Hong Kong’s West Kowloon arts hub targets Middle East ties, annual deficit narrows by 20%

Hong Kong’s arts hub is aiming to expand exchanges with Middle Eastern countries, while its annual deficit has narrowed by 20 per cent year on year to HK$578 million (US$74.3 million).

Betty Fung Ching Suk-yee, the CEO of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority, said on Thursday the construction of a music centre would be the priority for the next batch of facilities, should the funds be available.

She also pointed to the Middle East as a potential driver for growth through collaborations.

“Middle Eastern countries are definitely a goal of ours,” Fung said, adding that the authority would visit the region next year in search of opportunities.

“Like Nicholas Ho Lik-chi, the commissioner for the belt and road plan who takes the lead in building business connections, we will be there to forge cultural exchanges.

“There is scope to expand our performances there.”