Highlights of 2025
The year 2025 marks a truly significant milestone for our Institution as we proudly celebrate our 50th Anniversary. This golden jubilee is both a moment of reflection on five decades of professional excellence and a reaffirmation of our enduring commitment to shaping Hong Kong’s future through engineering. Since its establishment, the Institution has evolved into a leading professional body, playing a vital role in nurturing engineering talent, upholding professional standards, and advancing sustainable development for the benefit of society. We are also gradually building our reputation in the global engineering arena to connect the local professional engineering community with international, national, and regional professional bodies.
Throughout this landmark year, we continued to promote and contribute to the engineering profession through a diverse portfolio of high‑impact initiatives. These included community‑focused outreach activities and signature events such as the HKIE Grand 50th Annual Dinner, all aimed at enhancing the profession’s visibility and public appreciation. We also recognised outstanding achievements through our awards programme, celebrating the excellence, innovation, and dedication that continue to drive the sector forward. Complementing these efforts, a range of professional development programmes and forums were delivered to support professional growth among our members.
While 2025 was a year of celebration, it was also marked by moments of profound reflection. The tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po on 26 November 2025 brought deep sorrow to the community and highlighted the critical importance of safety in the built environment. Our thoughts remain with all those affected. In response, the Institution stood united with members and stakeholders, reaffirming our commitment to reviewing safety standards and promoting innovative engineering solutions to help prevent similar incidents in the future.
In light of the incident, several 50th Anniversary celebratory activities were cancelled or postponed. I sincerely thank members for their understanding, particularly regarding the cancellation of the Anniversary Cocktail Reception. The majority of attendance fees and saved production costs were donated to support victims of the Tai Po fire, alongside the launch of a dedicated donation channel. As Trustees of the HKIE Benevolent Fund, we are also proactively contacting affected Wang Fuk Court members to provide assistance and followup support.
We are sincerely grateful for the compassion and solidarity expressed by our counterparts across the global engineering community. The messages of support received from the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), the World Federation of Engineering Organizations (WFEO) and many other partners underscore the strong bonds, shared values, and collective responsibility that unite engineers worldwide.
Looking ahead, we will work closely with the newly elected Legislative Council Member for the Engineering Functional Constituency, our Past President, Ir Aaron Bok. The recent election recorded a record voter turnout of 59.15%, compared with 49.10% in 2021, reflecting the strong engagement and confidence within the profession, as well as the unwavering commitment of our fellow engineers to serving the community.
I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Divisions and Committees that came together at Headquarters on Election Day to encourage member participation, as well as to all members who took part by casting their votes. My appreciation also goes to those who attended the HKIE Election Forum and the forum organised by the Young Members Committee, and to all who actively promoted voter engagement in the leadup to Election Day through their participation in various electionrelated activities.
My sincere gratitude is extended to all members of our Institution — particularly the Officers, Past Presidents, Council and Executive members, Division and Committee Chairmen, and our young members, as well as many others whom I cannot name individually—for their generous support during the promotional video shoot. A special note of thanks goes to Past President Ir Dr Cheng Hon Kwan, who kindly visited the HKIE Headquarters to participate in a video recording alongside Past President Ir Dr Chan Fuk Cheung, President Ir Alice Chow, and our young members.
Together, we are committed to translating collective effort and shared concern into constructive and meaningful action.
As we conclude this milestone year and look towards 2026, let us carry forward the spirit of professionalism, collaboration, and resilience that defines our Institution. The monthbymonth highlights that follow capture the key milestones of 2025, and I invite you to reflect on the achievements we have shared throughout this remarkable journey.
| January |
- The HKIE Prize Presentation Ceremony cum New Members’ Reception was held on 11 January at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, bringing together around 280 newly admitted members, awardees and guests with Past Presidents, Council Members and other leaders. The event featured a welcome by the President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Eric S C Ma, certificate presentations to long-serving and newly admitted members, and awards recognising outstanding engineering students and trainees, including the HKIE Scholarship, the HKIE Prize for Outstanding Engineering Students 2023/2024, and the Trainee of the Year Award 2024.
- The Institution submitted the recommendations for the 2025-26 Budget, emphasising key concerns and proposing strategic measures to uphold a resilient public finance system while leveraging Hong Kong’s pivotal role between the Chinese Mainland and the global community.
| February |
- On 20–21 February, Senior Vice President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Alice Chow and Vice President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Prof Frank Chan led a study tour to Foshan Hydrogen Valley, organised by the Continuing Professional Development Committee to explore cutting-edge developments in hydrogen energy (HE), gaining insights into production, storage, transportation, and applications.
