Chairman (Session 24/25)
Ir Sammy KH Lai
As the newly elected Chairman of the Building Division for Session 2024/25, I am deeply honored to follow in the footsteps of past chairmen and committee members who have made significant contributions to the Division over the years. I would like to pay special tribute to Ir Tony WG ZA, the Immediate Past Chairman, for his outstanding leadership during the last session. His dedication and efforts have laid a strong foundation for us to build upon as we move forward.
This year, as we continue to navigate the challenges and opportunities of our evolving industry, our focus will be on nurturing the next generation of young engineers and embracing innovative technologies. The HKSAR government has set ambitious development targets in the recent Policy Address, including the Northern Metropolis development, Light Public Housing units construction, and public housing estate redevelopment. These initiatives will require the expertise, creativity, and dedication of our professional engineers, particularly those entering the field.
Nurturing young engineers is crucial for the sustained growth and success of our industry. We must provide them with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to thrive in a fast-paced and demanding environment. Through educational workshops and hands-on project experiences, we will support and guide the next generation, ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle future challenges.
At the same time, embracing innovative technologies will be key to our progress. Building engineers and practitioners must stay ahead of the curve by adopting advanced materials, techniques, and technologies that enhance efficiency, sustainability, and resilience in our built environment. This includes leveraging digital tools, automation, and sustainable practices to create a better living environment for all.
As a Division consisting of a diverse group of professionals from engineering design, construction, building management, and academia, we are committed to promoting the latest advancements in our field. We will continue to organize technical seminars, visits, and collaborative events to stay up-to-date with industry trends and share our knowledge and expertise. Through these activities, we aim to inspire innovation, creativity, and a commitment to excellence in the building industry.
The Building Division will also prioritize fostering interaction and fellowship between professionals and stakeholders. We will actively seek collaboration opportunities with other Divisions and institutional bodies to organize high-value learned society activities. These collaborations will strengthen our community and enhance our collective impact on the industry.
I look forward to your continued support of the Building Division and encourage your active participation in the coming year. Together, we can achieve great things and contribute to the development of a more sustainable, innovative, and vibrant built environment.
Ir Sammy KH Lai
Chairman, Building Division
Session 2024/2025