Speech by PSCST at press conference of French May Arts Festival and French GourMay 2025
Following is the speech by the Permanent Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Ms Vivian Sum, at the press conference of the French May Arts Festival and French GourMay 2025 today (April 15):
Mrs Cheng (Co-chairman of the Board of French May Arts Festival, Mrs Mignonne Cheng), Mrs Drulhe (Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau, Mrs Christile Drulhe), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It is my great honour to join you all at the press conference of this year's French May Arts Festival and French GourMay.
Since its inception in 1993, French May has spanned over 30 years and established itself as one of Hong Kong's, and even Asia's, most prestigious arts and cultural celebrations. Stepping into the 32nd edition, French May Arts Festival will as always bring together world-class artists and programmes with rich French characteristics to the community, further adding vibrancy to the cultural landscape of Hong Kong.
I'm glad to know that this year's French May will feature more than 60 events spotlighting over 200 French and Hong Kong artists. Highlights include the ongoing exhibition, "Picasso for Asia - A Conversation", which is co‑presented by French May, Musée National Picasso-Paris and M+, and presents more than 60 masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, together with 130 works of contemporary Asian artists. This project, which is supported by the Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau, is a good example of initiatives which promote East-West cultural exchanges.
Just last month, we had our Super March welcoming globally renowned arts and cultural programmes and visitors from around the world. And I must thank French May for your commitment to creating a platform for arts and cultural exchanges and bringing about opportunities for the industry and community. Your invaluable contributions complement the Government's wide-ranging efforts in developing Hong Kong into an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchanges.
I would also like to take this opportunity to thank the Consulate General of France in Hong Kong, and all the collaborating organisations and artists that work together to bring this year's Festival to life. I'm also glad to note that French GourMay will return this year, with French spirits as well as Hong Kong's nightlife and bars, being the spotlights of the Festival.
I have no doubt that this year's French May Arts Festival and French GourMay will be another resounding success for all. Thank you.
Notice on appointments to advisory and statutory bodies
A Government spokesman said today (January 12) that Mr Chan Kin-por recently sought approval from the Chief Executive to suspend his three public positions as appointed by the Chief Executive, until the completion of the work of the Independent Committee in relation to the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po (Independent Committee). Mr Chan made this request to allow himself more time to dedicate to the work of the Independent Committee. After due consideration, the Chief Executive has agreed to and approved this request. The three public positions are: (1) Chairman of Independent Commission Against Corruption Advisory Committee on Corruption; (2) Non-executive Director of Urban Renewal Authority Board; and (3) Member of Honours and Non-official Justices of the Peace Selection Committee.
Mr Chan Kin-por, Photo source: reference image
On December 12, 2025, the Government established the Independent Committee to examine the causes of the incident and related issues, ascertain the facts, and make recommendations on preventing similar tragedies and on improvement measures. The Independent Committee is chaired by Mr Justice David Lok, with Mr Chan Kin-por and Dr Rex Auyeung Pak-kuen serving as members. The Independent Committee held its first meeting on December 19 last year and aims to complete its work within nine months of commencing operations.
Mr Chan Kin-por wrote earlier to the Chief Executive, expressing his wish to suspend the aforementioned three public positions until the Independent Committee completes its work, in order to dedicate more time and focus to the Independent Committee's tasks. The Chief Executive has agreed to and approved the request.
A Government spokesperson said that since the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, both the Government and the wider community have been highly concerned about the causes of the incident and the follow-up work. The scope of the Independent Committee's work is extensive, particularly concerning systemic issues related to bid-rigging and connected interests. Given the numerous issues involved and their complex nature, the Government will fully co-operate with the Independent Committee to ensure that it can complete its work and compile its report within nine months. The Government extends its gratitude to Mr Chan for accepting the appointment as a member of the Independent Committee and for his professional and conscientious approach to the Committee's work. When the Independent Committee's work is completed, the Government looks forward to Mr Chan's continuous contribution through his aforementioned public positions.
Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, Photo by Bastille Post
