A panel discussion titled "Transforming Tradition: Innovative Partnerships and Community Co-creation in Modern Museums" took place last week at TaiKoo Li Qiantan in Shanghai. It brought together cultural leaders and business executives from Shanghai and Hong Kong to explore new collaboration models between museums, communities, and enterprises.

Jointly organized by the Hong Kong Palace Museum and Swire Properties, the event was part of the "Bi-city Youth Cultural Leadership Program". Speakers shared practical case studies and insights on cross-disciplinary partnerships, emphasizing how cultural institutions can integrate with commercial and community sectors to foster innovation and sustainable growth.

Louis Ng, director of the Hong Kong Palace Museum, highlighted that museums today are evolving into resilient, innovative and inclusive spaces that extend beyond exhibitions to drive learning, dialogue, social cohesion and economic vitality.

"By fostering a sense of belonging among community members, museums can achieve sustainable growth," Ng said.

"To do so, they must understand community interests and needs, enhance accessibility and inclusiveness, and create opportunities for participation through collaborative projects."

Ng also emphasized the importance of deepening technological and digital initiatives to reach broader audiences and advancing the cultural and creative industries by combining cultural missions with commercial thinking and innovation, creating more opportunities for collaboration and co-creation with communities.

TaiKoo Li Qiantan hosted the forum as part of its efforts to support Shanghai's cultural ecosystem and align with the city's policy of integrating culture, tourism, commerce, sports, and exhibitions.

Joanna Ku, general manager of Retail (Shanghai Pudong) at Swire Properties, mentioned that the company's "Taikoo Li" developments aim to serve as open platforms where art, culture and commerce converge.

"TaiKoo Li Qiantan is designed not only as an urban living room but also as a space infused with cultural vitality through art exhibitions, public art, sports, and community programs," Ku explained.