Message from the General Manager

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the establishment of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Trading Fund (EMSTF) - an important moment to reflect on the past and look into the future.

I joined the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) in 1994 and had the privilege of witnessing the birth of the EMSTF in 1996. At that time, the transformation of a government department into a self-financing operating entity was a groundbreaking endeavour. Understandably, many colleagues harboured concerns about the uncertainties ahead. However, looking back, this bold step not only injected new momentum into the EMSD, but also forged a new direction for Hong Kong’s public services.

During its first decade, the EMSTF gradually established its operational framework and adopted a customer-oriented service philosophy. Amid keen market competition, we leveraged our reliable and cost-effective electrical and mechanical (E&M) engineering services, successfully evolving from a traditional government department into a competitive service provider. Concurrently, we remained steadfast in prioritising the public interest, standing shoulder to shoulder with Hong Kong citizens throughout trying times, including the SARS outbreak.

The second decade saw a period of steady business expansion. From the World Trade Organisation Ministerial Conference to the Olympic Equestrian Events, and from cross-boundary infrastructure to hospital facilities, the EMSD played an integral role in them all. To better map out our future, we launched our first Five-year Strategic Plan in 2013. We also joined hands with the trade to nurture the younger generation, laying a solid foundation for the long-term development of the sector.

Stepping into its third decade, the EMSTF actively drove digital transformation and innovation advancement. We restructured our organisation and established the Digitalisation and Technology Division, integrating innovation and technology into our daily operations. We also launched the E&M InnoPortal to facilitate technological collaboration. In the face of formidable challenges such as the COVID-19 epidemic and extreme weather events, the EMSD team demonstrated exceptional responsiveness and resilience in safeguarding the smooth operation of society with utmost effort.

Over the past 30 years, we have navigated through highs and lows, and at times met the challenge of losing clients. Yet, with professionalism and integrity, we have regained their trust and built even stronger, longer-term partnerships. This mutual trust has always been the EMSTF’s most valuable asset.

Looking ahead, our nation has proposed the “Artificial Intelligence+” initiative, and artificial intelligence is reshaping the way we work at an unprecedented pace. History reminds us that it is not “people” who are left behind by the march of time, but rather “mindsets that resist change”. The EMSTF will continue to evolve with the times and equip our teams to harness technology, enabling our colleagues to focus on work that brings greater value and creativity.

While the path forward is fraught with challenges, it is equally rich with opportunities. We will continue to work hand in hand with our staff, clients and the trade to elevate E&M services to new heights, realising our vision of “Intelligent E&M Co-creating Tomorrow”.

Poon Kwok-ying, Raymond
General Manager, Electrical and Mechanical Services Trading Fund

Please click the link to explore the Milestones of the Electrical and Mechanical Services Trading Fund over the Past Ten Years.