For Immediate Release
The sound of bells ringing filled the air in Sai Wan this morning as the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce’s “Free Ride Day” officially got underway. The event was organised to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the HKSAR and the 156th anniversary of HKGCC.
HKGCC Chairman Stephen Ng, CEO Shirley Yuen, General Committee members and representatives from sponsoring companies officially kicked off the event this morning at the Hongkong Tramways Sai Wan depot.
“We welcome everyone in Hong Kong to join us in celebrating our 156th anniversary by enjoying free rides on the tram and Star Ferry today,” said Ng. “These two modes of transport are well loved by tourists and commuters alike for their historical charm and convenience. And, like HKGCC, the trams and Star Ferry have had a long tradition of contributing to our city’s growth and success by supporting the people and businesses of Hong Kong.”
This year’s event was based on the theme “Building a Prosperous Hong Kong with all Members of Society.” As with previous Free Ride Days organized by HKGCC, passengers enjoyed rides on all trams, as well as on the two Star Ferry routes running from Tsim Sha Tsui to Wan Chai and Central free of charge for the entire day on 29 November.
The HKGCC Chairman, CEO, members and staff mingled with the public and handed out souvenirs in Causeway Bay and on the Star Ferry between Central and Tsim Sha Tsui.
In addition to benefitting more than 300,000 passengers, the event showcased the business community’s support and commitment to building a prosperous Hong Kong.
“We are most grateful to the more than 100 HKGCC members, whose generosity made today’s event possible,” said Chamber CEO Shirley Yuen. “It shows the caring side of the business community in Hong Kong, and their commitment to giving back to the society while helping to drive the continued development of the city.”
Free Ride Day was conceived in 2011 to mark HKGCC’s 150th Anniversary. It was so well received that the Chamber, with the support of its members, decided to make it an annual event. To date, over 2 million people have benefitted from Free Ride Day.
As part of this year’s Free Ride Day, members of the public were given the opportunity to win prizes sponsored by Ctrip when they share their fond memories of riding the trams and ferries on HKGCC’s Facebook page.
Captions:
Photo 1: HKGCC Chairman Stephen Ng, Vice Chairman Leland Sun, CEO Shirley Yuen, General Committee members, and representatives from sponsoring companies officially kick off Free Ride Day at a ceremony in Sai Wan this morning.
Photo 2: Chamber Chairman Stephen Ng, Vice Chairman Leland Sun, CEO Shirley Yuen and General Committee members get ready to ride on the trams for Free Ride Day to mark the Chamber’s 156th Anniversary.
Photo 3: Chamber Chairman Stephen Ng and CEO Shirley Yuen greet passengers and hand out HKGCC souvenirs on board the Star Ferry.
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Media inquiries: Please contact Ms Milly Lo at 2823-1248 / [email protected]