(17th Aug, Singapore) Xiamen University Research Vessel Tan Kah Kee docked at Tsim Sha Tsui Pier in Hong Kong on 16th August. The Chiyu Tan Kah Kee Education Foundation will host a five-day event from Aug. 16 to 20, 2024, to celebrate the 150th birthday of renowned patriotic overseas Chinese leader Mr. Tan Kah Kee.
The opening ceremony was held on yesterday at the Ocean Terminal in Harbour City, Tsim Sha Tsui. The research vessel will be open to the public for three consecutive days starting from today.
Officials representatives from Chiyu Tan Kah Kee Education Foundation, Chiyu Banking Corporation Limited, Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress of China, Legislative Council of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Commercial Office of the Economic Affairs Department, Hong Kong Marine Department, Xiamen University, Standing Committee of the CPPCC National Committee, Hong Kong Federation of Fujian Associations Limited, Cross-Strait Peaceful Development Federation, Tan Kah Kee Fund Association, Hong Kong Association for Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China Limited, Hong Kong Seamen’s Union, Tan Dib Jin (Tan Kah Kee’s grandson) and captain of the vessel attended the ceremony.
“As the organizer of this event, we hope to introduce the public to Xiamen University’s Research Vessel Tan Kah Kee 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 the chairman of the Chiyu Tan Kah Kee Education Foundation, Mr. Zheng Wei.
“ The vessel’s first visit to Hong Kong holds special significance, and Tan Kah Kee Fund Association will continue promoting Mr. Tan Kah Kee’s spirit,” said Mr. Lo Man Tuen, President, Hong Kong Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China.
“The research vessel fulfill its mission by making contribution to the advancement of marine scientific research and development. Many of those who graduated from Xiamen University will continue following the example of Mr, Tan Kah Kee.” said Mr. Ng Loeng Hou, Representative from The Standing Committee of The CPPCC National Committee.
“Through this event, we hope to educate the Hong Kong public about marine science, enhance interest and awareness of the ocean, and further strengthen academic collaboration between Hong Kong universities and Xiamen University.” said Lai Hong Kai from Xiamen University.
“The best way to honor Mr. Tan Kah Kee is to fulfill his grand vision of a strong maritime nation and to continue his spirit of patriotism and dedication.” said Tan Dib Jin, Tan Kah Kee’s grandson.
Research Vessel Tan Kah Kee First Visit to Hong Kong
Started building in 2015, the research vessel features state-of -the art research equipment and environmental technology. The vessel is 77.7meters in length with maximum speed of 14 knots and cruising radius of 10,000 nautical miles. It can support 54 crew members for up to 50 days between provisioning, and offer 1,230 square feet of laboratory space. Its science enabling characteristics allow the vessel to carry out research activities with top-of -the -line acoustic equipment.
Since 2018, Xiamen University has been leveraging the research vessel to carry out the talent training program, allowing undergraduates from around the world to participate in the oceanographic research projects in deep and distant ocean. This program has helped students develop an international perspective, research skills, and practical maritime abilities, and it has now become an important brand for Xiamen University in cultivating high-level marine talents with a global outlook.
In order to actively carry forward and promote the Tan Kah Kee spirit, as well as to further advance and deepen cooperation between China and countries along the “Belt and Road” in high-level talent training and scientific research, Xiamen University continues to strengthen its ties with Southeast Asia and Hong Kong.
On the day of the event, the guests and participants, guided by volunteers, boarded the vessel to visit the foredeck, bridge, laboratories, working deck, and other areas. They also engaged in discussions with the teachers and students from Xiamen University’s. Many of the volunteers on the research vessel were students from Xiamen University in China and Malaysia, majoring in ocean sciences. The research vessel serves as a “mobile laboratory” to them. The students introduced visitors to the main research methods and equipment used daily and shared their findings.
This was the vessel’s first visit to Hong Kong, with the ship open to the public for tours from August 17th to 19th . Prior to this, the vessel also made its first stop in Singapore this year and received enthusiastic response when opened to the public on July 27th and 28th.
The event was organized by the Tan Kah Kee Education Fund, which was established in 2018 by the United Chinese Bank. It is a registered charity recognized by the Hong Kong government. The foundation’s mission is to carry out various charitable activities, preserving and promoting the spirit of Tan Kah Kee, the renowned overseas Chinese leader, known for his dedication to education and patriotism. Since its inception, the foundation has actively supported various anti-pandemic efforts in Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Southeast Asian countries during the COVID-19 pandemic. It has also donated to the Hong Kong Red Cross to purchase wheelchairs and has made contributions to the Hong Kong Community Chest for four consecutive years.
