Education and Tourism: Hong Kong's Decision on Private Museum Funding

Resource Allocation Challenges in Private Museum Funding

Hong Kong authorities have turned down suggestions to set up a mechanism to fund private museums, but pledged to continue supporting them through promotions and favourable land policies.

Government's Position on Private Museums

Undersecretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism Raistlin Lau Chun stated that the government must consider resource allocation to avoid placing undue financial strain on public funds when helping private museums.

• Recent Inquiry: Responding to lawmaker Ma Fung-kwok's inquiry at the Legislative Council, Lau noted the government currently has no plans for a standard funding mechanism for private museums.
• Support for Individual Museums: Lau mentioned that support would be considered for individual museums, aligning with government policy goals.

Tourism and Arts Development

The Post earlier reported on Portuguese football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo's upcoming visit to inaugurate a pop-up museum in Hong Kong due to open in June 2025. This presents a tourism opportunity to enhance the city's cultural appeal.

• Lau emphasized that the government aims to promote private museums popular among tourists and residents.
• Private museums covering themes such as culture, arts, history, and education play a vital role in the city.

Collaboration and Development

Education lawmaker Chu Kwok-keung raised concerns regarding school museums not having the required resources.

• The Leisure and Cultural Services Department supports operational insights for these private entities.
• Since 2015, the department has organized Muse Fest HK, partnering with local museums to enhance the cultural experience.