Social empowerment initiatives usually target marginalized groups, including women, minorities, and economically disadvantaged individuals, so that they can break free from cycles of oppression and discrimination. By increasing an individual’s societal participation, they can have access to resources and the ability to make meaningful decisions that affect one’s life. It is the Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited’s pride and joy to enable this with its “Impactful Cultural Education Programme for Different Stakeholders of Society” project, which was also a winner of the Social Empowerment category. This recognition was given by the Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards 2024, organized by the leading regional NGO, Enterprise Asia.
Since 2021, Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited (BOCHK) has been supporting the Hong Kong Palace Museum (HKPM) for the launch of a host of arts and cultural activities, covering opening programs, cultural education, major exhibitions, music performances, and ticket subsidies. This initiative aims to offer cultural education and enrich the cultural life of different stakeholders. It also provides local artists with performance platforms and indirect employment opportunities, and at the same time promotes the development of arts and culture in Hong Kong, and supports the National 14th Five-Year Plan to develop Hong Kong into an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange.
The project was implemented through a comprehensive approach, including ticket sponsorship, volunteer activities, music performances, and special exhibitions. The smooth implementation of a series of arts and cultural activities was made possible by the staunch support of the HKPM, charitable organizations, and community partners. BOCHK also encourages its staff volunteers and their family members to give back to society and devote their free time to participate in volunteer activities that benefit the underprivileged and disadvantaged.
Since 2022, BOCHK has sponsored over 50,000 tickets for the underprivileged, offering people from all walks of life a chance to learn more about Chinese culture. Over 60 “HKPM SHOWTIME!” and “HKPM Showtime Carnival” music performances were organized for 23,000 audiences. These performances not only provided employment opportunities for local artists but also promoted diversity by providing a platform for people with and without disabilities to showcase their musical and artistic talents.
As the strategic partner of HKPM since 2022, BOCHK has shown its long-term commitment to this impactful cultural education program which supports a wide range of artistic and cultural collaborations. Going forward, the Bank will continue to offer support and organize various volunteer activities to bring the elderly, students, ethnic minorities, and people with disabilities to visit the museum.
About Enterprise Asia
Enterprise Asia is a non-governmental organization in pursuit of creating an Asia that is rich in entrepreneurship as an engine toward sustainable and progressive economic and social development within a world of economic equality. Its two pillars of existence are investment in people and responsible entrepreneurship. Enterprise Asia works with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to promote competitiveness and entrepreneurial development, uplifting the economic status of people across Asia and ensuring a legacy of hope, innovation, and courage for future generations. Please visit https://www.enterpriseasia.org/ for more information.
About Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA)
The Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards program recognizes and honors Asian businesses for championing sustainable and responsible entrepreneurship in the categories of Green Leadership, Investment in People, Health Promotion, Social Empowerment, Corporate Governance, Circular Economy Leadership, Corporate Sustainability Reporting, and Responsible Business Leadership. For more information, visit https://enterpriseasia.org/area/.