World-famous concert pianist Lang Lang, from the industrial city of Shenyang, received his permanent Hong Kong ID card on Monday as a result of the newly launched Quality Professional Scheme. He was the first mainland celebrity to win permanent Hong Kong residency under this talent-sourcing strategy.

The 24-year-old keyboard whiz is expected to be followed by his compatriot and fellow virtuoso on the ivories Li Yundi. Li, who is also 24, applied for the status last month. They both cited easier access to the rest of the world as well as professional information as the main reason for choosing to live in the special administrative region when they submitted their application forms.

Ta Kung Pao