Hong Kong Tourism Board recently hosted an immersive luncheon at the Crowne Plaza Kuala Lumpur City Centre, where Hong Kong’s vibrant culture was brought to life. Guests were transported to the nostalgic city with a replica of the famed Lam Tsuen Wishing Trees and makeshift stands that served classic Hong Kong bites. Beyond the recreations that allowed guests to immerse into the city’s lively heritage, the event also offered an exclusive glimpse into exciting updates for the new year ahead.
“Hong Kong has long been known as the events capital of Asia. There are a lot of [upcoming annual] events happening, from music festivals such as Dreamfields and Clockenflap, to sports events such as the HK 100 Ultra Marathon and Cyclothon,” said Liew Chian Jia, regional director of Hong Kong Tourism Board, Southeast Asia. Art enthusiasts can also explore prestigious showcases such as Art Basel and the Affordable Art Fair, while food lovers will undoubtedly find themselves indulging in the Wine & Dine Festival, where more than 300 diverse cuisines and beverages await. “Regardless of what your interest may be, Hong Kong has something to offer that not every destination can,” Liew added.
View more of the Wine and Dine Festival
Looking ahead to 2025, there are also several new developments to look forward to. Kai Tak Sports Park, soon to be the largest stadium in Hong Kong, is set to open in March, with a capacity of 50,000 seats for major sports events and concerts. The Hong Kong Rugby Sevens, an iconic annual rugby competition, will be the first to kick off at the venue. A new flagship theme park by the renowned Japanese indoor amusement park innovator, Joypolis Sports, will also find home on site, adding to Kai Tak Sports Park’s dynamic offerings.
The shopping and entertainment scene will also see a transformation with 11 Skies, a groundbreaking landmark that is set to become the largest retail-entertainment hub in the region. Located next to the Hong Kong International Airport and the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, the one-stop complex will feature more than 800 shops, 120 dining options, and eight world-class attractions catered to all ages. 11 Skies is set to open in phases and is expected to be fully completed by this year.
With even more thrilling news to ring in the new year, Hong Kong’s Ocean Park has welcomed the birth of twin pandas, bringing the city’s panda population to a total of six, the largest outside of mainland China. Liew added: “In tier 2 this year, we’ll be having a new tourism branding launching worldwide, so please look out for us again.”
The afternoon came to a close with a captivating performance by the influential Kuan family (pictured above), unveiling a music video filmed along the vibrant streets and iconic landmarks of Hong Kong.
