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“AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series Returns
Driving Industrial Upgrading and Widespread AI Adoption through Smart Manufacturing, Public Services and “AI for All” Training
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 21 May 2026 – The national 15th Five-Year Plan advocates deepening the “AI+” initiative, promoting the extensive integration of AI across all sectors of the economy and society. The HKSAR Government has clearly positioned AI as a core industry and is accelerating the establishment of the Committee on AI+ and Industry Development Strategy to fast-track AI adoption across sectors. Following the overwhelming success of the inaugural showcase held in February this year, the Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) today once again presents the “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series. Featuring nearly 50 innovative AI solutions, the showcase focuses on three major themes: AI forManufacturing, InnovatingPublic Services, and AI Training for All. The event actively responds to the Government’s call to empower industries through AI and promote the transition from pilot projects to large-scale deployment. The event has received an enthusiastic response, attracting around 3,000 registrants from the Government, industry, academia and research sectors, reflecting strong market demand for AI solutions. The opening ceremony was officiated by Mr. Kevin CHOI, JP, Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, and Mr. Mohamed BUTT, MH, Executive Director of HKPC.
Mr. Kevin CHOI, JP, Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, said: “This year’s Budget Announcement continues the Government’s overall industry‑oriented development approach, with innovation and technology as a key driver and financial empowerment as a central theme. It also puts forward a series of measures to promote the AI development. Over the past few years, the Government has enhanced the strategic layout for AI development, laying a solid foundation for both the industrialisation of AI and the integration of AI across industries. These efforts include establishing an AI Supercomputing Centre, launching a $3 billion AI Subsidy Scheme, and advancing AI research and development through InnoHK. Nevertheless, the most important priority remains “AI for All”, ensuring the comprehensive advancement of “AI+” across the whole community. HKPC is a key partner of the Government. At the same time, close collaboration among stakeholders in innovation and technology, industry, commerce and education is essential to fully harness the potential of AI. Talent and enterprises are welcome to explore development opportunities in Hong Kong, whether by establishing a presence or expanding their operations here.”
Mr. Mohamed BUTT, MH, Executive Director of HKPC, stated: ” Continuously advancing the ‘AI Plus’ initiative is one of the key national work priorities for this year. In a guideline to implement the ‘AI Plus’initiative, the State Council has also clearly specified key performance indicators for the short-term (2027), medium-term (2030) and long-term (2035) phases, with the ultimate goal of fully building an intelligent economy and an intelligent society across the country. The HKSAR Government’s clear positioning of AI as a core industry has greatly encouraged the innovation and technology sector. HKPC actively aligns with the national plan and supports the HKSAR Government’s initiatives, making AI a key development priority, spanning technology integration and innovation, AI governance and cyber security, as well as talent development. Through this one-stop approach, we aim to support enterprises in leveraging AI to upgrade and transform industries, while also promoting broader public awareness and adoption of AI.”
Mr. BUTT added that he was delighted to see the successful return of the AI Solutions Showcase with wider industry participation. The exhibition aims to bring AI from “visibility” to “affordability, accuracy and security”, enabling wider adoption across industries and increasing AI penetration. HKPC will continue working with all sectors to advance the popularisation, industrialisation and application of AI, supporting Hong Kong ‘s development as a leading hub for AI innovation and application.
The themed programme, “AI for Manufacturing: Redefining Productivity in the AI Era”, showcases a wide range of innovative applications, demonstrating how AI reshapes manufacturing sector, comprehensively enhances productivity, product quality and operational efficiency. Key solutions include:
- Magnetic Crawling Robot for corrosion inspection of pipeline: Developed by HKPC in collaboration with the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), it leverages AI-assisted visual inspection to detect internal and external pipe corrosion, enabling predictive maintenance.
- Autonomous Air-ground Cooperative Tunnel Inspector: The system was jointly developed by HKPC, the Civil Engineering and Development Department (CEDD), and Hyder-Meinhardt Joint Venture, integrated with AI, robotics, and millimetre-level positioning in GPS-denied environments for quality inspection and maintenance in the Trunk Road T2 and Cha Kwo Ling Tunnel project.
- StationInspector: Co-developed by HKPC and MTR Corporation, it features AI-enhanced 3D visual scanning, advanced sensors and deep learning to accurately identify risks, navigate autonomously, generate reports and provide predictive maintenance recommendations, efficiently detecting safety hazards in stations.
In addition, HKPC’s self-developed open AI platform “HKPC Picasso” integrates a variety of standardised core AI modules. Enterprises can quickly deploy vision inspection, large language model (LLM) and other capabilities without building infrastructure from scratch, achieving efficient and internationally compliant intelligent transformation. This helps enterprises overcome integration challenges, cost concerns, and security risks in AI adoption.
