News

A Spring Journey of Flavours at Hotel ICON

As the spring blossoms, it's the perfect time to reunite with old friends. Let's gather around the table at Hotel ICON and turn the joy of reunion into the savory. Don't forget alumni can enjoy 15% discount on food and beverages, click here for details. BUTTERFLY DOME Japanese Strawberry Afternoon Tea Experience the exquisite flavors of 5 Western Japanese strawberries and a fine selection of strawberry pastries and desserts featured in signature 3-course afternoon tea—ideal Valentine’s month treat or a single's inferno! Served alongside is a bomb-shaped Chocolate melting in warm milk, this Hot Chocolate with Marshmallow is a colorful and dreamy pink strawberry chocolate milk that melts your heart. Indulge in heavenly desserts and pastries served on a butterfly dome tea set stand while enjoying unlimited servings of GODIVA strawberry soft-serve ice cream, along with a cup of freshly brewed Illy coffee or premium TWG tea. Location: GREEN, Lobby, Hotel ICON Date: 14 February - 30 April 2024 Time: 3:00pm – 6:00pm Enquiries: (852) 3400 1308 or e-mail Online reservation and details 4-Course Salt-Baked Seafood Afternoon Tea From February, you can savor the aromas of the sea as you embark on a two-hour journey of culinary delights. One of the signature dishes which is Flaming Salt-baked Seafood Platter prepared by wrapping it in a lotus leaf and coating it with a crusted salt crust, creating a tantalizing blend of flavors and textures. Immerse yourself in a variety of seafood, including whole lobster, scallops, abalone, and more. The highlight of the experience is a captivating flaming ritual, adding a touch of excitement to your meal. After the main course, treat yourself to an unlimited dessert buffet, offering a wide array of sweet treats. Location: The Market, 2/F, Hotel ICON Date: 26 February - 31 May 2024 Time: 3:00pm – 5:00pm Enquiries: (852) 3400 1300 or e-mail Online reservation and details CHEF WONG’S Spring Specials Chef Wong meticulously selects high-quality seasonal ingredients, and highlights the unique blue melon garoupa, only available in limited quantities. Above & Beyond sources the blue melon garoupa, which contains nano-selenium—an essential trace mineral for human health, thanks to the innovative efforts of the team at the Research Institute for Future Food (RI Food) at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU). As for the "old," Above & Beyond revives an ancient recipe. Chef Wong presents the Minced Spotted Garoupa with Fine-Grained Yam in Fish Broth, a recipe that dates back to the old days of Shun De. Location: Above & Beyond, 28/F, Hotel ICON Date: 12 March - 30 April 2024 Enquiries: (852) 3400 1318 or e-mail Details and view menu Hotel ICON Hong Kong X Banyan Tree Bangkok Thai Food Influence Festival Indulging in a delectable array of more than 20 authentic Thai dishes, from appetizers, soups, hot dishes, and desserts curated by Head of Thai Cuisine Chef Renu Homsombat from Banyan Tree Bangkok and Executive Chef Danny Ho from Hotel ICON. Don't miss the iconic Tom Yum Goong and Tom Kha Gai of Thailand. Indulge in Alaska Crab, Chiang Mai Curry, and Egg Noodles, Tossed Lobster with Cashew Nut Sauce and Mushroom as well as Mango Sticky Rice and Coconut Milk Ice Cream. Experience the finest Thai cuisine at our buffet, featuring award-winning Thai Hom Mali (Jasmine Fragrance) Rice. Location: The Market, 2/F, Hotel ICON Date: 12 March - 30 April 2024 Enquiries: (852) 3400 1300 or e-mail Online reservation and details

PolyU PRD Alumni Network - Spring Dinner 2024

PolyU Pearl River Delta Alumni Network organised the Spring Dinner on 23 March 2024 in Shenzhen. Professor Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President and approximately 300 PolyU alumni and guests participated in the event. At the dinner, Ms Janet Chen, President of the PolyU PRD Alumni Network delivered a speech introducing the latest development of the Network. President Teng gave everyone a comprehensive review of the accomplishments of PolyU throughout the years. He presented the latest rankings of PolyU in higher education industry and shared significant advancements and award-winning achievements in the University’s research. Dr Lou presented the Certificate of Appreciation to the third Executive Committee members of the Network to express the gratitude for their dedication and support to the Alumni Network. The event came to a successful conclusion in a joyful atmosphere. Thanks to the generous support from sponsors, volunteers and MC. Their contributions played a pivotal role in the event.

