News

PolyU collaborates with University of Toronto to explore establishment of joint research centre, driving gerontechnology innovation in response to ageing population

PolyU and the University of Toronto, Canada, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on 4 February 2026 to explore the establishment of a Joint Research Centre on Healthy Ageing and AgeTech. In response to the challenges brought about by global ageing, this initiative aims to promote the development and application of gerontechnology, and enhance the quality of life and care for older adults. The partnership will foster in-depth cooperation and exchanges between Hong Kong and Toronto in research innovation, knowledge transfer and talent cultivation in the field of gerontechnology, benefitting the elderly populations of both cities and beyond. The MoU was signed by Prof. ZHENG Yongping, Director of Research Institute for Smart Ageing (RISA), Henry G. Leong Professor in Biomedical Engineering and Chair Professor of Biomedical Engineering of PolyU, and Prof. Alex MIHAILIDIS, Associate Vice-President, International Partnerships of University of Toronto. Under the MoU, RISA and the Department of Biomedical Engineering will work closely with the University of Toronto Institute of Biomedical Engineering and its institutional strategic initiative, AGE-WELL National Network (AGE-WELL), to explore setting up the joint research centre. They will also jointly develop application-oriented gerontechnologies, and co-organise staff and student exchange programmes as well as international conferences to strengthen research and education. The two universities aspire to build a bridge between elderly care support in Hong Kong and Toronto through technology, with particular attention to the needs of Cantonese-speaking older adults and their families. PolyU possesses strong research capabilities in smart ageing, rehabilitation technology and biomedical engineering, with multiple research and service units, including RISA, from diverse interdisciplinary backgrounds. The University of Toronto holds a leading position in gerontechnology, biomedical engineering and community-based innovation, while its AGE-WELL has a nationwide network across Canada. Their collaboration will enable development of a robust international platform for gerontechnology that will advance translation of research outcomes and nurture a new generation of talent in relevant fields. In addition, the two universities will seek support from the communities in both cities, and, through the joint research centre, continuously innovate and promote the use of gerontechnology in community, with the vision of bringing older adults a “HAPPI” life: Healthy, Active, Positive, Prepared, and Independent. Press release: https://polyu.me/4qmRrOW; Chinese - https://polyu.me/4kmBuHa   Online coverage: The National Tribune - https://polyu.me/4kqo6C2 Mirage - https://polyu.me/4awUFuy Ta Kung Pao - https://polyu.me/3ZUh5ja Bauhinia- https://polyu.me/3O1BLDp Healthcare IT News - https://polyu.me/46KjD7C

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung appointed as member of Hong Kong Logistics Development Council

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, has been appointed as a member of the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council (LOGSCOUNCIL) for the 2026-2027 term. Established in December 2001, LOGSCOUNCIL serves as a forum for the HKSAR Government and industry stakeholders to advise on strategic initiatives that promote the development of Hong Kong’s logistics industry.  Its members represent a wide spectrum of stakeholders, bringing diverse expertise and knowledge from across the supply chain sector.

Safe water for all: Prof. Daigger’s insights on global water trends and priorities