The “Innovating Public Services, Driving the AI Transformation” stream focuses on AI applications in Government processes, medical diagnostics and data analysis to enhance public service efficiency and risk management capabilities. The event invites speakers from the Digital Policy Office, Hong Kong Generative AI Research & Development Centre and Cyberport to explore how AI infrastructure empowers public services. Industry leaders including Alibaba Cloud, Huawei, Intertek and Shadow Bot also join HKPC experts to share insights on smart governance, data governance and automated approval. Key solutions cover AI-enabled digital public service platforms, AI healthcare applications, and smart systems for data security and leakage prevention, demonstrating how AI improves the quality and security of public services.
The “FutureSkills: AI Training for ALL” stream aims to cultivate AI talent and prepare the workforce for future challenges. In recent years, the HKSAR Government has actively promoted territory-wide AI training and enhanced AI literacy. In response, HKPC Academy has launched the “Future Skills with AI” Framework to support the “AI for All” initiative. Through professional training programmes and certification covering AI knowledge, technology applications, business management and growth mindset, the framework comprehensively enhances the future workplace competitiveness of working professionals, technology practitioners, business leaders, educators and families.The themed forum, “Enabling the Human + AI Workforce“, explores in depth the evolving workplace ecosystem driven by human-AI collaboration, as well as strategies for organisational transformation and leadership action. A series of AI training workshops and expert sharing sessions further cover topics such as Vibe Coding for workplace empowerment, the new era of precision administration, human-machine collaboration, and AI-driven education.
Furthermore, HKPC signed Memoranda of Understanding with numerous schools and educational organisations, including the Subsidized Primary Schools Council, The Association of Hong Kong Chinese Middle Schools, Hong Kong Subsidized Secondary Schools Council, Hong Kong Aided Primary School Heads Association, Catholic Diocese of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Association for Computer Education, and Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers TechEd Centre , to jointly promote AI education. The AI education programmes are expected to reach over 500 primary and secondary schools across Hong Kong, fostering future digital talent and strengthening the translation of industry-academia outcomes into real-world impact.
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- Mr. Kevin CHOI, JP, Permanent Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of the HKSAR Government, attends the opening ceremony of the “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series, supporting the integration of AI into industries and the “AI for All” programme.
- Mr. Mohamed BUTT, MH, Executive Director of the HKPC, encourages enterprises to actively adopt AI to enhance productivity, product quality and operational efficiency at the opening ceremony.
- Officiating guests and industry representatives take a group photo to witness the success of the “AI with HKPC” Smart Solutions Showcase Series Returns.
- The showcase features nearly 50 AI solutions and on-site demonstrations, presenting the practical application of AI across various industries and offering actionable transformation pathways for enterprises and organisations.
Hashtag: #HKPC
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About the Hong Kong Productivity Council
The Hong Kong Productivity Council (HKPC) is a statutory body established in 1967, dedicated to enhancing the productivity and competitiveness of Hong Kong enterprises through world-class applied R&D, innovative technology services, and integrated manufacturing solutions. As a market-oriented, international R&D organisation, HKPC leverages its deep expertise and extensive industry experience in key areas such as AI, advanced manufacturing, life and health technology, green technology and new energy to drive new industrialisation and support the growth of emerging and future industries.
HKPC focuses on addressing businesses challenges and industrial technology needs, promoting the full integration between technological and industrial innovation. Through technology transfer, product innovation, intellectual property protection and commercialisation of R&D outcomes, the Council fosters collaboration with the local business community as well as top global R&D institutions, delivering added value to industries and advancing the development of new productive forces. HKPC’s world-class R&D achievements have been widely recognised over the years, winning an array of local and overseas accolades, reinforcing Hong Kong’s role as an international innovation and technology centre and a smart city.
To help enterprises capitalise on Hong Kong’s strengths in international connectivity to expand into global markets, HKPC offers comprehensive overseas expansion services tailored to critical areas including product development, technology, manufacturing, and management, enabling businesses to successfully go global from Hong Kong.
HKPC is also committed to providing timely and practical support to SMEs and startups with timely and practical, assisting them in accessing Government funding programmes. Through its FutureSkills training initiatives, HKPC helps both industry and academia stay ahead in latest digital and STEM technologies, nurturing a future-ready talent pool for Hong Kong.
For more information, please visit HKPC’s website: www.hkpc.org/en.