- On 26 February, the Institution signed the Second Supplementary Agreement in the Mutual Recognition Supplementary Framework with the Guangdong Institution of Engineers (GDIE), expanding mutual recognition of professional qualifications to include the Electronics and Information Disciplines and GDIE’s Cybersecurity domain.
| March |
- On 22 March, the Institution hosted the “Engineers 2025: Insights from the Two Sessions” sharing session at its headquarters, offering members an in-depth look at the implications of the national Two Sessions for the engineering sector. Over 100 members joined both online and in person. Speakers included the Vice President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Prof Frank Chan, the member of the National Committee for the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (NCCPPCC) cum the HKBU President Ir Prof Alexander Wai, and member of the NCCPPCC, Associate Dean (External Affairs), Faculty of Engineering, CUHK, Ir Prof Wong Kam Fai discussed key topics from the Government Work Report—economic development, talent and education, and innovation—and explored the role of Hong Kong engineers in national development.
| April |
- To celebrate the achievements and reaffirm the Institution’s commitment to advancing the profession, the HKIE Grand 50th Annual Dinner was held on 3 April at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, with the Honourable Chief Executive Mr John Lee as Principal Guest.
- The evening featured the presentation of HKIE Awards, including Honorary Fellowship to Ir Dr Andrew Chan and Ir Prof Alexander Wai, the Gold Medal to Ir Stephen Chik, the President’s Award to Ir Duncan Wong, and Young Engineer of the Year to Ir Dr Zheng Pai. Another highlight was the HKIE 50th Anniversary Legacy Award, recognising over 30 projects for their impact on Hong Kong through prize presentation and exhibition. Top honours going to the Daya Bay Nuclear Power Station, Fibre Optic by Professor Charles K Kao, and Hong Kong’s First Metro Subway.
- On 2 April, the President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Eric Ma, Immediate Past President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Dr Barry Lee, Vice President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Prof Frank Chan and Chief Executive and Secretary Ir Prof Alfred Sit attended 「2025年粵港科技界交流酒會」, organised by the Guangdong Association for Science and Technology (GAST). As a supporting organisation for the event, the Institution aimed to strengthen collaboration and foster closer ties between engineering and technology professionals from Hong Kong and Guangdong, enhancing mutual understanding and driving innovation across the Greater Bay Area.
- A total of 144 members from eight engineering sectors attended「粵港澳大灣區港澳工程專業人才職稱評價宣講輔 導會」, with three speakers, the Senior Vice President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Alice Chow, Development Bureau Principal Assistant Secretary (Works) Ir Leung Hon Wan, and Prof Lau Kwai Hung. The session helped members understand requirements for applying for Guangdong Province titles.
| May |
- The Presidential Visit to Australia took place from 5 to 7 May 2025, covering Sydney and Melbourne. The delegates including President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Eric Ma, Senior Vice President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Alice Chow, Chairman of the International Affairs Committee for Session 2024/2025 Ir William Luk, Director Mr Davis Wong and young members, met strategic partners, including Engineers Australia, and visited universities and major infrastructure projects, advancing the Institution’s global presence and fostering international cooperation.
- From 28 to 30 May 2025, the Institution joined forces with The Macao Institution of Electrical and Mechanical Engineers, the Hong Kong Institute of Environmentalists, and 碳市場能 力建設(大灣區)服務中心to co-organise「滬上聚首 共繪交流宏 圖」 study tour. The delegation highlighted opportunities for collaboration in sustainability, innovation, and infrastructure development, reinforcing the importance of connectivity and forward-looking strategies for the Greater Bay Area.
| June |
- On 7 June, the Institution hosted its second New Members’ Reception for Session 2024/2025, welcoming over 300 newly admitted members and guests. Immediate Past President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Dr Barry Lee delivered a warm welcome, followed by a certificate presentation for new Fellows, Members, and Associate Members.
- From 8 to 13 June, an HKIE delegation, comprising Ir Prof Philco Wong, Chairman of the Accreditation Board, Ir William Luk, Chairman of the International Affairs Committee, and the Secretariat, attended the International Engineering Alliance Meetings 2025 in Merida, Mexico. Past President Ir Prof P L Yuen was elected as Chair of the International Engineering Technologists Agreement (IETA) and re-elected as Chair of the Seoul Accord during its General Meeting held at the same venue.
- From 11 to 17 June, as a founding member of the Greater Bay Area Federation of Engineering Organisations (GFEO), the Institution joined its delegation to Portugal and the UK, led by Senior Vice President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Prof Frank Chan.
- At the 50th Annual General Meeting on 24 June, Ir Alice Chow was installed as the Institution’s 51st President— the first female President since our establishment in 1975, marking a historic milestone for the profession. Under the theme “Together we RISE” (Resilience, Innovation, Sustainability, Equity), Ir Chow outlined a forward-looking agenda to strengthen I&T, promote sustainable design, and prepare engineers for emerging sectors.
