“Dialogue with Hong Kong Deputy to the National People’s Congress of PRC and Member of Legislative Council, HKSAR” – Prepared by Immediate Past President Peter Long, Vice Chair of District Government Liaison Committee and Deputy Assistant Governor Area 13
On 15 January 2026, the District Government Liaison Committee (DGLC), in collaboration with Rotary District 3450 and the Rotary Club of Hong Kong North Point, successfully hosted a distinguished dinner dialogue at The Murray Hotel. Centred on the theme “Hong Kong’s Opportunities in the Era of the Artificial Intelligence Revolution” (“人工智能革命下的香港機遇”), the event brought together 129 participants from 23 Rotary Clubs, reflecting strong district-wide engagement and a shared commitment to forward-looking dialogue. The occasion was proudly supported by Rotary Areas 4 and 13, along with 12 supporting clubs, exemplifying the unity, collaboration, and collective spirit that define the Rotary community.
The programme commenced with welcoming remarks by Event Chair Peter Long. He expressed sincere appreciation for the enthusiastic support of Rotarians and emphasised that artificial intelligence (AI) has emerged as one of the most influential forces of our era. While its rapid evolution presents extraordinary opportunities, it also brings significant responsibilities, calling upon communities, governments, and service organisations to engage with innovation thoughtfully. This perspective set a reflective and forward-looking tone for the evening.
This was followed by an opening address from District Governor Cassy Cheng, who underscored the importance of sustained dialogue on emerging technologies. She highlighted how artificial intelligence can serve as a powerful complement to Rotary’s mission, enabling more effective service delivery, broader community impact, and future-ready leadership. Her remarks reinforced the idea that technology, when guided by human values, can be a compelling force for social good.
Past District Governor CP Eric Chin then introduced the guest speaker, Hon. Nick Chan, BBS, MH, JP, Deputy to the National People’s Congress of the People’s Republic of China and Member of the Legislative Council of the HKSAR. As an Honorary Member of the Rotary Club of Hong Kong North Point, Hon. Nick Chan was warmly welcomed. His extensive contributions across public policy and multiple sectors, as well as his deep understanding of innovation and technological development, were highlighted as key strengths informing his perspective on AI.
In his approximately 30-minute presentation, Hon. Nick Chan shared valuable insights into the opportunities arising from the AI revolution and their implications for Hong Kong’s future. Drawing from his experience and policy perspective, he articulated how Hong Kong can position itself as a world-class innovation and technology hub by leveraging AI to enhance competitiveness, productivity, governance, and societal well-being. His remarks offered clarity amid rapid technological change and encouraged participants to view AI not merely as a tool of efficiency, but as a strategic catalyst for sustainable and inclusive development.
The keynote speech was followed by a panel discussion and interactive question-and-answer session moderated by Past President and Charter Member Elsa Wong of the Rotary Club of Hong Kong North Point. Two selected questions were addressed in a live exchange facilitated by Event Chair Peter Long, allowing participants to engage directly with Hon. Nick Chan on key AI-related opportunities and challenges.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks delivered by Assistant Governor CP Alvin Lam, who expressed heartfelt appreciation to Hon. Nick Chan for his inspiring insights and to all organisers, supporting clubs, and volunteers for their dedication and teamwork. Group photographs with district leaders and club presidents followed, before the evening transitioned into a networking session that provided a relaxed setting for further exchange of ideas and interaction with the guest of honour.
The success of the event was made possible by the collective efforts of a committed organizing committee team, including President Kenneth Chan, Past President Carlos Tam, and President-Elect Jason Yuen, who led the Sergeant-at-Arms (SAA) team in maintaining a professional and orderly environment throughout the dinner and talk. The SAA team — Harry Leung, Charles Li, William Luk, Natasha Yan, and Athena Ho — together with supporting member PP Lorraine Lai from the Rotary Club of Braemar Hill, demonstrated exemplary coordination. Valuable support was also provided by the Rotaract Club of Hong Kong North Point, with RAC President Jamie Leung and Rotaractor Utsab Limbu contributing enthusiastically. Special thanks were extended to Rotarian John Poon and Peggy Chan for their effective service as Masters of Ceremony, and to the RIC team led by Elaine Wong, with Sam So and Ada Leung, for their behind-the-scenes efforts.
In conclusion, the second Rotary District Signature Talk held in 2026 stood as another landmark event in strengthening Rotary’s role as a platform for strategic dialogue and thought leadership. Beyond fostering meaningful discussion on Hong Kong’s artificial intelligence revolution and future development, the event demonstrated the Rotary community’s capacity to innovate, collaborate, and lead with vision. As technology continues to reshape the world, Rotary’s commitment to combining insight with service remains a powerful reminder that true progress lies not only in technological advancement, but in the wisdom with which it is applied for the benefit of society.
