Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin (back row, second left); Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry Sun Dong (back row, second right); Under Secretary for Housing Victor Tai (back row, first left); Board Chairman of ASTRI Sunny Lee (back row, first right); Permanent Secretary for Housing/Director of Housing Rosanna Law (front row, left); and Chief Executive Officer of ASTRI Denis Yip (front row, right) attend the signing of the memorandum of understanding between the Housing Bureau and the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute on Nov 14, 2023. (PHOTO / HKSAR GOVERNMENT)

The Housing Bureau and the Hong Kong Applied Science and Technology Research Institute (ASTRI) have signed a memorandum of understanding on establishing a strategic partnership to explore innovative technology solutions for improving efficiency and safety in the construction sector, as well as optimizing property management processes.

The first batch of technologies to be considered include smart optical sensing for high-precision modular integrated construction positioning, enhanced 5G coverage for remote crane control, and the universal artificial intelligence predictive maintenance system for lifts.

Sun Dong, who heads the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, said he welcomed the Housing Bureau’s integration of technology solutions with construction and property management

Secretary for Housing Winnie Ho Wing-yin said the bureau has been actively adopting advanced technologies and innovative thinking to strengthen construction safety and efficiency, and optimize property management.

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“With ASTRI’s rich experience in research and development and application, and through joint technical studies with the Housing Bureau, as well as the efforts of various sectors, I believe the quality and efficiency in areas like construction, estate management and customer services will be significantly improved,” Ho said.

Sun Dong, who heads the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau, said he welcomed the Housing Bureau’s integration of technology solutions with construction and property management.

By leveraging ASTRI’s experience in transferring research & development deliverables and the diverse application scenarios provided by the bureau, he said the partnership will accelerate R&D transfers, and bring new opportunities and perspectives to the development of innovation and technology in Hong Kong’s housing sector.

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ASTRI Chairman Sunny Lee Wai-kwong hailed the partnership as a “new chapter in the development of construction and property management” in the special administrative region.

He said collaboration will promote the adoption of cutting-edge technologies, such as 5G communication, the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence and optical sensing, which will reinforce site safety, resource conservation, and construction efficiency and quality.