17 Nov 2025

SWIMS Turns 35: Celebrating a Legacy of Marine Science and Conservation

Distinguished guests celebrating the Coral Anniversary of SWIMS.

The Swire Institute of Marine Science (SWIMS) marked its 35^th anniversary with a vibrant gala celebration on October 23, 2025. As part of the HKU Faculty of Science, SWIMS is an interdisciplinary research hub dedicated to the study of coastal seas. Nestled along the shores of Cape D’Aguilar Marine Reserve, SWIMS brings together faculty from the School and Departments of Biological Sciences, Chemistry, Mechanical Engineering, and Earth and Planetary Sciences, along with more than 50 PhD students and postdoctoral research fellows.

Founded in 1990 by Professor Brian MORTON as the Swire Marine Laboratory, SWIMS has nurtured generations of scientists whose contributions span academia, NGOs, and both public and private sectors across the region and beyond. More than 100 current and former SWIMS members gathered for the anniversary, enjoying a warm, family-like atmosphere.

The gala brought together distinguished guests, including HKU Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Peng GONG, Vice-President and Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor Jay SIEGEL, Dean of Science Professor Qiang ZHOU, Associate Vice-President Professor Pauline CHIU, the Chair of the Swire Group Philanthropy Council Mr Richard SELL, and the Director of the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) Mr Mickey Kin-ming LAI.

Following the welcome reception, the dignitaries took to the stage to share their thoughts about SWIMS achievements, history, and role within the University. Dean of Science Professor Zhou described SWIMS as the Faculty’s ‘crown jewel…. where curiosity meets commitment, young scientists learn from hands-on experience, and research speaks directly to the needs of Hong Kong and our region.’ Professor Siegel called SWIMS an institution that brings people together: ‘the Ocean is what unites us.’

Professor Peng Gong highlighted Swire’s century-long partnership with HKU: ‘Since the foundation of the University, Swire has been with us.’ Professor Gong then announced the latest milestones supported by the Swire Group – the establishment of the Swire Professorship in Marine Conservation – to strengthen conservation efforts in the Greater Bay Area. The announcement was marked by a ceremonial ribbon-pull from the HKU Endowed Professorship Commemorative Chair.

From the left: In a symbolic moment, Mr Richard Sell joined Professors Peng Gong and Jay Siegel in pulling the ceremonial ribbon from the HKU Endowed Professorship Commemorative Chair, officially marking the establishment of the Swire Professorship in Marine Conservation.

Throughout the evening, alumni and guests shared fond memories about SWIMS. Dr Siu-fai LEUNG, one of SWIMS’ earliest graduates and former AFCD Director, described SWIMS as a ‘big family’ he always felt drawn back to. Professor Daniel PAULY, a world-renowned fisheries scientist from the University of British Columbia and current guest lecturer in SWIMS’ Master’s programme, expressed his eagerness to return next year. ‘Next year, I hope to come back to SWIMS – because it’s a pleasure to work with my colleagues there, and back to Hong Kong, which I like very much,’ he remarked.

Mr Richard Sell, the Chair of the Swire Group Philanthropy Council, praised SWIMS’ growing global connections and impact, pledging continued support: ‘We are delighted to see how the team has grown, how SWIMS is connecting the dots with other marine institutes around the world to have an impact not just in Hong Kong, but in Greater China and around the world. The team is doing a wonderful job, and we look forward to continuing to support in the years ahead.’

The newly appointed Interim Director of SWIMS, Professor David BAKER, outlined the vision for SWIMS that he had formalised in the new strategic development plan. According to Professor Baker, Hong Kong can look forward to SWIMS’ new ‘scientific achievements, educational outreach, and partnerships with corporates and NGOs.’

Professor Baker concluded the evening with a moving tribute to Professor Gray Williams, who has recently stepped down after more than 20 years as Director, leaving behind a profound legacy. Not only did he mentor several generations of postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows, but he also established lasting collaborations with national and regional marine science institutions, and played a key role in founding Hong Kong’s marine biodiversity databases – resources that will allow future generations to better monitor and protect our marine environment.

As SWIMS embarks on its next chapter, Professor Williams reminded the SWIMS family of their mission: to harness new technologies and ideas to conserve Hong Kong’s marine environment.


Interim Director Professor David Baker shared SWIMS’ vision for the future, emphasising innovation, sustainability, and interdisciplinary research.	Former Director Professor Gray Williams responded with heartfelt appreciation as he was honoured by the SWIMS family for his 20 years of contributions to the institute.