Speech by SITI at establishment ceremony of international AI Research Centre by Digital Domain in Hong Kong Science Park (English only) (with photo)

     Following is the speech by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, at the establishment ceremony of international AI Research Centre by Digital Domain in the Hong Kong Science Park today (July 24):

Daniel (Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of Digital Domain, Mr Daniel Seah), Lala (Global President and Chief Operating Officer of Digital Domain, Ms Lala Gavgavian), Albert (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks Cooperation, Mr Albert Wong), Alpha (Director-General of Investment Promotion of InvestHK, Ms Alpha Lau), and my colleague, Dr Ming Ge (Commissioner for Industry (Innovation and Technology)), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good morning. I am pleased to be here today to congratulate the establishment of an international AI (artificial intelligence) Research Centre by Digital Domain in Hong Kong Science Park.

     Digital Domain is a renowned Hollywood visual effects studio, founded by James Cameron, who is the director of many famous movies, including the highly popular Titanic and Avatar series. Digital Domain has currently held 11 Oscar awards, including "Best Visual Effects" and "Scientific and Technical Achievement". Today's partnership between the Hong Kong Science and Technolgy Park and Digital Domain marks a significant milestone in digital entertainment and advances the creative frontier.

     As we know, AI has revolutionised the film and entertainment industry, transforming film-making, visual effects, and animation. Digital Domain is a testament to this, with its groundbreaking use of AI technology as a tool of better storytelling and immersion. By harnessing the power of AI, we can create truly exceptional products that push the boundaries of imagination. This is the future we envision for the film and entertainment industry, where humans and AI work hand-in-hand to create unforgettable experiences.

     Similarly, AI has seamlessly integrated into our everyday lives, reshaping how we live, work and interact. No matter you like it or not, those AI algorithms are reshaping our experiences in ways both subtle and profound. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government has been well-prepared for both the opportunities and challenges brought by AI revolution. We are dedicated to supporting the AI industry, along with other I&T (innovation and technology) industries of strategic importance, to develop in Hong Kong.

     We have been putting in place a series of favourable policies and measures to build a more comprehensive and vibrant AI ecosystem, including enhancing our R&D (research and development) capabilities, attracting I&T enterprises and investment, improving infrastructure, and nurturing I&T talents. For example, our AI Supercomputing Centre will soon be in services in phases later this year. We have also attracted more than 100 representative technology enterprises to set up or expand their business in Hong Kong. Many of them are leading AI enterprises from Mainland and abroad, facilitating the growth of local AI ecosystem and pooling together AI talents, technology and capital.

     I believe that with the joint efforts of all parties, we can unlock the full potential of AI technology to empower the Hong Kong's I&T development, as well as injecting new impetus to the local film industry, bringing a brand new digital entertainment experience to Hong Kong and overseas audience. Once again, I wish to extend my warmest congratulations to Digital Domain on its successful setting up in Hong Kong Science Park. Thank you very much.