Venture into the world of innovation. Here stands the Opening of Cyberport Phases I & II and Visitor Centre Plaque. It marks a pivotal moment in Hong Kong’s technological journey. This is more than just an opening. It’s a celebration of Hong Kong’s ambition to become a leading digital city.
The Cyberport project aimed to spur IT development in Hong Kong. Phases I and II marked significant progress. These phases provided approximately 53500 square meters of office space. The project continued with Phases III and IV. They added another 39000 square meters.
The opening ceremony was a grand affair. Mr. Henry Tang, Secretary for Commerce Industry and Technology, was present. Mr. John E Strickland, Chairman of the Board of the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Ltd, attended. Mr. Jack So, Group Managing Director and Deputy Chairman-designate of PCCW, also attended.
To commemorate the occasion, a time capsule was planted. It held significant items. An optical fiber represented IT breakthroughs. A Smart Hong Kong Identity card symbolized progress. A photograph of Telegraph Bay showed the area before Cyberport. A Cyberport CD-ROM captured the project’s essence.
Mr. Tang stated the Cyberport showcases Hong Kong’s digital aspirations. He was confident it would boost IT development. The government planned to complete Phases III and IV. They also planned shared facilities in the “IT Street”.
By early 2004, various facilities became available. These included training, exhibition, and business support services. A Wireless Solutions Development Centre and a Digital Media Centre were also completed. These facilities offered platforms for industry clusters.
By the opening, 22 companies had committed to Cyberport. Tenants enjoyed high-tech IT services. These included Internal Private Network and Unified Messaging System. Wireless Local Area Network and Satellite Master Antenna Television System were also available. Shared business facilities enhanced the environment.
Mrs. Betty Fung, Cyberport Coordinator, highlighted the rapid completion of the first two phases. The Le Meridien Cyberport and a retail center were expected to open in 2004.
The Visitor Centre showcased Cyberport’s vision. A 360-degree film “Define the Future” presented Hong Kong as a leading port and Cyberport as its IT flagship. Interactive navigators demonstrated IT applications. The “Infrastructure Navigator” highlighted Cyberport’s communication infrastructure. A musical “Bauhinia Community” introduced Hong Kong’s Digital 21 Strategy. The VIP suite offered a venue for meetings and product launches.
The opening ceremony launched a series of programs. These events aimed to increase awareness of Cyberport. A two-day IT exhibition featured Cyberport tenants. IT seminars targeted professionals and students. Receptions were held for public relations consultants and the IT industry. A seminar with the University of Hong Kong was also organized.
Mrs. Fung expressed encouragement at the positive response. She emphasized Cyberport’s mission. The goal was to develop Cyberport as the IT and digital media hub in the region.
Cyberport stands as a symbol of Hong Kong’s drive. It embraces technology and innovation. This place continues to evolve. It fosters growth in the digital age. Its facilities empower the digital data services.