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“National Treasures Global Vision” Art Contest and Cultural Exchange Program
Hong Kong possesses the unique advantage of integrating Eastern and Western cultures while serving as a global gateway. Shin Tak Foundation proudly launches a cross-cultural program, the “National Treasures Global Vision”Drawing Competition and Cultural Exchange Program. This international platform invites youth from local and overseas to engage in artistic and cultural dialogue.
The program includes a National Treasures Drawing Competition and the International Cultural Exchange Activities. Young participants from around the world will compete, with each country selecting its own winners. Gold Award winners in the youth category will be invited to Hong Kong to attend the National Treasures Carnival and Award Ceremony.
Winning artworks will be exhibited in Hong Kong and compiled into a commemorative publication, The World’s National Treasures Art Album, which will be gifted to government departments, educational institutions, and libraries across participating countries. Awardees may also be invited to join future cultural exchange activities under the program and may also join future exchange events. The first competition theme is “Animals”, encouraging creativity through art.
Purpose
Through drawing their own vision of a “national treasure,” young people can explore cultural heritage, deepen appreciation for different traditions, and build cross-cultural understanding. The program encourages creativity, broadens global perspectives, and promotes the values of peace, harmony, and mutual respect—positioning Hong Kong as a bridge that connects cultures and celebrates diversity.
Target Participants
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Endorsement by consular representatives overseas
Mr. Lam Kwok Hing, BBS, JP, Honorary Consul and Chairman of the Shan Tak Foundation:
The giant panda, with its adorable and gentle appearance, has captured hearts around the world. As a rare species unique to China—currently with only around 1,864 left in the wild—it is often called a “living fossil.” More than just a national symbol, the giant panda is also a global ambassador of peace and friendship. It carries a dual mission of ecological conservation and cultural exchange. Both China and the international community are working together to ensure its continued protection and the values it represents.
H.E. Jean Louis Robinson Richard, Ambassador of the Republic of Madagascar to China ：
Madagascar’s unique biodiversity has evolved in isolation for millions of years, giving rise to species found nowhere else on Earth—such as the lemur. To date, 107 species of lemurs have been identified. Among them, the ring-tailed lemur—affectionately known as “Maki”—stands out as a national symbol, representing agility and adaptability.
H.E. Oludare Ezekiel Folowosele, Consul General of the Federal Republic of Nigeria in Hong Kong
I would say the eagle. If you look at Nigeria’s coat of arms, you’ll see a red eagle at the top. It represents strength, vision, and national pride.
H.E. Riaz Ahmed Shaikh, Consul General of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan in Hong Kong
The markhor, a wild goat with twisted horns and a deer-like appearance, is native to the Karakoram mountain range. We are actively working to protect and promote this remarkable species, which embodies the spirit of resilience and freedom.
H.E. Ellias Mutamba, Consul General of the Republic of Zimbabwe in Hong Kong and Macao
Osprey is a powerful symbol of Zimbabwe. You can see it on our national flag, carved into important monuments, and woven into traditional fabrics. Whenever you see this bird, you know it represents Zimbabwe. It stands for resilience—and reflects our hope and bright outlook for the future.
Clemens Triaji Bektikusuma, Consul of the Republic of Indonesia in Hong Kong
Indonesia is home to a rich diversity of flora and fauna. I would choose the Komodo dragon as our national treasure. It symbolizes agility, strength, and perseverance—qualities that reflect the spirit of the Indonesian people.
Nikita Petruchenia, Vice Consul of the Republic of Belarus in Hong Kong
The European bison is a treasured wild animal in Belarus. It is large and powerful - standing up to two meters tall and weighing as much as 1,000 kilograms. Though it may appear intimidating, it is actually gentle and sociable, often living in herds. The bison reflects the spirit of the Belarusian people: peaceful and kind, closely connected to nature, yet always ready to stand up and protect loved ones when faced with danger.
Global efforts to foster cultural exchange
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