Chief Executive Donald Tsang today opened the Information Services Department 50th Anniversary Exhibition at Hong Kong Central Library.

Proud history: Chief Executive Donald Tsang opens the exhibition with other guests (left); Mr Tsang tours the exhibition, accompanied by Director of Information Services Michael Wong (middle). Picture right shows the former Directors of Information Services Thomas Chan (left) and Irene Yau (middle) with Mr Wong.

Director of Information Services Michael Wong said ISD has been an important part of Hong Kong's extraordinary development in the last 50 years.

"The exhibition and a photo album entitled 50 Years of Dedicated Information Services succinctly cover the department's experiences at the news frontline for the past 50 years.

"As this is also part of Hong Kong's experience, we thought it was worthwhile to share it with the public."

Mr Wong said as Hong Kong continues to develop, by building on the tradition established by generations of officers in the last 50 years, the department will continue to serve the Government, and the local and international media with quality and efficient services, serving as a communication bridge between the administration and the public.

Mr Wong said: "All colleagues at ISD will continue to provide dedicated services, aiming at the next 50 years."

The exhibition, with more than 200 historical and contemporary photos, is a visual showcase of ISD's evolution and work.

By learning about the changes the department has undergone, visitors can appreciate the growing sophistication of Hong Kong over the years, from colonial times to the present day as a Special Administrative Region of China.

Visitors will also see how technological advances have enhanced the way the department disseminates information to the media and the public.

Another exhibition section will feature award-winning government video messages on topics including Keep Hong Kong Clean, road safety, crime, smoking, elections and environmental protection.

Hundreds of publications, ranging from posters produced in the 1960s on public hygiene to the full set of Hong Kong Annual Reports produced in the past 50 years, will be on display.

The free exhibition is open 10am to 7.30pm September 15 and 16 in the Central Library's Exhibition Gallery on the ground floor, except when typhoon signal number eight or above is issued.