Press Releases

The Under Secretary for the Environment, Dr Kitty Poon, today (February 7) officiated at the award presentation ceremony of the "Portraits of Marine Life - Art Competition" at the Hong Kong Central Library.

The competition, organised by the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department, aims to promote public awareness of the importance of conserving marine animals and their habitats through encouraging artistic expression of marine life.

Speaking at the ceremony today, Dr Poon said that Hong Kong, surrounded by waters from three sides, was blessed with abundance of marine resources. We had Chinese White Dolphins in the western waters, beautiful corals in the eastern waters and prehistoric horseshoe crabs in some local sandy and muddy shore. She called on everyone to join the government’s efforts to protect our precious marine environment.

“After seeing these artworks, I am much impressed by the creativity of the participants and the sincerity embodied in the painting.” Dr Poon said.

The competition was very well received with over 7,000 entries, reflecting people's love for the ocean and marine life.

The participants were divided into five categories: four for students and one for the general public. For each group a champion, a first runner-up, a second runner-up and five merits were selected. Prizes included trophies and book coupons for all winners. The top three in each category were also awarded an educational dolphin watching trip.

The award-winning paintings, currently showcased in a roving exhibition at the Hong Kong Central Library will move to other venues across the territory. Members of public are invited to visit the exhibition to see how local youth and public members capture the beauty of marine life.

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