On 2 February 2026, Prof. Glen DAIGGER of University of Michigan delivered a PAIR Distinguished Lecture titled “Global Water Management Trends” at the PolyU campus.  The event attracted nearly 110 in-person participants and reached an impressive online audience of more than 16,900 across various social media platforms. Prof. Daigger began by outlining the critical state of global water resources, noting that renewable water supplies are now fully allocated—or over-allocated—and that climate change further reduces both their availability and quality.  As populations grow and living standards rise, water demand continues to increase, particularly in agriculture and industry.  Traditional sources are no longer sufficient, necessitating the development of “manufactured” water through technologies such as potable water reuse and desalination.  The economic value of water now exceeds the cost of its delivery, making it essential to identify new revenue streams.  Accelerated adoption of innovative technologies is vital to meet rising demands without harming the environment He emphasised three main priorities for the water sector: transforming water management to prevent stress, improving resource efficiency, and ensuring universal access to safe water and sanitation.  He advocated a fundamental shift towards integrated management—such as the “One Water” and sponge city concepts—that combine efficiency, storage, local capture and advanced treatment methods.  Integrating built and natural infrastructure can yield multiple benefits, while resource recovery from wastewater offers opportunities to produce water, energy, nutrients and other valuable materials.  Achieving these goals requires collaboration among utilities, private-sector involvement, and the adoption of decentralised, flexible systems tailored to local needs. Extending the human right to safe water and sanitation to all was highlighted as essential for public health, economic development, and social equity.  Prof. Daigger discussed the importance of affordability, innovative financing, and community engagement in water projects.  He advocated for resilient water systems that integrate rainwater management, green infrastructure, and resource efficiency—aiming for zero waste and continuous environmental restoration.  Success, he noted, depends on aligning water system visions with community goals, fostering collaboration with governments, and selecting solutions that deliver broad benefits. Above all, adaptive management and ongoing learning are crucial for building sustainable, future-proofed water systems. To encapsulate his key messages, Prof. Daigger referenced three quotes from Mr Yogi BERRA, a famous American professional baseball player, coach, and manager.  First, the call for vision—“You’ve got to be very careful if you don’t know where you are going, because you might not get there”—spoke to the necessity of strategic water planning and management.  Second, “In theory, there’s no difference between theory and practice.  In practice, there is”—highlighted the realities and unforeseeable challenges of putting ideas into action.  Finally, “The game isn’t over until it’s over” underscored the need for perseverance and adaptability in addressing ongoing and future water challenges. The presentation concluded with a lively question-and-answer session moderated by Prof. LIU Tao, Member of Research Institute for Sustainable Urban Development (RISUD) and Associate Professor of Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, during which both the in-person and online audience engaged in a thoughtful exchange with Prof. Daigger. Please click here for an online review.

High-value maritime services key to Hong Kong’s global trade standing, Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung writes

Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor of Shipping and Logistics and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, recently penned an article in the Hong Kong Economic Times, discussing the challenges and opportunities facing Hong Kong amid our country’s 15th grand national strategy. Prof. Lai pointed out that Hong Kong’s future success does not hinge on building another terminal, but rather on whether it can take the lead in transforming from a traditional port city into one offering high value-added maritime services. He explained that as our country accelerates its development as a maritime power and reshapes global trade patterns, competition will increasingly focus on influence in finance, technology, and regulatory frameworks. Only cities with these core strengths will be able to take a leading role in shaping new international rules and gaining market advantages. He further noted that Hong Kong should actively develop high-end services such as maritime finance, smart ports and green shipping in the industry, while strengthening international connectivity and enhancing its capacity for institutional and technological innovations. This approach will not only help consolidate Hong Kong’s position as an international shipping centre, but also inject fresh impetus into the local economy and enable Hong Kong to continue playing a leading role in the global maritime industry chain.   Online coverage: Hong Kong Economic Times - https://polyu.me/3NPGk3t (Chinese only)

Prof. DING Xiaoli interviewed on RTHK: New trends in floating communities and architecture

Prof. DING Xiaoli, Director of Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) and Chair Professor of Geomatics, was recently interviewed on RTHK’s programme “World in a Nutshell”, where he provided an in-depth analysis of the latest developments in floating communities and architecture. The Schoonschip floating community in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, is widely regarded as a global example of innovative floating architecture. Situated along a local canal, the community comprises thirty modern floating homes, around half of which are duplex units. Structurally, these homes resemble buildings on land: they use concrete hulls for ballast and are anchored to the shore with mooring/achoring arms to ensure stability. Around one third of the rooftops are equipped with greenery and solar panels, enabling residents to share or sell surplus electricity within the community or to the national grid—an illustration of sustainable living in practice. Importantly, the floating buildings at Schoonschip are designed to rise and fall with changes in the water level, providing effective flood protection. During a storm in 2022, residents reportedly only needed to secure outdoor items to remain safe. Prof. Ding pointed out that floating buildings are generally no more than three storeys high, typically supported with pontoons beneath the structure, and often use highly durable concrete and flexible pipes to connect water supply and sewage facilities. Such developments can help alleviate land shortages and housing supply pressures, while also address the flood risks brought about by climate change. Beyond the Netherlands, low-lying countries such as the Maldives are also actively developing floating communities, employing approaches that integrate artificial coral reefs and deep-sea cooling technologies to support environmental protection and innovation. Prof. Ding further noted that although floating buildings must contend with weather challenges such as typhoons and earthquakes, their potential benefits, including disaster resilience, environmental protection, and flexible land use, are encouraging more cities worldwide to explore the possibilities of living on water.   Online coverage: RTHK - https://polyu.me/4apMf8b (23:17–34:16) (Chinese only)

