AI is rapidly transforming our lives and plays an integral role in our social progress. As attention increasingly focuses on the AI sector and its advancements, the second episode of “AI for Humans,” airing on HOY TV Channel 77 and 78, explores the burgeoning landscape of artificial intelligence (AI) in Hong Kong. Titled “AI in Hong Kong: From Trends to Practical Uses,” this episode showcases the city’s AI innovations and its positioning in the global AI race.
A distinguished panel of experts
The episode features an impressive lineup of industry luminaries, including Professor Sun Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry; Mr Simon Chan Sai-Ming, BBS, JP, Chairman of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited); Ir Tony Wong Chi-kong, JP, Commissioner for Digital Policy, Digital Policy Office; Mr Hendrick Sin Hon-Tik, MH, JP, Chairman of the Committee of the Artificial Intelligence Subsidy Scheme; and Professor Yike GUO, BSc, PhD, Provost of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the Director of the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Centre.
These experts provided valuable insights into how Hong Kong is rapidly advancing in AI technologies and supercomputing infrastructure, setting the stage for future growth and innovation.
A newly launched Supercomputing Center to propel AI development
During the episode, Professor Sun Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, underscored Hong Kong’s proactive involvement in the technological advancements spearheaded by artificial intelligence. He highlighted the city’s noteworthy improvements in computing infrastructure in recent years.
Professor Sun Dong, JP, Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry
For example, the Cyberport AI Supercomputing Centre, which was inaugurated last year, offers substantial support to local enterprises and research institutions through the Artificial Intelligence Subsidy Scheme (AISS). This program provides government subsidies covering up to 70% of the listed price for computing resources, facilitating the rapid development of AI applications and technologies.
Additionally, Professor Sun referenced the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint, which is progressively strengthening the local innovation ecosystem, promoting industrial enhancement, and driving “new industrialization” in Hong Kong.
Learning more about Cyberport: the heart of digital technology
Mr Simon Chan highlighted Cyberport’s central role as a hub for digital technology in Hong Kong. The upcoming Cyberport5, set to feature panoramic sea views and a vast gross floor area, will serve as a landmark for innovation, equipped with a Tier-III+ data center and a multi-function hall capable of hosting up to 800 attendees. This facility aims to foster collaboration among local and international enterprises, further solidifying Hong Kong’s position in the global digital landscape.
Mr Simon Chan Sai-Ming, BBS, JP, Chairman of Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited
What are the government’s efforts in advancing generative AI and digital transformation?
Ir Tony Wong Chi-kong, JP, Commissioner for Digital Policy, Digital Policy Office, emphasized the government’s commitment to promoting generative AI and digital transformation during the television program. He highlighted that, through the InnoHK innovation research platform, the government has provided funding to HKUST for the development of Hong Kong’s first homegrown artificial intelligence large language model (LLM), spearheaded by the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Center (HKGAI).
Ir Tony Wong Chi-kong, JP, Commissioner for Digital Policy, Digital Policy Office
A generative AI document processing copilot application has also been introduced and is currently available for pilot use by the government. By early 2025, all government departments and policy bureaus at various levels are expected to participate in these trials, which have already garnered overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Wong asserted that digital transformation is not merely an option but a necessary evolution. By embracing this transformation early, individuals and organizations can capitalize on opportunities to enhance their competitiveness.
Support for local innovation
Mr Hendrick Sin spoke about the Artificial Intelligence Subsidy Scheme (AISS) and its focus on supporting local universities, R&D centers, and enterprises. He highlighted that the scheme aims to ignite innovation across various sectors by leveraging Hong Kong’s unique strengths. The “AI+” concept seeks to integrate AI into key industries, ensuring that young talent is encouraged to engage in AI research and development, thereby reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as a global hub for innovation and technology.
Mr Hendrick Sin Hon-Tik, MH, JP, Chairman of the Committee of the Artificial Intelligence Subsidy Scheme
The innovative concept of Sovereign AI
Professor Yike Guo introduced the innovative concept of “Sovereign AI,” which includes sovereignty over data, computing power, models, and applications. Hong Kong is pioneering this approach by focusing on key public sectors such as healthcare, education, and law. Guo pointed out that large models trained on local data reflect the city’s unique cultural and social characteristics, making them more relevant and effective.
Professor Yike GUO, BSc, PhD, Provost of the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and the Director of the Hong Kong Generative AI Research and Development Centre
A sneak peek at the next episode
In the second episode, the program highlighted Hong Kong’s significant achievements and strategic plans in AI development. It examined topics ranging from advanced computing infrastructure to the innovative concept of “Sovereign AI,” as well as the essential role of policy support and ecosystem-building in positioning the city at the forefront of the global AI revolution.
Looking ahead, the upcoming episode will investigate the transformative potential of AI in the financial sector, exploring how it can facilitate high-quality growth. This promises to be an enlightening discussion that viewers will not want to miss.
Tune in to explore the AI landscape further!
“AI for Humans” premiered on July 19 and airs every Saturday at 8:30pm on HOY TV Channel 78, with re-runs available on Sundays and Tuesdays. Viewers can also catch episodes on HOY TV’s official online platform. With a total of 17 episodes, the series aims to illuminate how AI is transforming various sectors and enhancing the quality of life in Hong Kong.
As the city embraces the AI revolution, the insights shared in this show serve as a compelling reminder of the opportunities that lie ahead. Don’t miss out on the chance to stay informed about the future of technology in Hong Kong!
The forthcoming Cyberport5 will offer stunning panoramic sea views and an expansive gross floor area. It will be equipped with a Tier-III+ data center and a multifunctional hall that can accommodate up to 800 guests.
Sneak Peek
"AI for Humans" will explore AI's impact across various sectors in the following episodes,
| Episode 1 | Strengthening Hong Kong's AI Ecosystem through Collaboration：how the Government and the industry, academia, research and investment sectors work in synergy to transform Hong Kong into an AI-powered smart city. |
| Episode 2 | AI innovation in Hong Kong and Supercomputing power. |
| Episode 3 & 4 | AI applications in the financial sector, improving services, compliance, and efficiency. |
| Episode 5 | AI in smart tourism, enabling personalised travel experiences. |
| Episode 6 | AI-driven digital transformation in logistics and new opportunities in the low-altitude economy. |
| Episode 7 | AI breakthroughs in diagnosis, treatment, and patient management in healthcare. |
| Episode 8 | Generative AI’s role in arts and culture, preserving traditional Chinese heritage. |
| Episode 9 | The AI+ Era: Becoming an irreplaceable talent and seizing opportunities in the AI field! |
| Episode 10 | Data Demystified: Practical examples to help you understand the power of data-driven business! |
| Episodes 11-16 | AI applications in education, property management, transportation, construction, manufacturing, and cybersecurity. |
| Episode 17 | AI+ era: Future opportunities and challenges i |
Broadcast Schedule
First-run: Saturdays at 8:30 PM, HOY TV Channel 78
Re-run: Sundays at 6:30 PM, HOY TV Channel 77; Tuesdays at 10:00 PM, HOY TV Channel 78
Online Viewing:
Episodes will be available on HOY TV’s official online platform: https://hoy.tv/
