The Hong Kong Prize is an annual competition which recognizes outstanding scientific research achievements of international standard, encouraging young scientists, fostering science and technology development within Hong Kong territory, and strengthening Hong Kong as a hub of international cooperation. It comprises five major areas of science and technology: artificial intelligence/robotics/life sciences/health; new materials/energy; advanced manufacturing/financial technology.
Winners of the HK Prize will receive a cash award, the opportunity to present their ideas directly to key stakeholders within the development sector, and an impressive trophy. The competition is open to citizens and permanent residents aged 18-30 living in Hong Kong who possess innovative ideas on how Hong Kong can support global development efforts more effectively and maintain its position as a leading international city.
This year’s award is split into two categories: HK$5 Million for “Promotion of Science and Technology” projects and HK$3 Million “Support Early Stage Scientific Research”. The former provides incentive for projects that promote science and technology by engaging young people, students, researchers and members of the public; the latter recognizes early-stage projects with significant potential and promise that could benefit society.
As well as competing for main prizes, winners of the HK Prize may also qualify for a one-million Hong Kong Young Scientist Award (HKSAR Government grants of up to HK$200,000 each will also be made available) which could further their research work.
An Universiti Malaya (UM) graduate has made history by becoming the first Malaysian ever to win the Shaw Prize in Life Science and Medicine – often known as “the Oscars of science”. Professor Dr Thein Swee Lay was awarded this prestigious prize alongside US researcher Stuart Orkin for their discovery of mechanisms underlying fetal-to-adult haemoglobin switching, which could pave the way for revolutionary therapies for sickle cell anaemia and other genetic conditions.
Mr. Sung Chi-Wing founded this prize in memory of his parents through the Matching Fund Scheme’s Sixth Round and Government donations were matched, creating one of many awards given out at University of Macau (UM), providing student scholarship support. For more information about this prize and to stay up to date with its progress please visit its official website – its award ceremony will take place on October 3, followed by a public lecture featuring previous prize recipients such as famed astronomer Prof. Alan Stern who received this year’s Prize; previous recipients include Prof. Alan Stern amongst many others who received past editions of Hong Kong-