NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ11: Supporting students with special educational needs

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Gary Zhang and a written reply by the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):
     
    Question:
     
         There are views pointing out that the support provided under the existing policy for students with special educational needs (SEN) at public sector ordinary schools is insufficient. In addition, many primary and secondary schools have relayed that due to curricula constraints, they do not have the time to take care of and support the needs of SEN students, and Special Educational Needs Coordinators (SENCOs) also find it difficult to cater for the needs of SEN students because of their heavy administrative workload. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the current number of (i) SENCOs and (ii) Special Educational Needs Support Teachers (SENSTs) in Hong Kong, and the respective average numbers of SEN students supported by each SENCO and SENST;
     
    (2) of the service programmes currently provided by the Government for various types of SEN students, and the average amount of subsidies received by each student;
     
    (3) whether the Government has considered allocating additional resources to provide accessible applied behaviour analysis trainings for students with autism spectrum disorder and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (4) given that under the existing policy, the Social Welfare Department (SWD) provides pre-school support for SEN children (from birth to six years old), while the support services for school-aged SEN children over six years old are provided by schools funded by the Education Bureau, but there are views that the support services provided by the SWD and schools, as well as their effectiveness, are completely different, whether the Government will consider having the support services for SEN students provided by the SWD instead?

    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Government attaches great importance to supporting students with special educational needs (SEN) and has continuously introduced enhancement measures to strengthen the support for students with different SEN. The annual expenditure on integrated education has increased substantially from $1.5 billion in the 2017-18 financial year to about $4.1 billion in the 2024-25 financial year, representing an increase of up to 170 per cent. This reflects the great importance and long-term commitment of the Government attached to integrated education. 
     
         The consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Gary Zhang is as follows:
     
    (1) to (2) To assist public sector ordinary schools in supporting students with SEN, the Education Bureau (EDB) provides schools with additional manpower and professional support on top of regular subvention. The EDB provides schools with the Learning Support Grant (LSG) on an annual basis based on the number of students with SEN in a school and their respective tier of support required. In the 2023/24 school year, the unit grant rates for Tier-2 and Tier-3 support are $15,779 and $63,116 respectively. If the total amount of the LSG reaches a specific threshold, the schools will be provided with additional regular teaching post(s), titled Special Educational Needs Support Teacher (SENST) by the EDB. Also, the post of Special Educational Needs Coordinator (SENCO) has been established in each public sector ordinary school. In the 2023/24 school year, there are 844 and 1 355 posts of SENCOs and SENSTs respectively within the staff establishment. Under the Whole School Approach (WSA), all teachers in a school should have the ability and the responsibility to support students with SEN, while the SENCO plays a leading role in collaborating with other teachers and professional support staff. Schools can flexibly pool together and effectively deploy the LSG as well as other resources based on the overall needs of students and according to the principle of “individual calculation and holistic deployment”, including employing additional teachers and teaching assistants and hiring professional services. 
     
         Apart from additional teachers, the EDB provides schools with additional professional support staff. At present, the School-based Educational Psychology Service has covered all public sector ordinary schools in the territory, and the Enhanced School-based Speech Therapy Service has also been fully implemented. Besides, the EDB has launched support programmes and services to address different types of SEN so that students in need can be provided with targeted support, such as the Chinese Language Tiered Intervention Programme for students with dyslexia, the respective support programmes for students with visual impairment and hearing impairment; and the School Partnership Scheme to support ordinary schools to cater for students with intellectual disability who display severe adjustment difficulties.
     
    (3) Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder (AD/HD) are the major types of students with SEN. Schools can provide appropriate support for them according to their severity of SEN through the 3-tier Intervention Model, such as in-class adaptation and support, group training targeted for learning, emotional and behavioural adjustment, and individual education plan for students with severe learning or adaptation difficulties, so as to make the best use of resources and maximise the effectiveness. The EDB has also implemented the Project on “Whole School Approach to Providing Tiered Support for Students with Autism Spectrum Disorder”. Through the “School-based Multi-Disciplinary Professional Support” and the “Non-Governmental Organisation and School Collaboration”, schools are assisted in adopting evidence-based and diversified strategies to help students develop their abilities in learning, social and emotional adaptation, facilitate their integration in classroom learning and the community, unleash their potential and strengthen their life planning. 
     
         For students with AD/HD, the EDB has been developing a series of teaching resources for enhancing students’ execution skills and relevant software for secondary schools to facilitate individual coaching for the students concerned. Besides, the EDB organises talks and experience-sharing sessions for school personnel on a regular basis, and provides support for primary and secondary school students, parents and teachers under the Jockey Club Keen and Active Kids Project through cross-sector collaboration with university. 
          
         Currently, there are various evidence-based support strategies to assist students with ASD and AD/HD, and applied behaviour analysis (ABA), which mainly reinforces positive behaviour using rewards, is one of them. The EDB has all along been promoting effective and evidence-based support strategies through teacher training and support programmes to enhance schools’ capacity to support students. In addition, a series of learning and teaching resources that make use of information technology and interactive multimedia, such as “Video Modelling”, digital interactive learning and teaching platforms, and digital learning games will be launched by phases. The elements of ABA approach have already been included in these initiatives. Schools are encouraged to deploy their resources flexibly and adopt diversified and appropriate strategies to cater for the needs of different students.
     
    (4) The Government has been providing support services for children with special needs through cross-sector collaboration. In brief, the Health Bureau and the Hospital Authority (HA) provide assessment and medical services; the Social Welfare Department (SWD) provides pre-school rehabilitation services; while the EDB provides learning support.
     
         Children at different stages have different needs for support. At the pre-primary level, kindergartens adopt an integrated approach of theme-based learning, enabling children to learn through a variety of games and activities based on their progress of development and learning needs. Most of the children showing slower development in individual aspects are able to gradually develop their capabilities at their own pace of personal growth. Therefore, at the pre-school level, the SWD provides subvention for non-governmental organisations to operate pre-school rehabilitation services for children with special needs under six years of age. At the primary level, students will transition to a more structured learning approach with different subjects. Schools will also gradually grasp the types of SEN of their students. By adopting the WSA, SENCOs collaborate with various professionals and subject panels in the school to cater for the learning and adaptation needs of students in a holistic manner.
          
         To enhance the effectiveness of the transition from pre-school to primary schooling, a collaborative mechanism has been put in place among the EDB, the SWD, the Department of Health and the HA to ensure that the recipient primary schools can be aware of the special needs of students progressing to Primary One early, and facilitate their integration in the learning life of primary schools. Primary schools will make appropriate support arrangements according to the actual needs of students and provide parents with the “Summary of Transition Support for Primary One Student” to help them understand the support arrangements provided by schools and make suitable complements to enhance the effectiveness and promote home-school communication.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of Tai Wo Sports Centre

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (October 23) that Tai Wo Sports Centre in Tai Po District will be temporarily closed from November 1 for repair works, which are expected to be completed in late July 2025. During the closure period, members of the public may use similar facilities at Fu Heng Sports Centre, Fu Shin Sports Centre, Tai Po Hui Sports Centre, Tai Po Sports Centre and Tung Cheong Street Sports Centre in the same district.

