ceremony when the organization announced that due to the high quality of the projects this year they would grant a second TAICCA X CNC Award. The second winner, the Filipino feature film Mother Maybe, is a fantasy drama that mixes Filipino folklore with a universal message of finding your own family and your place in the world. Producer Arden Rod Condez, visibly overwhelmed, confessed that “we never expected it. It’s our first film market and my first time in Taiwan but I’m very glad this story resonated with a lot of people. It’s quite personal but, also, a little crazy.” The project also received the Taichung Action Award and the MPA Grand Award that evening.
Another highlighted project in this year’s TCCF PITCHING is the series Maid of Vengeance. Directed by 2022 Golden Bell Best Director winner David Chuang (Danger Zone), this revenge thriller follows the downfall of a TV anchor after her sex tape is leaked online. Now a vigilante, she swears to take down the platform behind the leaked videos. Maid of Vengeance received the Chunghwa Telecom Award, together with a cash prize NT$600,000, and the Series Mania Award, which means the project will participate in Series Mania 2024. Taiwan-Hong Kong feature Appetite for Desire was one of the other top earners of the night. The supernatural drama, co-produced by Taiwan’s Flash Forward Entertainment, received the MIFFEST Award, the Choice of Deep Waters Award and Taipei International Film Award.
This year TCCF PITCHING opened up for the first time to international projects. The 53 selected projects, out of 539 submissions, were presented in 5 different sessions, Project to Screen, divided in feature films, series, animation and documentary, and Story to Screen, for Taiwanese IPs with great adaptability potential. Curator and producer Lorna Tee, one of the awards’ decision makers, declared that “I’m just quite overwhelmed with joy with the quality of the pitched projects at this year’s TCCF. This platform allows filmmakers to think and have meaningful conversations about their projects, and find co-production partners. The more countries involved in the development of a film the easier it will reach a wider audience.”
Hashtag: #TaiwanCreativeContentAgency
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