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  • China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee | Cities | SIG Group Holding | China

    China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee is a specialised guidance institution jointly initiated in Hong Kong by representatives from leading national financial entities and central state-owned enterprises. Integrated into China’s regional development strategy, CNUCSC is committed to advancing Chinese-style urban modernisation through its full-chain service system covering policy research, financial support, industry implementation, and technology transfer. About SIG Locations Founder Locations Founder Business Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Goodness SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer Media Hub Connect Menu Close China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee Visit Website China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee is a specialised guidance institution jointly initiated in Hong Kong by representatives from leading national financial entities and central state-owned enterprises. Integrated into China’s regional development strategy, CNUCSC is committed to advancing Chinese-style urban modernisation through its full-chain service system covering policy research, financial support, industry implementation, and technology transfer. These integrated solutions empower local governments to achieve high-quality, sustainable urbanisation, positioning CNUCSC as a strategic partner in shaping China’s urban future. CNUCSC Vision Positioned at the forefront of national regional coordination strategy, CNUCSC is dedicated to advancing a distinct model of urban modernisation that reflects Chinese characteristics. We strive to create harmonious developments where nature and civilisation coexist, preserving cultural heritage while embracing modernity. Our vision is to establish sustainable, high-quality urban environments that serve as globally recognised benchmarks, ensuring urbanisation becomes a powerful engine enhancing national competitiveness and quality of life. Strategic Priorities CNUCSC has pioneered a comprehensive "policy-finance-industry-technology" service model. By leveraging strategic partnerships with central state-owned enterprises and international capital channels, we provide end-to-end solutions — from strategic planning to implementation — ensuring every project benefits from coordinated policy guidance, financial support, industry integration, and technological innovation. This holistic approach enables towns and cities to achieve qualitative, systemic progress in sustainable development. Core Initiatives We are spearheading a series of demonstrative urbanisation projects across China: the Yangtze River Economic Belt smart city cluster, integrating digital economy with traditional industries; low-carbon urban demonstrations in the Greater Bay Area, setting new standards for green infrastructure; and conservation-led development in ecologically sensitive western regions, establishing models for harmonious human-nature coexistence. Each initiative serves as a practical exemplar of Chinese modernisation. Impact and Outlook Over the years, our work has contributed to the upgrading of urban plans in multiple localities across the country. We have directed strategic capital investments of a significant scale into sustainable development, providing substantial impetus for urban transformation. This has enabled the development of a series of distinctive, dynamic modern towns. CNUCSC is actively shaping the direction of urbanisation in China, offering globally relevant insights and approaches toward a higher-quality, more sustainable developmental future.

  • Founder | SIG Group Holding | China

    Shelley Tsang, a 75th-generation descendant of Zengzi, is the visionary Chairman of SIG Group Holding, leveraging her heritage and global advocacy at major forums to integrate ESG principles into business and governance. She uniquely synthesizes ancestral wisdom with human-centric technology to build scalable models that generate lasting commercial value and profound societal impact, whilst honouring sustainable and ethical imperatives. About SIG Locations Founder Locations Founder Business Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Goodness SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer Media Hub Connect Menu Close Our Founder Shelley Tsang Visit Website Shelley Tsang, Chairman of SIG Group Holding, is a visionary leader whose forward-looking, global perspective is deeply informed by her heritage as a 75th-generation descendant of Confucian sage Zengzi. She has forged the company into a versatile and dynamic force across eight core sectors. More than a business leader, she is an active architect of global governance. Her voice is heard at major forums — including the Belt and Road Forum, the UN Global Compact, the Boao Forum for Asia, and the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) — where she is a consistent advocate for integrating ESG and SDGs into core strategy. Her initiatives are as diverse as they are impactful. She has established a think tank network dedicated to bridging cultural heritage and cutting-edge technology through pioneering projects like digital museums and AI art. In her role with China's New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee, she works to infuse urban development with sustainable and aesthetic principles. Further demonstrating her commitment to inclusive growth, she leads platforms dedicated to empowering ASEAN youth and advancing gender equality with systematic, scalable support. Shelley Tsang's distinctive capability lies in synthesising ancestral wisdom, international resources, and human-centric technology to create systematic, replicable models that deliver not only lasting commercial value but also profound, measurable societal impact. Please feel free to contact Shelley Tsang at: contacts@shelleytsang.com Copyright © 2026. Shelley Tsang. All Rights Reserved.

  • Southeast Asia Cultural Hub | Research | SIG Group Holding | China

    Founded by Shelley Tsang in 2019, who builds upon a century-old family legacy in Indonesia's modernised rice industry, the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub (SEACH) was established with a profound regional heritage and an expansive global vision. SEACH positions itself as a pivotal platform for civilizational dialogue, industrial innovation, and sustainable development in Southeast Asia. About SIG Locations Founder Locations Founder Business Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Goodness SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer Media Hub Connect Menu Close Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Visit Website Founded by Shelley Tsang in 2019, who builds upon a century-old family legacy in Indonesia's modernised rice industry, the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub (SEACH) was established with a profound regional heritage and an expansive global vision. SEACH positions itself as a pivotal platform for civilizational dialogue, industrial innovation, and sustainable development in Southeast Asia. We are dedicated to weaving together the diverse cultural threads of the region's ethnicities, religions, and geographies, and showcasing its cultural treasures to the world. Officially registered with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) Integrated Civil Society Organisations System (ID #709194) as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (INGO). SEACH Vision Building upon a century-old legacy in Southeast Asia's modernised rice industry, Shelley Tsang founded the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub (SEACH) in 2019 with a distinct regional perspective. SEACH was conceived on the principle that the region's profound cultural diversity — woven from its myriad ethnicities, religions, and geographies — is its greatest asset for future-facing civilisational dialogue and sustainable development. Our vision is to position Southeast Asia not merely as a subject of cultural appreciation but as a dynamic nexus for co-creating solutions to global challenges. We aim to harness this cultural capital to foster a new generation of leadership, strengthen regional cohesion, and build a prosperous, harmonious future rooted in a deep and shared heritage. Strategic Priorities SEACH operationalises its mission by integrating culture as a core component of regional progress, aligning with key ASEAN community goals. Our strategic framework is delivered through three interconnected priorities. First, we champion Cultural Continuity and Innovation, safeguarding intangible cultural heritage as a living resource for education and sustainable community development. Second, we focus on Leadership and Talent Development, creating high-level platforms for youth empowerment, skills integration, and STEM advancement to fuel inclusive economic growth. Third, we drive Policy and Ecosystem Development, facilitating multilateral dialogue and partnerships that translate cultural co-operation into tangible strategies for regional resilience and innovation. Core Initiatives SEACH translates strategic priorities into action through a suite of flagship initiatives designed for measurable impact. The China-ASEAN High-Level Youth Talent Exchange Platform, launched at a ministerial-level meeting, cultivates future leaders through educational empowerment. The Southeast Asia Cultural Innovation Accelerator incubates creative enterprises that merge traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design and technology. Concurrently, the ASEAN Living Heritage Digital Archive employs advanced technology to preserve and animate the region's collective memory, while the Future Southeast Asia Leaders Forum convenes influential figures to shape the regional agenda. Together, these programmes demonstrate culture as a dynamic driver for practical community development and economic empowerment. Global Reach and Impact From its inception, SEACH has established itself as a credible and effective actor in the Southeast Asian cultural landscape. Our impact is evidenced by our ability to convene partners at the highest levels, notably launching a major youth initiative alongside the education ministers of China and all ten ASEAN nations during the ASEAN Education Cooperation Week. In partnership with key bodies such as the China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee and with dedicated funding backing, we effectively bridge cultural imperatives with developmental agendas. Our reach, while strategically focused, generates significant ripple effects — empowering individuals, fostering institutional collaboration, and influencing policy dialogues to strengthen the cultural foundations for long-term regional prosperity and understanding. Southeast Asia Cultural Hub (SEACH) is an International Non-Governmental Organisation, officially registered with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System (ID #709194). Southeast Asia Cultural Hub benefits from the foundational support of SIG Group Holding and strategically partners with a consortium of philanthropies and institutional funders who share our long-term vision. As an organisation, the Hub maintains a position of strict neutrality on political and policy matters, ensuring an inclusive and open platform for all cultural voices. Copyright © 2019-2026. Southeast Asia Cultural Hub. All Rights Reserved. Please feel free to contact us at: contacts@seach.asia

