To enhance productivity and cost-effectiveness of the construction industry, the Government has been proactively promoting innovative construction methods and application of advanced technology. In the past few years, more than 40 Government pilot projects adopted the Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology. One of them, the advance works project for the expansion of Shek Wu Hui sewage treatment works conducted by the Drainage Services Department (DSD), recently won an industry award in recognition of its efforts in adopting innovative technologies in building design. So, what are the benefits of BIM technology to the construction industry? I have invited a young engineer to share with us the adoption of BIM technology in works projects……

Walking around Hong Kong, you will find unique architecture in every district. The Architectural Services Department (ArchSD) under the Development Bureau has all along been committed to incorporating sustainable innovative designs and green features into various building projects, so as to ensure the quality, cost effectiveness and sustainable development of community facilities, and provide public spaces for community engagement and public enjoyment. Recently, the new Tsing Yi Southwest Leisure Building designed by the ArchSD was awarded the 2016/17 Hong Kong Institute of Architects Merit Award of Hong Kong (Community Building). It is definitely a recognition and great encouragement to our colleagues who have taken part in the project. I have particularly invited the architect of the project, a Senior Architect of the ArchSD, to share with us the design concepts and the distinctive features of the building……

Oxfam Trailwalker 2017, the annual charity hiking event, will take place this coming Friday to Sunday. I would like to take this opportunity to cheer the participants on. In the past, I have taken part in the Trailwalker four times and then as a volunteer for many years. The event has given me many fond memories. This year, a total of 5,200 walkers from 1,300 teams will take on the challenge of completing the 100 km MacLehose Trail and other trails within 48 hours. It’s not just a physical challenge, but also a test of willpower and perseverance……

The 44th WorldSkills Competition has just come to a successful conclusion in Abu Dhabi, the United Arab Emirates. The Hong Kong Team brings honour to Hong Kong by scooping up a Bronze Prize and seven Medallions for Excellence. Our working partners, namely the Construction Industry Council (CIC) and the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD), have sent six young contestants, together with participants from other sectors, to represent Hong Kong to compete with other contestants from around the world in this international competition hailed as the “Skills Olympics”. A few days ago, I invited our young contestants to share with us their competition experiences and results. I am glad that apart from coming home with satisfactory results, they also find the competition a joyful and unforgettable experience. I am absolutely pleased to see that our young people are willing to challenge themselves, make continuous improvements and value every opportunity to widen their exposure and experience. I believe that they will be able to unleash their potential and shine for the world to see in future……

As autumn finally approaches, Hong Kong people can take a break from the threat of tropical cyclones for a while, but the Government still has not let down its guard in taking precautionary measures against typhoon. When super typhoon Hato hit Hong Kong in late August, tidal back flow and flooding occurred in some low-lying coastal areas owing to astronomical high tide and storm surge, which damaged a number of public facilities and adversely affected neighbouring shops and residents along the coastal areas. I am aware that the relevant government departments have all along been actively communicating with the local community to offer them the support needed, and have further reviewed the situation and formulated improvement measures accordingly. Lei Yue Mun of Kwun Tong district was badly hit by the typhoon. On my recent visit to the area, I familiarised myself with the follow-up measures taken by various departments, and also met with members of the Kwun Tong District Council (KTDC) and the local community to discuss related matters......