         For the most up-to-date closure schedules of the above leisure and sports facilities, the public may refer to the notices at venue or contact venue staff at 2656 3398.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ14: Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese Citizens)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Kennedy Wong and a written reply by the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):Question:     The Exit and Entry Administration of the country announced on July 1 this year the issuance of Mainland Travel Permits for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese Citizens) (non-Chinese Permits) to non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents who make an application starting from the 10th of that month. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:(1) given that since September 1, 2018, relevant Mainland authorities have further facilitated the use of the Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (commonly known as Home Return Permit) by Hong Kong and Macao residents for easy application of the Home Return Permit in areas such as transport, finance, communications, education, healthcare, social security, industry and commerce, taxation and accommodation, and the Secretary for Labour and Welfare said in July this year that the measures relating to the non-Chinese Permit would be conducive to the talent exchange between the Mainland and Hong Kong and further facilitate Hong Kong’s better integration into the overall development of the country and its contribution to the country’s high-‍quality development, but it is learnt that currently holders of non-‍Chinese Permits are still unable to enjoy any convenience on the Mainland, including their inability to directly open bank accounts, apply for telephone cards and purchase railway tickets, whether the authorities will seek to secure the wider and more convenient use of the non-Chinese Permit on the Mainland, so that holders of the permit can enjoy the same convenience afforded to holders of the Home Return Permit; if so, of the specific details; if not, the reasons for that;(2) of the total number of persons who have applied for non-Chinese Permits so far, their main nationalities and the situation of their use of the permit; and(3) of the channels used by the Government to promote the non-Chinese Permit, so as to ensure that non-Chinese residents in Hong Kong who are eligible can receive the relevant information in a timely manner, and whether assistance is provided for holders of non-Chinese Permits at the relevant control points?Reply:President,     The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) warmly welcomes and expresses gratitude to the country for issuing non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents a card???type document with five-year validity (Mainland Travel Permit for Hong Kong and Macao Residents (non-Chinese Citizens)) with effect from July 2024. The new measure represents a major policy breakthrough under “one country, two systems” implemented by the Mainland authorities with innovative thinking and fully highlights the unique status of the HKSAR.     Before the introduction of the new measure, foreigners (including non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents) could only go through the manual channels at control points of the Mainland with their foreign passports and fill in an arrival card each time. Even though persons of certain nationalities can enjoy visa-free access to the Mainland, they still have to use the manual channels for clearance using their passports at Mainland control points. After the introduction of the new measure, individuals holding the card-type document are able to enjoy self-service clearance at control points of the Mainland, and they are no longer required to fill in any arrival card. It has significantly enhanced clearance efficiency and facilitated access to the Mainland for business, travelling and visiting relatives by non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents.     In consultation with the Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau, the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau (CEDB), Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), the Information Services Department (ISD) and the Home Affairs Department (HAD), my reply to the various parts of the question is as follows:(1) The issuance of new card-type document to non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents has significantly enhanced clearance convenience. We understand that various sectors of the community expect wider use of the new document on the Mainland. The HKSAR Government has been in close communication with relevant Mainland authorities and will continue to do so in enhancing the level of convenience of Hong Kong residents living on the Mainland, with a view to promoting better integration of the HKSAR into the overall development of the country.(2) The application, approval, and issuance of the new card-type document fall within the remit of the Mainland authorities. According to the figures provided by the Exit and Entry Administration of the country (EEA), from July to mid-October 2024, a total of about 55 000 non-Chinese Hong Kong permanent residents had made appointments for application, and about 20 000 new card-type documents were issued by the EEA. The number of visitor arrivals/departures made using the card-type document amounted to a total of 53 000. Applicants mainly included nationals from European, North American, Southeast and South Asian countries.     Based on the HKSAR Government’s understanding, the first batch of people who obtained and used the card-type document for travelling to the Mainland (including those from the business and school sectors) greatly welcomed the new measure. They also considered that the measure could substantially shorten the clearance time and fully satisfy their needs for visiting the Mainland for business, academic and cultural exchanges, and travelling purposes. Some of them also said that the measure had given them a stronger sense of identity and facilitated their greater participation in the development of the Greater Bay Area (GBA).(3) The Security Bureau has been actively promoting the new measure together with relevant bureaux and departments, including the CEDB, InvestHK, the ISD, the HAD, as well as Hong Kong Economic and Trade Offices overseas and on the Mainland, etc. Apart from promoting through various channels, including mass media and social media, we have been particularly promoting this measure to foreign chambers of commerce in Hong Kong, encouraging international talents of Hong Kong companies who are permanent residents to make use of the card-type document to better seize the opportunities of the country’s rapid development, especially in the building of the GBA. In addition, we have especially introduced the measure to ethnic minorities through the eight support service centres for ethnic minorities funded by the HAD and promoted the measure to ethnic minority groups, community groups and schools, etc. through relevant District Offices in districts where more ethnic minorities live.     We have also been maintaining close communication with the Mainland authorities to ensure the smooth implementation of first-time registration for the use of this permit and clearance arrangement at Mainland control points, including the provision of more directional signs in English and additional manpower to assist card holders when necessary.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Workers demonstrate strength of union power

    Source: Council of Trade Unions – CTU

    NZCTU Te Kauae Kaimahi is celebrating a strong turnout of workers across the country who stood together in opposition to the Government’s anti-worker agenda, with more than 10,000 working people attending hui from Whangārei to Invercargill.

    “Today workers from a wide range of sectors and industries came together and demonstrated the strength of union power. Workers told the Government that they are sick and tired of the total disregard for their livelihoods,” said NZCTU President Richard Wagstaff.
     
    “It is galling to hear Brooke van Velden try and claim today the coalition is great for working people, when she is overseeing a series of policies that erode hard fought for worker’s rights, and refuses to even meet with unions.
     
    “Actions speak louder than words. That’s why we know that this coalition government is in the pockets of the rich and corporate interests and doesn’t care about working people.
     
    “We are proud of our movement for uniting together and sending this Government a strong message that will not back down and let them get away with their anti-worker and anti-Te Tiriti agenda.
     
    “When unions and working people unite and use our collective strength, we bring people together and transform society for the better. We have a proud history of creating change, even in the toughest circumstances.
     
    “We will continue to fight for good work, livable incomes, well-funded public services, health and safety at work, and the rights of kaimahi Māori,” said Wagstaff.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: White paper on increasing access to medicines accepted 

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Associate Health Minister David Seymour is pleased to accept the Valuing Life Medicines Access Summit White Paper delivered by Patient Voice Aotearoa (PVA).   

    PVA gives patients a unified voice to help inform better health policy and improve access to healthcare, while fiercely advocating for their rights.   

    “We welcome the White Paper as a call to action to continue improving access to medicines for Kiwis,” says Mr Seymour.  

    “The White Paper follows the Medicines Summit hosted by Mr Seymour in April 2024 and co-facilitated by PVA and Medicines New Zealand. The paper contains 10 suggestions for the development of a patient-centric medicines strategy, which Kiwis deserve.   

    “The acceptance of the White Paper signifies this Government’s commitment to continue to hear from patients up and down New Zealand.  

    “For many New Zealanders, funding for pharmaceuticals is life or death, or the difference between a life of pain and suffering or living freely.   

    “To reflect this, this Government listened, allocating Pharmac’s largest ever budget of $6.294 billion over four years, so that it can get on and do its job – negotiating the best deals for medicine for New Zealanders.  

    “It was a priority for us to find the additional $1.8 billion to fix the fiscal cliff left by the previous government, and we provided a $604 million uplift to Pharmac to ensure more Kiwis can access life-changing medicines.  

    “Pharmac has a big job ahead. In a trying fiscal environment, we need to prioritise funding and resources and ensure Pharmac remains focused on the basic function of procuring medicine for people who need it, to the best of its abilities.  

    “In my letter of expectations, I made it clear that I want Pharmac to work in partnership with consumers, clinicians, suppliers and the health sector to improve health outcomes for New Zealanders. My letter also makes clear the need for Pharmac to focus on delivering improved health outcomes underpinned by robust data and evidence.   

    “While considerable progress has been made, more work is needed to address the questions raised by the summit on current policy settings and how to adapt to the evolving landscape of medicines. I look forward to continued engagement to give a voice to patients.” 

    Note to editors: The PVA White Paper can be found here.

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: EMSD responds to ICAC’s arrest operation regarding suspected forgery of working experience proof to apply for registration as Grade A electrical workers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Regarding the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC)’s arrest operation concerning the suspected forgery of working experience proof to apply for registration as Grade A electrical workers, the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) today (October 23) responded as follows:
     
         The EMSD has attached great importance to the case of suspected forgery of working experience proof to apply for registration as Grade A electrical workers and has been fully co-operating with the ICAC during the investigation. Upon learning of the case, the EMSD immediately launched an investigation in accordance with the Electricity Ordinance. It was found that some registrants obtained their registration through improper means. The EMSD therefore cancelled the registration of the Grade A electrical workers concerned in accordance with the Electricity Ordinance.
     
