(Chinese release. Please refer to the Chinese site for details.)
[17 September 2014, Hong Kong/Shenzhen] Today (17 September) Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute held its annual event Industry and University Consultation Forum (IUCF) at Grand Hyatt Shenzhen introducing about 120 technical projects to around 250 participants from different sectors.
Prof. Tony F. Chan, President of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Mr Vincent Tang, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Wong Ming-yam, ASTRI’s Chairman of the Board, and Dr Frank Tong, ASTRI’s Chief Executive Officer, officiated at the Forum.
The Forum was kicked off by (from left) Mr Wong Ming-yam, Prof. Tony Chan, Mr Vincent Tang and Dr Frank Tong
Prof. Tony F. Chan addressing the audiences of ASTRI’s Forum
At the Forum’s panel discussion themed “Advancing I&T through collaboration among Academia, R&D Centres and Industry”, Prof. Tony F. Chan; Prof. Roland Chin, Deputy Chancellor and Provost, The University of Hong Kong; Prof. Alex Wai, Vice President (Research Development), The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; Dr Samson Tam, Chairman, Technology Development Committee, Federation of Hong Kong Industries; Ms Cally Chan, Managing Director, HP Hong Kong; and Dr Frank Tong ignited insightful discussion about the development of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology industries from various perspectives.
From left: Mr Wong Ming-yam, Ms Cally Chan, Prof. Tony F. Chan, Prof. Roland Chin, Dr Samson Tam, Prof. Alex Wai and Dr Frank Tong
In welcoming the participants, Mr Wong Ming-yam said, “As ASTRI strives forward, it must further strengthen its collaboration with the Government, academia, industry as well as research counterparts so that all parties could jointly promote and advance the development of innovation and technology.”
Through the one-day Forum, ASTRI introduced to the audiences more than 120 technical projects undertaken by its Communications Technologies Group, Integrated Circuit Design Group, Sensing and Integration Group, Software and Systems Group, and Exploratory Research Laboratory. The many innovative projects included: LTE-Advanced RF transceiver chip, Internet-of-Things management and application platform with broadband wireless, 5G radio access technologies, nanometer SOC design technology, micro-inverters for renewable energy generation, visually enhanced ultra HD, advanced augmented reality technologies, smart 3D machine vision system, healthcare electronics, 3D and interactive projection system, intelligent cloud security computation for big data application, smart classroom, and big data management and analytics.
Since 2007 ASTRI has organized IUCF annually to inform potential partners of the institute’s latest technical developments, solicit suggestions for future R&D projects and cultivate opportunities to establish collaborations. The Forum this year will also be held at in Shenzhen on 17 September.
2014 IUCF was supported by Innovation and Technology Commission of the HKSAR Government, CEO Club, The Chinese General Chamber of Commerce, The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong, Federation of Hong Kong Industries, The Hong Kong Electronic Industries Association, Hong Kong Electronics & Technologies Association, Hong Kong Federation of Innovative Technologies and Manufacturing Industries, Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers – Electronics Division, Hong Kong Productivity Council, and Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation.
(From left) Dr Samson Tam, Chairman, Technology Development Committee, Federation of Hong Kong Industries; Ir Victor Ng, Chairman, Hong Kong Electronics & Technologies Association; Mr K. C. Leung, Chairman of Industry & technology Committee, Hong Kong Chamber of Commerce; Dr Frank Tong, Chief Executive Officer, ASTRI; Mr Wong Ming-yam, Chairman of the Board ASTRI; Prof. Tony F. Chan, President of Hong Kong University of Science and Technology; Mr Vincent Tang, Acting Deputy Commissioner for Innovation and Technology; Ir Henry Cheung, Chairman, Hong Kong Institution of Engineers – Electronics Division; Mr Allen Ma, Chief Executive Officer, Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation; and Mr Marvin Hsu, Vice President, The Chinese Manufacturers’ Association of Hong Kong
Mr Wong Ming-yam (right) exchanging views with Prof. Tony Chan (centre) and Dr Frank Tong
Ms Cally Chan flanked by Mr Wong Ming-yam (right) and Dr Frank Tong
[Hong Kong, 4 March 2014] Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) has announced the appointment of Mr Ha Yung-kuen, the former Deputy Director-General (Telecommunications), to the ASTRI Board for a term of two years with effect from 1 March 2014.
Mr Ha had played an active role in helping the HKSAR Government and the Communications Authority to formulate and execute telecommunications regulatory policies while he was working with the Office of the Communications Authority. Mr Ha has rich experience with the local telecommunications industry and much expertise in telecommunications technology.