  • Shelley Tsang | Founder of SIG Group Holding

    Shelley Tsang, a 75th-generation descendant of Zengzi, is the visionary Chairman of SIG Group Holding, leveraging her heritage and global advocacy at major forums to integrate ESG principles into business and governance. She uniquely synthesizes ancestral wisdom with human-centric technology to build scalable models that generate lasting commercial value and profound societal impact, whilst honouring sustainable and ethical imperatives. Shelley Tsang Building a legacy of passion, purpose, progress, innovation and cooperation. Honouring Heritage > Pioneering Shared Value > Shaping Governance > Connecting Minds > Bridging Cultures > Empowering Women > Forging Leadership Forging interdisciplinary, lifelong intellectual leadership Shelley Tsang's intellectual leadership is rooted in a cognitive dimension that transcends traditional disciplinary boundaries. She perceives the quintessential achievements of human civilisation — commercial rationality, scientific precision, artistic sensibility, and humanistic depth — not as isolated domains but as an integrated cognitive matrix. She is never content with superficial acquaintance; instead, she delves into their underlying principles, systematically internalising them to forge a unique wisdom for deconstructing complexity. This enables her to navigate seamlessly between disparate fields — geopolitics, business strategy, cultural heritage preservation — and pinpoint the core of global challenges. Her exceptional ability lies in reframing the logic of complex systems from their foundations, allowing innovation to flourish at the intersections of knowledge. This culminates in a higher-dimensional strategic intuition that yields solutions both visionary and actionable. Shelley Tsang's quest for knowledge began with a rare acuity of mind. At seventeen, her exceptional cognitive abilities earned her a place as one of the youngest members of Mensa — an early signpost on a relentless intellectual odyssey to expand the boundaries of her talent. She has systematically navigated diverse academic realms: from the University of Hong Kong, a beacon of Eastern and Western civilisation, to the case-study crucible of Harvard Business School, and the public policy heights of Oxford's Blavatnik School of Government. Her pursuits have ranged from the microscopic universe of gemmology at the Gemological Institute of America to the macroeconomic vistas of the global economy at the World Bank Group, and to the frontiers of life sciences at Harvard Medical School. Through this rigorous synthesis of study and practice, she has mastered and integrated the conceptual tools of the humanities, business, policy, and science, ultimately constructing a sophisticated, multi-dimensional framework for understanding the world. Shelley Tsang’s true distinction lies in her grasp of the underlying architecture connecting pluralistic knowledge—a profound insight rooted in humanistic and artistic cultivation. To her, the rational patterns of business data, the ordered lattice of gem crystals, the intricate counterpoint of a Bach fugue, and the narrative interplay of light in photography all obey a universal principle of order and harmony. Her long immersion in the nuances of keyboard music has cultivated a polyphonic intelligence and a refined sensitivity to complex systems. An epic Grand Tour across Eurasia, begun at age twenty, endowed her with a geologist’s eye for parsing historical strata and civilisational accumulation. From decoding the ecological patterns beneath the Siberian aurora and interpreting the belief-scapes along Wutai Mountain’s ridges, to systematically charting an urban civilisation genealogy drawn from travels through forty-plus countries, these years of deep fieldwork crystallised into a unique three-dimensional framework: Ecology, Heritage, and Urban Anthropology. This framework serves as her distinctive lens for interpreting civilisation and environment. Art gives her the warmth to perceive the world; science provides the tools to analyse it; and global, on-the-ground practice accumulates irreplaceable local insight. The fusion of these three forges her ability to penetrate appearances and grasp essential truths. Shelley Tsang embodies the very essence of intellectual leadership, which transcends mere knowledge accumulation. It is the ability to weave insights from disparate domains into strategic foresight. Rooted in a pluralistic understanding of our time, this foresight allows her interdisciplinary thinking to blossom into tangible solutions — the flowers and fruits that address real-world challenges. In an age where artificial intelligence attempts to deconstruct everything, she instead affirms the breadth and depth of human intelligence—that unique spark of connection, empathy, and integration. Shelley Tsang stands as a testament to the fact that genuine lifelong learning is the synchronous advancement of intellect, aesthetics, and action, ultimately refined into a more complete individual, one capable of responding to the most profound questions posed by our complex world. Contributing to global governance and advancing national strategic priorities Shelley Tsang's engagement with global governance commenced at the inaugural Belt and Road Forum for International Cooperation in Beijing in May 2017. By participating in this landmark gathering—which convened representatives from over 140 countries, including 29 heads of state—she effectively entered the world stage, elevating her role to that of a contributor to international governance structures. Her engagement deepened the following year. In September 2018, she represented Chinese business at the United Nations (UN) Global Compact Leaders Summit and the UN Private Sector Forum, convened by UN Secretary-General António Guterres. There, she engaged in closed-door consultations with heads of state and senior UN officials on issues of business and peace. That same year, coinciding with the 45th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Spain, Tsang launched the "Spain-China Cooperation Initiative," officially kickstarting the program alongside Spanish Ambassador to China Alberto Carnero at the Ambassador's residence in Beijing, a move that significantly fostered bilateral ties. In September 2020, on the historic occasion of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, Shelley Tsang, representing SIG Group Holding, signed the Statement by Business Leaders for Renewed Global Cooperation, an initiative of the UN Global Compact. The statement consolidated the consensus of over 1,200 business leaders from more than 100 countries, demonstrating the international business community's firm support for the UN and inclusive multilateralism, and was formally presented to the UN Secretary-General as a key document at the UN Private Sector Forum. Within this global initiative, Shelley Tsang stood among the representatives from only approximately 30 Chinese enterprises worldwide — a clear testament to her profound strategic foresight. Signing this statement signified a strategic elevation of her advocacy, marking a transition from focusing on corporate sustainability to actively engaging in and helping to shape the global governance architecture, thereby fully demonstrating the global vision and leadership stature she commands as a business leader. Her role expanded significantly in December 2021 upon her appointment as Vice Director and Secretary-General for the Greater Bay Area and Global Operations of the China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee. This committee—jointly initiated by national-level financial institutions and key state-owned enterprises, and legally established with the approval of the Hong Kong SAR Government—is dedicated to advancing regional coordinated development. It is tasked with building a full-cycle solution system that spans policy research, financial support, industry introduction, and technology commercialisation. A key innovation is its dual-hub operational mechanism: a Beijing hub focused on alignment with central government policies and local implementation, and a Hong Kong hub that leverages its status as a global financial centre for cross-border capital and resource coordination. This appointment establishes Tsang at the pivotal nexus connecting national top-level planning with market practice. It demonstrates her capability to be instrumental in translating macroscopic blueprints into tangible momentum, thereby constructing a strategic platform for global partners to facilitate their deep immersion in China's future development trajectory. By October 2023, her focus had evolved from participation to contribution. By a special invitation of the UN Global Compact, Tsang attended the high-level meeting "Sustainable Infrastructure for the Belt and Road Initiative" in Beijing, witnessing the launch of five key outcomes, including the first-ever UN online knowledge hub for corporate practices related to the Belt and Road and the SDGs. UN Assistant Secretary-General Sanda Ojiambo emphasised that the Belt and Road Initiatives, through over 3,000 projects and nearly one trillion USD in investment over a decade, had become a global cooperation paradigm. From this new starting point, Tsang's focus evolved strategically from participating in global initiatives to contributing Chinese solutions. She began systematically collaborating with domestic and international think tanks to integrate Chinese development experiences, such as rural revitalisation and cultural heritage protection, into localised ESG indicator systems for promotion through UN platforms. This transition was further evidenced in March 2025 at the Boao Forum for Asia Partners Conference, which highlighted the evolving role of Chinese leaders as co-architects of international norms. The event gathered approximately 500 government officials, global industry leaders, and key members of international organisations to explore sustainable development paths for various industries, closely aligning with the opening goals of the Hainan Free Trade Port in the year of its customs closure. This engagement underscored the transition of leading Chinese enterprises from respondents to international rules to co-architects of global governance, reinforcing Boao's value as an international platform and its role in fostering Asia-Pacific economic cooperation. In September 2025, upon the personal invitation of International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) Chairman Philippe Varin, Tsang participated in a high-level meeting focused on COP30, engaging in an in-depth dialogue with Laurent Fabius, former French Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, and a key architect of the Paris Agreement. The ICC, encompassing 45 million businesses in 130 countries, is the world's largest and most representative business organisation. This exclusive meeting, limited to around 150 key global decision-makers, reflected the ICC's high recognition of Tsang's achievements in integrating global business with climate action. Standing at the historical juncture of the 80th anniversary of the United Nations in 2025, and guided by the philosophy of "walking with the wise, dancing with the rules," Shelley Tsang's journey exemplifies the permeation of global governance concepts into practical action. Her practice clearly outlines an ascending trajectory from participating in global governance to contributing public goods, serving as a microcosm of the evolution from commercial success to social value creation, and ultimately to becoming a proposer and leader in global governance initiatives. In an uncertain world, the pragmatic integration of Chinese wisdom and cooperative action embodied by Tsang continues to inject stable and potent Eastern energy into improving global governance and advancing the building of a community with a shared future for humanity. A distinguished heritage continues to nourish the contemporary vision Shelley Tsang is a 75th-generation descendant of the renowned Confucian sage Zengzi, hailing from the prestigious Quanzhou Longshan Zeng Clan of Fujian Province. This Clan was a distinguished lineage particularly prominent during the Tang and Song dynasties, achieving an exceptional political milestone in the Song Dynasty known as "four chief ministers from one family" (Zeng Gongliang, Zeng Xiaokuan, Zeng Huai, Zeng Conglong), earning the contemporary accolade of "the Zengs comprising half the court." The Clan’s scholarly achievements were equally extraordinary, yielding twenty-seven jinshi (imperial examination graduates) during the Song Dynasty, including top-ranked scholars. This profound heritage, exemplified by works such as Zeng Gongliang's Wujing Zongyao (Complete Essentials for the Military Classics) and grounded in the Confucian ideal of "cultivating oneself, regulating the family, governing the state, and bringing peace to all under heaven," formed the enduring ethos that has sustained the clan's legacy for a millennium. Born in Hong Kong, Shelley Tsang spent her formative years in a traditional courtyard residence nestled south of Zhongnanhai in Beijing. More than a childhood home, it served as a unique portal during an era of opening up. In the early years of China's Open Door Policy period during the 1980s, it was entrusted by the State Council to host over 3,000 international guests, becoming a vibrant cultural salon connecting China with the world. Her family life was also featured in a documentary broadcast in Europe, offering international audiences a window into the blend of traditional and modern Chinese life. This exceptional environment, combined with her family's deep engagement in global business, government, military, and academic spheres, provided the foundation for her own broad strategic perspective and robust international network. In 2019, a family elder was honoured with the Commemorative Medal for the 70th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China, issued jointly by the CPC Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, in recognition of their contributions and unwavering commitment. Shelley Tsang carries this millennial legacy forward as what she terms a boundary-crossing builder, a weaver of influence, and an architect of the future. For her, the essence of heritage is innovation, not mere preservation; the vitality of resources lies in their circulation, not just possession. She defines true leadership as being a value-enhancer and key enabler, dedicated to pioneering, transdisciplinary innovation. Her deepest satisfaction comes from catalysing tangible change through hands-on creation and integration: helping entrepreneurs build social innovation paradigms, paving the way for sustainable careers for youth, supporting scientists tackling global challenges, and empowering artists to foster civilisational dialogue. For partners committed to building enduring enterprises, she strives to be their ideal long-termist partner. Leveraging a profound understanding of historical cycles, she works with them to identify and invest in assets capable of transcending time and being passed on to future generations. Fostering a multi-dimensional ecosystem for international think tank networks Through founding and systematically integrating four international institutions—the Gaudí Research Centre, the International Castles and Palaces Society, the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub, and UNU - Zero Emissions Research & Initiatives (China) — Shelley Tsang has established a distinctive think tank ecosystem with cultural heritage preservation and sustainable development at its core. This ecosystem operates throughout the entire "policy-industry-academia-research-application" value chain, driving deep integration between academic research, education, and innovative practice to form a unique, multi-dimensional intellectual network. The Gaudí Research Centre, founded by Shelley Tsang, evolved from the Gaudí Asia-Pacific Institute (established in 2016) and was restructured in 2023. It is dedicated to promoting the design philosophy and cultural legacy of architectural master Antoni Gaudí worldwide. Key initiatives include co-organising the 2nd Gaudí World Congress (Shanghai, 2016) to foster Sino-Western architectural dialogue; participating in the revitalisation of ancient Yellow River villages in Shandong (2017), promoting ecological and cultural synergy across 120,000 km²; and contributing to the 2nd China National Conference on Historic Villages to advance the integration of traditional settlements with modern civilisation. In 2018, she co-established China’s first Gaudí-themed leisure park within Chengdu’s urban greenway, integrating his architectural wisdom into public space to create an inclusive cultural landmark that demonstrates how cultural heritage enriches contemporary life. Shelley Tsang's journey as a guardian of culture began in the shadow of the vermilion walls of the Forbidden City, where ancient bricks and tiles whispered their stories of six hundred seasons, planting the seeds of civilisation deep within her. Her childhood was spent in a historic courtyard residence—more than a home, it was a vibrant cultural salon of 1980s China, opening its doors to the world. The longevity cranes on the spirit wall and the family mottos carved into wooden plaques were her first tutors in architecture, humanity, and purpose. In 2017, this profound sense of stewardship led her to found the International Castles and Palaces Society. Through it, she fosters a dialogue between Eastern wisdom and global heritage, enabling the roof tiles of the Forbidden City to converse with the golden domes of Versailles, and illuminating the path to preserving European castles with the harmonious principles of the Siheyuan courtyard. Building