OPAA Mixer (Third Event)

The Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association successfully hosted its third OPAA Mixer on 22 March 2024. Over 50 guests attended the event, which included not only Outstanding PolyU Alumni Awardees from previous years, but also Ms Loretta Fong Wan-huen, Treasurer of the University; Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of PolyU; representatives from different academic units; as well as the recipients of the Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award 2022 and 2023 at Faculty/School and Department levels. Ir Dr Samson Tam Wai-ho, JP, President of the Association, warmly welcomed the guests, and expressed his appreciation to Directors Ir Alfred Sit Wing-hang, GBS, JP, and Sr Augustine Wong Ho-ming, JP, for organising the gathering. During the sharing session, Sr Wong, as Executive Director and General Manager of the Property Development Department at Henderson Land Development Company Limited, shared his professional insights on where the property market will go after the abolition of all demand-side management measures. His valuable knowledge greatly benefited the participants. The alumni actively engaged in discussions, and seized the opportunity to network and share their backgrounds, experiences, and industry developments. Everyone was particularly excited to gather at their alma mater as outstanding alumni. They were enthusiastic about working hand in hand on a multitude of upcoming projects. As the outstanding PolyU alumni community continues to grow, the “OPAA Mixer” series provides a unique platform for awardees of past years to connect and establish stronger ties with their alma mater. In the future, the Association will continue to make every effort to offer a wider range of opportunities for members to collaborate, combining their professional knowledge, networks, and abundant resources to contribute to the ongoing development of the University. For more photos of the event, please refer to our Facebook post.

Strategic Moves @ Alumni Atrium: Upgraded Experience 1

“Strategic Moves @ Alumni Atrium” made a highly anticipated comeback. On 21 March 2024, around 50 alumni and students enthusiastically participated in this unique and exciting night of board game gathering. For the newcomers who attended our gathering for the first time, their excitement knew no bounds when they saw the colourful array of board games on the tables. They eagerly sought advice from experienced board game experts, learning various techniques, and quickly found joy in the games. Those who had attended the previous board game meetup spent time trying out chessboards, cards, and popular board games they had not experienced before, and they were fully engaged in the gameplay. During this gathering, we specially introduced two board games: Rummikub and Splendor. Everyone actively participated, challenging each other and preparing for the upcoming friendly match. These two games sparked great interest among the participants, as if they were transported into a magical world full of spells and gems. As the event neared its end, the alumni eagerly anticipated the next gathering at the Alumni Atrium. This event not only deepened their friendships but also fuelled their passion for board game playing. Whether newcomers or old friends, we believe that in future events, we can join hands to explore the charm of board games together and share the joy of playing. For more photos of the event, please refer to our Facebook post.

AlumNews (March 2024) – Early Spring Delights for You

Spring has arrived, gracing the PolyU campus with its vibrant colours. In this issue of AlumNews, we have curated a selection of activities for you to embrace the beauty of spring at your alma mater. We are especially delighted to announce that President Prof. Jin-Guang Teng has contributed a message to AlumNews, sharing the latest developments of the PolyU community with all of you!

PolyU Mainland Alumni Spring Gathering

On 8 March 2024, The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Mainland Alumni Spring Gathering was held successfully at China World Hotel in Beijing. Dr Lam Tai-fai, Chairman, the Council of PolyU, Professor Jin-Guang Teng, President of PolyU, Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President, Ir Professor Edwin Cheng, Dean, Faculty of Business, Professor Lu Haitian, Director of Mainland Development, Dr Sean Xu, Assistant Director of Mainland Development and more than 200 distinguished guests, representatives of the Mainland Alumni Networks, and PolyU alumni gathered at this event. Dr Lam delivered a welcome remark, introducing PolyU’s motto "To learn and to apply, for the benefit of mankind". As an alumnus, he has witnessed how PolyU nurtures talents, contributes to the society and dedicates to the Nation. President Teng was delighted to share PolyU's recent achievements and future plans. He hoped that all PolyU stakeholders would strive for excellence together. At the event, nine Mainland Alumni Networks and PolyU CSSA composed a video, showcasing the alumni activities last year, and sending warm blessings to their alma mater. The event reached its climax when singing the Song of PolyU by all alumni. The event concluded with cheers, bringing everyone a memorable evening.

