CIBSE has signed a memorandum of understanding with Macau Institution of Engineers, strengthening collaboration with engineers in China and Hong Kong.
The agreement, which supports the advancement of building services engineers in the region, was signed by CIBSE President Elect David Cooper and CIBSE CEO Ruth Carter during a trip to China and Hong Kong in late 2025.
It marks an important step in fostering shared knowledge, professional development and deeper international engagement.
During the visit, the delegation – together with members of the CIBSE Hong Kong Region committee – participated in a series of meetings and knowledge-sharing activities with government bodies, industry leaders and engineering institutions.
Highlights included a visit to the Zhuhai Gree factory in Guangdong province, where delegates learned about Gree’s manufacturing processes and emerging technologies. In Hong Kong, CIBSE hosted a reception at the British Consulate, where discussions highlighted the Institution’s global initiatives, building performance and the role of innovation and sustainability.
The delegation met Chairman Zhou and senior representatives from the Department for Cooperation and Exchange at the Guangdong Provincial Association for Science and Technology, which represents engineers across Guangdong’s 70 million residents. The discussions focused on mutual recognition of members and reciprocal agreements to share best practice.
A meeting with the Architectural Services Department in Hong Kong explored global developments and challenges in building services. The group also met Alan Siu Yu Bun, CEO of the Property Management Services Authority, to discuss the evolving role of property and facilities management in delivering safe, sustainable, high-performing buildings.
At the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers (HKIE), the delegation met Ir Prof Frank Chan Fan, senior vice-president of HKIE. Discussions focused on addressing the skills gap, inspiring young people to pursue engineering careers and exploring the role of AI. A dedicated session with the CIBSE Hong Kong Young Engineers Network looked at career pathways and emerging technologies.
CIBSE leadership also met the Hong Kong Region Committee to hear updates on local initiatives, membership growth and developments in innovation. The delegation met the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department, where director Raymond Poon and deputy director PC Chan, alongside committee members, presented developments in energy efficiency and green technologies.
CIBSE leaders attended the CIBSE Hong Kong Joint Symposium 2025, which focused on wellbeing and decarbonisation in a smart, resilient and sustainable built environment.
Carter and Cooper visited Chongqing University’s Sustainability Department for the Built Environment and met senior faculty, including professors Baizhan Li, Runming Yao, Wei Yu, Yong Ding and Nan Li, and Dr Chenqiu Du and Dr Shiyu Han. It sparked a debate on CIBSE activity in China and supporting engineers locally.