upon her family’s century-old legacy in the modernised rice industry in Indonesia, Shelley Tsang expanded her vision to encompass Southeast Asia, viewing the region as a vital source of inspiration for civilisational dialogue, industrial innovation, and sustainable development. In 2019, she founded the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub, dedicated to weaving together the diverse cultural threads of the region’s ethnicities, religions, and geographies, and showcasing the region’s cultural treasures to the world. In August 2023, during the China-ASEAN Education Cooperation Week, she launched the China-ASEAN High-Level Youth Talent Exchange Platform on the sidelines of the ministerial-level meeting between China's Minister of Education Huai Jinpeng and his counterparts, the ministers of education from the ten ASEAN countries. In partnership with the China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee and supported by a dedicated fund of RMB 200 million, the platform promotes educational empowerment, skills integration, and STEM initiatives for women, cultivating a new generation of Southeast Asian youth to become leaders in regional development. Since 2020, Shelley Tsang has been an active member of the UNU Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) network, founding its China chapter. She collaborates with Professor Gunter Pauli, founder of ZERI, often called the "Steve Jobs of sustainability," to systematically advance the Blue Economy philosophy and practice throughout China. Inspired by the foresight of Dr Aurelio Peccei, founder of the Club of Rome, and his seminal work The Limits to Growth, Tsang has built an integrated "government-industry-academia-research-application" model. This framework effectively consolidates top-tier national resources to create a seamless pathway from innovation to industrial application. In a significant milestone, she was awarded a special "Glacier Protection Certificate" by twelve international organisations—including UNESCO and the World Meteorological Organisation—on World Water Day in March 2025. The award recognises her leadership in integrating innovative environmental technologies to protect the vital resources that sustain 3.7 billion people, cementing her role as a critical driver of global sustainable development. Through her role in spearheading four international institutions, Shelley Tsang has cultivated a unique and distinctive, multi-dimensional global think tank ecosystem. These institutions receive strong support from China's Ministry of Education and engage in deep collaboration with its High-Level International Talent Cultivation and Innovation Programme, forming an intellectual resource network covering nearly 400 universities worldwide and benefiting 450,000 faculty and students, all dedicated to nurturing future leaders with global competence. Over the past three years, Tsang has successfully facilitated practical internships within the United Nations system for more than 500 Chinese youth. Through hands-on experience gained at international conferences and field research, these individuals continue to strengthen their capabilities while collectively enhancing global collaborative networks. These concrete achievements vividly demonstrate a distinctive Chinese approach to participating in global governance — one that forges civilisational consensus through cultural heritage, drives sustainable progress through technological innovation, and, guided by the principle of unifying knowledge and action, contributes Eastern wisdom toward building a community with a shared future for humanity. Championing innovative cultural dialogue and cross-sector collaboration Shelley Tsang operates as a curator of civilisation with a future-oriented vision. She astutely draws from the treasure trove of human heritage, masterfully integrating Eastern wisdom with Western inspiration and juxtaposing ancient legacy with cutting-edge technology. Under her guidance, cultural exchange transcends formalism to become a solid bridge for genuine international understanding and trust. She curates not a transient exhibition but a sustainable and inspiring new mode of civilisational coexistence, built through an innovative perspective. Tsang's actions embody a core principle: the essence of cultural interaction is never a one-way display but rather a process of mutual enlightenment and co-creation. She demonstrates that meaningful cultural exchange achieves spiritual resonance, showcases historical treasures, and, crucially, facilitates sophisticated dialogue on global challenges that galvanise sincere collective effort and profound empathy for the future. Shelley Tsang's journey as a practitioner of civilisational dialogue began with fifteen years of dedicated intellectual cultivation. Starting in 2009, serving as a Translator and Language Coordinator for TED, she systematically translated global frontier ideas for Chinese audiences and worked to build a common context and standards for cross-cultural narratives. This role constituted far more than linguistic translation; it was a profound, long-term apprenticeship in the craft of narrative and consensus-building. The disciplined process of capturing a speaker's spark and conveying its essence across linguistic boundaries honed her ability to transform complex concepts into compelling expressions that catalyse cross-cultural collaboration. This foundational experience instilled in her a keen intuition for effective storytelling, which became the bedrock for her later work: orchestrating high-level academic forums, creating the world's first Gaudí Digital Museum, and advancing cultural dialogue on UN platforms. In essence, Tsang's cross-disciplinary practice is rooted in building bridges for ideas. In 2012, Shelley Tsang founded SIGNATURE Fine Arts in Beijing's Central Government District on West Chang'an Avenue. Her early influence was marked by an invitation from the Ministry of Culture's Art Market Department to participate in closed-door discussions during the drafting phase of the Art Market Management Regulations, demonstrating her foresight regarding industry standards. Under Tsang's leadership, SIGNATURE Fine Arts transcended the traditional gallery exhibition model, curating high-quality art projects distinguished by academic depth and an international perspective. This approach earned it a place in the prestigious Beijing Gallery Week and a recommendation in the Beijing Gallery Map, steadily building its cross-disciplinary influence. Consequently, SIGNATURE Fine Arts became a cultural hub that stimulated intellectual discourse and catalysed collaboration, forming an innovative network spanning art, design, technology, and heritage preservation. This phase of practice laid a solid foundation for her later development of grander platforms for civilisational dialogue. In 2013, SIGNATURE Fine Arts co-organised a large-scale Paris Mid-Autumn Festival event with the government of the 13th Arrondissement of Paris. The event received extensive coverage from China Central Television (CCTV) and major Parisian media, showcasing the organisation's international event-planning capabilities. The year 2014, marking the 50th anniversary of Sino-French diplomatic relations, provided a strategic platform for Shelley Tsang to deepen her practice of international cultural diplomacy. In France, she orchestrated a high-level academic symposium on Chinese culture at the world-renowned Sciences Po, often called the 'cradle of presidents'. This event was the university's first of its kind. She further hosted prestigious cultural exchanges at Paris's Musée Cernuschi—one of Europe's top five Asian art museums—and at the official China Cultural Centre, which garnered feature coverage from China's State Council Information Office. In a corresponding effort in China, she assisted the National Museum of China in securing sponsorship for the prestigious French national treasure exhibition, while also sponsoring academic exchanges at Tsinghua University featuring Vanessa Badre, an art historian and the wife of the former Chief Financial Officer of the World Bank Group. This series of high-level, cross-sector initiatives rapidly forged a robust international network spanning elite academia, major museums, and high-value resources, decisively establishing Tsang's role as a pivotal force in international cultural exchange. Shelley Tsang's transdisciplinary practice transcends geographical boundaries to systematically dismantle the traditional barriers between art and technology. In 2018, she spearheaded the creation of the world's first Gaudí Digital Museum in partnership with tech giant Baidu, using digital innovation to reinterpret UNESCO World Heritage architecture. As the first large-scale digitalisation project focusing on Catholic cultural heritage in the People's Republic of China, Tsang formally presented it to the Vatican in a tribute to His Holiness Pope Francis. The project achieved a dual breakthrough: it reached over two billion Chinese users, gained official recognition from the Holy See, received endorsements from Spain's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Culture and Tourism, and was featured by CCTV and People's Daily, thereby solidifying its impact in both international cultural dialogue and domestic mainstream communication. In 2019, Shelley Tsang launched the groundbreaking AI art project, Walking with the Masters. Supported by core AI technologies from Baidu Brain and integrated with mobile devices like the Baidu WiFi Translator, the project fostered a deep dialogue between art and algorithm. It created an immersive, on-site experience: while visiting architectural sites, participants could engage in real-time conversations with an AI to analyse the master's creative thinking, accompanied by voice reconstruction technology that delivered interpretations in the master's own tone, facilitating a profound dialogue across time. Officially unveiled at Baidu World Congress, the project's promotional video amassed over 13 million views within 24 hours, sparking more than 20,000 online discussions. Xinhua News Agency featured it as an "exemplary model of technology and humanities integration," affirming its significant social resonance and national-level impact while demonstrating the boundless possibilities of transdisciplinary fusion between art and technology. In 2020, as a Strategic Advisor to Baidu Baike Digital Museum, Shelley Tsang pioneered an innovative upgrade in cultural dissemination by co-creating the live-streaming series Civilisation on the Move. The inaugural season, broadcast from Barcelona, Spain, offered real-time virtual tours of UNESCO World Heritage sites like Casa Vicens and the Barcelona Wax Museum. The two episodes attracted a cumulative viewership of nearly 1.5 million, using technology to break temporal and spatial constraints and realise a "cloud-based pilgrimage" to cultural sites. This practice of leveraging technology for public accessibility embodies Tsang's innovative approach to advancing the mission of the International Council of Museums (ICOM), concretely supporting the evolution of museums from institutions of collection to platforms for public education and cross-cultural dialogue. The project was highly acclaimed as another significant practice in digital heritage dissemination by Tsang and her team, fulfilling her pledge to "bring world culture to Chinese audiences." By inspiring deeper public reflection on civilisational diversity and humanistic values in an intuitive and vivid manner, it further broadened and deepened the scope of cultural dialogue in the digital age. As a globally recognised collector grounded in Eastern cultural heritage and international vision, Shelley Tsang has established a comprehensive ecosystem spanning high-end acquisitions, academic exchange, and pivotal market influence. As an Art Basel VIP, she maintains deep collaborations with over fifty leading international blue-chip and pioneering galleries. She is not only active at the academic forefront of institutions that shape art history, such as the Venice Biennale and Documenta in Kassel, but also deeply engaged with core platforms that drive the global art market, including the Art Basel fairs (Basel, Miami Beach, Hong Kong, Paris), The European Fine Art Fair (TEFAF), and Frieze art fairs, continuously strengthening her international influence. In a landmark 2020 initiative, she curated Literati Elegance: An Exhibition of Chinese Intangible Cultural Heritage at the UNESCO World Heritage site, Casa Batlló. This pioneering curatorial practice employed her personal collection of Oriental artefacts as the central narrative language within the framework of Western architecture, thereby forging an entirely new form of civilisational dialogue. The exhibition achieved a remarkable 800 million global impressions, establishing itself as a major milestone in East-West cultural exchange and powerfully demonstrating the contemporary vitality of Chinese intangible cultural heritage within a global framework. In 2023, Shelley Tsang spearheaded the establishment of the Public Art Advisory Committee under the China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee. The committee operates on an innovative tripartite framework—Aesthetic Infrastructure, Industrial Linkage, and Ecological Symbiosis—designed to systematically integrate aesthetic principles into the highest level of urban planning. Composed of leading experts in urban design, artistic creation, and sustainable development, its mission is to transform public art from isolated decorative elements into a holistic cultural ecosystem. Through concrete initiatives, including formulating the Public Art Guidelines for Urbanisation, implementing demonstration projects, and establishing cross-departmental collaboration mechanisms, the committee has achieved tangible success in multiple pilot cities. These successes encompass the revitalisation of cultural districts, the adaptive reuse of industrial heritage, and the reshaping of ecological landscapes. This approach demonstrates a replicable model for synergistic enhancement of social, cultural, and environmental value, providing an innovative paradigm for new urbanisation with Chinese characteristics. Building upon this foundation, Shelley Tsang has expanded her cultural practice into the realm of film and content creation. In 2025, seizing the strategic opportunity of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez's visit to China and the signing of the Sino-Spanish Film Co-production Memorandum, she spearheaded the establishment of a China-Spain joint film studio in the Yangtze River Delta region. By introducing virtual production technology, the studio precisely targets the global 500 million-strong Spanish-speaking market. At the same time, Tsang actively explored new frontiers in Nigeria's Nollywood film industry, obtaining specially approved tax incentives from the presidency to pioneer a new model for the international production of authentic African stories. At the strategic core of these efforts, she led the launch of the Silk Road of Light animated series. Using the contemporary Belt and Road framework as its narrative foundation, the project employs the language of animation to tell modern stories of civilisational exchange along the route. It merges Chinese animation aesthetics with international storytelling, leveraging technology to empower creation and build a cultural IP with a global vision. This series of strategic moves signifies that Tsang's practice of driving industrial innovation through the dual engines of "Culture + Technology" has now reached the very source of content creation, building a new ecosystem for mutual learning through cinematic arts. Through her sustained and multifaceted engagement worldwide, Shelley Tsang has pioneered a forward-looking model of civilisational dialogue. By creating innovative practices that bridge diverse cultural contexts, she has established a multi-tiered exchange framework spanning heritage conservation, digital art innovation, and global youth empowerment — forging tangible pathways to mutual understanding. Looking ahead, Shelley Tsang will continue to pioneer new frontiers such as artificial intelligence and the metaverse, expanding the scope and depth of dialogue. She aims to ensure that high-level civilisational exchange creates profound and sustainable resonance across societies. Driving transformative change in women's empowerment and global philanthropy In addressing the complex challenges of global governance and sustainable development, Shelley Tsang has carved a distinct leadership path that blends deep humanistic insight with institutional resilience. She has long been dedicated to philanthropy and women's empowerment, guided by the conviction that true empowerment lies not in disconnected acts of giving but in building self-sustaining mechanisms that allow individual potential to coalesce into a constellation of progress, illuminating the path of our times. To systematically advance corporate social responsibility, Shelley Tsang founded SIG Goodness, a strategic initiative designed to consolidate philanthropic resources, galvanise collective action for good, and lead by example in charitable practices. The platform focuses on three core pillars: 1) Sustainable Development for Abundance and Peace — fostering resilient and inclusive growth while building equitable development mechanisms; 2) Global Understanding and Cultural Diversity — actively facilitating international cultural exchanges and civilisational dialogue, using cultural action to promote pluralism and convey positive influence; and 3) Entrepreneurship for the Common Good — integrating ESG principles into corporate practice and advocating for responsible