The award is open to all young people aged 18-30 who are either from Hong Kong or currently live in the city. Applicants are required to submit an essay of up to 500 words, explaining how they could make Hong Kong a leader in achieving global development goals, based on a sustainable and green economy. The first place winner will receive HK$20,000 and a trophy, and the second place winner will get HK$10,000. The winning submission will be presented to key stakeholders in the development sector at a special event.

Established by Hong Kong property tycoon Lui Che Woo with the aim of “advancing world civilisation” and inspiring people to build a harmonious world, the Prize awards laureates in three categories: sustainability; welfare betterment; and positive energy (or the promotion of a more optimistic outlook on life). The prizes, announced in August and awarded at a ceremony in October, are typically worth HK$20 million or more, far more than the roughly HK$7 million that Nobel Prize winners receive.

This year, the first-prize winnings in all categories grew by more than 50% compared with last year. Nevertheless, the Prize remains one of the richest in the world, with a total prize pool of over HK$38 million.

The annual prize is awarded to individuals or groups for outstanding contributions towards advancing Hong Kong’s status as an international hub of science and technology innovation, including but not limited to artificial intelligence, robotics, new materials and energy, life sciences and health, and advanced manufacturing. It is a prestigious award which recognises the excellence and creativity of individuals and teams from Hong Kong and around the world.

In a moving and insightful fireside chat, Adriel Chan, Vice Chairman of Hang Lung Properties moderated a stimulating session with two HLMA Past Winners, Dr. Owen H Ko, 2004 HLMA winner and Assistant Dean (Research), Faculty of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and Ewina Pun, 2012 HLMA winner and doctoral candidate in the United States, to discuss their personal journeys in pursuing scientific research.

The award ceremony was held at the ICC in Causeway Bay, with the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region John Lee congratulating the winners. Among them, demographer Wolfgang Lutz and members from War Child Alliance were given the Yidan Prize for Education Development. The Prize is intended to help create a more promising future for the global community through education by honouring the bright minds and dedication of its laureates. The Prize also encourages more youth to explore the wonders of science and technology.