PAIR researchers shine at PolyU President’s Awards for Outstanding Achievement 2025

Congratulations to the following PAIR members for receiving the PolyU President’s Awards for Outstanding Achievement 2025! Category of Award Awardee Title(s) Research and Scholarly Activities   Prof. TAO Xiaoming Management Committee Member of PAIR Director of Research Institute for Intelligent Wearable Systems (RI-IWEAR) Member of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Research Institute for Smart Energy (RISE), Research Institute for Smart Ageing (RISA), Research Institute for Sports Science and Technology (RISports), Research Centre of Textiles for Future Fashion (RCTFF), Chair Professor of Textile Technology Vincent and Lily Woo Professor in Textiles Technology Research and Scholarly Activities (Early Career Researcher) Prof. Tommy WEI Management Committee Member of Photonics Research Institute (PRI) Member of Otto Poon Charitable Foundation Smart Cities Research Institute (SCRI) Research Centre for SHARP Vision (RCSV), Research Centre for Digital Transformation of Tourism (RCDTT) Associate Head and Professor of Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering Knowledge Transfer: Industry Prof. ZHENG Zijian Associate Director of RI-IWEAR Management Committee Member of RISE Member of Research Institute for Artificial Intelligence of Things (RIAIoT) and PRI Chair Professor of Soft Materials and Devices Knowledge Transfer: Society Prof. WONG Ka-hing Management Committee Member of PAIR Director of Research Institute for Future Food (RiFood) Member of Research Centre for Resources Engineering towards Carbon Neutrality (RCRE) Professor of Department of Food Science and Nutrition

Prof. QIU Anqi develops novel AI graph neural network models to unravel interdisciplinary complexities in image recognition and neuroscience

A research team led by Prof. QIU Anqi, Director of Mental Health Research Centre (MHRC), Associate Dean of Graduate School, Professor of Department of Health Technology and Informatics, has developed a novel heterogeneous graph attention network namely “Hodge-Laplacian Heterogeneous Graph Attention Network” (HL-HGAT), which is set to revolutionise the modelling of complex relationships in graph-structured data.  This innovation is poised to overcome the current limitations in fields such as logistics, computer vision, chemistry and neuroscience. Traditional graph neural networks (GNNs) mostly look at simple “A-to-B” type connections, which makes it hard for them to understand group interactions.  Prof. Qiu’s new HL-HGAT model goes beyond this by interpreting graphs as higher-dimensional shapes (called simplicial complexes), so it can capture relationships among nodes, edges, triangles and higher-order structures.  Central to HL-HGAT is the Hodge-Laplacian operator, which facilitates the modelling and propagation of signals beyond simple pairwise relationships, offering a richer understanding of complex data.  A key innovation of HL-HGAT is its capacity to model dynamic, time-varying graphs, using HL filtering, adaptive attention and heterogeneous signal decomposition to reveal evolving patterns that static GNNs may overlook.  The model has demonstrated versatility across a range of applications, including logistics (optimising delivery routes), computer vision (improving image classification), chemistry (predicting molecular properties), and neuroscience (analysing brain imaging data).  Notably, HL-HGAT can detect subtle neural changes in conditions like depression and Alzheimer’s disease, outperforming traditional methods and enabling earlier diagnosis and intervention in clinical settings. This innovative HL-HGAT model not only achieves outstanding results in addressing complex graph-based tasks in both scientific and industrial domains, but also represents a significant advancement in GNN technology.  The research, detailed in a paper titled “HL-HGAT: Heterogeneous Graph Attention Network via Hodge-Laplacian Operator”, has been published in IEEE Transactions on Pattern Analysis and Machine Intelligence. Press release:  https://polyu.me/49OzR1u   Online coverage: Mirage - https://polyu.me/4k68Cmp Hong Kong Economic Journal - https://polyu.me/49XexFD (subscription required) Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/4a1dapz Hong Kong Commercial Daily - https://polyu.me/4afQ3c5 Bastille Post - https://polyu.me/49OAzfa Gene Online 基因線上 報導連結 Gene Online - https://polyu.me/4qmRoCO

