29th October 2023, Kathmandu
The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors Quantity Surveying Division Conference 2023, “Mapping the Future of Built Environment: The Roles of Quantity Surveyors”
The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) Quantity Surveying Division hosted the HKIS Quantity Surveying Division Conference 2023 (the Conference) at the Royal Plaza Hotel today.
Themed “Mapping the Future of Built Environment:
The Roles of Quantity Surveyors” this year, the Conference gathered over 240 professionals, practitioners, and scholars across government departments, statutory bodies, private sectors, and academia to share their experiences and exchange insights on the latest developments and challenges of quantity surveyors in the built environment. Ms Winnie HO Wing Yin, JP, Secretary for Housing of the HKSAR Government, attended as the Guest of Honour and delivered a keynote speech.
Quantity Surveying Division is one of the six divisions of the HKIS and has the largest number of members. The division has adhered to the spirit of excellence for many years. This is attributed to the members being trained as construction cost consultants, equipping them with expert knowledge in construction costs, values, finance, contractual arrangements, and legal matters in the construction discipline.
With the increasing demand for manpower and professionals in the construction industry and the advancement of technology, the role of Quantity Surveyors has taken on new dimensions, reaching far beyond the traditional boundaries of cost estimation and project management.
Ms. Winnie HO Wing Yin, JP, Secretary for Housing of the HKSAR Government, mentioned in her keynote speech, “As Hong Kong experiences a surge in development demands, the stakeholders in the construction industry, including Government departments, consultant firms and construction companies, should seize this golden opportunity to leverage the edges of innovation and technology for a brighter future. Thanks to HKIS QSD as a key partner in the surveying professions leading to the industry continuously excelling towards the well-being of the built environment in Hong Kong.”
Featured eight reputable speakers, this Conference explored the emerging trends and prospects of the quantity surveying industry from comprehensive and professional perspectives, such as digitalization, decarbonization and sustainability, procurement and contract strategies, and construction disputes and resolution. It aroused proactive discussion and idea exchange among the participants.
The Conference aims to inspire industry stakeholders to seize the opportunities and delve into the evolving roles of Quantity Surveyors in shaping the future of the built environment.
Sr Paul WONG Kwok Leung, President of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, noted in his welcome speech, “In this fast-changing new era, Quantity Surveyors are pivotal in guiding the trajectory of development and ensuring the seamless integration of innovation, efficiency and responsible practices. I believe that through our concerted efforts, the surveying profession in Hong Kong will continue to thrive.”
Sr Sunny CHOI Shing Lam, Chairman of the HKIS Quantity Surveying Division, mentioned the importance of idea exchanges between different generations in his opening speech, “This Conference invited young surveyors as moderators to foster a dynamic exchange of ideas. We aspire to inspire more young talents to join the Quantity Surveying profession and contribute to its growth.”
Sr Amelia FOK Ching Yin, Organising Committee Chairman of the Conference stated in her closing remarks, “Through this Conference, we aspire to equip our fellows with well-rounded skills and knowledge, fortifying their professional competence and propelling the advancement of our industry. We are glad to have over 240 professionals engaged in this Conference and collectively shape the future of our profession”.
About the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors
The Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors (HKIS) is the only surveying professional body incorporated by ordinance in Hong Kong. As of 21 October 2023, the number of members reached 10,874, of which 7,767 were corporate members, 55 were associate members and 3,052 were probationers and students.
The HKIS works include setting standards for professional services and performance, establishing codes of ethics, determining requirements for admission as professional surveyors, and encouraging members to upgrade skills through continuing professional development.
The HKIS has an important consultative role in government policy-making and on issues affecting the profession. We have advised the government on issues such as building safety and unauthorized building works, problems of property management, town planning and development strategies, construction quality, construction costs, and housing problems. We have also issued guidance notes on floor area measurement, real estate valuation land boundary survey, etc.