Furthermore, commencing 1 March 2014, three serving Directors of ASTRI Mr Cheng Cheuk-wing, Prof Ching Pak-chung and Dr Franklin Tong have also been re-appointed for another two-year term.
[Hong Kong, 15 October 2013] Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) today (15 October) announced the appointment of veteran industrialist Mr Wong Ming-yam, BBS, JP as the new Chairman of the Board for a two-year term effective 21 October 2013.
Mr Wong is succeeding Dr Patrick Wang, who has been serving as the Board Chairman of ASTRI since 2007.
“I am deeply honoured to have been appointed ASTRI’s new Chairman,” said Mr Wong. “It is indeed a uniquely challenging and rewarding role. I look forward to working closely with my fellow Board members and the ASTRI management in further strengthening its governance, commercialization of R&D results, and research capability with an overall objective of enhancing its contribution to the continuous development of innovation and technology in Hong Kong.”
“With the combined effort from all concerned, including the Hong Kong SAR Government, I am sure ASTRI will succeed in developing into an R&D centre that the people of Hong Kong could be truly proud of,” Mr. Wong added.
Mr Wong, in his illustrious career, has served the industrial sector for more than 35 years, having gained substantial experience in global industrial operations. He is currently Chairman of InnoLink Investment Limited and MPD Group Limited and a Director of several technology companies. Previously he was Chief Executive Officer of Elec & Eltek Display Technology Limited and Senior Vice President of Royal Philips Electronics.
Mr Wong has also been an active contributor to public service over the past three decades. At present, he is Honorary Chairman of Hong Kong Electronics & Technologies Association. He also serves as a member on the Panel on Promoting Testing & Certification Service in Environmental Protection Trade of Hong Kong Council for Testing and Certification. In addition, he is a member of the working group on Intellectual Property Trading of Intellectual Property Department, as well as Vice Chairperson of the CreateSmart Initiative Vetting Committee of Create Hong Kong.
Formerly, he was Council Member & Deputy Chairman of Hong Kong Productivity Council, Director of Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation, Member of Advisory Committee of Innovation and Technology of Hong Kong Trade Development Council and Member of Innovation and Technology Fund Vetting Committee, amongst others.
In congratulating Mr Wong on his appointment, Dr Wang said, “It has indeed been my honour and privilege to have this wonderful opportunity of serving as ASTRI’s Chairman over the past six years.
“During all these years I have enjoyed ardent support, sound advice and wise counsel from all members of the Board, both past and present. ASTRI will always occupy a very special place in my heart.”
[Hong Kong, 4 June 2013] The Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (ASTRI) today announced that Dr Nim Cheung, Chief Executive Officer, will step down upon completion of his fifth year of service at the end of November 2013.
In announcing Dr Cheung’s departure, the Chairman of ASTRI, Dr Patrick Wang said, “The Board of Directors respected Dr Cheung’s decision to step down. The Board thanked Dr Cheung for his contribution towards significantly expanding ASTRI’s R&D capabilities and intellectual property portfolio.”
“We also wish Dr Cheung continued success in his future endeavours,” added Dr Wang.
The Institute will soon initiate a global search for a new CEO. In the meantime, Dr Cheung will continue to steer ASTRI in its overall development, including the delivery of its many ongoing and planned R&D programmes.
[Hong Kong, 12 November 2012] Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (ASTRI) announces the new composition of its Board of Directors, which includes seven new appointees. They are:
‧ Mr Christopher William Britton, Partner, Deacons;
‧ Prof. Roland Chin Tai-hong, Deputy Vice-Chancellor and Provost, The University of Hong Kong;
‧ Mr Humphrey Choi Chor-ching, Partner, PricewaterhouseCoopers;
‧ Dr Tiger Lin Zhenhui, Chairman, China Mobile Hong Kong Company Limited;
‧ Mr Sunny Lee Wai-kwong, Executive Director, Information Technology, Hong Kong Jockey Club;
‧ Mr Denis Tse Tik-yang, Head of Asia – Private Investments, Lockheed Martin Investment Management Company; and
‧ Mr Wong Ming-yam, Director, Top Brilliant Technology Limited.
Together with other re-appointed Directors, they will be serving on a two-year term until 20 October 2014.
Dr Patrick Wang Shui-chung, Chairman of ASTRI’s Board of Directors, welcomed the new members to the Board. He said, “We are privileged to have these seven distinguished professionals joining the ASTRI Board. Their expertise and enthusiasm will no doubt further carry the Institute to new heights.”
“I also wish to express our heartfelt appreciation to all Directors, including the seven who just retired from the Board for their contribution and guidance,” he added.
