In a bid to strengthen institutional awareness on the newly passed "2007 Copyright (Amendment) Bill", the Hong Kong Intellectual Property Department launched the "Software Asset Management Counseling Program" to assist institutions in establishing software assets mechanisms.  Recently, the Hong Kong SAR Government and the Business Software Alliance unveiled the program.  Director of Hong Kong Intellectual Property Department (HKIPD) Stephen Selby confirms his department's proposed spending of HK$ 5,000,000 to sponsor the program. 

Stephen Selby added that the program aims to assist institutions, especially the SMEs, in establishing management software asset, enhancing the security of computer system and network and avoid the use of pirated software.  The program will also enable these enterprises to choose suitable software to reduce costs and enhance productivity. From this month to next April, related departments plan to contract with 50,000 institutions, especially the SMEs, to promote the use of licensed software and provide free door-to-door consultation and education services.