The hongkong prize is one of the region’s premier writing competitions, and it draws participants from all over Asia. Winners receive monetary prizes and the chance to attend an awards ceremony that can advance their careers and increase exposure in media outlets. However, it is important to read the rules and regulations carefully before entering so you don’t make costly mistakes that could jeopardize your chances of winning.
The award was established in 2015 by property tycoon Lui Che-woo with the aim of “advancing world civilisation and inspiring people to build a better world”. Its three categories focus on sustainability, welfare betterment, and positive energy, with a different theme for each category each year. Winners, announced in August and with a ceremony in October, receive HK$20 million-much more than the roughly HK$7 million that Nobel laureates get-making it one of the richest prizes in the world.
In 2022, the science prize was awarded to Ng Siew Chien for developing noninvasive tests for early diagnosis of gastrointestinal diseases and autism spectrum disorders. Laureates of the life and science field included Zhang Hua and Chen Shih-chi for their work on phase engineering of nanomaterials and 3D micro- and nanofabrication, respectively, and Wang Cong for his breakthrough in innovative data and AI security technologies.
Likewise, the art prize was awarded to Noormah Jamal for her painting Did the Seed Grow?, which explored the concept of honour and disgrace. This year, nine Hong Kong artists made the shortlist for the prize. This is the highest number of entries since its establishment in 1996. The prize aims to encourage research into different aspects of Hong Kong history, its relationships with China and the rest of Asia, as well as new theories and concepts in studying Hong Kong’s politics, society, and culture.
The hongkong prize is open to all Hong Kong citizens and residents aged 18 or over. All entries must be submitted by a local registered charity. In order to qualify, an entry must have been completed and published during the contest period from 1 July 2019 to 30 June 2023, and must be written in English. Applicants must also provide proof of their identity. The prizes are awarded to the best entries in each category, based on relevance to the contest theme, systematic use of collected materials, objectivity in analysis and citation of bibliography and footnotes. The judging panel includes scholars from the University of Hong Kong and a representative from the Society for Hong Kong Studies. In addition to a cash prize, the winners will be offered the opportunity to participate in the prize ceremony and a special interview session. The judges will select the top three entries for a face-to-face interview and a written report. The winning teams will receive a trophy and a certificate. The judges reserve the right to decide whether any of the entries should be declared as the winner. The prize will be paid out in two tranches, with the first being paid immediately after the selection process is complete.