         The EMSD has been conducting a robust vetting and approval process to every application for registration as electrical workers. In addition to verifying the applicant’s qualification certificate and working experience proof to ensure compliance with relevant legal requirements, the EMSD also examines the related certification documents. If there is any suspicion, the EMSD will request the applicant or the issuing organisation or individual to submit additional proof for further examination. Moreover, upon learning of the case, the EMSD immediately strengthened the vetting and approval procedures including dispatching officers to the issuing organisation’s office for a certification-of-documents examination in order to ascertain the applicant’s working experience.
     
         To register as a Grade A electrical worker, an applicant must possess relevant qualifications and working experience. Regarding qualifications, an applicant generally needs to hold a Certificate of the Electrician or Electrical Fitter Upgrading Course issued by the Vocational Training Council (VTC) or has passed the trade test organised by the VTC, to demonstrate that he/she has achieved the appropriate technical level. With respect to working experience, applicants generally need to have been employed as an electrical worker for at least five years, including a minimum of one year of practical experience in electrical work.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ8: Individual Visit Scheme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ8: Individual Visit Scheme
    LCQ8: Individual Visit Scheme
    *****************************

         Following is a question by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23): Question:      The Central Government announced in February and May of this year to optimise the Individual Visa Scheme, expanding the scheme to 10 more cities (the 10 cities), creating a boost to the Hong Kong’s tourism trade. Some members of the tourism trade are of the view that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government should optimise the use of resources to enhance the promotional works in the aforesaid new source market and set corresponding performance indicators. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: 1. the total number of inbound visitors from the 10 cities in the third quarter of this year, and its comparison with the third quarters of last year; 2. the items and expenditures involved in the promotional work rolled out by the Government in the 10 cities, as well as the performance indicators for such works; and 3. what are the plans that the Government have in the future to collaborate with the tourism trade to conduct business negotiations and trade visit to the 10 cities, so as to attract more overnight visitors from the Mainland to Hong Kong. Reply: President,      Individual Visa Scheme (IVS) was expanded to Qingdao and Xi’an on March 6, 2024, and further expanded to Taiyuan, Hohhot, Harbin, Lhasa, Lanzhou, Xining, Yinchuan and Urumqi on May 27, 2024. The scheme is currently implemented in 59 cities in the Mainland, covering all provincial capitals in our country, which allows more Mainland residents to explore Hong Kong’s unique appeals as a tourism destination more flexibly and conveniently.           In consultation with the Security Bureau, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung is as follows:(1) The following table tabulates the total number of inbound visitors from the aforementioned 10 cities in the third quarter of 2023 and 2024, along with a comparison between the third quarters of the two years: 

     
    Total number of inbound visitors from the aforementioned 10 cities

     
    July
    August
    September

    2023
    41 147
    47 696
    34 826

    2024
    49 274
    59 471
    35 039

    Comparison between the third quarter of 2023 and 2024
     +16.3 per cent

    (2) To attract more residents from the 10 cities to visit Hong Kong, the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) and the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) have rolled out a series of promotional activities including: (i) Promptly after the expansion of IVS to Xi’an and Qingdao, I led a delegation with the HKTB to visit these two cities in mid-March of this year to conduct promotions. This included holding briefing sessions to introduce the latest tourism products of Hong Kong to local travel agencies and other trade representatives. The briefing sessions were attended by more than 100 local media and trade representatives. Additionally, the HKTB launched outdoor advertisements in popular commercial districts of both cities to introduce new travel experiences in Hong Kong, resulting in a total exposure of 23.8 million views; (ii) After the expansion of IVS to all provincial capitals, the HKTB arranged for 20 trade representatives from eight cities, which includes Taiyuan, Hohhot, Harbin, Lhasa, Lanzhou, Xining, Yinchuan and Urumqi to visit various classic and trendy art and cultural attractions in Hong Kong in June of this year. The itinerary covered the Peak, theme parks, M+ and the Hong Kong Palace Museum in the West Kowloon Cultural District, as well as a city walk in Central, allowing an in-depth exploration of Hong Kong’s local culture. On June 16 this year, I also introduced Hong Kong’s latest tourism resources to Mainland media representatives who visited Hong Kong via the inaugural sleeper train of the Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong Express Rail Link (XRL), and welcomed visitors from various Mainland cities to explore Hong Kong in depth. Subsequently, the HKTB continued to maintain close cooperation with local travel agents, launching unique products for IVS tours to Hong Kong. The HKTB also exclusively designed in-depth cultural and artistic tours as well as family-friendly travel products to meet the diverse needs of different types of visitors; (iii) Since April this year, the HKTB, has distributed nearly 30 000 sets of discount vouchers, each valued at HK$200, to visitors from the 10 cities through travel agents and airlines, stimulating visitors’ spending in Hong Kong; (iv) From late June to mid-August this year, the HKTB, in collaboration with relevant HKSAR Government Offices in the Mainland, visited Harbin, Lanzhou, and Urumqi to conduct offline activities like exhibitions and online promotions on social media platforms. These activities showcased Hong Kong’s year-round events with characteristic, special programmes and offers during the summer to local residents of those cities, achieving an audience reach of over seven million, generating a total exposure of more than 18 million views; and (v) The HKTB utilised promotions on social media by collaborating with Mainland short video platforms and inviting influential key opinion leaders to create micro-videos about Hong Kong tourism, generating word-of-mouth publicity. Depending on the circumstances of different markets, the HKTB also made use of channels popular among visitors in those cities to promote immersive, in-depth tours themed around “City walks” and activities appealing to the young generation, aiming to “soft sell” Hong Kong with fresh content and attract more visitors. The audience reach of the promotions on social media platforms exceeded 15 million while the number of views of short videos surpassed 42 million.      Based on the nature of the promotional works, the HKTB will continue to set various indicators, such as the number of visitors to the website, the audience reach, and the views of videos on social media, to assess their effectiveness. Since the aforesaid promotional activities have been subsumed under the HKTB’s promotional efforts across various areas, it is difficult to quantify the relevant expenditures separately. (3) The CSTB has been committed to promoting close collaboration within the travel trade, working together to promote Hong Kong tourism in the Mainland and overseas to attract more overnight visitors to Hong Kong, including ongoing participation in Mainland and overseas tourism promotional activities with representatives of the Hong Kong travel trade through the HKTB. For example, in November this year, the HKTB, together with representatives from the Hong Kong’s travel trade, will attend the China International Travel Mart in Shanghai, which is organised by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism. In addition, through provision of funding, the CSTB also supports the Travel Industry Council of Hong Kong (TIC) in organising trade visits. Since the resumption of cross-boundary travel, the TIC has made use of the CSTB’s funding to lead trade delegations to visit the nine Greater Bay Area cities, the Belt and Road cities as well as other Mainland cities respectively with a view to promoting business co-operation between Hong Kong and different cities. We will continue to encourage and support the TIC in organising more trade visits to destinations including the newly added cities applicable under IVS, so as to assist the travel trade in “bringing in, going out” and engaging in business collaborations and exchanges with trade representatives of different cities, thereby exploring business opportunities and promoting two-way tourism exchanges.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Labour Department’s response to ICAC’s arrest of staff members and trainees from Mandatory Safety Training course providers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Regarding the Independent Commission Against Corruption (ICAC)’s arrest of some staff members and trainees from Mandatory Safety Training (MST) course providers for excavator operators, a spokesman for the Labour Department (LD) responded today (October 23) as follows:

         The LD is highly concerned about suspected illegal acts involving the offer and acceptance of benefits to assist unqualified persons in enrolling in training courses for Experienced Operators of Excavator. The department has initiated an investigation to examine whether the training course providers (TCPs) and their staff members have strictly complied with the Approval Conditions (ACs) for operating MST courses. If any violations are found, the LD will follow up seriously.