capital directed toward human welfare. Beginning in 2019, Shelley Tsang served for two consecutive years as a Goodwill Ambassador for the UN-registered Arts and Culture Without Borders Foundation. Far more than an honorary role, this appointment marked the start of an in-depth, global philanthropic collaboration. Alongside members of royal families from France, Spain, Ethiopia, Libya, Sikkim, Kuwait, and Pakistan, she channelled culture and the arts into a force for social good, co-leading transnational initiatives such as the SOS Beirut Charity Art Auction and the Global Children and Youth Painting and Photography Competition. These efforts demonstrated art and culture's unique, gentle power to heal wounds and inspire hearts across all boundaries. In 2020, Shelley Tsang signed and comprehensively implemented the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs)—established by UN Women and the UN Global Compact—integrating them deeply into her corporate strategy and performance metrics. In 2022, representing SIG Group Holding, she participated in the UN Global Compact’s Target Gender Equality Accelerator program. After completing systematic training within the United Nations system, she attended the closing ceremony alongside senior representatives from over fifty leading Chinese enterprises, including JD.com , Lenovo Group, Yili Group, Mengniu Group, China Mobile, Sungrow Power Supply, and Jinko Solar. The ceremony was presided over by Liu Meng, Head of Asia and Pacific Networks at the UN Global Compact, with a keynote address by Siddharth Chatterjee, the United Nations Resident Coordinator in China. This high-level engagement not only demonstrated SIG Group Holding’s substantive commitment to ESG and gender equality but also marked its emergence as a pioneer in the field of corporate social responsibility and sustainable development in China, showcasing a governance capability to translate global standards into a localised strategy. Since then, Tsang has become a key advocate for gender equality objectives, continuously deepening her engagement by participating in high-level dialogues at the UN Compound in Beijing. She actively advances initiatives such as Companies Building Family-friendly Workplaces and Inclusive Culture with Male Allyship: A Guide and Good Practices for Businesses in China, Japan, and Korea, dedicated to precisely integrating WEPs into East Asian business practices to drive systemic change from within corporations. A defining milestone was reached in 2023 when SIG Group Holding, at the invitation of UN Women, completed an assessment using the WEPs Gender Gap Analysis Tool. Ranked among the top 3% of approximately 7,000 participating companies globally, it earned the Leader status — establishing a benchmark for industry best practice in gender equality. That same year, Tsang was invited by UN Women to represent Asian businesses at the Asia-Pacific regional dialogue of the Action Coalition on Economic Justice and Rights, a core component of the Generation Equality Forum. The dialogue convened leaders from governments, the private sector, and civil society to advance ambitious action agendas focused on four key areas: transforming the care economy, expanding decent work, enhancing women's access to resources, and building gender-equal economic systems. In recognition of this sustained pioneering work and strategic insight, Shelley Tsang was awarded the inaugural WEPs Transparency Badge in 2025, cementing SIG Group Holding's recognition for its outstanding leadership in empowering women and driving institutional change. Capitalising on her dual perspective as an entrepreneur and scholar, Shelley Tsang has deepened the philosophy of the UN Sustainable Development Goals into a practical pathway characterised by systemic empowerment over singular aid. This approach is concretely manifested in a two-pronged strategy focusing on Technological Empowerment and Cultural Empowerment. In the fields of SDG 4 (Quality Education) and SDG 5 (Gender Equality), she launched a Women in STEM initiative under the China-ASEAN High-Level Youth Talent Exchange Platform, operated by the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub. Supported by a dedicated fund, the initiative cultivates female leadership in the technology sector across Southeast Asia. Concurrently, she established the Salon of Elegance: International Women Successors Alliance for Intangible Cultural Heritage. This initiative transforms traditional crafts into marketable skills, creating a development model that integrates cultural preservation with economic self-reliance for women in remote regions worldwide. While advancing gender equality in academia and culture, Tsang personally embodies the spirit of lifelong learning. In January 2025, she completed all courses of the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Women program, connecting with a global network of 2,000 female decision-makers and receiving the Community Leadership Badge, thereby continuously strengthening her international resource ecosystem. The year 2025, marking the 80th anniversary of the United Nations and the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action, represented a historic confluence and a pivotal juncture for the global gender equality agenda. As a steadfast advocate in this field, Shelley Tsang was invited to participate in a special side event during the 69th session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW69), organised by UN Women. There, she engaged with government representatives from Bolivia and Sweden, along with global partners, to deliberate on multilateral cooperation mechanisms for implementing the Beijing Platform for Action. That same year, in September, the UN General Assembly High-Level Meeting convened under the theme of accelerating the implementation of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action. The meeting brought together representatives from over 170 countries, acknowledged progress in women's advancement in China, and saw the China-led "Beijing+30" resolution receive co-sponsorship from more than 110 nations, demonstrating a broad international consensus on gender equality. Through SIG Goodness, Shelley Tsang embodies a methodology for translating global commitments into sustained, concrete action by integrating equality into corporate strategy and leading cross-cultural dialogues. Her practice offers a forward-looking model by replacing fragmented aid with systemic empowerment and building consensus through cross-sector collaboration. She posits that authentic international philanthropy constitutes a strategic investment — one that transcends mere moral advocacy to strengthen organisational resilience and drive continuous innovation. This approach delivers measurable, optimisable solutions that create tangible value, providing a substantive response to the era's defining challenge of moving from pledge to practice. Pioneering the harmonious integration of commercial success and social value Shelley Tsang is the Founder and Chairman of SIG Group Holdings, where she has built upon her family's legacy to drive strategic integration and resource optimisation. Under her leadership, the group has developed an innovative, efficient, and sustainable long-term development model. With an adaptive and forward-looking approach, she steers the company through contemporary challenges while methodically expanding its global footprint. Underpinning this growth is a core strategy of "Collaborative Innovation between Government, Enterprise, Academia, and Community." Through continuous integration and upgrading, SIG has established eight synergistic business matrices that span entire industrial chains. Tsang's focus extends beyond management to deeply embedding ESG principles into the corporate framework. She actively champions sustainable development, fosters international understanding and cultural diversity, and promotes an entrepreneurial spirit dedicated to the common good. She is committed to aligning the UN Sustainable Development Goals with the Belt and Road Initiative, working with global partners to create win-win models that deliver both commercial success and lasting social value. SIG Group Holding’s Eight Business Matrices: SIG Cities: We are committed to developing sustainable cities that organically integrate ecological conservation with cultural heritage. Leveraging cutting-edge green technologies and cultural-artistic placemaking, we create vibrant, modern communities with a strong sense of belonging. Through our partnership with China's New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee and the Beijing-Hong Kong dual-hub mechanism, we provide comprehensive solutions—from policymaking and technical implementation to financing—for provincial, municipal, county, and township governments. Our goal is to build resilient physical assets that preserve long-term value for sustained capital growth. SIG Investment: Operating through a dedicated single-family office structure, we leverage strategic capital agility and deep resource synergies to identify and execute on high-conviction, value-accretive opportunities across global markets. Our methodology constructs portfolios that are both cyclically resilient and structurally aligned with long-term macro trends. With a concentrated yet diversified focus on key regions, we aim not merely for returns but for the construction of a robust, intergenerational wealth architecture that preserves capital, generates sustainable growth, and transcends market volatilities through disciplined, patient stewardship. SIG Energy: Building on the family’s legacy in the energy sector dating back to the 1940s, we have transformed into a pioneer in clean energy. We collaborate with university laboratories to advance core technologies and build differentiated advantages through strategic patenting. Our efforts in hydrogen, solar, and other zero-carbon energy sources are creating emission-free ecosystems, while we continue to enhance environmental solutions in rare-earth development and mining governance. We are committed to building an integrated clean energy chain from source to application, providing reliable, sustainable energy infrastructure and serving as a key operational platform connecting global green capital and technology. SIG Innovation: Building upon a family legacy of technological innovation that spans from vertical take-off and landing aircraft in 1934 to modernised rice mills in Indonesia, SIG has consistently anchored its vision in the future. We maintain a deep strategic focus on core fields including smart cities, artificial intelligence, the space economy, and cis-lunar infrastructure, while proactively exploring new frontiers such as the metaverse, biotechnology, and green energy. Our mission is to build integrated value chains from research and development to industrial application. We provide an ecosystem that combines large-scale real-world testing with full commercial deployment, designed to catalyse exponential growth for breakthrough technologies. SIG Lifestyles: We are dedicated to building a vibrant multicultural ecosystem across nine domains: art curation, museum management, cultural heritage conservation, haute joaillerie, music production, film and television investment, sports and leisure, boutique travel, and publishing. By integrating resources and fostering cross-sector collaboration, we have established an end-to-end platform spanning creative development, production, and experiential engagement. This platform not only enhances our brand’s soft power and builds consensus within influential circles but also cultivates a cultural force that serves as a universal language for global civilisational dialogue — an essential anchor for stability in a rapidly changing world. SIG Circulation: As a fully certified, multi-category supplier on the United Nations Global Marketplace with direct access to the procurement databases of 28 UN agencies, we work in close synergy with world-class industrial clusters spanning high-end equipment manufacturing in the Yangtze River Delta, consumer electronics in the Pearl River Delta, and engineering machinery in Central and Western China. We have built an integrated supply chain network spanning Asia, Europe, and Africa, effectively linking bulk commodity trading with e-commerce to empower high-value "Created in China" products in reaching global markets. SIG Research: We have built a dynamic think tank ecosystem that brings together internal and external intellectual resources. We operate four dedicated internal research institutes focusing on policy, economics, culture and science. Externally, we have established four international organisations, including Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (China), Gaudí Research Centre, International Castles and Palaces Society, and Southeast Asia Cultural Hub. In partnership with China’s Ministry of Education, we also maintain a network of nearly 400 leading universities worldwide. Through this integrated structure, we turn in-depth research into strategic foresight, helping to shape future development paradigms. SIG Agriculture: Building on the family’s century-old legacy in modernised rice milling in Indonesia, we drive innovation across the agricultural value chain through technology. By systematically integrating rural revitalisation initiatives, smart farming, ecological aquaculture, and advanced food processing, we achieve full-chain coordination from field to fork. Our approach transforms traditional farming wisdom into scalable, sustainable industrial models, offering replicable templates for global food security and rural revitalisation while strengthening the foundation for civilisational sustainability. SIG Group Holding's growth is deeply rooted in the trust and collaboration of its broad stakeholder network. The group consistently demonstrates its commitment to creating shared value through tangible actions. SIG was selected to contribute to the landmark study Low-Carbon Transition: Climate Governance and Strategy, co-initiated by the China Chamber of International Commerce, PwC, and the UNDP China Office, providing critical corporate insights on climate governance. The group's integrated approach has attracted sustained attention from leading global consultancies: Accenture invited its participation in the CEO Study on Sustainability commissioned by UN Secretary-General António Guterres; McKinsey sought its expertise for a case study on AI application; and Boston Consulting Group engaged in dedicated dialogues on innovative business models and sustainability. These engagements affirm SIG's thought leadership and practical expertise in sustainability, AI empowerment, and strategic innovation. Furthermore, SIG's project achievements have been recognised by the State Council Information Office of China and featured across influential media platforms worldwide—from China's CCTV Xinwen Lianbo (flagship daily news broadcast), Xinhua News Agency, People's Daily, and Global Times to Spain's La Vanguardia, Cosmopolitan (US), and Fortune magazine—demonstrating its expansive and cross-border international influence. A Legacy in Motion A 4000-Year Journey of Impact Through Generations. 