2024/25 was a year of steady progress for Hong Kong Housing Society (the "Housing Society"). In the face of global climate change and economic uncertainty, the people’s livelihoods have been affected one way or another. As a socially responsible organisation, the Housing Society remains committed to serving the community by providing affordable quality housing and related services, while promoting sustainable development.

For over 70 years, the Housing Society has served as Hong Kong’s “housing laboratory”, continuously evolving to address social changes while pursuing the long-term goal of “Creating Homes for Sustainable Living”. Recognising the importance of sustainable development, we actively support the Hong Kong Government’s sustainability roadmap by integrating environmental, social, and governance (“ESG”) indicators into our business planning and day-to-day operations. Our cross-departmental Sustainability Working Group and Environmental Working Group are driving the entire organisation to create a sustainable future for the next generations through a comprehensive framework centred on three strategic pillars: “Sustainable Homes”, “Low-carbon Transformation” and “Future-fit Capabilities”.

As buildings and the environment are closely intertwined, the Housing Society is committed to integrating innovative technologies across various business areas, such as housing development and property management, to support Hong Kong’s journey towards carbon neutrality and align with the goals of the Hong Kong’s Climate Action Plan 2050. During the reporting year, Eminence Terrace I, our first completed Dedicated Rehousing Estate project at Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area adopting Modular Integrated Construction (“MiC”) method, that resulted in a shortened construction period and a reduction of more than 30% in carbon emissions intensity compared to traditionally built residential developments of similar scale, was successfully delivered to receive the residents. Looking ahead, the Dedicated Rehousing Estate project in Kwu Tung North will also adopt MiC. As of 31 March 2025, 27 of our developments have been certified by BEAM Society Limited’s BEAM or Hong Kong Green Building Council’s BEAM Plus, underscoring our commitment to sustainable construction and green living environments.

In response to the Government’s Strategy of Hydrogen Development in Hong Kong, we have partnered with The Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited (“Towngas”) to launch a hydrogen application pilot project at the Ming Wah Dai Ha Redevelopment Phase II construction site. This project utilises a hydrogen fuel cell system that extracts hydrogen from the existing Towngas network, enabling the dual functionality of charging electric vehicles and powering temporary site office facilities. This marks a significant step in the application of hydrogen energy technology in Hong Kong’s construction industry.

Furthermore, in support of the Government’s advocacy for a safety culture that “cares for all and puts workers’ lives first” at construction sites, we have adopted MiC technology to develop multi-functional office spaces at four sites, incorporating rest and social areas for workers. Additionally, our Smart Site Safety System (“4S”), featuring a centralised management platform, enables real-time monitoring and data analysis to provide comprehensive oversight of worksite conditions and enhance overall site management. Alongside these hardware upgrades, we also organised a series of activities during the Safety and Health Week 2024 for employees and contractors, reinforcing a culture of collaboration, safety, and care.

As we continue to push boundaries with our innovative spirit, the Housing Society has become a driving force in the long-term development of property technology (“PropTech”). Our rental estates and elderly housing projects have adopted Internet of Things (“IoT”) technologies, such as wet floor sensors to detect water leakage. Through the application of smart technologies, we strive to improve operational efficiency and create better living and working environments for residents, employees, and other stakeholders.

In collaboration with Cyberport, we have launched the second phase of our Proof-of-Concept Programme, welcoming 14 start-ups to Hong Kong’s first PropTech co-working space, “Smart-Space PropTech”, located at our Fanling regional office. These start-ups are receiving funding to develop next-generation PropTech solutions. By nurturing these innovators, we are injecting fresh impetus into technological innovation while making direct contributions to Hong Kong’s smart city development.

In response to the challenges posed by Hong Kong’s ageing population, we have invested in creating vibrant and inclusive communities for all ages. During the reporting year, we introduced, for the first time, new flat selection priority schemes for households with elderly members or newborns. These initiatives aim to foster intergenerational solidarity while extending home ownership opportunities to young families.

All along, the Housing Society places strong emphasis on talent development. This year marks the 20^th anniversary of the Hong Kong Housing Society Award (“HKHS Award”), which has benefitted over 1,600 outstanding students since its inception. We hope the HKHS Award will inspire young people to carry forward our legacy and contribute to the sustainable development of both the industry and the society.

Employees are a driving force behind innovation and a valuable asset to the Housing Society. We are committed to supporting the well-being of both our employees and working partners by fostering a positive and supportive working environment. Through our “Fun@Work | Pride@HKHS” employee wellness programme, we regularly host thematic seminars and workshops that promote holistic physical and mental health.

As our society continues to evolve, we must remain agile and adaptable, working closely with stakeholders to keep pace with change and ensure sustainable development. The Housing Society stands united in pioneering sustainable and inclusive communities through strategic collaboration and the application of technology.