Land auction yields US$7.82 million
A government plot of land in Sheung Shui recently sold for US$7.82 million in the first public land auction of Hong Kong’s 2009-10 fiscal year.
The lot, at San Fung Avenue, Shek Wu Hui in Sheung Shui, was sold to Successful Properties after an opening bid of US$3.84 million. Fanling Sheung Shui Town Lot No. 225 is approximately 305.8 square meters and is designated for non-industrial (excluding warehouse and hotel) purposes. A minimum gross floor area of 716 square meters must be completed.
Hong Kong universities top Asian rankings
Hong Kong Secretary for Education Michael Suen said he is gratified that a number of Hong Kong higher education institutions topped the first-ever Asian University Rankings, published by Quacquarelli Symonds Limited, an international information specialist in the higher education sector.
“Hong Kong institutions continue to enjoy a good reputation internationally. This signifies the achievement of our tertiary education and will also help strengthen our position as the regional education hub,” said Mr. Suen.
According to the rankings, Hong Kong has three universities in the Top 5: The University of Hong Kong (1st), Chinese University of Hong Kong (2nd) and Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (4th).
In addition, City University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Polytechnic University and Hong Kong Baptist University are among the Top 100.
Mr. Suen expressed appreciation to the heads of all the institutions, and to their staff and students, for their efforts. He said the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and the University Grants Committee will work together with the education sector to continue to improve higher education.
New Observatory director appointed
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Lee Boon-ying |
As of May 11, Lee Boon-ying has succeeded Lam Chiu-ying as director of the Hong Kong Observatory.
“Dr. Lee has extensive knowledge on the operation of the Hong Kong Observatory, as well as proven administrative and leadership skills,” Secretary for the Civil Service Denise Yue said. “I am confident that he will be able to lead the department to meet the challenges ahead, including the continued delivery of quality service to the community that matches the needs of our time.”
The Secretary praised Mr. Lam’s career and offered her congratulations on his retirement. “With his professionalism and dedication, Mr. Lam devoted sustained efforts in leading the observatory and its staff to enhance service quality and operational efficiency. He also contributed significantly to promoting public understanding of science,” she said. “Under his leadership, the department has won many awards, both local and overseas, and is highly regarded by its counterparts around the world. I sincerely wish him a happy retirement.”
Mr. Lam had been on pre-retirement leave since April 6, after 35 years of government service.
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