Hong Kong Laureate Forum kicks off as city woos global science talent

The four-day event aims to facilitate exchanges between Shaw Prize winners and young scientists

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From left: Colin Lam, vice-chairman of Henderson Land Group and director of Lee Shau Kee Foundation; Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki; Timothy Tong, council chairman of the Hong Kong Laureate Forum; Raymond Chan, chair of the Shaw Prize Foundation. Photo: Handout

Published: 5:00pm, 5 Nov 2025

The second edition of the Hong Kong Laureate Forum began on Wednesday, bringing together Shaw Prize winners and 200 young researchers as part of a major push to establish the city as a global hub for scientific and technology talent.

Officiating the opening, Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok-ki highlighted the government’s strategy: “We are establishing an advanced [innovation and technology] system under the principle of promoting technology with talent, leading industries with technology and attracting talent with industries.

“The goal is to grow our talent pool, boost innovation and support our country’s science and technology development.”

Launched in 2023 and sponsored by the Lee Shau Kee Foundation, the event aims to facilitate exchanges between Shaw laureates and young scientists through seminars, dialogues and workshops.

The Shaw Prize was set up in 2002 by the late entertainment tycoon and philanthropist Sir Run Run Shaw to honour individuals worldwide who have made outstanding contributions to civilisation.

German molecular biologist Wolfgang Baumeister, 2025 Shaw Prize winner in life sciences and medicine, speaks at the Hong Kong Laureate Forum on Wednesday. Photo: Handout

This year’s event features the four newest Shaw laureates.

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