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Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Carrie Lam, at the opening ceremony of "Farrells Exhibition - Urban Dialogue" today (April 14):
Sir Terry Farrell (Founder of Farrells), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
It is my pleasure and honour to be with you this evening to mark the occasion of Farrells' 25th anniversary and the opening of its anchor exhibition in Hong Kong. I am sure Sir Terry must be proud witnessing this special moment for Farrells in Hong Kong.
To many visitors, Hong Kong has always been known for her ever changing cityscape. Yes, we are a fast paced city and much of that change is reflected in our buildings through the creativity and competence of our building professionals.
During its 25 years of business in Hong Kong, Farrells has created iconic yet people-focused architectural landmarks that blend into our cityscape seamlessly. These include the Peak Tower, the Kowloon Station, the new Kennedy Town MTR Station and the spaceship-like Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, to name just a few for a glimpse of the breadth and depth of the amazing works of Farrells.
Many building professionals, notably architects, have often complained about the rigidity of our building code which results in boring buildings. Farrells' work has demonstrated that through careful research and sensitivity, one could produce character-borne architecture that transforms the city. Through continuous dialogue with the city, Farrells' many projects here have brought out the best of Hong Kong's substance. They have enriched the local character and enhanced the way people live, not just by providing functional convenience, but aesthetics and a human touch.
That is why Farrells' masterpieces always find consonance with the local community. And that is why this exhibition is fittingly titled the "Urban Dialogue".
And there is a lot more to look forward to. Farrells has been intimately engaged with the West Kowloon area and they have put forth numerous visions here, including the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) and the Express Rail Link terminus. As a member of the M+ Joint Venture, Farrells is overseeing the ongoing construction of the M+ Museum, which is shaping up as one of Asia's most exciting new cultural developments.
Continuing its influence on our transit-oriented development is Farrells' participation in the construction of the Sha Tin to Central Link, for which Farrells is designing the To Kwa Wan, Ma Tau Wai, and Exhibition stations and tackling numerous re-provisioning works including the new Wan Chai Swimming Pool and Indoor Games Hall as well as the Police Officers' Club in Causeway Bay.
As in the past, all these meaningful works will help rejuvenate the older parts of the city, enhance existing communities, and show intense affection to our people.
What we see tonight is only part of a host of events this month that will mark Farrells' long commitment to Hong Kong. With Hong Kong's ceaseless excitement and changing urban form, there are many more to expect from Farrells in the next 25 years and beyond.
May I wish the exhibition a huge success. Thank you very much.
Ends/Thursday, April 14, 2016
Issued at HKT 19:41
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