         The LD has been actively co-operating with the ICAC’s investigation, including providing information and assisting in evidence collection and enforcement action. As the investigations are under way, the LD will not comment further on the specifics of the case.

         In response to the ICAC’s actions, the LD hereby announced the revocation of 100 certificates for excavator operators involved in the case. The certificate numbers are listed in the Annex.

         According to the Factories and Industrial Undertakings (Loadshifting Machinery) Regulation (Cap. 59AG), any person operating an excavator must have successfully completed the relevant safety training courses and obtained the corresponding certificates. As per established procedures, individuals wishing to become excavator operators can enrol in either training courses for New Operators or Experienced Operators of Excavator. Currently, there are approximately 10 000 qualified excavator operators in Hong Kong.

         The LD attaches great importance to the quality of TCPs offering MST courses and the professional conduct of their staff members. The department will not tolerate any illegal or non-compliant behaviours. The department is reviewing the admission mechanism for TCPs and, with reference to advice from the ICAC’s Corruption Prevention Department, will further enhance the mechanism, including improving current admission procedures and ensuring that TCPs strictly adhere to the ACs for operating MST courses. Additionally, the LD, in collaboration with the ICAC, is continuously disseminating anti-corruption information to all TCPs and their trainees to enhance awareness of corruption prevention.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Firing practice for November 2024

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Firing practice for November 2024
    Firing practice for November 2024
    *********************************

         Firing practice will take place at two military sites, namely the San Wai/Tai Ling Firing Range and the Tsing Shan Firing Range, next month (November).      Red flags or red lamps will be hoisted at the firing areas before and during firing practice. For their safety, people are advised not to enter the firing area.      Following are the dates and times for the firing practice sessions in November 2024: San Wai/Tai Ling Firing Range————————————- 

    Date
    Time

    November 1 (Friday)November 2 (Saturday)November 4 (Monday)November 5 (Tuesday)November 6 (Wednesday)November 7 (Thursday)November 8 (Friday)November 9 (Saturday)November 11 (Monday)November 12 (Tuesday)November 13 (Wednesday)November 14 (Thursday)November 15 (Friday)November 16 (Saturday)November 18 (Monday)November 19 (Tuesday)November 20 (Wednesday)November 21 (Thursday)November 22 (Friday)November 23 (Saturday)November 25 (Monday)November 26 (Tuesday)November 27 (Wednesday)November 28 (Thursday)November 29 (Friday)November 30 (Saturday)
    8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm

     Tsing Shan Firing Range——————————- 

    Date
    Time

    November 1 (Friday)November 2 (Saturday)November 4 (Monday)November 5 (Tuesday)November 6 (Wednesday)November 7 (Thursday)November 8 (Friday)November 9 (Saturday)November 11 (Monday)November 12 (Tuesday)November 13 (Wednesday)November 14 (Thursday)November 15 (Friday)November 16 (Saturday)November 18 (Monday)November 19 (Tuesday)November 20 (Wednesday)November 21 (Thursday)November 22 (Friday)November 23 (Saturday)November 25 (Monday)November 26 (Tuesday)November 27 (Wednesday)November 28 (Thursday)November 29 (Friday)November 30 (Saturday)
    8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm8am-9pm

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Supporting the development of the logistics industry

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Frankie Yick and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):Question:     According to the Action Plan on Maritime and Port Development Strategy promulgated by the Government in December last year, the maritime and port industry, with economic contribution accounting for 4.1 per cent of gross domestic product, facilitates the growth of trade and logistics industry as one of the four major economic pillars in Hong Kong. However, it has been reported that with the rapid development of neighbouring ports, the container throughput of Hong Kong has been on a downtrend, and some major ocean-‍going cargo shipping companies have even removed Hong Kong from their voyage itineraries, thus further affecting Hong Kong’s container throughput. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:(1) of the follow-up actions taken by the Government in response to the removal of Hong Kong from the voyage itineraries of some major ocean-going cargo shipping companies; whether it will introduce measures to attract these cargo shipping companies to put Hong Kong back on their voyage itineraries, including making reference to the practices of Singapore and the Mainland to exempt controlled goods for transhipment from licensing requirements, or streamlining the relevant procedures; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(2) given that Hong Kong is an important entrepot for the Mainland, but cross-boundary land freight has been affected by the drop in container throughput of the Hong Kong port, and quite a number of cross-boundary goods vehicles have been forced to lie idle, of the progress of the Government’s work in developing new cargo sources for the cross-boundary land freight sector; and(3) as it is learnt that in the face of insufficient cargo volume, some small and medium enterprises in the logistics industry are on the verge of closing down, whether the authorities will introduce support measures to relieve the financial pressure of the industry; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?Reply: President,     Hong Kong is an international maritime centre, with its port being one of the world’s busiest and most efficient ports and its comprehensive strengths in terms of port conditions, professional maritime service and overall business environment among the world’s best. Hong Kong also ranked fourth in the 2024 Xinhua-Baltic International Shipping Centre Development Index.       To further consolidate our status as an international maritime centre, further to the promulgation of the Action Plan on Maritime and Port Development Strategy in December 2023, the Transport and Logistics Bureau (TLB) will take forward various measures as announced in the 2024 Policy Address in full steam, including reconstituting the existing Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board (HKMPB) into the “Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board”, actively fostering the development of smart port, stepping up the promotion of green transformation of registered ships, developing a green maritime fuel bunkering centre, as well as promoting the development of high value-added maritime and professional services, such as the enhancement of tax concessions relating to ship lessors and shipping commercial principals, encouragement of leading or high-potential marine insurance operators to establish presence in Hong Kong and exploration of tax concessions relating to commodity trading, thereby strengthening the local maritime ecosystem. We will materialise the aforesaid measures in a proactive manner in order to boost the competitiveness of the maritime industry.     Our reply to Hon Frankie Yick’s question is as follows:(1) Enhancing port competitiveness is one of the four major directions of development mentioned in the Action Plan on Maritime and Port Development Strategy. As a major transshipment port in the region, enhancing Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a cargo transshipment hub, promoting the strengths of Hong Kong Port (HKP) and strengthening co-operation with the Mainland are important means to boost port cargo transshipment throughput.     In terms of enhancing Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a cargo transshipment hub, as announced by the Chief Executive in his 2024 Policy Address, the Government is exploring the feasibility of extending the arrangements under the Air Transhipment Cargo Exemption Scheme, that is, exempting the import and export licence requirements on specified controlled commodities, to other intermodal cargo transshipment modes, including sea-to-sea transshipment. In addition, in view of the international maritime industry’s increasing concern about decarbonisation, we will develop Hong Kong into a green maritime fuel bunkering centre, so as to attract ocean-going vessels using green maritime fuels to call at Hong Kong, thereby enhancing the competitiveness of HKP.     As regards promoting the strengths of HKP, the Government has been working with the industry to strengthen external promotion and liaison. For example, HKMPB visited Tokyo, Japan and Hamburg, Germany as well as Athens, Greece in Europe, in July and September this year respectively to visit various ports and companies in the maritime industry. It will also visit the Middle East at the end of this year, with a view to allowing the relevant stakeholders there to learn about the strengths and latest development of Hong Kong’s maritime and port industry, and explore new cooperation opportunities.     Regarding enhancing cooperation with the Mainland, the container terminal operators of Hong Kong, with the support of the Government, have signed multiple cooperation agreements with different regions of the Mainland. Amongst others, Hong Kong container terminal operators signed a memorandum of understanding on cooperation with Guangxi Beibu Gulf International Port Group in May 2024 to strengthen Hong Kong-Guangxi cooperation on the port and logistics fronts. In August 2024, under the cooperation between a Hong Kong container terminal operator and Shenzhen Yantian Port, the Chongqing-Shenzhen-Hong Kong scheduled rail-sea service commenced, which allows export cargoes from Chongqing to be exported via Shenzhen Yantian Port and Kwai Tsing Container Terminals in Hong Kong through the sea-rail intermodal transshipment mode, thereby bringing more cargo to Hong Kong. In addition, Hong Kong’s port industry is also cooperating with Shenzhen Dachan Bay Terminals on handling high-value cold chain products by facilitating fast and efficient transshipment of containers from Hong Kong to Dachan Bay by barges, so that the relevant cargoes can reach cities in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) speedily, thereby strengthening HKP’s connectivity with other ports and cargo sources in the Mainland.(2) As a regional logistics hub, Hong Kong has all along been one of the major gateways for air and sea cargoes to and from the GBA. With the commissioning of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge (HZMB), the driving distance between Hong Kong and Western Guangdong and Guangxi has been greatly shortened, thereby further unleashing the enormous potential for logistics cooperation between Hong Kong and the two aforesaid places. For this reason, the Government has proposed in the Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development to actively explore new cargo sources and new opportunities for cross-boundary land freight transport in relation to Western Guangdong and its neighbouring regions by enhancing multimodal transport measures and making good use of the HZMB.     The TLB has been actively discussing with Zhuhai on enhancing synchronised development on the logistics front between Hong Kong and Zhuhai by making good use of the HZMB. The TLB also visited Zhuhai in March 2023 together with the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council to learn about Zhuhai’s logistics development and explore cooperation opportunities. Apart from Zhuhai, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics also led a delegation to Zhanjiang, Guangdong, in June 2024 to learn about the business opportunities in logistics development between Hong Kong and Zhanjiang arising from the “New Land-Sea Corridor for Western Regions”. In addition, the Transport and Logistics Bureau also signed the “Framework Agreement on Deepening Strategic Co-operation for the Guangxi-Hong Kong Task Force on Transport and Logistics” with the Department of Transport of Guangxi in May this year, with a view to strengthening logistics cooperation with Guangxi, including cross-boundary land freight logistics.     The TLB will continue to enhance liaison and cooperation with Western Guangdong and its neighbouring regions, with a view to further enlarging the cargo catchment for Hong Kong’s cross-boundary land freight logistics sector.(3) The Government has been supporting the development of Hong Kong’s logistics industry through various measures. In terms of financial assistance, since 2020, the Government has been providing assistance to eligible logistics service providers through the $300 million Pilot Subsidy Scheme for Third-party Logistics Service Providers, with a view to supporting local logistics industry, especially small- and medium-sized third-party logistics service providers, to increase productivity by applying technology. On the other hand, we are also supporting logistics practitioners in receiving training, and providing sponsorship for logistics enterprises to engage interns, through the Professional Training on Smart and Green Logistics Scheme under the Maritime and Aviation Training Fund and Internship Scheme on Modern Logistics, respectively. In addition, the Chief Executive has announced in his 2024 Policy Address a number of measures to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), including allowing borrowing enterprises (including those in the logistics sector) under the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme (SFGS) to apply for principal moratorium for up to 12 months, and at the same time, offering the partial principal repayment options to new loans under the 80 per cent and 90 per cent guarantee products of the SFGS, so as to alleviate the repayment burden on SMEs, thereby creating more room for them to seize the opportunities brought about by economic recovery.     Enlarging cargo catchment and increasing cargo throughput is the most practical means to assist logistics enterprises. Hence, the Government will continue to implement various strategies and action measures set out in the Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development promulgated in October 2023, including enhancing intermodal connectivity by implementing the Three-Places-One-Lock Scheme and the dedicated express route for air and land fresh and live products, making good use of HZMB and enhancing promotion of Hong Kong’s strengths in logistics development in the Mainland and overseas, with a view to attracting more cargoes to be transshipped through Hong Kong.     The Government will, through the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council and other platforms, continue to maintain communication with the trade, closely monitor the latest development of the logistics industry and introduce suitable measures at appropriate junctures to support the sustainable development of the logistics sector.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ9: Commemorating “Uprising of the Two Airlines”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Kingsley Wong and a written reply by the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):

