Global Experts Unite to Save Endangered Asian Turtles

Asian turtles face a severe conservation crisis caused by illegal poaching and the wildlife trade. Supported by Ocean Park and the Ocean Park Conservation Foundation Hong Kong, Lingnan University is hosting the inaugural International Conference on Integrated Conservation of Asian Turtles (ICAT) from today, 27 March, through 30 March 2026. The conference, attended by 180 leading scholars, scientists, zookeepers, veterinarians, policymakers, educators, and other experts from 19 countries and regions will examine the latest research findings and practical conservation, as well as strategies to combat the illegal poaching of Asian turtles, and enhance protection for endangered species.

The opening ceremony was officiated by Mr Simon Chan Kin-fung, Assistant Director (Conservation) of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department; Mr Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation; Prof S. Joe Qin, President and Wai Kee Kau Chair Professor of Data Science of Lingnan University; Mr Howard Chuk, Executive Director of Zoological Operations and Conservation of Ocean Park Corporation cum Foundation Director of Ocean Park Conservation Foundation, Hong Kong, and Mr Wander Meijer, Executive Director of the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden.

Mr Simon Chan Kin-fung gave a speech at the opening ceremony, saying “We are home to five native freshwater turtle species. Among them are the Big‑headed Turtle, the Golden Coin Turtle, and Beale’s‑eyed Turtle, species of exceptional ecological, scientific, and cultural value. Unfortunately, many now survive only in small, fragmented populations and face persistent threats, particularly from illegal hunting and trapping. To address this, the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) has adopted a multi‑pronged, integrated approach, combining enforcement, science, and partnerships. This approach has resulted in several suspects being arrested for illegal possession of endangered turtles, and convictions have led to prison sentences of 15 and 20 months, a strong deterrent to poaching. This conference represents an opportunity for turtle conservationists to not only share knowledge but also forge meaningful partnerships, develop innovative strategies, and agree on concrete actions.”

Mr Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation, said “Ocean Park is honoured to co-host the first International Conference on Integrated Conservation of Asian Turtles. Conservation is at the heart of Ocean Park’s mission, driving our expansion into research, rescue, rehabilitation, and regional partnerships. In light of the conservation crisis facing Asian turtles, this conference serves as a crucial platform for global experts to share knowledge and forge new strategies. We are confident that these collaborations will significantly advance our shared goal to protect these endangered species and ensure a sustainable future for Asian turtles.”

“Leveraging the Park’s professional team and world-class facilities, we are dedicated to fostering conservation through various initiatives. These include establishing the Dive Into Local Diversity exhibit that showcases the rich diversity of Hong Kong's freshwater ecosystems for public education; formulating breeding programme for the Beale's eyed turtle with the goal of wild release to rebuild local populations; providing rehabilitation and care for confiscated freshwater turtles; and driving education through student ambassador programmes and student-led surveys,” Wong added.

Prof S. Joe Qin noted that “Lingnan University has concentrated on turning research outcomes into practical contributions towards many United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. Co-hosting this important international conference with Ocean Park creates a vital platform for over a hundred interdisciplinary experts from around the world to discuss the latest research and strategies on Asian turtle conservation. As an important component in the ecosystem, wild populations of Asian turtles are declining rapidly. We hope that cross-sector collaboration will promote the sustainable development of global ecosystems.”

Over the four days of the conference, about 50 academic presentations and keynote speeches will cover forensic technologies for combating illegal trade, veterinary care, and efforts to boost wild populations of endangered Asian turtles through captive breeding and reintroduction to natural habitats. Officers from the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department, who are at the forefront of combating turtle poaching and illegal wildlife trade in Hong Kong, also attended the conference.

Prof Anthony Lau, Assistant Professor of the Division of Science at Lingnan University and the conference’s Secretary, stressed “This conference will act as a catalyst that deepens international collaboration on Asian turtle conservation, such as the exchange of captive-bred animals, and accelerates local, on-the-ground work on native species, such as reintroduction and enhancement of anti-poaching strategies.”

A highlight of the conference will be an in-depth discussion panel chaired by Prof Jonathan Fong, Associate Professor of the Division of Science of Lingnan University, and Prof Sung Yik-hei, Adjunct Assistant Professor of the Division of Science of Lingnan University and Lecturer at the University of Suffolk, on the conservation of turtles in the Hong Kong SAR and Greater Bay Area. They explain that wild populations of native freshwater turtles in Hong Kong SAR have plummeted over recent decades, and that three species inhabiting the wilds of Hong Kong SAR are critically endangered. They also describe Lingnan University's successful cases of captive breeding in recent years, and the University's expertise in providing conservation forensics to courts and investigations into illegal trading.