- The Special General Meeting (SGM) was also held on the same day, where resolutions approving the proposed amendments to the Constitution to take effect after the close of the 50th Annual General Meeting. These amendments include the delegation of Council powers, changes to Vice President election terms, and the introduction of a new membership category, Adjunct Fellow, which stemmed from a comprehensive Governance Review Study overseen by the Working Group on Governance Review, chaired by President for Session 2024/2025 Ir Eric Ma.
| July |
- From 8 to 11 July, the Institution took part in the International Council on Electrical Engineering (ICEE) Conference 2025 in Wuhan under the theme “Low Carbon Electricity Powering a Better Future”. Led by President Ir Alice Chow, the HKIE delegation joined discussions on energy transition and sustainable power systems and visited key sites, including the Wuhan Smart Distribution Grid Demonstration Zone and the China Three Gorges Group’s innovation hub, fostering exchanges on technological innovation and low-carbon solutions.
- From 21 to 25 July, the Delegation Visit to National Water Infrastructure, Culture and Technology was held to commemorate the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong. Jointly organised by the Water Supplies Department, the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers and the Institution, and chaired by Past President Ir Dr Barry Lee, the visit brought together 120 engineering professionals, students, and educators to explore China’s water network and its cultural and technological significance.
- The first Council meeting of the Institution’s 51st year was held on 17 July, along with a photo session featuring Council Members and some of our Past Presidents, who are Honorary Members of the Council. With strong member involvement and clear governance, the Institution is wellpositioned to advance its initiatives and plans for the year ahead.
- President Ir Alice Chow has selected 13 talented young engineers from diverse backgrounds for the President’s Protégés Scheme 2025/2026. Together, they RISE and worked closely with the President through a range of events, embracing the core values of Resilience, Innovation, Sustainability, and Equity.
| August |
- The Institution submitted the recommendations for the 2025 Policy Address, advocating for accelerated development of the Northern Metropolis, increased infrastructure investment, and integration of AI to drive innovation.
- The Institution hosted a media gathering on 26 August, inviting Officers, spokespersons, and President’s Protégés to share the Institution’s vision with around 15 media outlets.
| August - September |
- “Engineering Legacy: 50 Years of Excellence” Exhibition (Hysan Place) The second stop of the roving exhibition “Engineering Legacy: 50 Years of Excellence”, featuring nineteen Legacy and Grand Award projects of the HKIE 50th Anniversary Legacy Award was organised at Hysan Place from 19 August to 28 September 2025, offering visitors an opportunity to explore these impactful contributions to engineering excellence.
| September |
- The Presidential Address and Dinner for Session 2025/2026 were held on 12 September, drawing over 900 members and guests. President Ir Alice Chow introduced her theme “Together we RISE”, setting the direction for the year ahead. The event also featured the presentation of the HKIE Best Transactions Paper Prize 2025 and the HKIE Outstanding Paper Award for Young Engineers/Researchers 2025.
- The Presidential Address and Dinner for Session 2025/2026 were held on 12 September, drawing over 900 members and guests. President Ir Alice Chow introduced her theme “Together we RISE”, setting the direction for the year ahead. The event also featured the presentation of the HKIE Best Transactions Paper Prize 2025 and the HKIE Outstanding Paper Award for Young Engineers/Researchers 2025.
- The Presidential Address and Dinner for Session 2025/2026 were held on 12 September, drawing over 900 members and guests. President Ir Alice Chow introduced her theme “Together we RISE”, setting the direction for the year ahead. The event also featured the presentation of the HKIE Best Transactions Paper Prize 2025 and the HKIE Outstanding Paper Award for Young Engineers/Researchers 2025.
| October |
- The Shanghai and Hong Kong Symposium on Science and Technology (上海市科學技術協會) was held on 15–16 October 2025 in Shanghai. Co-organised biennially with the Shanghai Association for Science & Technology since 1997, this year’s theme was「綠色‧智慧‧品質‧重塑與再造」, serving as a valuable platform for professionals from both public and private sectors in Hong Kong to connect and exchange ideas with their counterparts in Shanghai.
- The World Federation of Engineering Organizations 2025 General Assembly (WFEO 2025 GA) and the Global Engineering Congress were held concurrently in Shanghai. Our delegation participated in the Engineering Showcase sessions and attended the Gala Dinner on 16 October.
- On 20 October 2025, the Institution co-hosted the 2nd Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Municipal Engineering Technical Exchange Conference the captioned conference. Held under the theme “Mastering Road Technology to Empower Cities” (精研路技 ·賦能城 市), the conference convened government officials and leading industry experts from the three regions to examine emerging development trends and exchange insights on municipal engineering.
