Mr Clifton Ko Chi-sum, MH

Chairman Yang, University Council Members, President Tong and Honoured Guests,

First of all, let me express my heartfelt thanks to The Hong Kong Polytechnic University for conferring upon me this University Fellowship. I am most delighted and honoured.

I grew up in a public housing estate. Without high academic qualifications, I started working immediately upon graduation from secondary school. When I was 17 years old, I joined a television broadcasting company and started my working life as a script writer. I have now spent 36 years working full-time in the entertainment industry, taking part in film and theatre productions, during which I have experienced several changes in social values in Hong Kong. During my childhood and teenager years in the 60s and 70s, Hong Kong was a society that counted on dedication and hard work. Struggle for the future was the core value in those days. In the 80s, when I moved from the television industry to the film industry, it was an age where creativity was valued. As long as you were smart, and your work showcased new content and new style, you would receive commendation and encouragement - even from competitors in the same business. In the 90s, Hong Kong became a materialistic society and all were involved in speculation. It was an age where we just talked about "numbers", with little or no attention to creativity and hard work. Many people valued "numbers" and used "numbers" to measure everything. In the millennium age, in the face of revolutionary changes, people of different social classes, including me, have to face a new environment and new challenges. Is it possible today to hold the same values as in the past? I am afraid not.

In today's society, many people tend to exhibit strong negative emotions and to overemphasize their own personal interests. This being so, I have told myself that, from now on, I have to bring positive energy to society through my works in various arenas, whether it be theatre, television or film productions. In this regard, I would like once again to thank PolyU for awarding me this University Fellowship. This has not only enhanced my confidence and motivation, but also boosted my positive energy. Together with my team at work, I will make every effort to bring positive energy to our society through our works. I also hope that everyone in society might, likewise, try to spread positive energy to every sector of our society.

Finally, I would like to thank my family and team for their support over the years. I would like to share this honour with them today.

Thank you.

Mr Clifton Ko Chi-sum, MH

Professor Norman W.M. Ko

Mr Kong Qingping

Ir Tsui Tack-kong

Mrs Clara Weatherall

Mr Wong Tit-shing

(in alphabetical order of last name)