Free visit of Research Vessel Tan Kah Kee to come in August 2024

The Chiyu Tan Kah Kee Education Foundation will host a five-day event from Aug. 16 to 20, 2024, to celebrate the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China and the 150th birthday of renowned patriotic overseas Chinese leader Mr. Tan Kah Kee.

The event will feature the Xiamen University's research vessel Tan Kah Kee (R/V TKK) docked at the Ocean Terminal in Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kowloon.

Open days for the ship will be from Aug. 17 to 19, allowing booked groups and the public to visit the ship for free. Details on free reservation bookings will be announced later.

A special exhibition commemorating the 150th birthday of Mr. Tan will also be held in the waiting hall of the Ocean Terminal. The exhibition will showcase Mr. Tan's lifelong perseverance, dedication to education, and contributions to maritime education and national salvation. It will provide information on the construction and operation of R/V TKK, the development of Hong Kong's shipping industry, and talent cultivation.

"As the organizer of this event, we hope to introduce the public to Xiamen University's R/V TKK and its marine research achievements through interactive open days, enhancing Hong Kong citizens' understanding of the nation's marine research, marine environmental protection, and maritime education, as well as raising awareness of Hong Kong as a shipping center," said chairman of the Chiyu Tan Kah Kee Education Foundation, Mr. Zheng Wei.

"2024 marks the 150th birthday of Mr. Tan. Through this event, we aim to further educate the public, students, and visitors about Mr. Tan's patriotic spirit, dedication to education, and remarkable achievements," he added.

Since 2018, Xiamen University has utilized the R/V TKK to conduct the "Maritime Silk Road School" talent training program, offering undergraduate students from different nationalities the opportunity to conduct oceanographic research projects, fostering international perspectives, research skills and practical maritime abilities. It has become an essential brand for Xiamen University in cultivating high-level marine talent with a global vision.