In the first episode of " Kev-on Air", we invited Bernard Chan, Chairman of M+ Museum and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, as our inaugural guest. Chan has a deep understanding and unique insight into the development of arts and culture in Hong Kong. Looking back on his health saga at a young age and the many crossovers he made in his studies and career, Chan is moving forward with conviction and determination to help create a better future for HK.
HK's films, music and cultural industry were once leading the trend across Asia. In order to revitalize HK's cultural scene, the 14th Five-Year Plan proposed for the first time building HK into an East-meets-West center for international cultural exchange.
"The world today is very much divided and there are fewer things we can agree on," he said. But Chan is convinced that "culture will remain a common language for humanity that can connect HK back to the world. During the interview, Chan stressed a few times that HK is building a large arts and culture ecosystem and that HK plays a key role as a link between East and West, both culturally and economically.
Chan also described to us the blueprint for the future development of the West Kowloon Cultural District in HK. Located on the harbor front, the District is a great destination for visitors. "In addition to two world-class museums, we have a 'Freespace' for young people to perform and a 'Xiqu Center' for traditional Chinese arts. We are also building an integrated theater for performing arts, and in the future we can build a music center, a Broadway theater, and currently we have six or seven other arts and cultural venues under construction," Chan said in a cheerful tone.
Chan is widely regarded by the people of HK as the "King of Public Service." From social welfare to the Legislative Council to the arts and culture sector, Chan's contributions to HK are manifested in many ways. He is a gifted communicator in the diverse society of HK, playing the role of a bridge builder. Perhaps because of his background in art training, his work is often linked to arts and culture. Chan also finds delight in the relevant work, saying "It is my mission to raise the artistic standards of the public, to balance the interests of the public, and to make the world appreciate the unique culture of HK."
In terms of future plans, as the former Convenor of the Non-Official Members of the Executive Council, Chan said he would also step down from his position in the National People's Congress. In response, Chan said, "I am now entrusted with some very challenging tasks, and I will continue to work in the West Kowloon Cultural District for the next few years."
Not only that, but Chan has also taken on the role of Executive Vice Chairman of the Hong Kong Solidarity Fund, "I want to use the strengths of this platform to help make policy recommendations and shape the narrative about HK, because I've still got so many wonderful HK stories to tell!"
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DotDotNews gladly presents to our audience a new interview program "Kev-on Air," hosted by HK radiologist Kevin Lau. In each edition, politicians, business leaders and professionals from different sectors will be invited to share with us their insights on heated topics. Please stay tuned for more to come!
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