1972 BC > 505 BC > 221 > 740 > 989 > 1279 > 1405 > 1636 > 1850 > 1930 > 1943 > 1959 > 1979 > 1985 > 2019 > 2020 Family Origin and the Surname The Zeng* clan boasts a long and rich history. Beginning with Qu Lie in the Xia Dynasty and continuing through today, the clan has flourished for 4,000 years. Its branches spread across the nation from Henan and Shandong, eventually reaching across the seas to the world. Today, the Zeng clan is a prolific source of talent in all areas of society, cooperating with various parties to promote the beauty and excellence of traditional Chinese culture. Historical records indicate that the surname Zeng is derived from the surname Si, which itself originated from the Xia Dynasty (c. 2070 BC - c. 1600 BC), making the Zeng descendants of the Yellow Emperor. During the reign of Emperor Shao Kang of the Xia Dynasty (1972 BC to 1912 BC), the emperor conferred his second son, Qu Lie, with the state of Zeng (present-day Fangcheng County, Henan Province). The state of Zeng was recorded in the oracle bone inscriptions of the Shang Dynasty (c. 1600 BC - c. 1046 BC) and later in the "Historical Records" of the Zhou Dynasty (1046 BC - 256 BC). During the Spring and Autumn Period of the Zhou Dynasty (770 BC to 476 BC), the state of Zeng was destroyed by the state of Ju in 567 BC. Prince Wu of Zeng escaped to the neighbouring state of Lu (present-day Lanling County, Shandong Province). The descendants of Zeng who fled to Lu became officials there and spread to the surrounding areas, eventually dispersing throughout Shandong and Hebei. These descendants adopted their original state's name, Zeng, as their surname, but omitted the radical '阝' (which denotes a city or state), symbolising that while they had left their homeland, they had not forgotten their ancestors. This marks the origin of the Zeng surname. –---------- * Zeng, Tjan, Tsang, and Chandra refer to the same clan that has different romanisation in different periods and regions. Zengzi and the Confucian Legacy From Qu Lie in the Xia Dynasty, 54 generations passed to Prince Wu, and 58 generations to Zeng Shen (known as Zengzi, 505 BC – 435 BC). Zeng Shen was only 16 years old when he became a disciple of Confucius. His political philosophy of "Cultivate the self, regulate the family, govern the state, then bring peace to the world," along with his emphasis on self-discipline, prudence, and filial piety, has influenced China for over 2,000 years and provides profound moral and ethical foundations for building a harmonious society today. Confucius's grandson, Kong Ji (Zisi), studied under Zeng Shen, who subsequently taught Mencius. Thus, Zeng Shen played a pivotal role in both inheriting and developing the Confucian school of thought. Holding an important place in Confucian history, he is credited with authoring or compiling the "Great Learning" (Daxue, one of the 'Four Books' of Confucianism) and the "Classic of Filial Piety" (Xiaojing). He is revered as one of the Four Sages of Confucius (alongside Yan Hui, Zisi, and Mencius) and is honoured in Confucian temples. Migration and Development Through the Dynasties During the Qin and Han periods (221 BC to 220 AD), due to warfare and other factors, the Zeng clan migrated from their original centres of activity in Shandong and Henan into the provinces of Hebei, Hunan, and Shaanxi. The chaos towards the end of the Western Han Dynasty (202 BC to 8 AD), particularly during the time of Wang Mang, prompted over a thousand clan members to move south to Jiyang in Luling County (present-day Yongfeng County, Jiangxi Province). Consequently, Luling County became the second major place of origin for the Chinese Zeng clan. Entering the period of the Wei, Jin, and Northern and Southern Dynasties (220-589 AD), society was in prolonged turmoil. Coupled with the "Yongjia Rebellion" at the end of the Western Jin Dynasty (265-317 AD), large numbers of scholar clans from the Central Plains moved southward. The Zeng clan also entered the southern provinces in significant numbers during this period. From then on, and before the Tang Dynasty (618-907 AD), the Zeng clan had spread throughout China, with eminent figures emerging and the family's influence growing stronger. The Min Founding Ancestor and the Longshan Branch Social stability during the glorious age of the Tang Dynasty (650-755 AD) accelerated clan development. Until the first year of Emperor Xizong's Qianfu reign (874 AD), the Huang Chao Rebellion broke out, causing many clans from the Central Plains to move south. During the Tang Guangqi era (885-887 AD), Zeng Yanshi, the 36th-generation descendant of Zeng Shen, who held titles such as Official of the Tang Civil Corps, Ambassador of Guangzhou, Marquis of Kaimin, and General of Jinwu (honoured as Jinlu Daifu), was ordered to lead his family, along with his brothers-in-law Wang Chao and Wang Shenzhi, to pacify the Min region (Fujian), fighting in the prefectures of Fu, Ting, Zhang, and Quan. In 886 AD, he settled on Longtou (Dragon Head) Mountain, west of Quanzhou City in Jinjiang, Fujian. To stabilise the situation in Fujian, Zeng Yanshi implemented a series of strategies, including light taxation, support for agriculture and weaving, protection of industry and commerce, rectification of the bureaucracy, appointment of worthy scholars, promotion of Confucianism, and revitalisation of culture. These measures stabilised the Min region and ushered in a period of unprecedented prosperity. Longshan (Dragon Mountain) became the birthplace of the Zeng clan's history of southern expansion, and the "House of Longshan" emerged as a major branch of the clan. Zeng Yanshi made significant contributions to the development of Fujian and is revered as the "First Ancestor of the Longshan Branch of the Zeng Clan." Song Dynasty Eminence and the 'Half-Zeng Dynasty' During the Song Dynasty (960-1279 AD), the Zeng clan developed into a prestigious family brimming with talent. In the second year of the Duangong era of Emperor Taizong of Song (989 AD), Zeng Hui, the eighth-generation grandson of Zeng Yanshi, achieved the second-highest score in the national-level imperial examination (Jinshi) and became a Lieutenant of the Ministry of Justice. After establishing his career, Zeng Hui rebuilt his former residence into the "Ancestral Hall of the Longshan Zeng Clan." Zeng Hui's second son, Zeng Gongliang, was born in Jinjiang, Fujian, in 999 AD. He served with distinction under Emperors Renzong, Yingzong, and Shenzong, eventually rising to the position of Chancellor (Prime Minister). Zeng Gongliang was not only a famous politician but also a renowned military scientist and theorist. In 1044 AD, he spent four years compiling the forty-volume "Wujing Zongyao" (Complete Essentials for the Military Classics). This work is a crucial document in both military and scientific history, notably recording the birth of the world's first gunpowder rocket in China, and is highly valued by scholars both in China and abroad. Zeng Gongliang died in 1078 AD and was posthumously awarded the title "Xuanjing" by Emperor Shenzong. After Zeng Gongliang, his son Zeng Xiaokuan became Chancellor of the Northern Song, Zeng Huai became Chancellor of the Southern Song, and Zeng Zonglong (a Zhuangyuan, or top examination graduate) also became Chancellor of the Southern Song. For nearly 200 years, the prestige of the Longshan Zeng clan spread throughout the country, earning them reputations such as the "Half-Zeng Dynasty," "Four Ministers and One Zhuangyuan," "Four Ministers from One Clan," "Nine Ministry-Founding Officials," and "Eleven Dukes Appointed by the Emperor." International Trade and the Maritime Silk Road After the fall of the Song Dynasty, the Zeng clan continued to flourish. During the Yuan Dynasty (1279-1368 AD), Zeng Shen was posthumously honoured as the "Duke of Cheng," making him the third Confucian sage after Yan Hui and Confucius himself. However, the Zeng clan was unwilling to serve the Mongol Yuan royal court. The entire family left official life and lived in anonymity for nearly a century. During this time, they became one of the most important families engaged in international import and export trade in Quanzhou and Zhangzhou. Quanzhou was the starting point of China's Maritime Silk Road and was hailed by the medieval traveller Marco Polo as "the largest port in the world" during the Song and Yuan dynasties. Zhangzhou later became a major port for trade with Portugal and Spain in the 16th and 17th centuries. Qing Dynasty and the modernisation of China During the Qing Dynasty (1636-1912 AD), the Zeng family inherited and carried forward the family tradition of "cultivating the self, regulating the family, governing the state, and bringing peace to the world" as a fine family precept and heirloom. In the mid-nineteenth century, Zeng Guofan (1811-1872, 70th generation of the Zengzi) was a military strategist, Neo-Confucian scholar, statesman, calligrapher, and literary figure of the Qing Dynasty. During the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom Rebellion (1851-1864), Zeng Guofan raised and commanded the Xiang Army. After years of fierce battles, he ultimately suppressed the rebellion. The rise of Zeng Guofan had a profound impact on the politics, military, culture, and economy of the late Qing. On his initiative, China built its first modern ship, established its first navy, founded its first military academy, printed and translated the first Western books, and arranged for the first group of students to study in the United States. Zeng Guofan was not only one of the four most famous ministers of the late Qing, alongside Li Hongzhang, Zuo Zongtang, and Zhang Zhidong, but also a pioneer of China's modernisation. Modern Industry and Ongoing Innovations After graduating from the prestigious Fudan University in Shanghai, Zeng Kunyu (also known as Tjan Khoengiok, 1904-1977, 73rd-generation descendant of the Zengzi, grandfather of Shelley Tsang) devoted himself to expanding the family business. In addition to managing the family's rice mill operations, he developed his own ventures in steel, powerboats, and aircraft across Asia. Zeng Kunyu was the inventor and patent holder of a vertical take-off and landing aircraft. In the 1930s, he interacted with Henry Ford, founder of the Ford Motor Company, discussing the future of the engine and aviation industries. In the 1950s, with his unique powerboat designs and technological breakthroughs, he won three consecutive International Powerboat Championships. Consequently, the family's powerboat business flourished. Zeng Kunyu opened a new shipyard and initiated cooperation with numerous top yachting and powerboat clubs. Later, his business partners began constructing military vessels for the Indonesian Navy. In his later years, driven by his passion for music and his early experience as a violinist in the Fudan University Orchestra, Zeng Kunyu entered the music industry. Leveraging his extensive scientific knowledge and top-tier craftsmanship, he became a first-generation New China violin craftsman, crafting instruments for many of China's leading violinists and collectors. Elite Education and Migration to Hong Kong Tsang Kwok Cheong (Shelley Tsang’s father, 74th-generation descendant of Zengzi, 1955-) and Yeung Siu Ping (Shelley Tsang‘s mother, 1955-) both graduated from Chongde College (now Beijing No. 31 High School), the oldest Christian comprehensive school in Beijing. Founded by the Anglican Church in 1911, the school is located west of the Great Hall of the People. Its first principal was the English missionary Bishop Francis Lushington Norris, succeeded in 1927 by Ling Xianyang, a graduate of Cambridge University. The college has produced an exceptional roster of alumni, including the son of Chen Baochen (tutor to the last Qing emperor Puyi), Nobel Prize-winning physicist Yang Zhenning, nuclear physicist Deng Jiaxian, renowned architectural engineer Liang Sicheng, and more than ten academicians of the Chinese Academy of Sciences. In their youth, Tsang Kwok Cheong and Yeung Siu Ping participated in major national projects such as the construction of Tiananmen Square, the renovation of the old Beijing city wall, and the Beijing Subway Line 2, as well as performances for National Day parades. The couple tied the knot in the early 1980s, with their wedding banquet held at the Hepingmen Quanjude Roast Duck restaurant, a time-honoured Chinese brand founded in 1864, which is crowned as the "Number One Restaurant under Heaven." The original menu from their celebration remains on display in the Quanjude museum, serving as a warm testament to this personal history. After their marriage, the couple moved to Hong Kong. Leveraging his background in mechanical engineering, Tsang Kwok Cheong joined the Kowloon Motor Bus Company (KMB). As the oldest and largest franchised bus operator in Hong Kong, KMB is also one of the world's largest privately-owned bus companies. Energy Business and Contributions to New China Niu Zhenmin (1906-1994, Shelley Tsang's maternal great-grandfather) started his international trading business between China, Russia, Mongolia and Japan in Ulaanbaatar. The business was forced to end due to the Mongolian Revolution of 1911. Thus, Niu joined the then-Chinese government to serve the country. He led several battles to protect the people during the Second Sino-Japanese War. Niu was also famous for establishing schools during the War to ensure students to continue their education. To protect the family from assassination, he left his role as the District Mayor of Nangong at the end of the War. In 1943, Niu Zhenmin founded the Taiji Coal Mine in Beijing, entering the energy industry. With outstanding business acumen, Niu Zhenmin became one of the four major figures in Beijing's energy sector at the time and also owned businesses in construction materials and railroads across China. Niu Zhenmin's younger brother, Niu Jinqing (as known as Liu Jinzhong), served as Party Secretary of the 120th Division of the Eighth Route Army, the North China Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, and the Beijing University of Science and Technology, receiving recognition from Premier Zhou Enlai. Niu Zhenmin's daughter, Niu Shuqin (Shelley Tsang's maternal grandmother, 1934-2019), worked for the Beijing Sixth Construction Engineering Company. This large international construction enterprise group, founded in 1958 under the Beijing Construction Industry Group, involved Niu Shuqin in numerous major projects for New China, including the Great Hall of the People, the Beijing International Convention Centre, the Head Office Building of the People's Bank of China, and the China Arts and Crafts Museum. Open Door Policy and New Era of Development Born in Hong Kong, Shelley Tsang spent her formative years in a traditional courtyard residence nestled south of Zhongnanhai in Beijing. More than a childhood home, this Siheyuan courtyard served as a unique portal during an era of opening up. In the early years of China's Open Door Policy in the 1980s, the State Council entrusted it with hosting over 3,000 international guests, making it a vibrant cultural salon connecting China with the world. Her family life was also featured in a documentary broadcast in Europe, offering global audiences a window into the blend of traditional and modern Chinese life. The family has kept pace with the new era, reorganising and reforming its resources with wisdom, and has become part of the 40+ years Chinese economic miracle since the Open Door Policy. The family's deep engagement in global business, government, military, and academia provided the foundation for Shelley Tsang's broad strategic perspective and robust international network. Decades of Service in the Chinese Central Government In the 1950s, Yang Yugeng (1925-2016, Shelley Tsang’s maternal grandfather) graduated from China's top National Central University during the Republican era and began his political career with the Central Committee of the Chinese Communist Youth League. He devoted himself enthusiastically to the construction of New China and took pride in participating in the construction of the Beijing Workers' Stadium. This stadium was one of the Ten Great Buildings completed in 1959 to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. During his decades of service in the Chinese central government, Yang Yugeng was a founder and member of the organising committees for many major national sports events, such as the First and Second National Games of China in the 1960s and the famous Sino-US Table Tennis Friendship Invitation (known as Ping Pong Diplomacy) in the 1970s. He also represented China in promoting sports and peace worldwide, including organising multinational sports events and sponsoring sports equipment to countries in Africa and South America. Conferral of the Preeminent State Honor In 2019, Shelley Tsang's family elder was honoured with the Commemorative Medal for the 70th Anniversary of the Founding of the People's Republic of China, issued jointly by the CPC Central Committee, the State Council, and the Central Military Commission, in recognition of their contributions and unwavering commitment. Participate in shaping a new chapter of global governance In September 2020, on the historic occasion of the 75th anniversary of the United Nations, Shelley Tsang, representing SIG Group Holding, signed the Statement by Business Leaders for Renewed Global Cooperation, an initiative of the UN Global Compact. The statement consolidated the consensus of over 1,200 business leaders from more than 100 countries, demonstrating the international business community's firm support for the UN and inclusive multilateralism, and was formally presented to the UN Secretary-General as a key document at the UN Private Sector Forum. Within this global initiative, Shelley Tsang, representing the new generation of her family, led its enterprise to stand among the mere thirty-odd Chinese companies worldwide that participated in the signing — a clear testament to her profound strategic foresight. This move not only marked a pivotal evolution in her advocacy, elevating it from corporate practice to active participation in shaping global governance, but also powerfully demonstrated the exceptional vision of an esteemed family building upon its legacy to forge a new paradigm on the modern world stage. Ming Transitions and the Perpetuation of Traditions It was not until the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644 AD) that the Zeng family resumed using their surname and returned to government service. Zeng Zhongkui, the 25th-generation ancestor of the Longshan branch, a Ming Dynasty scholar and court official, presided over the restoration of the "Ancestral Hall of the Longshan Zeng Clan." In 1405 AD, when Zeng Shoulun, the Imperial Tutor to the Ming Emperor Chengzu (Zhu Di), retired, the emperor, remembering his teaching merits, granted permission to use state funds to build the Great Ancestral Hall for the Zeng clan. Migration to Indonesia and Business Success Fleeing the turmoil of the Taiping Heavenly Kingdom Rebellion, some members of the Zeng clan (including the elders of Shelley Tsang's family line) emigrated from Fujian to Southeast Asia. There, they further developed the family business, actively promoting international trade between China, Southeast Asia, Europe, and the Americas. Beyond international import and export, the Zeng family developed integrated industries in Indonesia to expand their influence and promote modern industrial reforms. In the early 20th century, the family's investment in the industrialisation of rice mills was highly successful, revolutionising rice production. This generated significant wealth and led to the development of the largest rice mill group in Indonesia. By the 1950s, the Zeng family had become one of the wealthiest families in Indonesia. The flourishing family business spurred new developments in other integrated sectors, including rubber, logging, shipbuilding, and manufacturing. Milestones of Excellence Curating A Vibrant Lifestyle Fueled by Adventure, Creativity, and Intellectual Curiosity. Entrepreneurship Jewels Creation Writing Gourmet Game Travel Sports Research Gardening Luxury Wines Tea Houses Calligraphy Music Happenings and Insights 1 2 3 4 5 Please feel free to contact me at: contacts@shelleytsang.com Copyright © 2026. Shelley Tsang. All Rights Reserved.

