ELECTION MANIFESTO
by Thomas Cheung
Thank you for the nominations from the Past Presidents, Council Members, and fellow Members.
In my 30 years of experience, I was the Head of the Architecture Department at Chu Hai College and successfully organized their first local architectural degree in 2003. I was a resident architect working on the frontline before I established my practice in 2004, and was gradually promoted to a Band 1 Architectural Consultant. I am the kind of person who can cooperate with different groups of people and get along well with them. I will think outside the box to explore new opportunities and take on responsibilities.
Our profession is suffering from economic changes. High operating costs and lack of projects induce salary cuts and member unemployment. I fully understand these pain points and the market mechanism; therefore, I choose to stand up.
Being the youngest presidential candidate, I consider that the HKIA President should possess a visionary mindset, understand our profession, and explore solutions beyond traditional limits. I will take the lead to:
Champion the Value of Architects in HK – Architecture is a valuable asset to the community. The works of our members shall be well-recognized by the public through regular sharing on various media platforms.
Enhance the Project Procurement System – The adoption of Design and Build arrangements has narrowed the scope of architects, which in turn weakens our control over construction quality.
Strengthen Design Implementation and Generate Employment – The role of the Resident Architect shall be promoted to enhance design implementation on-site.
Review the Fee Diving Control Mechanism – Professional services related to quality and safety should be appropriately compensated. The mechanism shall accommodate fee compensation for newly added scopes to architects.
Establish Guidelines on New Technology Adoption – The Intellectual Property of Architects during the digitization of works shall be well-defined and protected.
Expedite Architects’ Contributions to Carbon Neutrality – Architects shall take the lead in upholding Zero Carbon Design.
Enhance Closer Participation in Northern Metropolis – More project opportunities shall be pursued for our young architects.
Promote Hong Kong Architects to Belt & Road Countries – The well-rounded professional services of Hong Kong architects shall go global and be promoted in Belt & Road countries through my strong ARCASIA and international networks.
Pave the Way for Future Architects – HKIA shall develop long-term plans to cultivate our young members and rejuvenate our Institute.