    Question:

         It is learnt that the “Uprising of the Two Airlines” (the Uprising), which broke out at Kai Tak Airport on November 9, 1949, was described as a world’s astonishing patriotic feat and praised by Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai as “a significant patriotic move” and “the starting point of China’s civil aviation of the people with unlimited potential”, while the triumphant “struggle for property protection” with continuous participation primarily from members of patriotic trade unions, patriotic workers and members of the public for several years had made great contribution to the development of New China’s civil aviation. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) given that the Government is vigorously promoting patriotic education, and that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the outbreak of the Uprising, whether the Government and the Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) will make good use of this excellent patriotic resource to organise relevant commemorative and educational activities; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (2) whether the Government will take the lead in enriching the relevant record of the major historical events of the Uprising from Hong Kong’s perspective, including collecting information from witnesses of the Uprising in Hong Kong and setting up a dedicated programme to subsidise community groups in preserving and promoting the history of this patriotic labour movement; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (3) given that there is a suggestion that the Government should designate space at leisure facilities (e.g. parks) to be constructed in the Kai Tak Development Area for installing facilities with elements commemorating the Uprising, so as to give members of the public (especially young people) an opportunity to gain an understanding of such historical event during leisure time, thereby subtly developing their sense of patriotism, whether the Government will consider the aforesaid suggestion; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;

    (4) whether it will consider setting up additional publicity boards on the Uprising in the exhibition halls of the Hong Kong Museum of History, the AAHK and the Civil Aviation Department, so that visitors (especially Mainland compatriots) can have a better understanding of this glorious historical event closely related to Hong Kong; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (5) whether it will discuss with the Central Government on the loan of valuable artefacts relating to the Uprising (e.g. passenger planes which flew north from Kai Tak Airport that year) for display in Hong Kong; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:
     
    President,

         Having consulted relevant bureaux and departments, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Kingsley Wong is as follows:

         The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government endeavours to build mainstream values in Hong Kong characterised by patriotism with affection for our country and Hong Kong and in conformity with the principle of “one country, two systems”. Since its establishment in April 2024, the Working Group on Patriotic Education (Working Group) has been taking forward its work in a proactive manner, focusing efforts to explore and propose policy measures in relation to patriotic education having regard to the actual circumstances of Hong Kong. The Working Group also actively rolls out a wide array of activities in the community, through adopting a soft and heart-moving approach, to facilitate the spirit of patriotism to take root in society, as well as enhance the national awareness, sense of national pride and patriotism among members of the public.

         Regarding the suggestion to promote the historic event of the “Uprising of the Two Airlines” as part of patriotic education, the Hong Kong Museum of History will introduce the relevant historical facts in its permanent exhibition. The HKSAR Government will also explore with relevant Mainland authorities the feasibility of loaning related historical materials for display in Hong Kong. Besides, the HKSAR Government will consider incorporating elements related to the “Uprising of the Two Airlines” into the design of new leisure facilities in the Kai Tak Development Area and consult District Councils and various stakeholders for their views.

         In order to enhance public’s knowledge of the development of Hong Kong’s aviation industry and attract young people to join the industry, the Civil Aviation Department (CAD) has set up the Aviation Education Path at its headquarters to promote aviation-related knowledge. Through the exhibits and interactive multi-media facilities at the Aviation Education Path, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of various aspects relating to civil aviation and Hong Kong’s role as an international aviation hub. The CAD has planned to set up an exhibition hall on the “Uprising of the Two Airlines” and the development of national civil aviation (including the development of home-grown aircraft) at the Aviation Education Path, with a view to enhancing the public’s understanding of the history and development of the national civil aviation. The exhibition hall is expected to be completed in phases starting from the end of this year for public visit. Separately, with the support of the Airport Authority Hong Kong, a photo exhibition with the theme of “Uprising of the Two Airlines” will be organised in the staff restaurant of the Hong Kong International Airport Community Building in November this year to promote better understanding of the relevant history within the airport community.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE mourns Michael Suen

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee today expressed sorrow over the passing of former Secretary for Education Michael Suen.