  • Knockwood Global Culture Connection | Goodness | SIG Group Holding | China

    Knockwood Global Culture Connection is an international non-governmental organisation (INGO) founded in Hong Kong by Shelley Tsang in 2010. The organisation is dedicated to advancing global understanding, peace, and sustainable development through cultural dialogue. About SIG Locations Founder Locations Founder Business Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Goodness SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer Media Hub Connect Menu Close Knockwood Global Culture Connection Visit Website Knockwood Global Culture Connection is an international non-governmental organisation (INGO) founded in Hong Kong by Shelley Tsang in 2010. The organisation is dedicated to advancing global understanding, peace, and sustainable development through cultural dialogue. Its core initiatives focus on four key areas: safeguarding and revitalising intangible cultural heritage, fostering intercultural youth dialogue, developing the creative economy for community inclusion, and integrating cultural perspectives into education. Officially registered with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) Integrated Civil Society Organisations System (ID #709148) as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (INGO), and registered with the Hong Kong Police as a lawful Society (ID #0043693). Knockwood Vision In 2010, against the vibrant backdrop of Hong Kong — a dynamic confluence of Eastern and Western cultures — Shelley Tsang founded Knockwood Global Culture Connection. This marked not only the establishment of an organisation but the germination of an idea: that cultural diversity is not a source of division, but rather the most valuable driving force for sustainable human development. Over the past fifteen years, this founding vision has remained unchanged, evolving into our core mission: to use culture as a bridge to connect the world, enabling different civilisations to mutually enrich one another through dialogue, and collectively pursuing a harmonious, healthy, and sustainable lifestyle. Our vision is a world where every culture receives equal respect and opportunity for expression, allowing the soft power of culture to become a solid foundation for building peace and understanding. Strategic Priorities Knockwood Global Culture Connection operationalises the belief that culture is a fundamental driver of sustainable development, aligning its mission with the UN 2030 Agenda. Our work is channelled through four key pathways. We protect intangible cultural heritage as a living resource for quality education (SDG 4) and sustainable communities (SDG 11). We utilise cultural expression to build bridges of dialogue and foster peaceful, just societies (SDG 16). By empowering cultural practitioners, we transform creativity into engines for inclusive economic growth, decent work, and reduced inequality (SDG 1, 8, 10). Finally, we invest in youth through global citizenship education, equipping them with the skills to become ambassadors for an inclusive and understanding future (SDG 4). Through these focused efforts, we demonstrate how culture provides unique and essential solutions for achieving a sustainable world. Core Initiatives Knockwood Global Culture Connection translates heritage into innovation through eight pioneering projects, demonstrating how ancient wisdom can flourish in contemporary contexts. Our initiatives range from digitally preserving intangible cultural heritage in ‘Ancient Melodies Relay’ to fostering inter-cultural dialogue amongst youth in ‘The Bridgers’. We empower communities by incubating social enterprises in the ‘Creative Marketplace’ and preserve collective memory through the ‘Tapestry of Memory’ oral history project. Furthermore, we champion inclusivity via ‘Culture Without Barriers’, utilise arts for therapeutic purposes in ‘The Cultural Clinic’, and explore identity through cuisine in ‘Food Stories’. Finally, ‘Festival Reimagined’ revitalises traditional celebrations for modern society. Collectively, these programmes showcase culture not as a relic, but as a dynamic force for sustainable community development, economic empowerment, and profound human connection. Global Reach and Impact Knockwood Global Culture Connection’s fifteen-year journey reflects a commitment to collaborative, culturally-driven, sustainable development. As an NGO formally registered with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) Civil Society Database, Knockwood actively bridges local wisdom and the global agenda. It contributes grassroots perspectives to forums such as the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, while simultaneously localising the Sustainable Development Goals into tangible community actions. True to its ethos, Knockwood’s impact is measured not only in geographic scope but in the intangible strengthening of social cohesion and the perpetuation of living cultural heritage worldwide. From its Hong Kong base, the organisation has extended its reach across more than a dozen countries and regions, fostering community resilience, youth empowerment, and the revitalisation of intangible cultural heritage through a suite of innovative projects. Knockwood Global Culture Connection is registered with the Hong Kong Police as a lawful Society (ID #0043693) and officially listed with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (ID #709148). Knockwood benefits from the foundational support of SIG Group Holding and strategically partners with a consortium of philanthropies and institutional funders who share our long-term vision. As an organisation, the Hub maintains strict neutrality on political and policy matters, ensuring an inclusive and open platform for all cultural voices. Copyright © 2010-2026. Knockwood Global Culture Connection. All Rights Reserved. Please feel free to contact us at: contacts@knockwood global.org

  • Connect | SIG Group Holding | China

    SIG Group Holding bridges global expertise with nuanced local insight to pioneer sophisticated, long-term development solutions. We cultivate strategic alliances with governments, corporate partners, academic institutions, and communities across eight pivotal sectors — Cities, Investment, Energy, Innovation, Lifestyles, Circulation, Research, and Agriculture — laying the groundwork for a future defined by resilience, sustainability, and inclusive prosperity. About SIG Locations Founder Locations Founder Business Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Goodness SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer Media Hub Connect Menu Close Connect Sustainability Is Growth About SIG Business Goodness Media Hub Name* Company Position Email* Phone Which team can assist you?* SIG Admin SIG Cities SIG Investment SIG Energy SIG Innovation SIG Lifestyles SIG Circulation SIG Research SIG Agriculture SIG Goodness Other Message * Send

  • ZERI China | Research | SIG Group Holding | China

    ZERI China, established in 2020 by Shelley Tsang, serves as the regional nexus of the globally acclaimed Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) network, founded in 1994 at the United Nations University by Professor Gunter Pauli. With a legacy spanning three decades, ZERI has catalysed three million jobs and mobilised billions in sustainable investment worldwide, consistently ranked among one of the world’s top think tanks. About SIG Locations Founder Locations Founder Business Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Cities Investment Energy Innovation Lifestyles Circulation Research Agriculture Goodness SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer SIG Goodness Initiatives China New Urbanisation Construction Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives Gaudí Research Centre International Castles & Palaces Society Southeast Asia Cultural Hub Knockwood Global Culture Connection Foolitzer Media Hub Connect Menu Close Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI China) Visit Website ZERI China, established in 2020 by Shelley Tsang, serves as the regional nexus of the globally acclaimed Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (ZERI) network, founded in 1994 at the United Nations University by Professor Gunter Pauli. With a legacy spanning three decades, ZERI has catalysed three million jobs and mobilised billions in sustainable investment worldwide, consistently ranked among one of the world’s top think tanks. ZERI China serves as the critical bridge transforming global zero-emission expertise into locally powerful, scalable solutions, positioning China at the forefront of the regenerative future. Officially registered with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) Integrated Civil Society Organisations System (ID #709193) as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (INGO). ZERI China Vision ZERI China was established not merely to adopt global sustainability models, but to reinvent them for the Chinese context. Our vision is to pioneer a new paradigm of development where economic growth actively enhances ecological and social systems. We ask: How can industry emulate nature's zero-waste ecosystems? How can China's manufacturing prowess and scale be harnessed to build a regenerative, rather than extractive, economy? We envision a future where China's development is synonymous with ecological innovation, creating a blueprint for a prosperous, post-carbon world. Strategic Priorities Our methodology is grounded in the principles of the ZERI Blue Economy — using what is locally available to solve multiple problems simultaneously. We move beyond simply reducing harm to creating positive value cycles. This means designing systems where one process's waste becomes another's nutrient, where energy is generated renewably and efficiently, and where biodiversity is a metric of success. We integrate advanced science with indigenous knowledge, connecting farmers with material scientists and urban planners with biologists to create solutions that are not just sustainable, but generative and locally attuned. Core Initiatives Our initiatives translate visionary principles into on-the-ground impact across China. The ZERI China Innovation Lab develops and tests integrated systems for agro-processing, clean energy, and water management in rural communities. The Industrial Symbiosis Platform facilitates waste-to-resource exchanges between manufacturers, turning one company's by-product into another's raw material. Our Future City Think Tank collaborates with municipal governments to pilot circular urban systems for food, energy, and mobility. Each project is a live demonstration of the Blue Economy, proving that ecological practices drive economic resilience. Global Reach and Impact From pilot projects, our impact scales to influence regional development and national policy. We have facilitated the redesign of supply chains that eliminate waste and create new revenue streams, directly contributing to local job creation and environmental restoration. Our research and case studies provide the evidence base for policymakers advocating for circular economy frameworks. By demonstrating tangible economic and environmental benefits, ZERI China is helping to position the country as a global leader in the practical implementation of a regenerative development model, proving that ecological responsibility is the ultimate driver of long-term prosperity. Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (China) is an International Non-Governmental Organisation, officially registered with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System (ID #709193). ZERI China benefits from the foundational support of SIG Group Holding and strategically partners with a consortium of philanthropies and institutional funders who share our long-term vision. As an organisation, ZERI China maintains a position of strict neutrality on political and policy matters, ensuring an inclusive and open platform for all cultural voices. Copyright © 2020-2026. Zero Emissions Research and Initiatives (China). All Rights Reserved. Please feel free to contact us at: contacts@zeri-china.org

