Hong Kong's Innovation Chief Highlights Data Growth and AI Literacy at APEC Digital Weeks in Chengdu

SITI continues to attend APEC Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu

The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, continued to attend the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu today (July 25).

Speaking at the APEC High-level Roundtable on Data for Growth, Professor Sun emphasised that Hong Kong adopts a balanced approach between openness and governance to remain at the global forefront in driving high-quality development. Hong Kong has over 5 700 datasets freely accessible with annual downloads surging from 5 billion in 2019 to over 85 billion in 2025. Hong Kong also possesses robust digital infrastructure including 3D geospatial maps covering over 120 000 buildings and a Consented Data Exchange Gateway that has processed more than 40 million secure data exchanges. He added that the Digital Corporate Identity Platform to be launched this year will enable consensual corporate data exchange.

In the APEC Workshop on New Concepts and Approaches of AI Literacy Enhancement Actions for the Public, Professor Sun said Hong Kong is fully committed to enhancing public AI literacy through a tiered and collaborative model, the "AI for All" Inclusive Programme which covers foundational awareness for students, parents, the elderly, and underprivileged groups; professional empowerment for university students and researchers; and practical enhancement for working professionals and small and medium-sized enterprises. To bring AI education into every household, the Government launched an eight-episode prime time television series, while also issuing the Ethical AI Framework and the Hong Kong Generative AI Technical and Application Guideline, and running cybersecurity campaigns and elite training to promote safe workplace adoption of AI. In parallel, all civil servants will be able to access online foundation training on AI principles and ethics. Through these comprehensive efforts, Hong Kong aims to build an AI ready society, and looks forward to deepening regional collaboration to build an AI-literate Asia-Pacific community.

During the high-level events, Professor Sun met with member of the Leading Party Group and Deputy Administrator of the National Data Administration Ms Yu Ying, and briefed her on the latest progress of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in leading data development. Both sides exchanged views on strengthening collaboration in areas such as cross-boundary data flow, application scenarios and data governance.

Professor Sun also exchanged views with the Deputy Director of the Cyberspace Administration of China, Mr Wang Jingtao, and discussed specific measures for implementing cross-boundary data flow in the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone.

Meanwhile, Professor Sun visited Sichuan Kelun-Biotech Biopharmaceutical, which is committed to the research and development, manufacturing and commercialisation of innovative drugs. He learned about the company's latest business developments, and hoping that it can further expand its business in Hong Kong.

Professor Sun will conclude the duty visit and return to Hong Kong tomorrow (July 26).

SITI continues to attend APEC Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

SITI continues to attend APEC Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

SITI continues to attend APEC Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

SITI continues to attend APEC Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

SITI continues to attend APEC Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

SITI continues to attend APEC Digital Weeks high-level events in Chengdu Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Speech by SCST at opening ceremony of Fencing World Championships 2026 Hong Kong, China

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the opening ceremony of the Fencing World Championships 2026 Hong Kong, China today (July 25):

Mr Abdel Moneim El-Husseiny (Interim President of the International Fencing Federation), Mr Aaron Ng (President of the Fencing Association of Hong Kong, China), esteemed guests and fencers, ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening, everyone. It is a great honour to join you this evening at the opening ceremony of the Fencing World Championships 2026, right here in Hong Kong. A very warm welcome to our elite fencers, dedicated coaches, and passionate spectators from around the globe.

This year, Hong Kong makes history as we host this prestigious event for the very first time. Over nine days - and we are already on day four - more than a thousand of the world’s finest fencers are battling for the coveted titles. The thrilling preliminary rounds have set the stage for what promises to be an electrifying run of semi-finals and finals. While our live audience relishes the action up close, millions more are tuning in worldwide through real-time broadcasts. This global spotlight not only underscores the beauty of fencing but also cements Hong Kong’s reputation as a premier hub for major international sporting events.

Fencing holds a deeply special place in our hearts here. We are immensely proud of our homegrown athletes, whose outstanding performances and unyielding determination on the world stage continue to inspire us all. Their dedication and perseverance are the very essence of athletic greatness. By hosting these Championships, we fervently hope to pass this powerful spirit of resilience on to our younger generation.

To the extraordinary fencers here tonight: you represent the pinnacle of this sport. Behind every masterful lunge, precise parry, and decisive riposte lies years of gruelling training and unshakeable discipline. Yet beyond your remarkable skill, it is your sportsmanship - the respect, integrity, and excellence you display - that truly elevates our sport and inspires the world. We eagerly anticipate a spectacular week of world-class fencing.

I wish to extend my deepest gratitude to the International Fencing Federation and the Fencing Association of Hong Kong, China, for entrusting Hong Kong with this premier event and making our first-ever hosting a reality. My sincere thanks also go to our generous sponsors, in particular the Kerry Group for their tremendous support, and our incredible volunteers, who have brought this magnificent spectacle to life.

Finally, I wish the Championships a resounding success, and every fencer the very best of luck. Thank you.