The retired Directors are Dr Sunny Chai Ngai-chiu, Prof. Chew Weng-cho, Dr Patrick Lam See-pong, Mr Henry Leung Kwong-han, Dr Humphrey Leung Kwong-wai, Mr Richard Sun Po-yuen, and Mr Peter Wong King-fai.
As from 7 November 2012, the composition of ASTRI’s Board of Directors is as follows:
Chairman
Dr Patrick Wang Shui-chung, SBS, JP
Members
Mr Anthony Au Wai-hung, BBS
Mr Christopher William Britton
Prof. Andrew Chan Chi-fai, SBS, JP
Prof. Philip Chan Ching-ho
Mr Cheng Cheuk-wing
Prof. Roland Chin Tai-hong, BBS, JP
Prof. Ching Pak-chung, BBS
Mr Humphrey Choi Chor-ching, JP
Mr George Hongchoy Kwok-lung
Mr Sunny Lee Wai-kwong, JP
Dr Tiger Lin Zhenhui
Ms Agnes Nardi Kar-wai
Mr Victor Ng Kwok-ho
Dr Franklin Tong Fuk-kay
Mr Denis Tse Tik-yang
Mr Luther Wong Lok-tak
Mr Wong Ming-yam, BBS, JP
(In alphabetical order according to surname)
Official Members
Miss Susie Ho Shuk-yee, JP, Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Communications and Technology)
Miss Janet Wong Wing-chen, JP, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology
[Hong Kong, 27 September 2012] – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTPC) and Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) jointly celebrated today the milestones in their pursuit of advancing Hong Kong’s innovation and technology development at a plaque unveiling ceremony held in Hong Kong Science Park.
Hong Kong Science Park was formally designated by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) of The People’s Republic of China as a “National High-Tech Industrialisation (Partner) Base for Green Technology” while ASTRI received approval from MOST this June to establish the “Hong Kong Branch of the National Engineering Research Centre for Application Specific Integrated Circuit System” in collaboration with the Southeast University (SEU) in Nanjing.
Officiating at the Ceremony were Dr. Cao Jianlin, Deputy Minister of MOST; Mr. Gregory So, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the HKSAR Government; Mr. Nicholas Brooke, Chairman of HKSTPC; and Prof. Philip Chan Ching-ho, Chairman of ASTRI’s Technology Committee.
The recognition for Hong Kong Science Park first came to light when Vice Premier Li Keqiang visited Hong Kong in August last year and selected the city as a location for being a National High-Tech Industrialisation Base. Subsequently, the Park was proposed as an ideal venue for the base of Green Technology development by the HKSAR Government. The approval for ASTRI also came as a strong support from the Central Government to strengthen ties between the Mainland and Hong Kong in the area of science and technology.
“The recognition of Hong Kong Science Park and ASTRI by MOST represents an endorsement by the country of Hong Kong’s efforts and achievements in developing innovation and technology.
“I hope they could make full use of the opportunities brought about by the economic growth in the Mainland as a result of the policy on strongly promoting innovation and technology under the National 12th Five-Year Plan,” said Mr. Gregory So, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development of the HKSAR Government.
Mr. Nicholas Brooke, Chairman of HKSTPC, remarked, “We are very excited and honoured with the official designation. It underpins the Park’s restless efforts to nurture and foster the emerging sector of Green Technology, which has been at the heart of the Park’s strategy in recent years. Last year we opened Green 18 which was designed, built and is being managed based on the concept of long term sustainability. Our Phase 3 expansion will also emphasize the development of Green Technologies and renewable energy solutions.”
“Recognition of the Hong Kong Science Park as a National Green Technology Base empowers us to work more closely with other science parks and technology institutes across the country. Our on-going dialogues with Baoding and Nanhai counterparts are just two examples. We are eager to witness the fruitful results that these partnerships can, and we are confident will, bring about,” added Mr. Brooke.
Prof. Philip Chan Ching-ho, Chairman of ASTRI’s Technology Committee, also expressed his expectation on the collaboration with SEU. He said, “We hope to connect our solid technological foundation and international tie, as well as the unique advantages of Hong Kong, with SEU’s distinguished research team, bringing about successful commercialisation of R&D projects which shall strengthen the competitiveness of the IC industry of both the Mainland and Hong Kong.”
Pinpointed by Prof. Chan, the Mainland’s IC market exceeded RMB 800 billion in 2011, and is estimated to reach RMB 1,200 billion in 2015. The HK Branch establishment will enable the city’s technical sectors and enterprises to grasp the market trend and enormous opportunities.
[Hong Kong, 29 February 2012] Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (ASTRI) has announced the appointments of three new members to its Board of Directors. They are Mr Cheng Cheuk-wing, Professor Ching Pak-chung and Dr Franklin Tong Fuk-kay. The appointments take effect from today (1 March 2012) for a period of two years until 28 February 2014.