  • Knockwood Global Culture Connection | Supported by SIG Group Holding

    Knockwood Global Culture Connection is an international non-governmental organisation (INGO) founded in Hong Kong by Shelley Tsang in 2010. The organisation is dedicated to advancing global understanding, peace, and sustainable development through cultural dialogue. ABOUT KNOCKWOOD INITIATIVES PRIORITIES HAPPENINGS Knockwood Global Culture Connection Founded in Hong Kong by Shelley Tsang in 2010, Knockwood Global Culture Connection is registered with the Hong Kong Police as a lawful Society (ID #0043693) and officially listed with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (ID #709148). For over a decade, Knockwood has been dedicated to advancing global understanding, peace, and sustainable development through meaningful cultural dialogue. Anchored in Hong Kong — a global metropolis — the organisation specialises in building bridges of communication that connect communities worldwide. Its work focuses on preserving intangible cultural heritage, facilitating cross-cultural youth exchanges, and developing community-based creative economies. These initiatives are carefully aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals, translating local wisdom into actionable strategies for inclusive progress. By contributing grassroots perspectives to international forums like the High-Level Political Forum on Sustainable Development, Knockwood ensures that diverse voices inform the global agenda. Its impact extends across more than a dozen countries, strengthening social cohesion, empowering youth, and revitalising living heritage. Through its commitment to collaborative, culturally-driven development, Knockwood illuminates pathways toward a more equitable, just, and harmonious global future. Strategic Priorities The work of Knockwood Global Culture Connection consistently resonates with the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. We firmly believe that culture is not only an outcome of sustainable development but also a core driver. The following four key areas outline the specific pathways through which we fulfil our mission. Cultural Protection and Heritage Transmission We view intangible cultural heritage and indigenous knowledge as the "living gene bank" of human civilisation. Protecting them does not mean sealing them away in museums, but rather revitalising ancient wisdom for modern life through systematic documentation, support for inheritors, and community-engaged revitalisation. We integrate intangible cultural heritage into community classrooms and online education platforms, making it a dynamic teaching resource for quality education (SDG 4) that nurtures cultural identity and creativity. Simultaneously, we assist communities in embedding cultural heritage into urban spatial planning and community building, contributing to the development of inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable cities and communities (SDG 11), ensuring modern urban development retains its unique soul and memory. Culture for Peace and Dialogue In contexts where prejudice and division can breed conflict, we choose to use the soft power of culture to build bridges for dialogue. Through shared artistic forms — be it collaborative music creation, inclusive theatre workshops, or cultural integration activities based on traditional festivals—we create safe, neutral spaces for encounter for post-conflict regions or groups from different backgrounds. Here, dialogue moves beyond mere clashing of viewpoints, beginning instead with emotional resonance and the sharing of human stories. These efforts aim to fundamentally reduce all forms of violence, foster inclusive and just community relations at all levels, and lay a profound humanistic foundation for building peaceful, just, and inclusive societies (SDG 16). Creative Economy and Community Development We are convinced that cultural diversity is a valuable asset for driving inclusive economic growth. We are committed to transforming cultural creativity into tangible livelihood improvements and development momentum. By empowering community artisans, indigenous artists, and cultural entrepreneurs, we help them enhance skills, connect with markets, and develop sustainable cultural and creative enterprises. This not only creates decent work and economic income for individuals (SDG 8) but also economically empowers marginalised communities, helping to reduce inequalities within and between communities, and between urban and rural areas (SDG 10). Thus, culture evolves from being a solitary pursuit into a dynamic force driving endogenous community development and addressing the root causes of poverty. Global Culture, Youth and Education Young people are the architects of the future. Investing in youth is an investment in a more understanding and inclusive tomorrow. We develop and promote Global Citizenship Education curricula and implement in-depth youth cultural exchange programmes, aiming to nurture the next generation to become open-minded, effective cultural translators and ambassadors for peace. Through these programmes, young people not only acquire cross-cultural knowledge but also develop empathy, critical thinking, and collaborative skills in practice – essential competencies for addressing future global challenges. We are dedicated to ensuring inclusive and equitable quality education (SDG 4), enabling every young person to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary for fostering intercultural understanding, allowing them to participate actively and responsibly in global society. At the intersection of cultural heritage and innovation, Knockwood Global Culture Connection is translating ideas into concrete actions through eight core projects, collectively embodying our core belief: true cultural inheritance is about allowing ancient wisdom to blossom anew in contemporary contexts, making culture a living spring that fosters community connections, personal growth, and social innovation. Ancient Melodies Relay: Intangible Cultural Heritage Digitalisation Within the ancient ballads echoing through the mountains lie the codes of human civilisation. As the last elders who can fully recite tribal epics grow older, we are acutely aware that each performance could be the final one. The "Ancient Melodies Relay" project is a race against time to safeguard civilisations. Our teams travel to tribal communities in China and Southeast Asia, using cutting-edge digital technology to record these fading voices. Yet, our mission extends beyond preservation: we facilitate collaborations between young musicians and indigenous singers, creating a dialogue between ancient melodies and contemporary compositions; we develop VR experiential learning, allowing students to 'step into' mysterious ritual ceremonies. Every digitised cultural fragment finds new vitality in the modern era. True cultural transmission is not about museum-style freezing, but about allowing ancient wisdom to blossom anew within contemporary contexts, continuing to nourish the human spirit. The Bridgers: Youth Cultural Ambassador Young people are natural envoys for traversing cultural boundaries. "The Bridgers" programme is dedicated to identifying young individuals standing at cultural crossroads—perhaps local youth studying in international schools, or descendants of new immigrants carrying memories of their homelands. We provide them with unique developmental pathways: learning mindfulness meditation in a Burmese monastery, sensing the urban pulse through Hong Kong's street art, or appreciating the artisan spirit in Tokyo's traditional workshops. These young cultural ambassadors evolve into community catalysts, initiating "cross-cultural potlucks" where neighbours share hometown dishes, or organising "memory walks" to rediscover forgotten community stories. Most inspiring is witnessing their transformation from hesitant observers into confident cultural translators, building bridges of understanding across differences. The most solid foundation for peace begins with genuine encounters between individual hearts and minds. Creative Marketplace: Community Social Enterprise Incubation In an age of mass production, we seek new avenues for handicrafts imbued with human touch. The "Creative Marketplace" is an experiment in community economics. We have witnessed an embroiderer from Sham Shui Po transforming her mother's Cantonese embroidery skills into exquisite details on modern garments; a young indigenous individual from the New Territories building an eco-brand using ancestral botanical dyeing wisdom. We build a comprehensive support ecosystem: pro bono designers assist with product refinement, marketing experts guide e-commerce operations, and crucially, we help these community creators establish mutual support networks. When these culturally significant products gain market recognition, the creators gain not just economic independence, but also the dignity and confidence that comes with cultural transmission. This community economic model, with culture at its core, is redefining the meaning of development—where growth is not merely quantitative improvement, but the flourishing of community vitality. Tapestry of Memory: Community Oral History Project In the spaces between city skyscrapers, in the fading old streets and alleys, lie countless unwritten histories. The "Tapestry of Memory" project acts as a loom of time, weaving scattered memory fragments into an enduring tapestry. Our team often sits under banyan trees with recording equipment, listening to elders recount market scenes from half a century ago and the calls of street vendors from thirty years past; we document three generations of stories from a herbal tea shop under a veranda; particularly moving is the ninety-year-old barber whose scissors have witnessed the joys and sorrows of an entire community. Our "Sound Map" initiative gives these memories new life—true history resides not only in grand narratives but also in the everyday memories of ordinary people. When young people encounter their ancestors' era through these stories, a profound cultural identity quietly takes root. The Cultural Clinic: Arts for Mental Health Initiative In the shadow of conflict and displacement, the arts become a gentle light illuminating the depths of the human psyche. "The Cultural Clinic" project believes that healing trauma requires cultural warmth. In a refugee camp on the Thai-Myanmar border, we observed a Burmese artist using traditional puppetry to help children express unspeakable war memories; in a Hong Kong community centre, Lingnan school landscape painting became a medium for new immigrants to ease homesickness. We go beyond simple art instruction to create safe emotional containers—integrating traditional Thai massage with dance therapy, or facilitating dialogue between Mongolian throat singing and music therapy. Most poignant is witnessing traumatised individuals reconnect with the world through the bridge of art. This healing approach, infused with cultural wisdom, demonstrates that mental health is never an isolated issue, but is deeply rooted in our cultural soil. Food Stories: Culinary Heritage Transmission Project Food is nostalgia etched on the palate, the most visceral carrier of culture. The "Food Stories" project starts from the kitchen stove, exploring new possibilities for cultural transmission. We document the fading craft of preparing Poon Choi in Hong Kong's walled villages, trace the historical journey of Bak Kut Teh across the South Seas. But our work extends far beyond preserving recipes—we organise "cross-generational kitchens" where granddaughters learn the intricacies of wrapping rice dumplings from their grandmothers, a process wrapped in family migration stories; we host "flavour blind tests" where people from different backgrounds experience each other's cultures through taste. A Malaysian Nyonya auntie participating in the project said, "Teaching young people to make traditional kueh is like passing down ancestral wisdom, time and again." These seemingly ordinary cooking scenes are, in fact, vibrant sites of cultural gene transmission. When food becomes a medium for dialogue, cultural heritage flows naturally through every meal shared. Culture Without Barriers: Inclusive Arts Spaces Initiative We firmly believe that cultural enrichment should have no barriers. The "Culture Without Barriers" project is dedicated to dismantling invisible walls, allowing the light of art to reach everyone. We collaborate with visually impaired individuals to develop "tactile tours," allowing the texture of sculptures to come alive at their fingertips; we design "vibration sound systems" for the Deaf and hard of hearing community, enabling music's rhythm to resonate through the body. But inclusion is more than just adapting facilities—we train guides in audio description techniques, allowing blind and partially sighted visitors to "see" the colours and composition of paintings; we design sign language poetry workshops, ensuring the silent world is also filled with poetic expression. Unforgettable is the tearful gaze of an elderly wheelchair user dancing for the first time in an inclusive dance workshop. True inclusivity makes difference a source of innovation, allowing every unique experience to enrich cultural meaning. Festival Reimagined: Traditional Festival Modernisation Project Traditional festivals are the pulse of community vitality, needing to resonate with the times. The "Festival Reimagined" project is rooted in respect for tradition but propelled by innovative expression, revitalising ancient festivals for contemporary society. We preserve the competitive spirit of the Dragon Boat Festival, while introducing eco-friendly dragon boat design contests; we maintain the craft of making Mid-Autumn Festival lanterns, while incorporating new media expressions of light and shadow art. In Penang, Malaysia, we assisted a local community in transforming a century-old temple fair into a cultural carnival integrating AR technology; in Hong Kong, we collaborated with youth to redesign rituals of the Yu Lan Festival, making it a platform for cross-cultural understanding. These innovations do not dilute tradition but allow its essence to continue in new forms. When a festival can connect elders' memories with youthful creativity, the river of culture gains the momentum to flow into the future. Knockwood Initiatives Happenings Knockwood Global Culture Connection is registered with the Hong Kong Police as a lawful Society (ID #0043693) and officially listed with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (ID #709148). Knockwood benefits from the foundational support of SIG Group Holding and strategically partners with a consortium of philanthropies and institutional funders who share our long-term vision. As an organisation, the Hub maintains strict neutrality on political and policy matters, ensuring an inclusive and open platform for all cultural voices. Copyright © 2010-2026. Knockwood Global Culture Connection. All Rights Reserved. Please feel free to contact us at: contacts@knockwoodglobal.org