- The roving exhibition “Engineering Legacy: 50 Years of Excellence” Exhibition continued its showcase at Hopewell Mall from 27 October to 2 November.
| November |
- President Ir Alice Chow led a delegation to the UK from 2–5 November, joined by Senior Vice President Ir Prof Frank Chan, Vice President Ir William Luk, Director Mr Davis Wong, and four of Ir Chow’s Protégés. The visit featured a cocktail reception co-hosted with the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London, the HKIE International Conference, and meetings with sister institutions — CIBSE, IMechE, and IStructE. A key highlight was the signing of three reciprocal recognition agreements with ICE, IET, and CIHT, marking a significant step in strengthening global professional collaboration.
- A delegation including the President Ir Alice Chow and Senior Vice President Ir Prof Frank Chan; Past President Ir Dr Otto Poon; Ir Jason Fan; Ir Carmen Lam and Miss Teresa Chau attended COP30 in Belém, Brazil, engaging in discussions on climate adaptation and carbon market development. This visit aims to deepen international exchange and bring back insights to strengthen the Institution’s advocacy and commitment to a greener future.
- On 15 November, the Institution hosted an Election Forum for the Engineering Functional Constituency of the 2025 Legislative Council (LegCo) General Election, providing a platform for candidates Dr Wilton Fok Wai Tung and Ir Aaron Bok to engage with members. The Institution also produced and shared promotional videos featuring Officers, Past Presidents, Executive/ Council members, Division/ Committee Chairmen and young members encouraging voter participation across social media channels.
- 粵港澳大灣區職稱評價工程專業人才慶祝典禮 was held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre on 24 November. This year, three new professional titles were introduced, bringing the total to eight disciplines, including 土木建築、岩土、公路、電機、測控儀器、機械工程、通訊工 程及網路空間安全工程專業. 218 members were awarded professional titles.
- Under the theme “Advancing Railway Safety through Innovations and Collaborations”, the International Railway Safety Council (IRSC) Conference 2025, jointly hosted by the National Railway Administration, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department of the HKSAR Government, and MTR Corporation, was organised in late November at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. The Conference serves as a premier global forum for railway safety regulators, operators, and stakeholders. The HKIE is honoured to participate as the Partner of this event.
- A Chartered HighSpeed Rail Trip to Guangzhou was originally scheduled for HKIE members on 29–30 November as part of the HKIE 50th Anniversary celebrations, offering a valuable platform for members to connect and engage with one another. In light of the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, the event was cancelled as a mark of mourning.
- The 4th Greater Bay Area Engineers Forum was held in Guangzhou on 29–30 November under the theme “Intelligence Converges in the Bay Area, Engineering Shapes the Future”. The forum brought together officials and leading experts from across the region to promote the development of “Bay Area Standards”, enhance professional and international capabilities, and strengthen collaboration within the engineering sector. At the start of the forum, a moment of silence was observed, and a condolence book was made available for attendees to express their sympathies for the victims of the Tai Po fire and the fallen firefighters.
| November - December |
- On 15 November, a Members’ Forum featuring Division Chairmen and Vice Chairmen was held, to gather views and strengthen communication. On 3 December, the Institution convened the Establishment of Strategy Office Meeting, bringing together three Officers and 15 Elected Ordinary Members to set the foundation for strategic development. This was followed by a Strategic Planning Meeting on 11 December, attended by all Officers, Past Presidents, Council members, the Legislative Councillor for the Engineering Functional Constituency, the President’s Protégés, and young members. Discussions focused on the upcoming three-year plan and proposed reforms to guide the Institution’s future direction.
| December |
- In light of the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, and as a gesture of solidarity, the Institution cancelled or postponed several events planned for the 50th Anniversary celebrations. These included the cancellation of the 50th Anniversary Cocktail Reception originally scheduled for 5 December 2025, as well as the postponement of the HKIE Carnival (6–7 December) and the exhibition in Beijing, 「HKIE 50周年紀念--香港工程傳奇展覽@首都」(15 December 2025 to 11 January 2026). The majority of attendance fees and original production costs saved from the Anniversary Cocktail Reception were donated to support victims of the Tai Po fire. In addition, a dedicated donation channel was established for members and engineering organisations wishing to contribute and support those affected by the incident.
- On 5 December, the Young Members Committee hosted a LegCo Election discussion on youth affairs at the Headquarters. Two candidates in the 2025 Legislative Council Functional Constituency Election (Engineering), Dr Wilton Fok and Ir Aaron Bok, engaged with over 50 young engineers on key topics including career development, industry outlook, and policy advocacy.
- On 7 December, voting day of the 2025 LegCo General Election, Officers, Executive/ Council members and Division/ Committee Chairmen actively encouraged members to cast their votes, demonstrating strong commitment to supporting the election process.
- From 11 to 13 December, the Exchange programme with the Chinese Society of Engineers (中國工程師聯合體) was held at HKIE Headquarters, featuring workshops on assessor interview experiences and key considerations, professional exchange sessions, meetings on professional assessment, and observation of assessment processes, fostered constructive dialogue and collaboration in a warm and engaging atmosphere.
