By South China Morning Post | Created at 2026-06-10 02:02:07 | Updated at 2026-06-10 18:25:46
16 hours ago
The opportunity is to turn a moment of scientific achievement into a new way for visitors to engage with Hong Kong and its future
Ken Chu (LLD) is the chairman and CEO of Mission Hills Group with businesses in hospitality, leisure, entertainment, sports, wellness and education in China.
Published: 9:30am, 10 Jun 2026
Hong Kong’s first astronaut may have travelled into space, but the significance of the moment extends far beyond the mission itself. Lai Ka-ying became our first home-grown astronaut to reach space, as part of China’s Shenzhou-23 mission to the Tiangong space station, marking a
historic milestone for the city and its role within the country’s scientific ambitions.
For many, the moment naturally evokes pride and excitement. Yet, beyond science and national achievement, this milestone may also present Hong Kong with another opportunity: the chance to rethink how it presents itself to the world.
Major milestones often shape how cities and countries are perceived internationally. Silicon Valley helped define San Francisco as a centre of innovation. Nasa’s achievements contributed to Florida’s identity as America’s Space Coast. South Korea’s cultural exports transformed global perceptions of the country far beyond entertainment alone.
Such reputations are rarely built through marketing campaigns. More often, they emerge from achievements and stories that capture public imagination.
This is why Lai’s journey matters beyond the scientific accomplishment itself. For many people outside Hong Kong, it may be their first encounter with the idea of the city as a contributor to aerospace, innovation and scientific advancement. Hong Kong has long been recognised for its strengths in finance, trade and connectivity. These remain important advantages. Yet, as the city continues to develop new capabilities in innovation and technology, milestones such as this can help add another dimension to its story.
China’s space programme has become one of the country’s most visible demonstrations of scientific and technological capability. Hong Kong’s participation in this story gives the city a connection to a narrative that is future-oriented, aspirational and globally relevant.
