HKSTP and CSD sign MOU to promote sustainable development of "Smart Prison"

​(Hong Kong, 11 July 2023) - The Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) and the Correctional Services Department (CSD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) today (July 11) to deepen their co-operation, which will inject new impetus into the sustainable development of "Smart Prison".

The MOU sets out a collaboration framework for HKSTP and the CSD to jointly explore innovative solutions in three aspects over the next three years, including the identification and matching of market-proven innovative solutions by the HKSTP to address the operational needs of the CSD and challenges faced by the Department, as well as arranging regular meetings and exchanges between the CSD and the innovation and technology industry and academia to create more collaboration opportunities. The framework also entails the setup of a "Penal Lab" in correctional facilities, where tailor-made innovative solutions by the innovation and technology industry can be tested in an actual operating environment, facilitating the trial implementation of innovation and technology products.

The MOU was signed by the Deputy Commissioner of Correctional Services (Operations and Strategic Development), Mr Ng Chiu-kok, and the Chief Executive Officer of the HKSTP, Mr Albert Wong, and witnessed by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong; the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Wong Kwok-hing; and the Chairman of the HKSTP, Dr Sunny Chai.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun said that the Government is committed to promoting the development of innovation and technology and building smart government, and encouraging government departments to use appropriate technologies to enhance governance and efficiency. The signing of the MOU between the CSD and HKSTP today has served as a good example for all government departments to follow. Professor Sun said that he looks forward to the development of more technology application solutions by different government departments and various industries in future, which will bring convenience to the public and facilitate business, adding impetus for the speedy promotion of the development of innovation and technology and Smart City.

The Chairman of the HKSTP, Dr Sunny Chai, said that the HKSTP is pleased to sign an MOU with the CSD to further explore and promote technology adoption in various areas and nurture innovation and technology talent. The HKSTP will continue to collaborate with park companies to incorporate smart elements for the modernisation of correctional facilities, address operational needs of the CSD and challenges with innovative solutions, while providing innovation and technology companies with potential pilot production opportunities, creating win-win situations.

The Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Wong Kwok-hing, said that the CSD has been firmly supporting the Government's policies in promoting the Smart City and the development of innovation and technology, and has incorporated the "Smart Prison" initiative into its strategic development plan, striving to modernise correctional facilities with the use of innovative technologies. He expressed confidence that with the HKSTP's capabilities and experience, coupled with the CSD's determination to promote the application of innovation and technology and high-quality development, the collaboration will generate more "smart" proposals to strengthen the operational efficacy and service quality of the Department.

Appendix

Introductions of I&T ventures participating in the co-operation and their R&D products