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| More details of the GovWiFi program and hotspot locations can be found on the Web site [www.gov.hk/wifi]. |
Hong Kong residents can now enjoy the convenience of accessing wireless Internet service for free at more than 30 government premises with the March 27 launch of the Government Wi-Fi (GovWiFi) Program.
Speaking at the launch ceremony, Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Frederick Ma said GovWiFi will put in place approximately 2,000 Wi-Fi hotspots in 350 government locations by mid-2009.
“The provision of public Wi-Fi services will continue to expand, maintaining Hong Kong’s position among the leading cities in the world,” he said.
GovWiFi is being introduced in phases. The first batch of hotspots includes more than 30 locations covering some government offices and major public libraries.
By mid-2008, the number of WiFi hotspots will increase to 120, with an additional 230 premises ready by mid-2009. Apart from libraries and government offices, the locations will cover job centers, public inquiry service centers, sports centers, key cultural and recreation centers, community halls/centers and large parks.
Mr. Ma said the provision of public Wi-Fi services is booming in Hong Kong. In just the first two months of 2008, more than 1,000 new hotspots were installed, bringing the number to more than 6,400 in more than 4,100 locations.
“Our lives are now tightly coupled with information and communications technology (ICT), which also helps build our digital economy and enhance the competitiveness of Hong Kong. Wireless and mobile services and technology are, in particular, applied in the pillar industries in Hong Kong,” said Mr. Ma.
Noting that mobile financial services recorded a nearly 60% year-on-year growth in 2007, Mr. Ma said he hopes the ICT industry will ride on the expanding user base to develop more mobile financial and banking services that are both secure and customer-centric.
“To consolidate Hong Kong’s position as a leader in tourism and logistics, industry players are encouraged to make use of wireless and mobile technologies to provide tourists and logistics management with more useful electronic information.”
Mr. Ma stressed the government will continue to adopt a market-led, technology-neutral and facilitating approach in introducing new and innovative services for driving commerce and economic development in Hong Kong, as well as improving the quality of life of its residents.
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