    Mr Suen joined the Government in 1966. He also served as Secretary for Home Affairs, Secretary for Constitutional Affairs and Secretary for Housing, Planning & Lands. He was appointed as Secretary for Education in 2007, a post he held until June, 2012.

    Mr Lee said: “Mr Suen had devoted decades of service to the Government, holding various important positions.

    “He had formulated strategies and provided counsel to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in various policy areas, addressing different challenges while promoting Hong Kong’s development.

    “He commanded great respect from government colleagues and members of the community with his dedicated service to the public over the years.”

    Mr Lee stressed that Mr Suen made significant contributions to the Hong Kong SAR and was awarded the Gold Bauhinia Star in 1999.

    “I am saddened by the passing of Mr Suen,” he added. “I extend my deepest condolences to his family.” 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: S for Housing expresses sorrow over passing of Mr Michael Suen

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, today (October 23) expressed condolences over the passing of the former Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands and former Chairman of the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA), Mr Michael Suen, and extended her sincere condolences to his family.

         Mr Suen served as the Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands since 2002 and was appointed as the Chairman of the HA since 2003. Both terms ended in 2007.

         Ms Ho said, “Mr Suen’s connections with housing affairs began very early when he joined the HA upon its establishment in 1973 as its first Secretary General. Later in 2002, he took up an important role in housing policies again as the Secretary for Housing, Planning and Lands until 2007.

         “I am saddened by Mr Suen’s passing and would like to extend my deep condolences to his family on behalf of my colleagues in the Housing Bureau, HA and Housing Department.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ16: Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹Following is a question by the Hon Chau Siu-chung and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):

    Question:
     
         On September 4 last year, the Government launched the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) to suspend the general exclusion of the 26 job categories as well as unskilled or low-skilled posts from labour importation under the Supplementary Labour Scheme. However, many local frontline workers engaged in the relevant sectors have indicated that they are worried that the ESLS may affect their remuneration packages and even employment opportunities. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) since the launch of the ESLS, of the respective numbers of (a) the applications received (and the imported workers involved) and (b) ‍the applications approved (and the imported workers involved) by the Government, as well as (c) the imported workers who have arrived to work in Hong Kong, together with a breakdown by (i) the aforesaid 26 job categories, (ii) unskilled or low-skilled posts (including cleaners, security guards and room attendants), and (iii) ‍other posts (set out in Tables 1 to 3 respectively);

    Table 1
     

    (i)
    (a)
    (b)
    (c)

    1.
     
     
     

    ……
     
     
     

    26.
     
     
     

    Total
     
     
     

    Table 2
     

    (ii)
    (a)
    (b)
    (c)

    Cleaners
     
     
     

    Security guards
     
     
     

    Room attendants
     
     
     

    ……
     
     
     

    Total
     
     
     

    Table 3
     

    (iii)
    (a)
    (b)
    (c)

    1.
     
     
     

    ……
     
     
     

    Total
     
     
     

    (2) since the launch of the ESLS, of the number of labour importation applications rejected by the authorities, and the main reasons for rejecting such applications;

    (3) as it has been reported that some employers have used “bogus recruitment” (e.g. placing job advertisements to attract applicants and then rejecting their job applications on the ground that they have failed to meet the requirements) to create the illusion of having recruitment difficulties, so as to apply to the Government for importation of labour, since the launch of the ESLS, of the respective numbers of (i) suspected “bogus recruitment” cases discovered by the Government after taking the initiative to investigate employers applying for labour importation, and (ii) complaints about suspected “bogus recruitment” received by the Government;
     
    (4) whether the authorities have conducted monthly surveys and analyses on the salaries and benefits as well as the employment situation of local workers engaged in the job categories approved for labour importation since the launch of the ESLS; if so, of the details, including whether any reduction in the salaries, benefits as well as employment opportunities of local workers in the relevant sectors had been found; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (5) whether the Government has received views or complaints from imported workers who have already been working in Hong Kong about their labour rights being undermined since the launch of the ESLS; if so, of the details; and
     
    (6) whether it will consider reviewing the ESLS expeditiously and suspending the arrangement for the importation of labour for the aforesaid 26 job categories as well as unskilled or low-skilled posts, so as to adequately safeguard the remuneration packages and employment opportunities of local workers in the relevant sectors?
     
    Reply:

    President,
          
         To cope with the challenges brought about by manpower shortage, the Government has enhanced the mechanism for importation of workers. Apart from launching sector-specific labour importation schemes for the construction sector, transport sector, and residential care homes for the elderly and residential care homes for persons with disabilities, the Labour Department (LD) has also implemented the Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme (ESLS) since September 4, 2023, to enhance the coverage and operation of the previous Supplementary Labour Scheme (SLS), including suspending the general exclusion of the 26 job categories as well as unskilled or low-skilled posts from labour importation for two years.
          
         The reply to the Hon Chau’s questions is as follows:
         
    (1) From September 4, 2023, to September 30, 2024, 7 448 applications seeking to import 66 230 workers were received under the ESLS. During the same period, 3 886 applications involving 28 818 quotas for importation of workers were approved. A breakdown of the numbers of imported workers applied for and approved by the 26 job categories, unskilled/ low-skilled posts and other posts is at Annex.
     
         Employers approved to import workers under the ESLS are required to arrange for their prospective imported workers to submit visa/entry permit applications to the Immigration Department within the periods specified in the approval-in-principle letters (generally within six months from the issue dates of the said letters). The arrival time of imported workers depends on the progress of employers’ handling of relevant procedures. The LD does not maintain the number of imported workers arriving and working in Hong Kong under the ESLS.

    (2) Since the launch of the ESLS, as at September 30 this year, the LD refused 34 applications mainly because the concerned applications had failed to meet all the requirements of the ESLS, such as the manning ratio of the number of imported workers to the number of local employees.

    (3) To safeguard employment priority for local workers, applicant employers of the ESLS must undertake a four-week local recruitment exercise and accord priority to employing suitable local workers to fill the vacancies. The LD conducts job matching for the vacancies and refers local job seekers to employers for interviews, and widely disseminates vacancy information to members of the Labour Advisory Board, relevant trade unions and training institutions to facilitate their referrals of suitable local job seekers for application. As required under the ESLS, the employment terms of local workers recruited through all channels during the local recruitment period for the posts applied (including the entry requirements, monthly salary and hours of work, etc.) must be no less favourable than the recruitment terms agreed by the LD.

         Upon completion of the above recruitment procedures, employers shall report the results to the LD. The LD will contact each of the local job seekers who is not employed by the employers, and assess whether the employers have sincerity in recruiting local workers. If there is evidence showing that an employer has violated the requirements of local recruitment (such as employing local workers with a monthly salary lower than that agreed by the LD) or refused to employ qualified local job seekers without reasonable reasons during the local recruitment period, the LD will terminate the processing of the application submitted by that employer for importation of labour. Administrative sanction will also be imposed on the concerned employer whereby any ESLS application submitted by the employer in the following year will not be processed. Since the implementation of the ESLS, the LD has not found any employer suspected of conducting “bogus recruitment” or received any relevant complaint from job seekers.

    (4) The Census and Statistics Department regularly conducts different surveys, such as the General Household Survey, the Labour Earnings Survey, and the Annual Earnings and Hours Survey, to gather and analyse statistics about the employment situation and earnings overview of local employees. The LD closely monitors the employment market situation and the relevant statistics.

    (5) Since the launch of the ESLS, as at September 30 this year, the LD received 62 complaints involving workers imported under the SLS/ESLS. The complaint items mainly involved wages, arrangements for working hours, etc.

    (6) The LD has been closely monitoring the implementation of the ESLS, and will review the ESLS prior to the lapse of its two-year implementation period.

