The Hong Kong Prize Scheme recognizes outstanding artists and organizations that have made significant contributions to Hong Kong’s art scene, encouraging residents to participate in arts education as well as actively support for local events. The awards program also encourages participation by community members.
On Friday, the 19th Hong Kong Arts Development Awards ceremony will take place. It will honour veteran arts practitioners as well as emerging artists for their outstanding accomplishments and commitment to Hong Kong arts development and community outreach efforts.
Organised annually by the Hong Kong Arts Development Council, this event serves as an invaluable platform to showcase various artistic talents to the public while honoring individuals or organisations that have made outstanding contributions towards Hong Kong’s cultural development. As one of the city’s premier arts events, this celebration stands as a tribute to dedication.
This year’s competition is themed “Hong Kong’s Unique Historical Status”, and its jury committee will look for entries that highlight Hong Kong’s role in international cooperation and social progress. First Division prize winners will each receive HK$200,000 while those from second and third division will each be rewarded with 150,000; any unclaimed Prize money will rollover into subsequent draws as the “Jackpot prize”.
Last summer’s anti-government protests in Hong Kong left numerous victims including police officers and tourists/students from mainland China injured and vandalised shops, subway stations, traffic lights and street lamps. These incidents resulted in both serious personal injuries as well as property damages; all this threatens Hong Kong as an international business hub.
As an antidote to such events, U.S. congressmen nominated pro-democracy activists Joshua Wong Chi-fung and two allies for the Nobel Peace Prize, prompting outrage among Chinese netizens. Some complained about double standards in awarding winners while others questioned if it is appropriate given China’s current political state.
Hong Kong Jockey Club has increased prize money for its spring races next year, including a 2 million increase for Champions Mile and 4 million increase for Chairman’s Sprint Prize. Furthermore, this year marks the debut of a 100 million jackpot pool at Chairman’s Sprint race and this will increase in subsequent years – all to attract more visitors and expand audience base. Furthermore, several other prizes have also been increased as incentives for young runners.