10/04/2008

Housing Society Celebrates 60th Anniversary

The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), the Hon Donald Tsang, today (10 April) officiated at a cocktail reception celebrating the 60th Anniversary of the Hong Kong Housing Society (HKHS) at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Some 600 guests, including Ms Eva Cheng, Secretary for Transport and Housing, Mrs Carrie Lam, Secretary for Development, Mr Matthew Cheung, Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Members of the Legislative and Executive Councils, District Councilors and representatives from various organizations, were present on this joyous occasion.

In his officiating address, the Hon Donald Tsang said, "As a non-profit organization, the Housing Society has been serving those in need with housing and related services with its own resources and accrued experience. Over the years, the Housing Society has worked closely with the Government and in line with Government's policy in implementing a number of initiatives for the well-being of the people."

Taking the opportunity of its 60th anniversary, the Chief Executive unveiled the new corporate logo of the HKHS, turning a new page for the Society. The new logo designed by world-renowned designer Alan Chan shows the letters "H" and "S" which stand for the Housing Society. The silhouette of a house with opening doors symbolizes communications with the public and care for the community. The circular background signifies harmony within the Housing Society and the community it serves, whereas the red colour gives a joyous feel.

HKHS Chairman Mr Yeung Ka-sing said, "Since the inception of the Housing Society 60 years ago, we have been serving the people of Hong Kong with a loving and caring attitude. While Society keeps moving ahead, the Housing Society will sustain its development in tandem with society. In the years to come, the Housing Society will continue its social mission to provide quality living for the people."

As a token of appreciation, each guest at the event received an anniversary publication written by Sir David Akers-Jones, Member of the Executive Committee of the HKHS and a stamp set featuring HKHS's estate portfolio drawn by award-winning artist Mr Lee Chi-ching. Sir David also stayed behind after the ceremony to autograph the book for the guests.

The theme of the 60th anniversary of the HKHS is "From Quality Housing to Quality Living". Following the cocktail reception, a series of celebration activities will be rolled out, including the Hong Kong Tree Planting Day, International Housing Conference, TV and Radio special programmes and roving exhibitions etc. Besides, the Mutual Aid Committees of the housing estates of the HKHS will organize over 100 activities in various forms to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the HKHS with the residents.
　

Photo caption:

Chief Executive Donald Tsang, HKHS Chairman Yeung Ka-sing, HKHS Members and guests toasting at the 60th anniversary cocktail reception.