HONG KONG, 28 AUGUST 2008 – Protecting information and technology will be almost as important as infrastructure development when it comes to creating Hong Kong's digital future, according to the president of the Hong Kong Computer Society.
Hong Kong Computer Society president, Sunny Lee (picture), expects protecting information and technology to generate intense discussion at the Hong Kong International Computer Conference 2008 (HKICC2008), which takes place on September 25-26 at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.
"While economic developments combined with technological breakthroughs offer new opportunities for Hong Kong's digital future, the way people use technology as well as the steps that we take to safeguard it from malicious attack or accidental exposure, must be carefully considered," Lee said.
Gates believes in HK’s IT potential
He echoed the comments made earlier this month by Microsoft founder, Bill Gates, on the important role of information technology in forging the city's digital future.
"When he visited Hong Kong recently, Mr Gates said he believed the IT industry can work with the government on education, digital inclusion and the realisation of Hong Kong's desire to become a leading digital city," said Lee.
“This upcoming conference will provide a forum for some of the industry's most experienced and influential personalities to identify and discuss the key factors the SAR must address in order to succeed in the coming decades.”
Addressing security issues
While the conference will showcase successes and debate developments in keynote sessions and parallel tracks covering four broad areas – Future Lifestyle; Next Generation Communications; Technologies and Services; IT Applications for the Community – security will clearly be a key factor for speakers to address.
"While social networking is growing in popularity from day to day, the risks of putting personal information on a public forum are also being recognised.," said Lee. International Social Networking: Problems, Solutions and Future will be addressed by Jeffrey NG, Chief Executive Officer, Zorpia Company Limited.
The impact of technology on data privacy will be the subject of a session led by Roderick WOO Bun, JP, Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, Office of the Privacy Commissioner for Personal Data, the Government of the HK SAR.
And there will also be a Financial Services and Security session chaired by Dr. Patrick Chau, Professor (Information Systems), the School of Business, University of Hong Kong.
Private-public sector collaboration
"Of course, the key to retaining this position and building a prosperous digital future will be the innovative use of technology throughout society," said HKICC2008 Programme Committee chairman Professor Ching Pak Chung. “That includes the private sector where new services can boost efficiency and competitiveness; in the public sector where it can promote involvement in government and provide access to services; and in our daily lives.”
HKICC2008 Organising Committee chairman Bernard Chan who said, "I am sure that the upcoming HKICC conference will provide a forum where stakeholders – business, government and IT professionals – can showcase successes and debate these developments."