Mr Cheng is founder and Chief Executive Officer of AppoTech Ltd, which was established in 2003 in Hong Kong with the aim of nurturing local engineers. He has over 20 years of IC design and management experience in Silicon Valley, USA, and his contribution to the technology industry has been widely recognised. He is the recipient of “Asia Pacific Entrepreneurship Awards – Most Promising Entrepreneur Award” in 2009, “Excellence in Achievement of World Chinese Youth Entrepreneurs Award” in 2010 and the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year China in 2011.
Professor Ching is currently Pro-Vice-Chancellor / Vice-President and Professor of Electronic Engineering of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. He has been very active in professional and public services, having served in different capacities at the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers, as Council Member of the Institution of Electrical Engineers and as Chairman of the Hong Kong Section of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers. He is also Chairman of the Hong Kong Council for Testing and Certification and Member of the Steering Committee on Innovation and Technology.
Dr Tong currently serves as Vice President of SAE Magnetics (HK) Ltd and Adjunct Professor of Department of Information Engineering of The Chinese University of Hong Kong. In 2001, he joined ASTRI as the Vice President of the Photonics Group, which became a spin-off company in 2004. The company was later acquired by SAE Magnetics, a wholly-owned subsidiary of TDK Corporation. Dr Tong now heads the Optical Communications Component Group of SAE, being responsible for all business of the passives, optical subassembly and transceiver lines.
Dr Patrick Wang Shui-chung, Chairman of ASTRI’s Board of Directors, welcomed the three new members to the Board. He said, “We are pleased that the ASTRI Board has been joined by these three distinguished individuals from the industry and academia. I am confident that ASTRI will benefit immensely from their wealth of experiences and expertise, and together we will guide ASTRI to its next level of accomplishment.”
Effective from 1 March 2012, the composition of ASTRI’s Board of Directors is as follows:
Chairman
Dr Patrick Wang Shui-chung
Members
Mr Anthony Au Wai-hung
Dr Sunny Chai Ngai-chiu
Prof. Andrew Chan Chi-fai
Prof. Philip Chan Ching-ho
Mr Cheng Cheuk-wing
Prof. Chew Weng-cho
Prof. Ching Pak-chung
Mr George Hongchoy Kwok-lung
Dr Patrick Lam See-pong
Mr Henry Leung Kwong-han
Dr Humphrey Leung Kwong-wai
Ms Agnes Nardi Kar-wai
Mr Victor Ng Kwok-ho
Mr Richard Sun Po-yuen
Dr Franklin Tong Fuk-kay
Mr Peter Wong King-fai
Mr Luther Wong Lok-tak
(In alphabetical order according to surname)
Official Members
Miss Elizabeth Tse Man-yee, Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (Communications and Technology)
Miss Janet W.C. Wong, Commissioner for Innovation and Technology
ASTRI announced the formation of the Exploratory Research Laboratory (ERL), a new key technology initiative in addition to the five core areas of ASTRI’s R&D focuses.
The mission of the ERL is to perform exploratory research for emerging and interdisciplinary technologies with good business potentials. The ERL has already started a couple of seed projects related to software and Internet technologies for cloud computing, data analytics and information security.
There are five researchers in the ERL with Dr Lo Tak-sing as team leader. While the ERL will focus on technology areas outside the missions of ASTRI’s existing R&D groups, it welcomes and seeks synergetic collaborations with other research groups, R&D centers, universities and businesses.
(Date of announcement: 1 October 2011)
[Hong Kong, 28 September 2011] The Board of the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute Company Limited (“ASTRI”) today (28 September) announced the decision to disband its subsidiary, the Hong Kong Jockey Club Institute of Chinese Medicine Limited (“HKJCICM”). The decision has been made in concurrence with that of Hong Kong Jockey Club (Charities) Limited (“HKJCCL”). ASTRI and HKJCCL each hold 50% of the shares of HKJCICM.
The resolution was reached by the ASTRI Board after an in-depth review of the role of the HKJCICM in Hong Kong against the rapidly changing environment in Chinese medicine and taking into consideration of the new strategy put forward by the Hong Kong SAR Government on promoting Chinese medicine through a Government-led committee.
The ASTRI Board has also concluded that since the current focus of ASTRI is on Information and Communications Technologies, ASTRI should concentrate its energy and resources on this core business instead of Chinese medicine.
Dr Patrick Wang Shui-chung, Chairman of the ASTRI Board, said, “On behalf of ASTRI, I wish to thank all past and present Board members and staff of HKJCICM for all their contributions in promoting Chinese medicine in the past years.”
The HKJCICM was set up under the Companies Ordinance in May 2001.
