Advancing a New Vision for Eye Health: Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao–Taiwan Exchange Forum on Eye Health Cooperation and Development Successfully Held

On February 6, 2026, Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University and Sun Yat-sen University Institute of Advanced Studies Hong Kong (SYSUIASHK) jointly hosted the “Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao–Taiwan Exchange Forum on Eye Health Cooperation and Development” in Hong Kong. The forum brought together representatives from institutions including the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong S.A.R. and the Hospital Authority Hong Kong, along with ophthalmology experts, scholars, and industry representatives from Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan. The event aimed to build a cross-regional academic exchange platform and promote coordinated development in eye health.

Dean Xu Anlong of SYSUIASHK delivered the opening remarks. He warmly welcomed all guests and noted that the SYSUIASHK leverages its unique geographical advantages and resources to provide a platform for global ophthalmology experts, scholars, and industry pioneers to exchange ideas in academia, resources, and innovation. He emphasized that hosting this event represents a concrete effort by the Institute to align with the Sun Yat-sen University’s goal of positioning its medical disciplines among the world’s leading ranks, proactively respond to major national needs in eye health, and support high-quality development of the eye health sector in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Guests including Medical Superintendent Dr. Walton Li of Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital; Professor George Woo, Emeritus Professor and Senior Advisor of the School of Optometry at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University; and Professor Chen Weili, Director of Ophthalmology Department at National Taiwan University Hospital, also delivered remarks. They shared insights into the current development and future prospects of eye health in Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, and emphasized the importance of cross-regional collaboration in enhancing clinical standards, advancing scientific research, and improving patient services.

Professor Lin Haotian, Dean of Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University, delivered a keynote speech. He introduced the Center’s achievements in its historical development, medical services, education, research, prevention, and international collaboration. He also outlined the Center’s strategic vision and key initiatives in contributing to the development of the Greater Bay Area, and further elaborated on its plan to establish an integrated “Space–Air–Land–Sea” framework to build a comprehensive, full-scenario eye health service network. He noted that, through technological innovation, the Center will enable comprehensive and lifecycle-based management of eye health, contributing to eye health development in the Greater Bay Area and globally.

In addition, Li Tongkeng, a professional master student (Class of 2024) from Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center, presented a violin performance for the guests, showcasing the vitality and humanistic qualities of ophthalmology students.

In a relaxed and engaging atmosphere, participants conducted in-depth discussions on key issues in the field of eye health. They exchanged views and shared experiences from clinical practice and research innovation.

Zhongshan Ophthalmic Center of Sun Yat-sen University has consistently upheld its commitment to advancing coordinated development in healthcare. It promotes medical collaboration across Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan through multiple fields and levels. For example, the Center has dispatched five batches of seven medical professionals to participate in the “Greater Bay Area Healthcare Talent Exchange Program”,  jointly initiated by the Guangdong Provincial Health Commission and the Hospital Authority Hong Kong. During their assignments in Hong Kong, these professionals delivered high-quality clinical services to local patients while effectively promoting professional training and research collaboration between the two regions. Their contributions received strong recognition from both the Guangdong Provincial Health Commission and the Hospital Authority Hong Kong. In addition, the Center has co-established the Guangdong - Hong Kong - Macao University Ophthalmology Alliance together with the School of Optometry at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University and the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Macau. This initiative has promoted deeper integration in ophthalmology education, scientific research, and clinical services across the region. These efforts have significantly advanced comprehensive collaboration in eye health among Guangdong, Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, contributing the Greater Bay Area’s wisdom and strength to building a global community of health for all.