(Hong Kong, 4 August 2023) – Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Corporation (HKSTP) proudly kicked off the “Happy Hong Kong” Bazaar@ Science Park uniting HKSTP with the Hong Kong SAR Government and over 110 supporting parties, to inject a boost of happiness and togetherness in celebration of Hong Kong’s continued economic recovery, while sharing the achievements of innovation and technology (I&T) with the community.
The Bazaar from 4 – 13 August showcases the I&T sector’s game-changing impact on society and daily life, and features over 100 fun-filled activities to inspire and engage citizens of all ages. The Bazaar today drew over 1,600 visitors young and old to enjoy immersive “Dining FUN, Shopping FUN, Action FUN, and Daily FUN” experiences, featuring over 180 “Innofacturing” products and over 20 tech-infused culinary delights.
Mr Paul Chan, Financial Secretary, HKSAR Government, said: “I am delighted to join the kick-off ceremony of ‘Happy Hong Kong’ Bazaar @ Science Park today. Since the introduction of the ‘Happy Hong Kong’ campaign in this year's budget proposal, we have organized a series of activities which I have also attended to experience the lively atmosphere with citizens. Today's event at the Science Park is unique as it incorporates different innovative elements, allowing everyone to feel and experience that I&T is part of our daily lives.”
Dr Sunny Chai, Chairman of HKSTP, said: “Everyone at HKSTP is thrilled at the launch of the ‘Happy Hong Kong’ Bazaar @ Science Park and proud to join the HKSAR government in this city-wide effort to inject a renewed buzz and sense of joy in people’s lives and businesses across all sectors. Driven by the theme of ‘play hard, pass on and give back,’ our park companies and partners across the I&T ecosystem are inspiring citizens to reimagine the future, and experience how technology can enhance all aspects of life and benefit the society.”
The unprecedented 10-day Bazaar features a series of “technology firsts” on display. HKSTP Pay – Hong Kong’s first palm vein payment system is on display for visitors to feel first-hand the speed, convenience and security of this biometric innovation. Continuing the theme of joy, augmented reality (AR)-enabled “Smile Spots” are set up across the Bazaar to capture people’s joyous faces, while “LOL Booster” will leverage AI technology to compile the city’s first-ever AI-generated “I&T anthem” using laughter collected from the Bazaar.
Numerous tech and industry crossovers were made possible at the “Happy Hong Kong” Bazaar@ Science Park to connect park companies’ innovations with the community. One example is food-tech company Meat the Next partnering with Pret-a-Manger to launch its first plant-based tiger nut oat milk latte, which will continue to be available even after the close of the Bazaar.
This is just one of the many "Happy Hong Kong Meals" featuring I&T-infused cuisines offered by 10 park restaurants and six food tech ventures. Visitors can also discover 180 "Innofactured in Hong Kong" products developed by around 60 tech companies at the I&T Bazaar. The 10-day carnival provides a complete immersion into a variety of engaging activities including STEAM workshops, music and clown performances and creative art installations for tech and non-tech enthusiasts alike to continue the city’s economic recovery.