Events (05-02-2026) | Digital Policy Office

Prof. Lin (President of GOATS, Prof. Haotian Lin), Prof. Lam (Chair, Scientific Program Committee of the 2026 APAO Congress, Co-Founder of GOATS, Prof. Dennis Lam), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

It is with great honour and enthusiasm that I address you today to celebrate the establishment of the Hong Kong-based Global Ophthalmic AI and Technology Society. This momentous occasion marks a meaningful advancement in our collective journey to harness the power of artificial intelligence (AI).

Since the release of the Hong Kong Innovation and Technology Development Blueprint in 2022, which identifies AI as a strategic priority, the Hong Kong SAR Government has taken determined steps to drive Hong Kong’s transformation into an international innovation and technology centre. This commitment was further reinforced in the 2025 Chief Executive’s Policy Address, where AI was emphasised as the key driving force of industrial transformation. The Government has intensified efforts to promote AI as a core industry for Hong Kong’s development and to foster its comprehensive integration across sectors, striving for “industries for AI” and “AI for industries”.

In line with this direction, the Government continues to invest in AI research and infrastructure. We have earmarked HK$1 billion to establish the Hong Kong AI Research and Development Institute in 2026. The institute will not only support upstream AI research, but also translate midstream and downstream R&D outcomes into real world solutions, and expand practical use cases across different sectors.

Regarding infrastructural support, Cyberport expanded the capacity of its AI Supercomputing Centre (or AISC in short) to 3 000 PFLOPS last year, positioning to meet the surging demand for high performance computing across academia, research and various industries. Complementing this, the Government has introduced a $3 billion AI Subsidy Scheme to provide funding support to eligible users such as local institutions, research and development centres, and enterprises to leverage AISC’s computing resources, thus accelerating AI innovation across different sectors. Recognising the need for advanced computing power facilities for promoting the development of data and AI-related industries, the Government has recently put up for tender a site of about 10-hectare in Sandy Ridge in the Northern Metropolis for the development of a data facility cluster.

Beyond investing in infrastructure, we are also actively promoting AI+ development across the wider community. To foster responsible adoption of AI, guidelines have been introduced to strengthen AI governance, uphold data ethics and manage risks, thereby laying a foundation for safe and responsible innovation. These measures demonstrate the Government’s commitment to supporting AI development and adoption as well as strengthening Hong Kong’s capabilities in the digital economy.

In closing, I would like to extend my sincere congratulations to everyone involved in establishing the Hong Kong-based Global Ophthalmic AI and Technology Society. I also wish to commend your dedication to bringing together experts worldwide to make a pivotal step forward in advancing ophthalmic care through technology.

Thank you.

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The Acting Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Daniel Cheung, delivered welcoming speech at the “Global Ophthalmic AI and Technology Society (GOATS) Inaugural Ceremony”.

The Acting Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Daniel Cheung (sixth left); President of GOATS, Prof. Haotian Lin (sixth right); Co-Founder of GOATS, Prof. Dennis Lam (fifth left) and other guests at the “Global Ophthalmic AI and Technology Society (GOATS) Inaugural Ceremony”.

Welcoming Speech by the Acting Commissioner for Digital Policy, Mr Daniel Cheung, JP, at the “Global Ophthalmic AI and Technology Society (GOATS) Inaugural Ceremony” (with photos)