PolyU Dragon-tastic Celebration

On 2 March 2024, the Alumni Affairs Office (AAO) organised the “PolyU Dragon-tastic Celebration” at the Alumni Atrium. Over a hundred guests, including esteemed alumni, the senior management of PolyU, as well as staff members, gathered to celebrate the Spring Festival together, making the most of the late Lunar January. The event brought together leaders from the Federation of PolyU Alumni Associations (FHKPUAA), recipients of the Outstanding PolyU Alumni Award, representatives from various alumni associations, Alumni Ambassadors, and many other supportive graduates. Dr Miranda Lou, Executive Vice President of the University, warmly welcomed the guests. A joyous and colourful “Lo Hei” followed, which was hosted by: President Prof. Jin-Guang Teng; Dr Lou; Ir Yau Kwok-fai, President of FHKPUAA; Dr Samson Tam Wai-ho, President of the Outstanding PolyU Alumni Association; Mr Alex Wong Chun-bong, PolyU Council Member and Outstanding PolyU Alumni Awardee; Prof. Haitian Lu, Director of Mainland Development; as well as Ms Maewoon Diana Liu, Director of Alumni Affairs. The symbolic tradition represented the unity of PolyU’s alumni community in pursuit of alumni engagement, and their continued success with the alma mater. President Teng was especially delighted to meet many distinguished PolyU members, and took the opportunity to share with everyone the latest developments of the University. All alumni felt immensely proud of their alma mater’s remarkable achievements. This spring party offered a diverse programme, filling the entire Alumni Atrium with a joyful atmosphere. Attendees savoured the unique Hong Kong dishes prepared by a dedicated alumnus. Many alumni also took photos with new and old friends, participated in lucky windmill games, and joined karaoke sessions to showcase their singing talents. Additionally, HeartGrey, a PolyU graduate who is a beatbox singer, collaborated with the FHKPUAA Chinese Orchestra to deliver a fusion of Chinese and Western performances. The Alumni Ambassador Band, consisting of Eagle, Step and Kayu, also enchanted the audience with their rendition of classic songs. The excitement reached its peak when President Teng sang PolyU’s 85th Anniversary Theme Song together with the band. Other highlights included two rounds of lucky draws as well, where 32 lucky winners received gifts from the senior management and other alumni, adding to the festive spirit of the celebration. This gathering was a rare occasion, and AAO prepared special souvenirs not only to convey blessings to each alumnus but also to commemorate such a meaningful day. Concluded with cheers, the event brought everyone a great time, and they eagerly looked forward to more opportunities for the PolyU alumni family to come together and continue making contributions to their alma mater in the future. More photos and videos will be uploaded onto our Facebook and Instagram – stay tuned!

Fotoholics Assemble @ Alumni Atrium

On 29 February 2024, a group of photography enthusiasts returned to their alma mater for our “Fotoholics Assemble @ Alumni Atrium”. The workshop brought together graduates and current students from different generations, creating a platform for them to exchange their experiences in film photography. Mr Li Lok, our alumnus and former Chairman of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Student Affairs Office Photographic Society, shared his extensive expertise in film photography. He delivered a comprehensive overview of film formats, film types, cameras, and lenses, captivating the audience and igniting a spirited discussion.  After the sharing session, the participants also had the opportunity to take snapshots at the on-site “Photo Corner”. Regardless of their skill level, the attendees left with insights and knowledge that would enhance their photography skills. Many of them looked forward to the next sharing session, expressing their excitement at further exploring possibilities in their photographic journeys.  

AlumNews (February 2024) – Your Source of Inspiration for Year of the Dragon

Wishing you a prosperous Year of the Dragon! With the arrival of the new year, new opportunities await. Do you have any ambitious plans in mind? Perhaps this issue of AlumNews will be your source of inspiration!

Meet your Alumni Fellows at Bistro 1979

Are you planning a reunion with old classmates in the new year? Whether it's a casual lunch gathering or an evening get-together over drinks, Bistro 1979, managed by the School of Hotel and Tourism Management, is a relaxing and cozy choice! Lunch Opening hours: Tuesday – Friday 12:00 – 14:00 Reservation schedule and commencement: 30 January – 8 March (Reservation commences at 14:00 on 15 January) 19 March – 19 April (Reservation commences at 14:00 on 4 March) Dinner Opening hours: Monday – Friday 19:00 – 21:00 Reservation schedule and commencement: 26 February – 15 March (Reservation commences at 14:00 on 9 February) 18 March – 12 April (Reservation commences at 14:00 on 4 March) Online reservation or enquiries   Bistro 1979, the Student Training Restaurant of the SHTM, PolyU Residing within the SHTM complex, Bistro 1979 is a student-run, multi-function food and beverage restaurant unit. Bistro 1979 provides a “real-world” restaurant setting for students during their academic year to learn, experiment, experience and build on the skill sets required in the food and beverage industry. The restaurant has a capacity of 66 persons and includes main and exclusive dining areas for its members and guests, offering lunches and evening themed dinners during the semester.