Internationally recognised expert in freshwater turtle conservation Prof Ricky Spencer, Professor of Ecology at Western Sydney University, will deliver a keynote speech “Fixing the Life Cycle: The Future of Turtle Conservation Is Community-Driven”, reviewing Australia's effective experiences in turtle conservation through community-led monitoring, habitat restoration, and other initiatives.

Other experts include freshwater turtle conservation expert Prof Chen Tien-hsi, who talked about the Taiwan region’s endeavours to reintroduce endangered freshwater turtles and conserve native species. Mr Shahriar Caesar Rahman, Regional Vice Chair – South Asia for the IUCN/SSC Tortoise and Freshwater Turtle Specialist Group and Co-founder and CEO of the Creative Conservation Alliance, Bangladesh, spoke on Bangladesh's pioneering rewilding programme for the critically endangered Asian giant tortoise (Manouria emys), community protection measures, and efforts to dismantle smuggling networks, giving valuable cross-regional conservation insights.

As well as the academic presentations, the conference includes field trips to Ocean Park and the Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden to visit and learn from successful captive breeding facilities for endangered native turtles.

Another highlight of ICAT is a showcase of 20 posters designed by local students from 17 schools with their entries to the ICAT Secondary Student Academic Poster Competition. The competition encourages students to participate in conservation through environmental education. Each group of four students conducts a study related to the conservation of Asian turtles, and the finalists are required to present their ideas to the guests attending the first day of ICAT to compete for the awards.

Opening ceremony of the inaugural International Conference on Integrated Conservation of Asian Turtles (ICAT).

The conference brings together more than a hundred experts from around the world.

Mr Simon Chan Kin-fung, Assistant Director (Conservation) of the Conservation Branch of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD), delivers a speech.

Mr Ivan Wong, Chief Executive of Ocean Park Corporation, delivers a speech.

Prof S. Joe Qin, President and Wai Kee Kau Chair Professor of Data Science of Lingnan University, delivers a speech.

Asian turtles are an important species in the ecosystem, but their wild populations are declining at an alarming rate.

Prof Jonathan Fong, Associate Professor of the Division of Science of Lingnan University and Prof Sung Yik-hei, Adjunct Assistant Professor of the Division of Science of Lingnan University and Lecturer at the University of Suffolk, Co-chairs of the conference; Prof Anthony Lau, Assistant Professor of the Division of Science at Lingnan University and the conference’s Secretary. (From left: Prof Sung Yik-hei, Prof Jonathan Fong and Prof Anthony Lau)

Lingnan University proudly hosted its signature fundraising event, the Bright Future Charitable Foundation presents: Lingnan University Gala Dinner, held last night (18 March), and raised over HK$3 million. All proceeds will be used to enhance the University’s research facilities, supporting infrastructure, and cutting-edge research projects.

Under the theme “Elevate to Innovate: Scaling New Heights for Sustainable Impact”, the Dinner brought together nearly 400 distinguished guests, including Lingnan alumni, staff, students and friends from different sectors of society, to support the University’s sustainable development in teaching and research.

The evening was graced by the presence of the Guest of Honour - Dr the Honourable Starry Lee Wai-king, GBS, JP, President of the Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, along with other distinguished officiating guests, including the Honourable Andrew Yao Cho-fai, BBS, JP, Chairman of the Council of Lingnan University; Dr Patrick Wong Chi-kwong, Chairman of the Court; Prof S. Joe Qin, President and Wai Kee Kau Chair Professor of Data Science; Mr Mason Wu, Chairman of the Institutional Advancement Committee; Title Sponsor, Dr Roy Chung Chi-ping, GBS, JP, Founder and Chairman of the Bright Future Charitable Foundation; and other sponsors, Mr B K Leung, Chief Executive Officer of BC Reinsurance Limited; Mr Huang Liwei, Director of the Hong Kong New Emerging Technology Education Charity Foundation; Mr Augustine Lui Ngok-che, Chairman of the Lingnan Education Organization; Mr Ernest Chan Chi-man, Vice-President (Administration); and Ms Jessie Law Lai-chi, Director of Institutional Advancement and Alumni Affairs.