CUHK’s Academic Excellence and Global Research Impact
CUHK’s academic rigour is further recognised in the 2026–27 Best Global Universities Rankings by U.S. News & World Report, where it ranks 28th globally and 5th in Asia, remaining Hong Kong’s top university for the fourth consecutive year. The University features 15 subjects in the global top 50, including five in the top 10, such as Education and Educational Research (#1), Gastroenterology and Hepatology (#2), Computer Science (#7), and Arts and Humanities and Artificial Intelligence (both ranked #9).
CUHK: Where Bold Ideas Become Impactful Research
CUHK provides an exceptional environment for impactful research, supported by approximately 300 research institutes and centres, alongside four state key laboratories approved by the Ministry of Science and Technology of China. Reflecting on the academic environment, Zhamilya Zhirenova, a PhD student in Biomedical Science from Kazakhstan, has deepened her expertise through her involvement with the Centre for Neuromusculoskeletal Restorative Medicine (CNRM), an InnoHK research centre CUHK established with Sweden’s Karolinska Institutet.
Unlike traditional research pathways, where students are often confined to a single university laboratory, Zhamilya gained extensive experience at Hong Kong Science Park, a dynamic setting that closely resembles industry. “It feels more like an industrial company,” she reflected, “and that experience has been invaluable.” For researchers with ambitions beyond academia, such early exposure to the pace and expectations of the biotech industry provides a distinct advantage.
Nurturing the Next Generation of Scientific Innovators
Many of CUHK’s scholars are globally renowned experts who have made significant breakthroughs in their respective fields. These experts provide valuable mentorship, cultivating an intellectually stimulating environment for innovative research.
At the Centre for Novostics, an InnoHK research centre dedicated to advancing molecular diagnostics, Yasine Malki, a Chemical Pathology PhD student from Hong Kong, highlighted mentorship as a defining aspect of his experience at CUHK. Benefiting from the mentorship of Professor Dennis Lo, CUHK’s Vice-Chancellor and President, and a pioneer in molecular diagnostics, Yasine collaborates with specialists in molecular technologies, bioinformatics, and clinician-scientists, exemplifying CUHK’s dynamic, multidisciplinary approach to medical science.
Through the latest global rankings, CUHK continues to demonstrate the impact of its research and scholarship. The University offers robust financial support to attract top-tier global talent, such as the Hong Kong PhD Fellowship Scheme (HKPFS) for the 2027–28 intake, which provides over HK$1.81 million (approximately US$232,420) in funding. Applications open on 1 September 2026.
Hashtag: #CUHK
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About CUHK
Founded in 1963, The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) is a leading comprehensive research university with a global reputation and world-leading rankings. Located in the heart of Asia, CUHK has a vision and a mission to combine tradition with modernity, and to bring together China and the West. The University has eight faculties: Arts, Business Administration, Education, Engineering, Law, Medicine, Science, and Social Science. Together with the Graduate School, the University offers over 300 undergraduate and postgraduate programmes. All faculties are actively engaged in research in a wide range of disciplines, with an array of research institutes and research centres specialising in interdisciplinary research of the highest quality.
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HKDL’s Immersive Interactive Experiences Win Guests’ Hearts Lucky Nugget Spin at Grizzly Gulch Surpasses 30,000 Participations
Immersive experiences fuel collectible merchandise craze and extend magical memories
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 11 July 2026 – In tune with the growing popularity of experiential travel and guests’ desire for participation and immersive experiences throughout their journeys, Hong Kong Disneyland Resort (HKDL) has been integrating retail with storytelling at the park through an endless flow of innovative interactive experiences and distinctive merchandise offerings. Emotional connections with guests are strengthened as merchandise is transformed into meaningful souvenirs interwoven with their Disney memories.
Launched in April this year at Grizzly Gulch, the Chip ‘n’ Dale Lucky Nugget Spin has recorded more than 30,000 participations as of the end of June, becoming one of the park’s most popular activities. Combining storytelling, live interactions, and surprises, the experience has been warmly received by guests and has further enhanced the atmosphere throughout the land.
David Koo, director of merchandise at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, shared: ‘Today’s guests are looking for more than products; they want keepsakes that capture the stories and memories of their visit. Through interactive experiences, we hope to make merchandise a natural extension of the Disney park journey. Whether it is a plush toy, a pin or an accessory, the true value lies not only in the item itself, but in the magical moments and personal memories it represents.’
David Koo, director of merchandise at Hong Kong Disneyland Resort, is pictured in the center
This story- and interaction-driven strategy has been incorporated into various guest experiences across the resort. For example, in an engaging experience at the Popcorn Pop-Up Shop on Main Street, U.S.A., guests can reach into a giant popcorn bucket-themed installation to catch a “popcorn” and reveal the hidden Pixar pals plushie together with Disney cast members on the spot. Meanwhile, the Snow White Grotto, located beside the Castle of Magical Dreams, has introduced a new “Lock of Dreams” experience, offering guests a sense of ceremony and a souvenir to cherish.
