THE DRAGON & THE BEAVER

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Session 2026/2027 has formally commenced, marking a new chapter in the continuing evolution of The Hong Kong Institution of Engineers. Following the Annual General Meeting held on 23 June 2026 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, the Institution welcomed President Ir Prof Frank Chan and the new Council. This orderly transition reflects not only institutional continuity, but also the strength of HKIE’s governance and its shared commitment to serving both the profession and the community.

 

In this issue, members will find the cover story featuring President Ir Prof Frank Chan, who sets out his vision under the theme “Connect Minds, Empower Tomorrow.” His message emphasises measurable sustainability, responsible technological evolution, and meaningful engagement — principles that resonate strongly with the Institution’s long‑term direction. As Secretariat, we will work in close partnership with the President and Council to translate these priorities into sustained institutional progress.

 

I extend my warm congratulations to Ir Prof Frank Chan on his installation as President, to Ir TK Chiang Tung Keung on his election as Vice President, and to the newly elected Elected Ordinary Members of Council. Their readiness to serve reflects a deep sense of professional duty. At the same time, I would like to express sincere appreciation to Immediate Past President Ir Alice Chow for her dedicated leadership in the last Session. Her steady stewardship, strategic clarity and commitment to strengthening the Institution have laid a firm foundation upon which we now build.

 

Over the past month, HKIE has continued to demonstrate thought leadership in advancing engineering standards and supporting industry transformation. Under the guidance of the Task Force on Engineering Excellence and Standardisation, three significant publications were released: Best Practices for Multi‑trade Integrated Mechanical, Electrical and Plumbing (MiMEP) in Hong Kong, 智慧工地安全系統實務指南, and 基建及建築工程碳管理研究. Collectively, these works reinforce HKIE’s role as a trusted technical authority and forward‑looking professional body.

 

The MiMEP Best Practices support the industry’s transition towards more integrated and industrialised construction methodologies. By strengthening multi‑trade coordination and collaboration across disciplines, the framework enhances productivity, quality assurance and buildability. The Smart Site Safety Systems Guide promotes a shift from reactive compliance to proactive risk management, supported by digital monitoring and structured governance. Meanwhile, the carbon management study calls for early integration of whole‑life carbon considerations into infrastructure planning and design. Echoing President Ir Prof Frank Chan’s emphasis on measurable sustainability and leadership by example, it encourages engineers to embed low‑carbon thinking into mainstream practice.

 

Beyond technical publications, HKIE continues to contribute to strategic policy dialogue. Drawing on the expertise of Council and members, the Institution has submitted recommendations to the HKSAR Government in relation to the city’s first Five‑Year Plan. Our submission highlights the importance of infrastructure resilience, innovation capacity, sustainability performance, and integration with national development strategies. By offering evidence‑based professional insights, HKIE seeks to ensure that engineering expertise is appropriately reflected in long‑term policy formulation.

 

Member engagement remains central to our mission. The New Members’ Reception held in June welcomed newly admitted members and their guests, reaffirming the vitality and relevance of the engineering profession. As new members pledged to uphold HKIE’s standards and serve society with integrity, the occasion underscored the Institution’s enduring responsibility to nurture future leaders. The Secretariat will continue to enhance member services, strengthen continuing professional development, and provide platforms for cross‑disciplinary collaboration in alignment with the President’s call to “connect minds.”

 

In June, the Institution published the HKIE 50th Anniversary Commemorative Journal Supplement, following the earlier premiere of the 50th Anniversary video. Together, these commemorative initiatives celebrate our shared journey and reflect the collective efforts of generations of members. They serve as a timely reminder that the strength of HKIE has been built steadily over five decades through dedication, professionalism, and a steadfast commitment to common values.

 

As we look ahead, our task is not merely to manage operations efficiently, but to steward the Institution with clarity of purpose and strategic foresight. In partnership with President Ir Prof Frank Chan, Senior Vice President Ir Rupert Leung, Vice Presidents Ir William Luk and Ir T K Chiang , the Council and our members, the Secretariat will continue to strengthen governance, enhance institutional effectiveness, and deepen engagement locally, regionally and internationally.

 

With unity of vision and continuity of effort, HKIE will remain a respected professional body — one that upholds excellence, embraces innovation responsibly, and contributes meaningfully to Hong Kong’s sustainable and long‑term development.

 

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