The 4th PHAB Festival Concludes Successfully: A Thousand Gather to Explore the "Inclusive Metropolis" Despite the Rain
The Hong Kong PHAB Association successfully held the 4th PHAB Festival and the 4th PHAB Challenge on March 1, 2026, at the Kwun Tong Town Centre Free Space. Although the opening was briefly delayed due to inclement weather, the event ultimately drew nearly a thousand community participants, marking a triumphant conclusion. Under the theme "Finding Emotional Value in an Inclusive Metropolis," this year’s festival featured wheelchair experiences, artistic performances, carnival booths, and handicraft workshops, allowing the public to experience firsthand the significance of being respected, understood, and accepted.
The opening ceremony was officiated by Ms Linda LAM Mei-sau, SBS, Chairperson of the Equal Opportunities Commission; Mr. CHEUNG Wai-leung Benny MBE, QGM, MA, Chairperson of the Hong Kong Joint Council for People with Disabilities; Mr. Michael W.K. Fan, Chairman of the Hong Kong PHAB Association; and Vice-Chairmen Prof. Frederick W.H. Ho, SBS and Mr. Augustine T.S. Lee. The ceremony was witnessed by representatives from sponsors, district organizations, and supporting partners.
In her speech, Ms Linda LAM noted that everyone requires assistance at different stages of life. Building an accessible environment and fostering an inclusive culture benefits not only persons with disabilities and the elderly but the entire community.
Mr. Benny CHEUNG emphasized that persons with disabilities are not merely service recipients but integral members of the city. He expressed hope that such events would encourage more citizens to walk alongside them, enabling them to utilize their talents and contribute to society.
Chairman Mr. Michael W.K. Fan thanked all sectors for their years of support, allowing the Association and its partners to promote inclusion together. He hoped participants would learn that "more acceptance leads to more understanding," transforming inclusion from a slogan into a practice of mutual assistance and exchange.
A highlight of the event, the 4th PHAB Challenge, simulated an "Inclusive Metropolis". Participants competed in pairs using wheelchairs to complete tasks across scenarios such as schools, homes, gyms, and workplaces. A parent shared afterward that allowing children to operate wheelchairs and encounter Braille and sign language was more profound than any lecture. Many participants noted they would pay closer attention to those in need in their daily lives.
The concurrent PHAB Festival Carnival featured a vibrant atmosphere with inclusive experience booths, workshops, talent showcases, and exhibitions, engaging people of all ages and abilities. Local singer-songwriter duo The Absent Brother shared original music with healing vocals, spreading the message of inclusion in a relaxed setting. Families also participated in inclusive storytelling sessions and educational seminars, learning to embrace themselves, respect differences, and support the emotional and adaptive needs of children with special needs.
This event was supported by numerous corporations, social enterprises, and educational and social welfare organizations, with volunteers leading various booths and activities to promote the "PHAB" (Physically Handicapped and Able-Bodied) philosophy. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all supporters (listed in no particular order):
| Sponsors: Chan Dang Social Services Vita Green Charitable Foundation Limited Pacific Medical Systems Limited Citybus Limited Essere (Hong Kong) Limited Zihua Embrocation (Purple Flower Oil) Hung Fook Tong |
| Media Partners: Sky Post Oh! Pama |
| Supporting Organizations: PolyKing Services Limited Protective Property Management Limited China CITIC Bank International The Education University of Hong Kong Hong Kong St. John Ambulance |
| Partners: "Hiccups Love" (Author: Ms. Gloria Chan) Educational Psychologist Ms. Diane Lo HKSKH Welfare Council Hong Kong Federation of the Blind Riding For The Disabled Association Limited Armwrestling Federation of Hong Kong, China Cedar Workshop, Ebenezer School & Home for the Visually Impaired |
| Performers: The Absent Brother PHAB Kowloon East Centre Hong Kong Children's Magician Association St. James' Settlement Jockey Club Artspiration Academy That Summer AJT Music Academy PHAB AS ONE Chingyan & Caleb |
