The history of the first museum in Hong Kong can be dated back to the 1870s with a collection of books, pictures as well as animal and plant specimens. In line with the rapid development in Hong Kong, the number of museums has increased to provide diversified and quality services to the public. Apart from exhibitions, a wide range of activities and education programmes are organized for public enjoyment and learning.

Since 1978, the International Council of Museums (ICOM) has designated 18 May of each year as the International Museum Day (IMD) to promote museum activities and services, and to foster public awareness of the important role of museums in the community. The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) has been organizing IMD programmes in mid-May since 2001. The theme of this year is "Museums as Agents of Social Change and Development". More than 30 museums and heritage institutions from Macao, Hong Kong, the Guangdong Province and Beijing will participate and organize a rich variety of activities in the "Museum Month" this May. Highlight of the event is the Museum Panorama, in which the participating institutions will introduce the characteristics of their own collections and services to the public through display and games in their booths. It is hoped that the public will learn more about the various cultural aspects of the four places.