SHKP steps up push for culture-tourism-commerce integration Group records strong results in Greater Bay Area initiatives Cross-sector arts collaborations and international exchanges help nurture a new generation of creativity

Sun Hung Kai Properties (SHKP) is accelerating its efforts to integrate culture, tourism and commerce, launching three major cross-regional initiatives for the first time this year. These include a cross-border collaboration with the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra to bring traditional Chinese music to shopping malls in Guangzhou and Hong Kong, an international artist residency programme at Ma Wan 1868, and participation in the inaugural Hong Kong Secondary School Brand IP Competition.

Judy S. M. Chow, General Manager (Leasing) at Sun Hung Kai Real Estate Agency, said the initiatives have created diverse, immersive cultural experiences for local consumers and visitors, while significantly elevating the artistic atmosphere and brand positioning of the Group’s mall portfolio.

Chinese orchestral music debuts in Guangzhou and Hong Kong malls 

This year, SHKP entered into a first-ever cross-sector partnership with the internationally renowned Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, serving as a venue partner for the Orchestra’s 50th Anniversary Season and the International Sheng and Reeds Festival 2026. Over the summer, the project linked Guangzhou Parc Central, Hong Kong’s cultural landmark Ma Wan 1868, and YOHO MALL in Yuen Long, bringing the culture‑tourism‑commerce integration model into real practice across the Greater Bay Area.

Helen K. Y. Chan, Deputy General Manager (Promotions) at Sun Hung Kai Real Estate Agency, remarked that the series of cultural performances delighted shoppers and visitors alike, enriching public life with artistic and cultural value.

“The public response far exceeded our expectations,” she said.

These cross-sector, cross-regional programmes break the boundaries of conventional commercial operations, effectively enhancing the cultural depth and brand image of SHKP’s retail properties.

Earlier this year, the WestK Academy under the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority launched its flagship debut project. Its inaugural programme, the WestK Artist-in-Residence Pilot Programme, was successfully hosted at Ma Wan 1868 from late May to August.

Chow explained that the programme facilitated in-depth cross-cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and Czech artists. During the 10-week residency period, participating creators turned artistic inspiration into tangible works, culminating in the exhibition Undercurrents, which featured 40 newly created art pieces.

She added that Ma Wan 1868, as the second phase of Ma Wan Park, serves as the foundational platform for SHKP’s culture‑tourism‑commerce development strategy. Moving forward, SHKP will progressively extend cultural and tourism elements across its mall network to deliver more diversified experiential offerings for visitors and shoppers.

Ma Wan 1868 empowers emerging creative talent

Beyond cross-border artistic collaboration, SHKP is committed to nurturing young creative talent and empowering the next generation.

In the inaugural Hong Kong Secondary School Brand IP Competition, Ma Wan 1868 — SHKP’s heritage revitalisation project embodying the vision of “old village, new life” — was selected as an official partner brand.

Chan shared that the competition attracted 12 student teams from nine local secondary schools. Participants conducted on-site research, explored the historical and cultural characteristics of Ma Wan 1868, and created original IP characters exclusive to the heritage site.

The competition concluded with outstanding results: Po Leung Kuk Laws Foundation College claimed the championship, while Diocesan Girls’ School and Madam Lau Kam Lung Secondary School of Miu Fat Buddhist Monastery took second and third place respectively. The award presentation ceremony was held at Metroplaza, Kwai Fong, on 27 June 2026.

Chow noted that young audiences traditionally engage with commercial and cultural venues as passive visitors. Through this IP creation project, students became active participants in community and cultural development.

“Young Hongkongers are not merely consumers but key stakeholders who shape our cultural and urban projects,” she said.

Amid ongoing economic transformation, Chow believes traditional retail operations can no longer fully meet evolving market expectations. Modern mall development must integrate cultural positioning and tourism elements to create sustainable value.

“SHKP will continue to leverage the connectivity of our landmark projects across districts to drive two-way visitor circulation and unlock new market potential,” she said.

“Moving ahead, we will further integrate digital technology and ESG-focused green sustainability into our culture‑tourism‑commerce projects. By showcasing Hong Kong’s strengths in innovation, technology and environmental stewardship, we aim to create new growth opportunities for the industry.”