Disney’s Classic Pin Trading Tradition Extends the Magic Beyond the Visit
Disney’s iconic Pin Trading tradition has long been an important part of how guests explore the park and connect with others. Reopened in June, Main Street Collectibles now features dedicated pin display areas designed to celebrate and elevate this beloved tradition. Guests can discover unexpected treasures while searching for favorite designs as they trade pins with Disney cast members and fellow collectors. More than just an addition to a collection, each pin carries unique memories and extends the guest journey.
More Than 3.5 Million 20th Anniversary Merchandise Items Snapped up
New Pixar and Marvel Experiences on the Way
Merchandise sales grew continuously during Hong Kong Disneyland’s 20th anniversary celebrations, which attracted a large number of local, mainland, and international visitors and concluded with fanfare in June. Since late June last year, the resort has sold more than 3.5 million 20th Anniversary-themed merchandise. Among them, about 600,000 units of the SouvenEARS collection have been snapped up. Meanwhile, the blind-box series inspired by attractions and themed lands achieved sales of more than 500,000 units during fiscal year 2025, demonstrating the continued popularity of merchandise with strong storytelling elements and collectible appeal.
Looking ahead, HKDL will continue to enrich the guest experience across the resort. New Pixar-themed and Marvel-themed experiences will be introduced, further expanding both entertainment and retail offerings. Through ongoing innovation, HKDL remains committed to meeting guests’ demand for more immersive experiences, enhancing its appeal to local, mainland, and international visitors, and strengthening its position as a leading travel destination in the region.
Hashtag: #HongKongDisneylandResort
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The HR Asia Awards are among Asia’s most prestigious annual human resources awards, recognizing organizations that demonstrate excellence in workplace culture and sustainable people development. Winners are evaluated using the TEAM (Total Engagement Assessment Model), which measures employee engagement, organizational trust, and workplace experience, drawing on benchmarking data from more than 2.5 million employees across 20,000 organizations throughout the region.
According to the independent assessment conducted for the HR Asia Awards 2026, Green SM significantly outperformed market benchmarks in the “Best Companies to Work for in Asia” category, achieving outstanding scores across several key dimensions, including technology enablement in the workplace (4.8/5), workplace sustainability (4.71/5), and diversity, equity, and inclusion (4.72/5).
A defining element of Green SM’s workplace culture is its unwavering commitment to the principle that “Every Voice Counts.” This commitment is embedded through comprehensive employee engagement initiatives, including regular internal surveys, 360-degree performance evaluations, and multiple feedback channels that transform employee insights into tangible improvements in policies, workplace practices, and operational excellence.
At Green SM, talent development is viewed not merely as an HR function but as a strategic driver of service excellence. The Company continues to invest comprehensively in recruitment, professional training, operational standardization, workplace culture, and structured career development pathways for its Green Drivers. In parallel, Green SM delivers continuous capability-building programs for managers and employees, combining practical learning with digital learning platforms to strengthen leadership and management capabilities and organizational agility in an evolving business environment.
Alongside its investment in people, Green SM has been progressively building a unified organizational culture across its international markets. Rooted in values established in Vietnam while embracing the diversity of local cultures and communities, the Company fosters an environment that encourages collaboration, continuous learning, and empowerment. This enables teams across different countries to uphold consistent service standards while remaining responsive to the unique needs of local customers and communities.
Green SM also received the Technology Empowerment Awards in recognition of its continued digital transformation in human resource management. Through the digitalization of HR processes, the development of competency frameworks, the expansion of digital learning ecosystems, and the integration of data-driven people management, the Company has streamlined repetitive administrative tasks, enhanced decision-making efficiency, and enabled employees to devote greater focus to innovation, customer experience, and superior service delivery.
Mr. Nguyen Quoc Tuan, Global Chief Executive Officer of Green SM, said: “Our people have always been the cornerstone of Green SM’s sustainable growth. We believe that when individuals are empowered by technology and united by shared values, our teams across every market can deliver exceptional experiences for our customers. These two awards affirm the direction we have taken and further strengthen our commitment to building a truly multinational organization with its roots in Vietnam.”
In 2026, Green SM aims to expand its global workforce and partner network to approximately 400,000 people worldwide. As the Company continues to accelerate its international expansion, it will further invest in talent development and technology-driven people management to build a highly capable global workforce, maintain consistent service excellence across markets, and advance its vision of becoming the world’s leading green mobility platform.
Hashtag: #GreenSM
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