Dear members

Warmest greetings for the Chinese New Year. As we celebrate and welcome the Year of the Horse, I would like to extend my sincere wishes to you and your families for good health, happiness and continued success. In the Chinese zodiac, the Horse symbolises action, independence, speed and freedom — qualities that reflect a dynamic and forward‑moving spirit. The Year of the Horse signals a fast‑paced period focused on progress, innovation and breaking through obstacles. These attributes resonate strongly with the engineering profession, where courage, agility and determination are essential in shaping a better future.

As we move further into 2026, Hong Kong continues to navigate a changing global landscape while maintaining a clear focus on long‑term development. In times of transition, I am reminded that engineering is not only about infrastructure and technology, but also about responsibility and foresight. Our profession plays a vital role in strengthening the city's resilience, competitiveness and sustainability, and I am proud of the steady contributions our members continue to make.

In January, the HKIE submitted its views to the Financial Secretary for the 2026–27 Budget consultation. Drawing on the collective expertise of members across disciplines, we put forward practical and forward‑looking recommendations on public investment, innovation and technology, new industrialisation, sustainability, talent development and public safety. We welcome the 2026–27 Budget announced on 25 February and are encouraged by measures that support strategic infrastructure planning and the growth of Hong Kong's innovation ecosystem. The Institution will continue to engage constructively with the Government so that policies are supported by sound engineering insight and translated into long‑term benefits for the community.

International engagement remains an important focus of this Session. Following our visit to the United Kingdom in November 2025, it was a pleasure to welcome delegations from the Institution of Engineering and Technology and the Institution of Civil Engineers to our Headquarters in January. These exchanges were meaningful and forward‑looking, strengthening professional ties and opening new avenues for collaboration. They also reaffirm Hong Kong's distinctive role as a “super‑connector” linking the Chinese Mainland and the global engineering community. By building trusted partnerships, we broaden opportunities for our members and enhance the international standing of our profession.

Closer to home, the Institution continues to champion innovation and industry advancement. The HKIE Forum on “The Readiness of MiMEP for the Construction Industry” brought together stakeholders from government, professional bodies, industry and academia to share insights and practical experience. I am encouraged by the constructive dialogue and shared commitment demonstrated at the Forum. Our Taskforce, working closely with the Development Bureau, has completed the Best Practices for MiMEP Adoption, marking steady progress in promoting productivity, safety and sustainability. Together with ongoing efforts in Smart Site Safety Systems, carbon management and new energy, these initiatives reflect our determination to drive high‑quality development through engineering excellence.

Investing in the next generation remains close to my heart. Through “工程Seeds”, we continue to introduce junior secondary students to the diverse and exciting possibilities within engineering, sparking curiosity and broadening aspirations at an early stage. We are strengthening collaboration with universities and stakeholders to create clearer pathways for young talent, while fostering mentorship and knowledge transfer within the profession. The future of engineering depends on our shared commitment to nurturing capable, ethical and forward‑looking professionals.

At the same time, we are cultivating a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. The Enginpreneurs initiative provides members with platforms to translate ideas into practical solutions that address real‑world challenges. Supporting homegrown innovation not only contributes to economic diversification, but also demonstrates the adaptability and creativity of Hong Kong engineers.

This year is especially meaningful as we celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the HKIE. A series of commemorative events, including the “Together We Rise” Carnival in March and the Beijing Exhibition in April, will showcase the achievements of our profession and the collective contributions of members over the past five decades. These occasions allow us to honour our legacy while looking ahead with confidence, unity and a shared sense of purpose.

As President, I am sincerely grateful for your continued support and engagement. Let us move forward together with professionalism, integrity and collaboration, contributing our expertise to the sustainable development of Hong Kong and upholding the proud tradition of the HKIE.

Ir Alice CHOW
President
The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers