cq9�ټ���

Tell us about your background and role.

I’m the senior manager - growth and sales for the water sector, leading the expansion of our water portfolio across Asia. Throughout my career, I’ve managed a diverse range of water and infrastructure projects, including flood resilience studies, climate change adaptation, and infrastructure planning for large-scale developments across the region.

In this role, I bring extensive experience in leading and delivering multidisciplinary projects to address some of the world’s biggest water challenges. My focus is on connecting the dots and introducing our innovative, effective solutions to address issues throughout the water cycle.

So far, I’m thoroughly enjoying this challenge so far. I look forward to continuing to drive initiatives that will capture new opportunities in this dynamic region while delivering sustainable, lasting value for our clients, people and communities.

What excites you most about the future of infrastructure in Hong Kong?

Asia is experiencing rapid population growth rate and urbanization, all while grappling with a wide range of sustainability issues. In Hong Kong, decades of reliable infrastructure have provided a significant advantage to the city’s growth, supporting its economy and enhancing the quality of life for its people. However, climate change is introducing new challenges. 

I’ve witnessed two devastating major weather events in Hong Kong that highlight these challenges. In 2018, during Typhoon Mangkhut – I was impressed that restaurants near my home could operate under Typhoon Signal No.10, thanks to the uninterrupted Mass Transit Railway (MTR) services in my neighborhood. However, in 2023, during a black rainstorm, I found myself temporarily stranded in a hotel near the Shing Mun River due to flooding, which disrupted by travel plans.

These experiences underscore that we can no longer rely solely on traditional approaches to infrastructure. We need bold solutions that prioritize both robustness and resilience. Focusing solely on “resilience” by building larger stormwater tunnels and higher seawalls generates more greenhouse gas emissions, exacerbating climate change. To break this cycle, we must adopt a new mindset – one that prioritizes innovative less carbon-intensive solutions.

Looking ahead, I’m most excited about integrating robustness and resilience into Hong Kong’s infrastructure. With cq9�ټ���’ multidisciplinary capabilities and global experience, we’re supporting infrastructure development for Hong Kong’s growing population and across Asia. At the same time, we’re addressing the urgent need for decarbonization and climate resilience to create a sustainable future. This is not just about enhancing livability of our local communities, it’s advancing the global agenda to combat climate change.

What are the biggest infrastructure challenges in Hong Kong, and how can they be addressed to create a lasting positive impact for future generations.

In Hong Kong, one of the greatest challenges is balancing the demand for infrastructure and housing with the need to preserve the “common goods” that define our city – such as our country parks and the iconic Victoria Harbor.

Another pressing challenge is the need for a bold mindset shift from focusing solely on “robustness” to embracing “resilience,” This shift is essential to address new uncertainties, including super typhoons and pandemics. Resilience doesn’t mean compromising on reliability. It means preparing for the possibility of failure and implementing adaptive measures to enable rapid recovery from disasters.

Take urban floodings for example.  The solution isn’t just building larger detention tanks to handle increased rainfall; it’s about developing comprehensive strategies that include emergency protocols and community engagement programs to raise awareness. Given Hong Kong’s space constraints, we should consider multifunctional uses for detention areas, such as integrating greenery to create river parks when these spaces are not in use. 

Our ongoing work on Singapore’s Active, Beautiful, Clean (ABC) Waters Program is a great example of this approach. By replacing concrete drains with resilient, accessible, natural channels we’ve enhanced habitats, created public spaces for community enjoyment, improved water quality and increased fold protection.

To create lasting positive impacts, we must design resilient infrastructure solutions that, multifunctional benefits. These solutions should improve community resiliency and enhance urban environments both today and in the future.

That’s where our team comes in. From sustainable infrastructure and inclusive placemaking solutions, to advanced stormwater management and landslide mitigation strategies, we're proud to play a role in safeguarding Hong Kong’s future. By delivering innovative, resilient solutions that optimize land efficiency, protect communities and enhance quality of life, we’re helping build a better future for generations to come.

How are we addressing water infrastructure challenges in Asia?

Water infrastructure, a key enabler of economic activity, is often the unsung hero shaping cities! At cq9�ټ���, we understand its importance and take an integrated, collaborative approach to solving complex water challenges of today and tomorrow.

A critical element of building future-ready water infrastructure is adopting a full digital delivery across every stage of a project- from design to construction to asset management. This is a major focus area for us as we tackle some of Asia’s most pressing water challenges.

We actively promote the use of Building Information Modeling (BIM) and digital twin technology to enable seamless digital delivery of water projects. For example, we’re assisting the Water Supplies Department in Hong Kong to developing a digital twin for the Siu Ho Wan Water Treatment Works, which will enable smarter, greener operations. cq9�ټ���' extensive hands-on experience with water treatment facilities in the United States provides us with invaluable operational insights that sets us apart from other consultants. 

In Singapore, our work on the Tuas Water Reclamation Plant pioneered the full adoption of BIM during the tendering process. This approach eliminated the need, for 2D drawings and significantly improved efficiency.

What do you enjoy most about being part of our cq9�ټ���?

Despite being a huge organization, I’m constantly amazed at how connected everyone is. People collaborate seamlessly on projects and share their experiences, creating a supportive and enriching environment. I keep learning from everyone and absolutely enjoy it.

Outside of work, what do you enjoy doing?

I am a karate black belt and proud to have trained for over a decade. I also enjoy travelling and have visited more than 40 countries with the most recent being Lithuania.