The HKU SPACE Alumni Association is dedicated to connecting alumni by organising various activities as a means to exchange knowledge and promote lifelong learning and community service. In April and May, it organised local tours to visit the Court of Final Appeal and Hong Kong Monetary Authority. Through these tours alumni had the chance to explore the operations of the Judiciary and understand the development of Hong Kong's monetary systems. Our alumni also went on a day trip to Yim Tin Tsai, where they could ease their mind in the beautiful natural landscapes.

Visiting the highest judiciary body in Hong Kong

The Court of Final Appeal Building has its foundation stone laid in 1903 and opened in 1912. It served as the offices of the Supreme Court, the Department of Justice and the Crown Solicitor. In 1984, the exterior of the building was declared a monument with restricted access areas under the Cap. 53 Antiquities and Monuments Ordinance.

On 25 April, the Alumni Association organised a guided tour to the Court of Final Appeal. The alumni had the rare opportunity to visit the court lobby and other facilities inside the building, including the library which was formerly a prison cell and the exhibition gallery. Through this tour our alumni learned about the history and operations of the judiciary, as well as the history and architectural features of the Court of Final Appeal Building.

Dwelling in nature

The picturesque Ung Kong Islands in Sai Kung are famous for the magnificent sea caves. Yim Tin Tsai is a small offshore island near Sai Kung with a long history of salt-making; it is one of the few remaining traditional Hakka villages in Hong Kong.

On 20 May the Alumni Association organised a day trip to Ung Kong Islands and Yim Tin Tsai. The first stop was Yim Tin Tsai where the only remaining salt fields in Hong Kong are found. Then alumni visited the centuries-old Tin Hau Temple on High Island. Some Qing Dynasty relics are preserved inside the temple. After having lunch in Sai Kung town center, our alumni took a boat trip around Po Pin Chau, Tiu Chung Chau and Ung Kong Islands to observe the spectacular hexagonal basalt columns and various coastal erosion features.

Discover the Hong Kong Monetary Authority

The Hong Kong Monetary Authority is Hong Kong’s central banking institution, it was established with the objective to help maintain Hong Kong's status as an international financial center. Its main functions include promoting the stability and integrity of the financial system including the banking system, maintaining currency stability, and managing the Exchange Fund.

On 25 May, the Alumni Association organised a guided tour to the HKMA. Alumni gained a better understanding of the operations of the HKMA, as well as the anti-counterfeiting features and production process of Hong Kong currency notes. They also visited the "Historical Timeline" gallery which traces the history of Hong Kong’s monetary, financial and banking systems from 1842 to the present.