ASHK Bids Farewell to 5 Consul Generals
On the rainy night of June 26th, 2019 we celebrated 5 outgoing Consul Generals for their remarkable contributions. Led by our Chairman Mr. Ronnie Chan and Executive Director Ms. S. Alice Mong, the cocktail reception and farewell ceremony was an opportunity to recognize Ms. Michaela Browning representing Australia, Mrs. Monika Muller-Fembeck representing Austria, Ms. Michele Deneffe representing Belgium, Mr. Ioannis Maloukos representing Greece and Mr. Antonio A. Morales representing Philippines. As many Consul Generals have participated in Asia Society’s arts and cultural events with enthusiasm and curiosity, Mr. Chan and Ms. Mong began the cocktail by expressing gratitude and appreciation for all the Consul Generals, and reassuring these individuals that despite their leave they will always be part of the ASHK family.
Ms. Browning, Mrs. Muller-Fembeck, Ms. Deneffe, Mr. Maloukos and Mr. Morales were all given an opportunity to share short remarks about their time here in Hong Kong. They all emphasized their love and interest for the city’s dynamic culture, food and people. Ms. Browning, Consul General of Australia, ended her remarks by recognizing that despite Hong Kong’s currently fragile political and social environment, perhaps a positive spin is that the past few weeks have only emphasized the unique significance of Hong Kong.
Each Consul General left with an exhibition catalogue from one of two ASHK solo exhibitions: of the celebrated Yoshitomo Nara or pioneering Mr. Hon Chi-fun. The catalogues were a small token of appreciation for all the hard work they have done to build bridges between Hong Kong and the world. We wish them all the best on their next journeys.