FS: Dreams become reality in Lantau

I am delighted to be here and invited by Elsa and Anna to celebrate with you all the opening of World of Frozen, the first-ever and largest Frozen-themed land in the world. Thank you Olaf for bringing me here all the way from Central.

I can still vividly remember how this Frozen-themed zone started as a sketch some seven years ago. The fantasy is now a reality, almost beyond our imagination back in 2016. But seeing is believing, and I am thrilled to be here to see how the Kingdom of Arendelle from the Frozen movie franchise has come to real life. Visitors to Hong Kong Disneyland can now physically immerse themselves in iconic scenes once only featured in animation.

And to make it even more unique, World of Frozen integrates the picturesque natural landscape of our Lantau Island as the backdrop, and deploys the latest technology to deliver a truly innovative guest experience. Please join me in a round of applause for the talented Disney team who have made this dream come true.

I would call the Disney team "imagineers" – bringing dreams to life, fantasy to reality, and sketches to tangible deliverables. You have certainly reminded us that success and greatness are always a formula of imagination and innovation, plus meticulous planning, dedicated efforts and resilience in overcoming challenges all the way.

We in Hong Kong all know the essence of hard work. But perhaps we could also be more bold, to imagine, to embrace new ideas, create new models and break new grounds. As the late American astronomer Carl Sagan said: "Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were. But without it, we go nowhere."

Last year, when I officiated at the "Momentous" premiere in front of the Castle in the pouring rain, I mentioned that Hong Kong Disneyland is a critical element in our flagship tourism offerings. And on this bright "Summer Snow Day" I am confident that the opening of World of Frozen is a defining moment to elevate Hong Kong Disneyland to a whole new level, and to attract more tourists to embark on journeys to Hong Kong. Indeed, a side trip to Arendelle Harbour is a must for Disney fans. It may well join our famous Victoria Harbour on the long and exciting "bucket list" of must-do activities when you come to Hong Kong.

Financial Secretary Paul Chan gave these remarks during "A Welcome Ceremony for World of Frozen" at the Hong Kong Disneyland Resort on November 20.