In her opening address, Dr the Honourable Starry Lee said, “Lingnan University is distinguished for its commitment to liberal arts education, which prioritises holistic development and social service. In recent years, we have witnessed Lingnan's active expansion in research, seamlessly blending humanistic perspectives with technological innovation to offer students interdisciplinary and cross-sector learning experiences.” Dr Lee further emphasised that the theme of the Dinner is remarkably forward-looking. She noted that in the future, the key to success will be the ability to transform knowledge into meaningful contributions and to give back to society creatively. She remarked, "Lingnan University embraces a student-centred and socially-conscious approach, actively fostering interdisciplinary education and promoting research in sustainable development. The University connects academic knowledge with community needs, utilising technology and sustainability to improve lives."

Guests officiated at the kick-off ceremony. (From left: Ms Jessie Law, Mr Mason Wu, Mr Augustine Lui, Dr Patrick Wong, the Honourable Andrew Yao, Dr the Honourable Starry Lee, Dr Roy Chung, President S. Joe Qin, Mr B K Leung, Mr Huang Liwei and Mr Ernest Chan)

In his welcoming remarks, Chairman of the Council, the Honourable Andrew Yao, expressed sincere gratitude to all supporters whose contributions have propelled Lingnan forward. He said, “Funds raised from the Gala Dinner will be directly invested in various development initiatives of the University, including strengthening the cultivation of Lingnan students’ talents in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics). Leveraging its unique geographical advantage adjacent to the Northern Metropolis, the University is actively fostering deeper collaboration with industry, academia and research institutions across the Greater Bay Area. These efforts will accelerate the translation and application of innovative research outcomes, further consolidating Lingnan’s position as a leading liberal arts research university integrating arts and sciences in the digital era. At the same time, we aim to nurture interdisciplinary talents equipped with both strong humanistic values and advanced technological expertise, contributing to the development of the nation and the Hong Kong SAR.”

Dr the Honourable Starry Lee, President of the Legislative Council, delivers the opening address.

In his speech, President Qin shared Lingnan’s series of groundbreaking “firsts” and expressed his special gratitude to Nobel Laureate in Physics Prof Samuel C.C. Ting for his support of the University. He said, “The ‘Samuel C.C. Ting Elite Class’, to be launched in the 2026/27 academic year, will provide top students with full scholarships, accommodation, and AI training. This elite education programme is personally endorsed by Prof Ting. Even more encouraging is that Lingnan ranked No. 1 in the world for ‘Quality Education’ in the 2025 Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, achieved the highest growth rate in project funding from the Research Grants Council, and recorded the largest increases in JUPAS Band A applications for three consecutive years among Hong Kong SAR’s eight publicly funded universities, demonstrating the University’s strong teaching and research capabilities as well as its growing appeal to prospective students in the digital era.”

The Honourable Andrew Yao gives his welcoming remarks and expresses sincere gratitude to supporters.

President S. Joe Qin shares the University’s recent success.

The Dinner also showcased two initiatives promoting the integration of arts and sciences. Prof William Hayward, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences, introduced the newly established Lingnan University Cognitive Science Research Centre, bringing together leading scholars in psychology, neuroscience, and artificial intelligence. The Centre will undertake a range of interdisciplinary and human-centred research projects, including using electroencephalography (EEG) to analyse children’s reading abilities to more accurately identify potential dyslexia, and investigating the neural mechanisms underlying risk decision-making under social influence. These research outcomes will be translated into practical applications to address the complex challenges of the digital era.

Officiating guests pose for a group photo along with Council members, distinguished scholars and senior management.

In addition, Prof Jonathan Fong, Associate Professor of the Division of Science, demonstrated advanced wildlife forensic techniques aimed at protecting endangered turtle species in Hong Kong SAR. The research plays a vital role in safeguarding local biodiversity and further exemplifies the University’s research capabilities in addressing social and environmental challenges.

Prof William Hayward introduces the Lingnan University Cognitive Science Research Centre.

The evening concluded with a captivating guzheng ensemble and street dance performances by Lingnan’s talented students, blending the essence of Eastern and Western cultures and highlighting the University’s creativity and youthful energy.

Prof Jonathan Fong showcases pioneering wildlife forensic techniques to protect endangered turtle species.