Former health chief touts HK as global gateway for GBA medical innovation

Hong Kong has the potential to develop into a global hub for promoting medical advances and healthcare services from the Greater Bay Area (GBA) to the world, Executive Council member Ko Wing-man said on Sunday.

Ko, also the city's former health chief, made the remarks at a medical forum focusing on healthcare development in the GBA, noting that Hong Kong’s extensive experience — including collaboration between Chinese and Western medicine and the application of intelligent medical devices — could be shared with other cities in the region.

He stressed that facilitating the cross-border flow of medical data would be critical, adding that a secure and trustworthy system is needed to protect privacy while enabling effective data circulation.

Ko also said the medical community had demonstrated its professionalism by providing medical services and emotional support to victims of the Wang Fuk Court fire, helping affected residents rebuild their homes and lives.

Also speaking at the forum, Eric Siu Ying-kit, founding president of the Greater Bay Area Medical Professional Development Association, said Hong Kong has continued to maintain its distinctive position in the evolving healthcare market.

He cited the city’s healthcare system, regulatory framework and role as an international connector as key strengths.

Siu added that the association will continue developing both online and offline platforms to help industry players tap into the GBA’s healthcare market of more than 80 million people.