Young technology entrepreneur nurtured in Hong Kong

Aerial camera systems have become very popular in Hong Kong recently, and a global leader in such systems is the company DJI. Today, the founder of DJI, Mr Frank Wang, who is 35 years old, together with his former teachers at Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), Professor Li Zexiang and Professor Ko Ping-keung, came to talk to about 80 government officials and relevant committee members about how DJI has grown from a small company of just a few employees in 2006 to become a technology enterprise with nearly 2,000 employees and a business volume of about $3 billion. DJI is also recognised by the international media. The Economist recently published a special report on robotics, which featured robots produced by various countries around the world. DJI's aerial camera system was the only one from China that was included in the special report.

Frank is a young technology entrepreneur nurtured in Hong Kong. He was born in the Mainland of China and moved to Shenzhen as a child. He completed his undergraduate studies at HKUST in 2006 and received his Master's degree in 2011. While studying at HKUST, Frank became engrossed in making robots. Helped by Professor Li Zexiang and HKUST's strength in research, Frank eventually fulfilled his dreams of making a career in technology and setting up his own company.

We often talk about co-operation among the Government, industry, academia and research sectors. From Frank's experience, we can see the roles played by the academic and research sectors. Moreover, Frank has made good use of Shenzhen's industry chain and government policies. In this way, Frank has leveraged the strengths of Hong Kong and Shenzhen to the full.

Frank's success tells us that Hong Kong has talented people and good scientific research capabilities. What we need is a more active role played by the Government. The proposed Innovation and Technology Bureau can fill this gap. I firmly believe that technology can make our lives safer, more comfortable and more convenient. At the same time, it can give rise to new industries, further diversifying our economy.

Also with us today were HKUST's Professor Li and Professor Ko. They shared with us their valuable views on how best Hong Kong should nurture its science and technology experts. After listening to their personal experiences, I am more convinced than ever that there is ample room for Hong Kong to cultivate more talented young people in science and technology and help them build a career or start up their own businesses.

As we move from the Age of the Internet to the Age of Robots, I believe that technology can give more momentum to our economy. I hope that the Legislative Council will finish its deliberations on the proposed establishment of the Innovation and Technology Bureau as soon as possible for the sake of Hong Kong's future.

May 27, 2014