PolyU research: Supply chain finance enhances supply quality and predictability of collaboration

A research study co-authored by Prof. Mike LAI Kee-hung, Co-Director of Research Centre for Environmental, Social, and Governance Advancement (RCESGA), Associate Dean (Academic Support) of Faculty of Business, Chair Professor and Interim Head of Department of Logistics and Maritime Studies, examined the impact of supply chain finance on supply chain resilience from three perspectives: (1) the accuracy of supply-demand matching; (2) the stability of supply-demand relationships; and (3) the quality of supply. The findings indicated that supply chain finance can effectively enhance performance in these three areas, thereby strengthening enterprises’ ability to cope with frequent—albeit relatively minor—disruptions such as demand fluctuations and localised logistics delays in day-to-day operations. Furthermore, the study found that higher levels of supply chain finance foster stronger collaboration between upstream and downstream participants in the logistics industry, leading to more stable, closer supply-demand relationships. By extending the creditworthiness of core enterprises to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), supply chain finance helps them overcome financing challenges and improve cash flow. Meanwhile, banks can leverage data such as orders, shipments, and payments to continuously monitor contract performance, reduce moral hazard and default risk, and enhance the predictability of collaboration. The study recommended that enterprises incorporate supply chain finance into their long-term cooperation frameworks, rather than viewing it merely as a short-term financial instrument, and design dedicated financing solutions for core suppliers and customers to secure stronger collaborative commitments, such as supply priority and joint contingency arrangements. Prof. Lai suggests that enterprises can promote supply chain finance in three steps: First, establish a robust data foundation by integrating Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), logistics, and financial systems to ensure that order, inventory, and payment information can be securely accessed and verified by banks and fintech partners. Second, select an appropriate supply chain finance model. Export-oriented enterprises may focus on developing accounts receivable factoring and order financing, while those with a high proportion of procurement from the Chinese Mainland may consider building platforms in partnership with core suppliers and Mainland banks. Finally, link supply chain finance to resilience KPIs. In addition to monitoring financing costs, enterprises should also continuously track indicators such as the supply stability rate, fluctuations in transaction cycle, days of inventory for key materials, and innovation output, to provide a concrete assessment of the effectiveness of financial tools.   Online coverage: Wen Wei Po - https://polyu.me/3ZAXhBf

PolyU–Moganshan joint geospatial efforts advance global sustainability

The PolyU Research Institute for Land and Space (RILS) is committed to harnessing the versatile power of smart technologies and geospatial intelligence in building efficient, sustainable, and resilient cities.  The Institute has earlier entered into a formal collaboration with the Moganshan Geospatial Information Laboratory to establish the Key Laboratory of Geospatial Knowledge Innovation, under the Ministry of Natural Resources of the Central People’s Government. The Key Laboratory of Geospatial Knowledge Innovation will be co-directed by Prof. CHEN Jun, Director of Moganshan Geospatial Information Laboratory and Academician of Chinese Academy of Engineering, and Prof. DING Xiaoli, Director of RILS and Chair Professor of Geomatics at PolyU.  Based oi Deqing, Zhejiang, the Moganshan Geospatial Information Laboratory is a national-level research and innovation platform jointly established by the Ministry of Natural Resources and Zhejiang Province, dedicated to advancing geospatial science, technology breakthroughs, and international cooperation. The new key laboratory focuses on three major challenges in geospatial information: dynamic geospatial information acquisition, systematic analysis, and knowledge services.  Through interdisciplinary, cross-regional and cross-institutional research, the two sides aim to produce precise, reliable, and multidimensional dynamic global geospatial data, information, and knowledge products, while also strengthening talent development and professional exchange in the related fields.  These outputs are expected to provide high-quality geospatial knowledge services for the United Nations’ ecological governance, disaster early warning, food security, climate change monitoring, and sustainable forest management. To mark the launch of the laboratory, the two sides co-organised the Forum for Global Geospatial Public Products in Deqing on 28 January 2026.  The exchange activity featured speeches by the two co-directors, who highlighted the strategic importance and development opportunities of global geospatial public products.  Leading experts and scholars from other universities and national research institutions also attended the forum, presenting their latest research and practical experiences, and engaging in in-depth discussions on topics such as development of public product system, transformation of scientific research achievements, and services to developing countries. Under the agreement, the two sides will carry out research in four directions including global geospatial crowdsourced sensing, global geospatial scenario system analysis, global geospatial knowledge product development, and global geospatial knowledge services, and jointly launch related geospatial knowledge innovation technologies and products.  They will also promote talent exchange and development through activities such as lectures, conferences, forums, and mutual visits. In its initial phase, the laboratory intends to collaborate with partner institutions such as Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman in Malaysia, the National Geomatics Center of China, and the Satellite Remote Sensing Application Center of the Ministry of Natural Resources.  The partners will contribute to the laboratory’s work through participating in the research activities, data resource sharing, joint technological development, and application demonstrations.  The collaboration will unite their complementary strengths and leverage the Nation’s advanced geospatial technologies to bring forth geospatial innovations that transcend borders and contribute to global sustainable development. Grounded in surveying and mapping science, the Key Laboratory of Geospatial Knowledge Innovation, Ministry of Natural Resources integrates multidisciplinary knowledge from geography, ecology, and other fields together with intelligent technologies such as big data, artificial intelligence, and the Internet of Things for research on relevant theories, key technologies, and application models.  The laboratory is steered and governed by leading experts from PolyU, Moganshan Geospatial Information Laboratory, and its partner institutions.