         â€‹The LD will continue to keep in view the applications for importation of labour in different industries. On the premise of upholding employment priority for local workers, employers are allowed to import workers to alleviate the manpower shortage and foster the economic development of Hong Kong. The Government will also strengthen the training and recruitment services to underpin employment priority for local workers.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FS attends Bloomberg Global Regulatory Forum in New York (with photos/video)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    FS attends Bloomberg Global Regulatory Forum in New York (with photos/video)
    FS attends Bloomberg Global Regulatory Forum in New York (with photos/video)
    ****************************************************************************

         The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, began his visit to New York, the United States, yesterday (October 22, New York time).           In the afternoon, Mr Chan attended the Global Regulatory Forum hosted by Bloomberg, delivering a keynote speech on how to build a future-proof financial system. He stated that despite facing various challenges in recent years, Hong Kong’s economic and financial fundamentals remain strong and resilient. Data, as well as international rankings and assessments, have shown that Hong Kong continues to play an important role in the global financial market and serve as a leading international financial centre in Asia, with a degree of economic freedom and competitiveness among the best in the world. Recent inflows of investment from United States and European investors have also reflected their confidence in Hong Kong. Mr Chan also noted that with the long-term adherence to the “one country, two systems” arrangement, and the country’s pursuit of high-level opening-up, Hong Kong’s unique advantages will only be more evident, and the city will better fulfil its role as a “super connector.”           In his speech, Mr Chan also elaborated on Hong Kong’s robust financial regulation. He pointed out that as a small and fully open economy, Hong Kong has learned from past experience to respond to potential or even unpredictable external shocks and market volatility. This has been achieved through identifying and addressing systemic weaknesses, establishing a cross-sector, co-ordinated and round-the-clock risk detection and monitoring system, and building strong buffers to respond to various risks and challenges.           Mr Chan emphasised that the ultimate goal of financial regulation is to promote healthy and sustainable market development. Therefore, Hong Kong’s financial regulators take on dual roles as both regulators and market enablers.  This requires them to establish an agile and forward-looking regulatory regime, respond swiftly to market changes, and embrace technological innovation, with a view to creating the conditions for a thriving market and promote the long-term development of the financial system.           Finally, Mr Chan shared two key future development directions for Hong Kong: continuing to deepen the Connect Schemes and strengthen the links and regulatory co-operation with Mainland and global capital markets; and embracing innovation, which includes enabling the responsible and sustainable development of digital assets.           Before attending the forum, Mr Chan met with the Founder of Bloomberg L.P. and Bloomberg Philanthropies, Mr Michael Bloomberg, to exchange views on issues of mutual concern.           Mr Chan will continue his visit in New York today (October 23, New York time).

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:12

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Ancient, modern elements in harmony for new generation

    Source: China State Council Information Office 3

    In a sleek recording studio, young Chinese musicians are gathered around their instruments. Clad in traditional hanfu — flowing robes with wide sleeves and intricate headpieces — they are preparing to create music, but there’s a twist.

    These musicians are not playing electric guitars or synthesizers, despite their rock-star aura and sunglasses. Instead, their hands grasp ancient Chinese instruments, including the erhu (a two-stringed fiddle), guzheng (a Chinese zither), suona (a piercing double-reed woodwind) and the zhongruan (a lute).

    The studio pulses with energy as they prepare to reimagine a popular song from the 1990s and transform it into a piece that bridges ancient and modern worlds.

    Their rendition, aptly titled Disco Dancing Version of Your Shining Knight, revives Hong Kong singer-actor Hacken Lee’s 1991 Cantonese hit, which resurfaced in popular culture after being featured in the 2018 Chinese comedy Hello Mr Billionaire.

    The original version of Your Shining Knight revisited the glitter-ball days of disco. But this new take combines disco beats with the sound of something far older — ancient Chinese melodies.

    The musicians pluck their strings and beat their drums, and perform in sync with AI-generated characters based on historical Chinese relics, such as a figurine of a dancer, and a musician from the Eastern Han Dynasty (25-220).

    The resulting music video released to celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival on Sept 17, captured the imagination of the public, amassing over 15 million views across social media platforms.

    The use of ancient Chinese instruments to perform a pop song struck a chord, not only for its catchy beat but for how it masterfully intertwined the old and the modern.

    Crazy Folk music

    These musicians are part of a larger movement sweeping China that celebrates the rising popularity of guofeng music — a Chinese style that uses elements from traditional culture.

    As part of a video series called Crazy Folk, participating artists have released over 300 music videos since October 2020, featuring more than 200 Chinese musicians who give fresh life to pop songs through the distinctive sound of traditional Chinese instruments.

    Among popular covers are songs like Jay Chou’s Dao Xiang (Fragrant Rice), Liu Shuang’s Mohe Ballroom, and Japanese singer Yuu Takahashi’s The Wind Rises, making the old music instruments more relatable to younger audiences.

    These videos have traveled beyond Chinese music fans to reach international audiences via YouTube and other media platforms. With performances filmed against the stunning backdrops of cities such as Changsha, Hunan province, Luoyang, Henan province and Xiamen, Fujian province, the Crazy Folk series not only showcases China’s rich musical traditions, but also highlights the breathtaking beauty of the country’s landscapes and historic sites.

    “These videos still give me goose bumps!” a viewer from Nepal, Banaz Gurung, commented on YouTube, reflecting the emotional impact of this innovative project.

    Behind Crazy Folk is a talented group of young musicians in their late 20s and early 30s, all classically trained at prestigious music conservatories.

    Li Haoyan, one of the project’s core team members, said the appeal of traditional Chinese music lies not only in its distinctive sound, but also in the aesthetic beauty of the instruments themselves.

    “Traditional Chinese music is incredibly expressive,” said Li. “The instruments evoke powerful emotions, and visually, they are captivating to modern audiences.”

    Young people in China are increasingly drawn to their cultural heritage, seeking to reconnect with traditional values in a world being rapidly shaped by globalization, she added.

    Connecting with heritage

    The team’s mission is not just to preserve these ancient sounds but to breathe new life into them through technology. By using artificial intelligence and storytelling, they are creating new ways to present traditional music and incorporating history, museum artifacts, and cultural relics into their performances.

    For Xue Yiying, a 26-year-old erhu player from Chengdu, Sichuan province, performing traditional music in a modern context feels both nostalgic and fresh. “I grew up playing the erhu, learning the instrument from my grandmother, who was passionate about traditional Chinese music,” Xue recalled.

    The erhu, often described as China’s answer to the violin, is known for its hauntingly beautiful tone and is capable of expressing a wide range of emotions.

    “I used to play it in the typical, softer style,” Xue said, “but Crazy Folk opened my eyes to a whole new way of performing. We’re taking songs that people already love and giving them a new twist.”

    Xue explained how playing a well-known pop song on an ancient instrument like the guqin or pipa injects new life into the piece. “It’s like rediscovering something familiar in a completely new way,” she said.

    “These instruments are timeless. Our goal isn’t just to preserve tradition but to show how these instruments, some over 1,000 years old, can still move and inspire audiences today — especially younger generations who may never have paid attention to them before.”

    This growing interest among China’s youth is part of a broader cultural movement. Many young Chinese are consciously reconnecting with their heritage, seeing traditional music as a way to explore their identity in an era of rapid change.

    Central to this resurgence is the guofeng (national style) movement, which celebrates Chinese aesthetics in fashion, music, and art. The rise of guofeng music, in particular, is a testament to the blending of ancient melodies with modern production techniques, combining classical poetry, traditional instruments, and contemporary themes. This fusion has fostered a greater appreciation for traditional Chinese art forms, especially among younger audiences.

    Social media platforms like Douyin and Bilibili have played a pivotal role in the movement’s expansion. Viral videos of traditional Chinese instruments, modern pop covers, and collaborations between classical and contemporary artists have brought these ancient sounds to the forefront. This digital exposure has made traditional music more accessible, and more importantly, relevant to today’s youth.

    Veteran virtuoso

    One of the most popular folk musicians among young users of Bilibili is the gray-haired pipa player Fang Jinlong.

