2001 - 2005

The SARS outbreak in early 2003 had an immediate and damaging effect on Hong Kong’s image as well as on the confidence of its residents. During this difficult period, the Foundation launched a public awareness campaign designed to unite and reinvigorate the people of Hong Kong, and to show the world how we were fighting the outbreak. We launched a “Brighten Hong Kong” campaign with the support of over 20 local and international Chambers of Commerce, 200 Business Associations and non-Government organizations in Hong Kong, and a website was created to give global access to accurate information about the situation and to reinforce Hong Kong’s image of resilience and professionalism. The campaign ended in August 2003 after the outbreak was brought under control. Press Conference (From right) Council Member Ms. Pansy Ho, Trustee Mr. Bunny Chan & Dr. Patrick Ho, Secretary for Home Affairs Bureau, HKSAR support the Campaign

Research commissioned by the Foundation continues to gain acknowledgement from many groups, including from the HKSAR Government, who have turned to our economic studies for reference when reviewing public policies and economic strategies. The studies undertaken by McKinsey & Company include: Re-establishing Hong Kong’s Competitive Advantage: Refocusing on Value (July 2003) Strengthening Hong Kong’s Port and Trade Sector (October 2003) Restoring Hong Kong’s Competitiveness as a Sea-trade Logistics Hub (July 2004) Unemployment in Hong Kong: Myths and Realities (October 2005) All studies received the attention of the Chief Executive, his principal officials and corporate leaders.  We will continue our collaborations with universities – both international and local – to produce useful macro-economic forecasts and regional city competitiveness studies. Trustees and Council Members welcomed Mr. John Tsang, Secretary for Commerce, Industry and Technology, HKSAR (fourth from left) to attend the presentation Press Conference