Bridging science, technology and policy: Prof. Daniel M. KAMMEN’s call for a just energy transition

Prof. Daniel M. Kammen of Johns Hopkins University delivered a PAIR Distinguished Lecture titled “Innovation and Cooperation for the Just Energy Transition” on 26 January 2026 at the PolyU campus.  The event attracted nearly 100 in-person participants and reached an impressive online audience of more than 16,200 across various social media platforms. Prof. Kammen commenced his presentation by providing an overview of the current landscape of sustainable and reliable clean energy.  He emphasised that, at present, climate science, technology and policy are not sufficiently aligned.  While technologies are advancing rapidly to keep global warming to within 1.5°C, achieving a truly sustainable future critically requires pro‑environment, inclusive‑growth, and pro‑business choices made at every level — household, local, regional, national, and global. Prof. Kammen illustrated how clean energy can drive inclusive growth by sharing examples from energy markets in the western United States.  He highlighted a suite of energy, transportation and land-use modelling tools, and policy opportunities that are consistent with the 1.5°C objective, while also addressing social and environmental justice goals.  He stressed that a just energy transition must ensure the equitable distribution of both the benefits and costs of decarbonisation, with particular attention to vulnerable and marginalised communities, and that new green jobs and economic opportunities are accessible to all. Prof. Kammen then discussed clean energy transitions in China and Africa, highlighting data science methods that reduced energy dispatch delays by 20% and increased revenue.  In Chengdu, the integration of green transport and a new carbon accounting tool has encouraged commuters to adopt low-carbon options, optimised bus networks, and improved efficiency, generating significant revenue.  In Africa, the Health, Electrification and Telecommunications Alliance (HETA) has improved rural healthcare accessibility by powering health facilities with solar energy, showcasing the impact of integrating social and technical approaches.  Supported by global organisations, HETA carries out projects to electrify health facilities and build green supply chains, thereby advancing healthcare and climate goals. In conclusion, Prof. Kammen asserted that smart, adaptive grid technologies and architectures are a critical asset for sustainability, enabling resilient, renewable‑based energy systems and ensuring equitable access to clean power.  He stressed the need to accelerate partnerships in these areas and noted that energy must play a greater role in sustainable water and health systems.  He also emphasised that ocean health is inseparable from human health, and that building sustainable societies will require cross-sectoral collaboration across science, technology and policy. The presentation was followed by a lively question-and-answer session, moderated by Prof. GUO Ye, Associate Professor of Department of Building Environment and Energy Engineering.  Both on-site and online audiences engaged actively in a thoughtful exchange with Prof. Kammen, reflecting the widespread interest and commitment to advancing the just energy transition. Please click here for an online review.