“Dialogue with Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Mr. Joseph H.L Cham JP” hosted by District Government Liaison Committee X Rotary Club of Hong Kong North Point and Area 13
Prepared by Immediate Past President Peter Long, Vice Chair District Government Liaison Committee and Deputy Assistant Governor Area 13
On 16 October 2025, the District Government Liaison Committee (DGLC), in collaboration with Rotary District 3450 Area 13 and the Rotary Club of Hong Kong North Point, hosted a distinguished dinner meeting at Hotel Alexandra. The event centered on the theme “The Positioning and Development of Hong Kong as an International Financial Centre”, addressed by Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Mr. Joseph H.L JP, drawing an impressive attendance of 231 participants from 44 Rotary Clubs, with 24 clubs from Area 13, 12, 7, 6 actively participating in a joint meeting format. This strong turnout reflected the unity and engagement of the Rotary community in addressing issues of strategic importance to Hong Kong. Our Club President Kenneth Chan led 23 Club Presidents kick off the meeting by ringing the Bell on stage.
The evening commenced with a warm welcome from Event Chair Peter Long, who acknowledged the enthusiastic support from Rotarians and emphasized the significance of Hong Kong’s financial positioning in the global landscape. Following the welcome, District Governor Cassy Cheng delivered the opening speech, reinforcing the importance of dialogue and collaboration between the society and government. PDG CP Eric Chin then introduced Mr. Chan JP, Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, HKSAR Government, noting his extensive contributions to Hong Kong’s financial sector.
Mr. Chan’s keynote address spanned approximately 30 minutes, during which he shared valuable insights into the government’s financial strategies, regulatory developments, and the broader vision for Hong Kong’s continued growth as a financial hub. His presentation was followed by a panel discussion with Rotarian, Charter member of Rotary Club of Hong Kong North Point , Jennifer Tan as moderator and a Q&A session. In a notable innovation, questions were collected digitally via QR code, resulting in 24 submissions. Three questions were selected for live interaction, hosted by Government Liaison Committee Chair PDG CP Eric Chin, allowing participants to engage directly with Mr. Chan on pressing issues.
The evening continued with a Vote of Thanks delivered by District Governor-Elect CP Jimmy Lau, who expressed appreciation for Mr. Chan’s presence and the collaborative efforts of all involved. Group photos were taken with district leaders and club presidents, followed by a networking session that provided attendees the opportunity to interact with Mr. Chan in a relaxed setting.
In conclusion, the Rotary Signature Talk on 16 October 2025 was a landmark event that successfully combined strategic dialogue, community engagement, and operational excellence. It not only provided a platform for meaningful exchange on Hong Kong’s financial future but also showcased the Rotary community’s capacity for innovation, collaboration, and leadership. The event’s success reflects a shared commitment to civic responsibility and forward-thinking action. As we look ahead to the 2nd Rotary District Signature Talk “Dialogue with Hong Kong Deputy to National People’s Congress of PRC” by Mr. Nick Chan BBS, MH, JP on 15 January 2026, we carry forward the momentum and inspiration generated by this memorable evening, confident in our ability to continue fostering impactful conversations and strengthening our collective vision for Hong Kong.
We would like to express our greatest gratitude for our members who also served on the organizing committee and Sergeant At Arm team : President Kenneth Chan, President Elect Jason Yuen, Rotarians: PP Carlos Tam, Ron Leung, Harry Leung, Calvin Chang, Member from RC Hong Kong Balance and Joy: CP Joanne She, PE Apple Chan, PN Mandy, Galdes, Kelton. RC Braemar Hill, DAG Winky Barson and PP Lorriane Lai. Our Rotaract Club of Hong Kong North Point members: Winson Kwok, Caroline Bicu, Ariana Batbayer, Isaac Ng. We also thank Rotarian John Poon for his valuable support and for serving as the Master of Ceremony (MC) at the event. The last but not the least, CDS Alexander Cheung , Rotary Club of Kwun Tong served as SAA Team captain and led the team to maintain good order and quiet environment during the dinner and talk time which made our event a high level and professional manner, Credits also be awarded to our Rotary Office Team led by Elaine Wong with Sam So, Roger and Wing too.