  • Foolitzer: Reclaiming 'Foolishness' | Supported by SIG Group Holding

    Foolitzer is an international non-governmental organisation (INGO) founded in Hong Kong by Shelley Tsang in 2010. It is an action platform reclaiming the value of "foolishness." We catalyse naive yet bold ideas by providing a testing ground where they can surface, take root, and grow. Foolitzer believe true breakthroughs often begin where conventional wisdom ends. We are the laboratory for idealists, the ally for practitioners, and the home for those who dare to try the "impossible." ABOUT FOOLITZER OUR FOCUS INITIATIVES HAPPENINGS An Action Platform Reclaiming 'Foolishness' Founded in Hong Kong by Shelley Tsang in 2010, Foolitzer is registered with the Hong Kong Police as a lawful Society (ID #0043689) and officially listed with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (ID #709149). Foolitzer functions as an action platform that reclaims the value of "foolishness" as a catalyst for breakthrough innovation. In a world that often prioritises conventional cleverness, Foolitzer creates protected space for naive yet bold ideas to surface and take root. The name itself — a blend of "foolish" and the suffix "-izer" — reflects our mission: to activate and empower those who dare to challenge the status quo. We operate as a laboratory and ally for idealists and practitioners, providing a testing ground where seemingly impossible passions are transformed into tangible actions. Grounded in the wisdom of "Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish," Foolitzer does not believe in impossibility, only in what has not yet been tried. Our sole purpose is to make space for adventurous thinking and courageous experimentation, honouring the spirit of those who refuse to be limited by excessive cleverness. 'Foolish' Focus While the world responds to sustainability challenges with complex solutions, we choose to return to a simple, 'foolish' belief: real change begins with the extraordinary courage of ordinary people. Foolitzer's four key areas are the soil where this belief is transformed into action. Cultivate Unruly Minds We break the cage of standardised answers and sow the seeds of questioning in education. Through 'Failure Assignments', 'Questioning Workshops', and teacher support programmes, we encourage learners to coexist with uncertainty. In the face of complex issues like the climate crisis and social equity, we help them develop resilience, creativity, and empathy. This is not only the practice of quality education (SDG 4) but also the human foundation for all sustainable goals. Incubate Naive Ideas We lay the first bed of soil for green technologies and social enterprise projects that have been shelved for being 'too ahead of their time' or 'unrealistic'. Through seed funding, mentor networks, and pilot opportunities, we accompany them as they grow from vague intuitions into clear actions, fostering industry innovation (SDG 9) and the seeds of a green economy (SDG 8). Weave a Web of Inclusion A sustainable future cannot leave anyone behind. We particularly focus on activating the overlooked wisdom of marginalised groups (such as youth and ethnic minorities), transforming their 'silly ideas' into assets for community co-building. Through community dialogues and co-creation programmes, we strengthen community bonds and enhance collective resilience (SDG 10, 11) to face climate and social changes. Experiment with Alternative Ways of Living Through cultural actions, we gently loosen the consumption inertia of 'more, faster, cheaper'. By supporting repair cafés, sharing projects, local food initiatives, and other living practices that are 'inconvenient yet reassuring', and by using media to tell their stories, we promote public reflection and contribute to the cultural transformation towards responsible consumption and production (SDG 12). 'Foolish' Initiatives At Foolitzer, we cultivate the 'impractical'. Our suite of 'foolish' initiatives is designed for an overly clever world and represents a fifteen-year social ecology experiment. We are cultivating a new cultural species: enabling the courage to be different, to fail, and to trust, to gradually shift from marginal choices to becoming a new common sense. The Fool's Dictionary: A Revolution to Reclaim the Meaning of Words When dictionary definitions become rigid and 'success' is reduced to a single standard answer, we launched this guerrilla campaign for words. We believe the first step to liberating thought is to liberate language itself. The Fool's Dictionary is a living archive, collecting marginalised yet profoundly real life experiences rejected by mainstream values. Each month, we initiate a 'word uprising', inviting 'fools' globally to provide new annotations for stigmatised terms (like 'lying flat' or 'naive'). This is not a word game, but a fundamental cognitive infrastructure aimed at legitimising diverse ways of living. The Failures' Carnival: A Celebration of Glorious Mishaps In a society obsessed with flawless perfection, we deliberately created a space where it's acceptable to 'mess up'. The Failures' Carnival is our most ritualistic act of resistance—featuring a museum of failed projects, a marketplace for exchanging lessons learned, and even awarding a 'Most Valuable Breakdown Award' for the most instructive failure story. We believe that when failure can be openly discussed and carefully analysed, it transforms from personal shame into collective wisdom. Each year, the carnival is a gentle rebellion against the 'winner-takes-all' narrative. Fool's Seed Fund: Venture Capital for Intuition We are the fool investors providing the initial soil for ideas that are 'hard to explain but feel right to do'. While traditional funders demand detailed business plans and ROI projections, we focus on the spark in the proposer's eyes and the sincerity in their words. Whether it's a farmer wanting to replace plastic with mycelium or a retired teacher aiming to start a 'time bank' in their community, they can receive a small grant and our pure trust. We bet not on a project's feasibility, but on humanity's innate creative instinct. Fool's Lab: Manufacturing Creative Misunderstandings We intentionally lock diverse individuals (poets and AI experts, barbers and quantum physicists) in the same room, giving them an absurd challenge like, 'How can we make the city edible?'. Here, professional jargon becomes a barrier. We encourage participants to clash using their respective disciplinary 'biases'. The goal isn't consensus, but generating enlightening 'creative misunderstandings'. We believe true breakthroughs often occur at the borders between disciplines and common sense. Community Fool Ambassadors: Arming Local Dreamers & Doers Change isn't somewhere far away; it's on the street corner. We seek out and support the 'local dreamers' quietly working in their communities—perhaps the retired teacher wanting to revive neighbourhood memory through murals, or the café owner organising swaps for second-hand goods. We provide them with small grants, methodological tools, and global network support, helping them transform neglected local spots (a peeling wall, a deserted corner) into shared neighbourhood treasures. They bring change back from grand narratives to the warm, tangible everyday. The Listening Wall: A Collector of the City's Subconscious In squares, parks, and by subway stations, we install mobile Listening Walls, inviting passers-by to write down those 'unseasonable' but sincere questions, like, 'Why are we so lonely yet afraid to connect?'. This wall doesn't provide standard answers; it acts as the city's resonance chamber, collecting the collective subconscious often suppressed in daily life. Each quarter, we compile these questions into a 'City of Foolish Questions Report', serving as a starting point for community workshops and public discussions, pushing dialogue beyond polite small talk to the core of existence. One-Month Fool: A Time-Limited Life Rebellion We initiate this 'collective deviation' experiment, inviting people to spend one month choosing a sustainable lifestyle that's 'self-imposed trouble'—like only shopping at local farms or attempting a year-long buying ban. Participants receive our 'Fool's Toolkit' and community support, documenting daily struggles, discoveries, and joys. This isn't asceticism, but an exploratory 'act of behavioural art' aimed at breaking consumerist inertia through personal experience, rediscovering life's texture and community warmth within 'inconvenience'. Waste Re-creation: Community Alchemy for Turning Trash to Treasure At the terminal point for waste, we establish a starting point for hope. This community-level magical workshop collects scraps and unused items from factories and households, sorting them into a free creative materials library. On weekends, artists lead residents in transmuting 'rubbish' into artworks and useful items. Children learn to build castles from cardboard, while adults rediscover the joy of making by repairing old objects. This is not just material recycling; it is a redefinition of the boundaries between 'brand new' and 'discarded'. Happenings Foolitzer is registered with the Hong Kong Police as a lawful Society (ID #0043689) and officially listed with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (ID #709149). Foolitzer benefits from the foundational support of SIG Group Holding and strategically partners with a consortium of philanthropies and institutional funders who share our long-term vision. As an organisation, Foolitzer maintains strict neutrality on political and policy matters, ensuring an inclusive and open platform for all cultural voices. Copyright © 2010-2026. Foolitzer. All Rights Reserved. Please feel free to contact us at: contacts@foolitzer.org

  • Southeast Asia Cultural Hub | Supported by SIG Group Holding

    At the heart of the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub (SEACH) is the preservation and promotion of Southeast Asia's traditional cultural and artistic heritage. We recognise the immense value of these traditions and strive to safeguard them for future generations through research, documentation, and educational initiatives. In pursuit of our goals, the Southeast Asia Cultural Hub actively engages with artists, scholars, and communities across Southeast Asia. ABOUT SEACH PRIORITIES INITIATIVES HAPPENINGS Southeast Asia Cultural Hub The Southeast Asia Cultural Hub (SEACH) was established in 2019 by Shelley Tsang, building upon a century-old family legacy in Indonesia’s modernised rice industry. This heritage provides the organisation with profound regional roots and an expansive global outlook. SEACH serves as a pivotal platform for civilisational dialogue, industrial innovation, and sustainable development across Southeast Asia. We are dedicated to weaving together the diverse cultural threads of the region’s ethnicities, religions, and geographies, and to showcasing its rich heritage on the world stage. Officially registered with the United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs (DESA) as an International Non-Governmental Organisation (ID #709194), SEACH has established itself as a credible and effective actor in the regional cultural landscape. Our impact is demonstrated through high-level engagements, such as the launch of a major youth initiative alongside the education ministers of China and all ten ASEAN nations. Through partnerships with bodies like the China New Urbanisation Construction Steering Committee and with dedicated funding, we effectively bridge cultural imperatives with developmental agendas. Our strategically focused work generates significant ripple effects—empowering individuals, fostering institutional collaboration, and influencing policy dialogues to strengthen the cultural foundations for long-term regional prosperity. Strategic Priorities SEACH integrates culture as a core driver of regional progress, aligning closely with key ASEAN community goals. Our approach is structured around three interconnected strategic pillars: Cultural Continuity and Innovation We safeguard Southeast Asia’s intangible cultural heritage as a living resource, fostering its continuity through contemporary interpretation and adaptive reuse. This commitment ensures that traditional arts and knowledge serve as foundations for sustainable community development and creative education. Leadership and Talent Development SEACH cultivates the next generation of cultural leaders and innovators through high-level platforms for youth empowerment, skills integration, and STEAM advancement. By bridging cultural insight with future-oriented competencies, we contribute to inclusive economic growth and a resilient regional talent ecosystem. Policy and Ecosystem Development We facilitate multilateral dialogue and institutional partnerships to integrate cultural cooperation into regional planning and policy frameworks. This enables the translation of cultural collaboration into actionable strategies for innovation, social cohesion, and long-term resilience across Southeast Asia. Core Initiatives Traditions Unveiled: Rediscovering Southeast Asia's Cultural Treasures This project aims to delve deep into the rich tapestry of Southeast Asia's traditional cultural heritage. Through extensive research, documentation, and preservation efforts, "Traditions Unveiled" uncovers hidden gems and lesser-known artistic traditions. Through exhibitions, publications, and online resources, the project showcases the diversity, craftsmanship, and stories behind these treasures. By promoting a deeper understanding and appreciation of Southeast Asian cultural heritage, the project seeks to ensure its continued relevance and inspire future generations. Culture in Motion: Celebrating Southeast Asian Performing Arts "Culture in Motion" showcases the captivating performing arts traditions of Southeast Asia through vibrant and immersive experiences. From traditional music and dance to theater and storytelling, this project brings together performers, choreographers, and artists to create breathtaking productions that captivate audiences. Through touring performances, festivals, and educational initiatives, "Culture in Motion" aims to share the richness and diversity of Southeast Asian performing arts, promoting cultural exchange, and fostering a deeper appreciation for the region's artistic heritage. Crossing Borders: Inspiring Dialogue, Encouraging Collaboration "Crossing Borders" is a dynamic initiative that fosters cross-cultural exchange and collaboration between Southeast Asian artists and their international counterparts. Through artist residencies, collaborative projects, and exhibitions, the project cultivates a platform for creative dialogue, innovation, and cultural diversity. By facilitating interactions and showcasing the unique perspectives of Southeast Asian artists, the project aims to break down barriers, challenge stereotypes, and build lasting connections that transcend geographical boundaries. Emerging Voices: Empowering Next Generation of Artists "Emerging Voices" is a mentorship and support program designed to empower emerging artists across Southeast Asia. Through mentorship, workshops, and networking opportunities, the project provides the necessary resources and guidance for young talents to develop their artistic skills and navigate the creative industry. By offering a platform to showcase their work, "Emerging Voices" nurtures a vibrant artistic ecosystem that embraces innovation, diversity, and inclusivity, ensuring that the next generation of artists can thrive and contribute to the cultural landscape. SEACH translates its strategic priorities into tangible impact through a suite of flagship initiatives designed to foster cultural continuity, innovation, and regional collaboration. Complementing these are high-level platforms such as the China-ASEAN High-Level Youth Talent Exchange Program and the Southeast Asia Cultural Innovation Accelerator, which integrate cultural leadership with sustainable development goals. Together, these initiatives demonstrate culture as a dynamic force for community development and economic empowerment. Happenings Southeast Asia Cultural Hub (SEACH) is an International Non-Governmental Organisation, officially registered with the United Nations Integrated Civil Society Organisations System (ID #709194). Southeast Asia Cultural Hub benefits from the foundational support of SIG Group Holding and strategically partners with a consortium of philanthropies and institutional funders who share our long-term vision. As an organisation, the Hub maintains a position of strict neutrality on political and policy matters, ensuring an inclusive and open platform for all cultural voices. Copyright © 2019-2026. Southeast Asia Cultural Hub. All Rights Reserved. Please feel free to contact us at: contacts@seach.asia

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