The winners of the hongkong prize were feted by Hong Kong’s Chief Executive Leung Chun-ying on Friday, saying that they represented “the best in our society”. They include scientists who have shaped global health and the future of the world economy; writers who tell riveting stories about the city and its people; and artists who explore important themes. The winners will be honoured at a ceremony later this year.
The winning artists and authors will receive a trophy, a certificate of award and cash prizes, while the winning schools and art organisations will be provided with funds to support their artistic activities. They will also be invited to a networking event to meet their peers and gain visibility in the media.
Runner-ups will be invited to a showcase of their work, and the public will be able to vote online for their favourite entry. The judging panel will be made up of experts from the field, and the winner will be announced in early 2021.
This prize aims to promote excellence in undergraduate and postgraduate history research, encourage students to study diverse aspects of local history, and raise awareness of the importance of historical studies. It was established in February 2013 with a donation of HK$100,000 from Professor Wang Gungwu and is sponsored by the University of Hong Kong’s Department of History.
The prize consists of a cash award of HK$50,000 and a scholarship of HK$25,000 to support a shortlisted artist’s creative work, arts projects or further studies. The HK$50,000 grant will be given in three waves: to Southeast Asian residents, then mainland Chinese and international applicants. Those interested can visit the World of Winners splash page from March 1 for more information.
Scientists who have contributed to the development of Hong Kong in a variety of fields will be awarded the Hong Kong Science and Technology Prize, with particular emphasis on research in the areas of artificial intelligence and robotics, life and health, new materials and energy and advanced manufacturing. The judging panel is comprised of experts from the field and the prize is funded by Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited.
Veteran martial arts film star Sammo Hung won the lifetime achievement prize at the Hong Kong Film Awards, despite criticism from Beijing over his movie Ten Years, which taps into residents’ worst fears for the semi-autonomous territory’s future under Beijing’s control. HKFP’s Donna Ong spoke to him about his legacy.