10 July 2023
Summer is here, traditionally a time for outdoor fun to refresh the body and soul. While the dazzling sunshine is inviting, the steamy heat may present a challenge. In the west of Hong Kong Island, there’s a quiet neighbourhood – Pok Fu Lam – that is reputed to have cooler summers and has lured locals and expats alike. In the 19th century, the Old Dairy Farm, recognising the benefits of the gentle summer breeze to its business, opened its first-ever farm there. Today, numerous historic establishments still remain, from heritage buildings in colonial style to the centuries-old indigenous Pok Fu Lam Village, telling the story of the destination’s past. The cityscape is uniquely fascinating.
Interestingly, the district also provides a glimpse into what Hong Kong will be like in the future. It’s home to a heterogeneous collection of tertiary institutes, such as The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and the teaching complex of the Vocational Training Council, which houses the Chinese Culinary Institute, the International Culinary Institute and the Hotel and Tourism Institute. Taking a stroll in Pok Fu Lam, you are likely to encounter aspiring students who are pursuing their dreams in academics, arts, culture, cookery or hospitality. The diversity of talent that is nurtured there has reassured me that our city will continue to prosper.
As I write this Foreword, the Hong Kong Observatory has once again issued Special Weather Tips in response to the extremely hot weather. This serves as a reminder of the pressing threats of global warming on our planet. We take this issue very seriously and therefore always opt for the most sustainable approach in our business, a principle that we have applied to our latest regeneration project in Pok Fu Lam. We can all contribute to sustainability, no matter how small our actions may seem. In this summer edition, you will gain some insights into what we can do in our everyday lives, from changing our daily habits, and knowing more about upcycling fashion to engaging in sustainable arts.
Art is a universal language that has the power to break down barriers, bringing people of different generations and backgrounds together. I’m glad to have invited some youngsters, including a budding musician from the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra and primary students who took part in the community programmes we supported, to share how intergenerational integration is made possible through music and painting. Bridging the generation gap is a significant step in co-creating a harmonious society, a mission to which we are deeply committed.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue of LIFE+.
Donald Choi
Executive Director and
CEO of Chinachem Group
Interestingly, the district also provides a glimpse into what Hong Kong will be like in the future. It’s home to a heterogeneous collection of tertiary institutes, such as The University of Hong Kong, The Hong Kong Academy for Performing Arts, and the teaching complex of the Vocational Training Council, which houses the Chinese Culinary Institute, the International Culinary Institute and the Hotel and Tourism Institute. Taking a stroll in Pok Fu Lam, you are likely to encounter aspiring students who are pursuing their dreams in academics, arts, culture, cookery or hospitality. The diversity of talent that is nurtured there has reassured me that our city will continue to prosper.
As I write this Foreword, the Hong Kong Observatory has once again issued Special Weather Tips in response to the extremely hot weather. This serves as a reminder of the pressing threats of global warming on our planet. We take this issue very seriously and therefore always opt for the most sustainable approach in our business, a principle that we have applied to our latest regeneration project in Pok Fu Lam. We can all contribute to sustainability, no matter how small our actions may seem. In this summer edition, you will gain some insights into what we can do in our everyday lives, from changing our daily habits, and knowing more about upcycling fashion to engaging in sustainable arts.
Art is a universal language that has the power to break down barriers, bringing people of different generations and backgrounds together. I’m glad to have invited some youngsters, including a budding musician from the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra and primary students who took part in the community programmes we supported, to share how intergenerational integration is made possible through music and painting. Bridging the generation gap is a significant step in co-creating a harmonious society, a mission to which we are deeply committed.
I hope you enjoy reading this issue of LIFE+.
Donald Choi
Executive Director and
CEO of Chinachem Group
