On August 25 2025, SKL-CRCC was honored to participate in the plaque presentation ceremony for Hong Kong’s 15 newly established State Key Laboratories (SKLs), held at the Central Government Offices.
As one of the 15 SKLs officially commencing operations on July 1, SKL-CRCC is proud to contribute to the nation’s vision of building a scientifically and technologically strong country. Supported by annual funding of up to HK$20 million from the SAR government, our laboratory is committed to advancing pioneering research in rail transit vehicle system integration and health monitoring, alongside other SKLs specializing in medicine, quantum studies, biology, environmental science, and climate.
The State Key Laboratories Scheme, managed by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST), has evolved to allow Hong Kong to independently establish national-level laboratories since 2018. In January 2025, MOST approved the restructuring of these labs into SKLs, further empowering Hong Kong’s scientific community.
During the ceremony, Minister of Science and Technology Yin Hejun recognized the operation of the 15 SKLs as a milestone for Hong Kong, highlighting the central government’s high regard for our research potential and the expectations placed upon us. SKL-CRCC is inspired by this recognition and remains dedicated to our mission of achieving original breakthroughs and addressing technological challenges in rail transit and beyond.
Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu emphasized the importance of maintaining an open and inclusive academic environment, attracting international talent, and fostering collaboration with scientific communities and enterprises in the mainland. SKL-CRCC is committed to strengthening ties with industry partners and research institutions, both locally and globally, to accelerate the transformation and application of technological achievements for the benefit of the Greater Bay Area and the nation.
Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in HKSAR, Zhou Ji, reiterated the central government’s unwavering support for Hong Kong’s technological advancement and pledged continued facilitation of cooperation between Hong Kong and the mainland.
SKL-CRCC shares the vision of propelling Hong Kong towards becoming a global center for top-tier talent and innovation. We look forward to contributing to the development of the Hong Kong Park of Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone and to deepening collaboration across industry, academia, and research.
As Hong Kong embarks on this new chapter, SKL-CRCC is excited to play a pivotal role in driving scientific progress and technological innovation for the city, the Greater Bay Area, and the nation.
Online coverage:
https://www.chinadailyasia.com/hk/article/618560
