[7] According to the designer, the building shape is inspired by Chinese bronze ding cauldrons and sycee ingots, and is purposely different from the Beijing Palace Museum to reflect technological advancements, modern culture, and city atmosphere.

She said that she asked the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust about funding the HK$3.5 billion project in December 2015, and that the request was approved by their board of directors in October 2016.

[11] Leung commented, "This is the best and greatest gift to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to the motherland", referring to the 2017 commemoration of the Handover.

[6] The cost of construction was planned to be covered by a HK$3.5 billion donation from the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust.

[5] Town planner Camille Lam criticised the direct appointment of Rocco Yim as architect without any design competition, as had been done with the M+ Museum, or open tender, as is common practice for other public buildings.

The convenor, Fok Kin-man, stated that the lack of consultation was so that the government could give the Hong Kong people a pleasant surprise.