    Aged in his early 60s, Fang became a viral star after he gave a 12-minute performance at the New Year’s Eve concert on Dec 31,2019, which was livestreamed. The performance, Rhythm World, featured Fang performing with a 100-member orchestra. He played an array of traditional musical instruments from China, India, Italy, and Japan, and even performed a solo by tapping on his own face. To appeal to young fans, he incorporated elements from Chinese martial arts culture, American folk music and Japanese anime.

    Since that performance, Fang has been sharing videos showcasing the versatility of ancient Chinese musical instruments by working with players of various styles, from classical musicians to rock stars.

    “Never doubt the charm of traditional Chinese music. All you need to do is to watch and listen,” said Fang, who has great confidence in the appeal of these old instruments.

    “Though the instruments are very old, they can be fun and contemporary. What I need to do is to experiment and let the music reach the young people.”

    Other art forms based in tradition, such as classic Chinese dance and hanfu, are also rising in popularity with young people.

    “This interest is partly driven by a desire to reconnect with traditional values and aesthetics in a rapidly modernizing and globalized world. For them, traditional Chinese music, with its deep historical roots, symbolizes a rich cultural legacy that offers a sense of identity and belonging,” Fang said.

    Another rising star in the guofeng movement is Little Green Onion, a group of musicians led by songwriter Zhou Mingcong.

    With their hybrid of pop and traditional music, they have captivated audiences with songs like Bi Shang Guan, or Reflections on the Walls, which has been viewed over 100 million times since its release in 2019.Inspired by the Mogao Caves mural paintings in Dunhuang, Gansu province, Zhou’s music evokes memories of China’s distant past while remaining contemporary.

    This year, the song was adapted and re-performed on social media platforms over 300,000 times, making it a hit again. Veteran vocalist Gong Linna also did a version of the song.

    Cultural DNA

    Zhou, who studied at the National Academy of Chinese Theatre Arts, describes his work as a blend of pop and Peking Opera. His first release, Kuang Lang Sheng, explored themes of loneliness and dreams through the lens of traditional Chinese opera and delighted listeners across China.

    “Chinese music and operas have a unique charm,” said Zhou. “It’s like cultural DNA in our blood. The moment we hear traditional music, we understand it on a deep, emotional level. It connects us to something ancient yet profoundly present.”

    Zhou pointed out that guofeng’s influence is not just confined to music. The style is increasingly appearing in video games, notably Black Myth: Wukong, a hit action game based on the classic Chinese novel Journey to the West.

    The game’s soundtrack blends traditional Chinese instruments with modern orchestral music, creating a cinematic experience that resonates with fans of both ancient culture and modern gaming.

    The ability to blend old and new is what makes guofeng music so relevant today, Zhou said. In a world where cultural pride is rising alongside technological advances, traditional Chinese music has found its place once again. This renaissance is not about nostalgia, but about evolution — taking the best of the past and fusing it with the possibilities of the future, he added.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Former mayor and MP returns to Papakura

    Source: Auckland Council

    Former Papakura Mayor John Robertson (2004-2007) returned to the area recently, leading a delegation of Waitomo councillors and the district’s chief librarian to check out facilities in the town.

    Papakura Local Board chair Brent Catchpole says it was a case of back to the future when the group visited Sir Edmund Hillary Library, because Robertson played a role in redeveloping the floor now occupied by the library and museum.

    Until the then Papakura District Council sold its stake in the building and used the proceeds to redevelop and bring the facilities together, the museum was on an upper level.

    “He told us it was quite satisfying to see what had been achieved and congratulated us and library staff for leading such a dynamic facility,” Catchpole says.

    “The library is about so much more than books, and the role it plays in our community because of that is invaluable.”

    Robertson and his colleagues also toured Papakura Museum, Papakura Marae – where staff work with the board in a several areas, Central Park and Te Paataka Korero o Takaanini.

    “Our council is very small and that means it doesn’t have a wide rating base. Looking at ways that might allow us to create facilities for our community, particularly ones that can be used in multiple ways, makes sense.

    “What has been achieved in Papakura is a model we can draw on.

    “It shows you don’t have to be thinking you need to build a museum, a library, meeting rooms and everything else. Instead, you can create something that might meet many of the community’s needs in a more affordable way.”

    Like the Papakura Local Board, Waitomo Council is committed to working to promote the social, cultural, environmental and economic wellbeing of its community.

    “We say ‘te hanga tahi o tātou Takiwa – shaping our district together,” says Robertson – who also served as Papakura MP from 1990 to 1996. “Members are working hard to enable a thriving economy to create greater benefits everyone can enjoy.”

    Papakura Museum staff gifted Robertson a 1993 photo showing the then MP with Papakura Mayor David Hawkins, promotions officer Christine Laurenson, and franchisee Martha Hill, on the site where the town’s original McDonald’s was to be built.

    Stay connected

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    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ12: Handling of complaints about food consumed at food premises

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Kin-por and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):

    Question:

         Members of the public may lodge a complaint to the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) by calling its 24-hour hotline if they find the food consumed at a food premises is unsanitary or contains foreign substances. The complaint will be handled by duty FEHD health inspectors. It is learnt that as health inspectors take time to arrive at the food premises concerned, some health inspectors will advise those complainants who are unable to wait at the food premises to properly keep the food samples for collection by the FEHD officers at a later time. There are views that such practice may affect the laboratory test results. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the number of complaint cases about unsanitary food consumed at food premises received through the aforesaid hotline in the past three years, with a breakdown by type of complaints;

    (2) among the complaint cases mentioned in (1), of the respective percentages of cases in which food samples were collected by duty health inspectors on-site and kept by the complainants themselves;

    (3) among the complaint cases mentioned in (1), of the number of cases in which the offenders were prosecuted;

    (4) of the existing staffing establishment of health inspectors and the average time they need to arrive at the scene to collect samples of problem food; and

    (5) whether it will conduct a comprehensive review of the workflow of handling complaints about unsanitary food consumed at food premises to ensure fairness of investigation and to protect the rights and interests of both the food premises and the customers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

    Reply:

    President,

         The reply to the question raised by the Hon Chan Kin-por is as follows:

         The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) attaches great importance to food safety and the hygienic conditions of food premises. The FEHD conducts regular inspections of food premises to check their hygienic conditions (food storage and handling, condition of premises, etc.) to ensure that licensees operate in accordance with regulations, and provides relevant health education for the trade. Members of the public who wish to lodge complaints regarding suspected unhygienic food or presence of foreign substances in food from restaurants may contact FEHD 24-hour hotline or FEHD offices. Upon receiving the complaint, the health inspector on duty will contact the complainant as soon as possible and follow up with investigation at the scene.

         If the complainant is unable or unwilling to wait for the health inspector to arrive at the restaurant, the health inspector will, after gaining an initial understanding of the actual situation, provide guidance to the complainant on how to keep the exhibit properly, including how to keep the exhibit so as to maintain its condition. The FEHD officers will conduct a thorough investigation on the complaint, including meeting with the person in charge of the restaurant under complaint and inspecting the hygienic conditions of the premises concerned, and sending the exhibit for examination or testing depending on the circumstances. The Centre for Food Safety will also offer advice on the examination or testing parameters according to the circumstances and needs of the case.

         To ensure that every complaint cases is handled in a fair manner, FEHD officers will conduct a detailed review of each case taking into account various factors comprehensively. In addition to the examination or analysis results, the prosecution decision will also consider whether the exhibit was handled and kept properly, the conclusion from inspection of the premises’ environment and statements and information provided by staff of the restaurant under complaint etc.

    (1) A breakdown on the number of complaints about unhygienic food etc. handled by the FEHD by category in the past three years is set out below:
     

    Type of complaints
    Number

    2021
    2022
    2023

    Unwholesome food
    2 055
    1 679
    2 937

    Foreign substances in food (e.g. body parts of insects or excreta of animals)
    1 642
    1 635
    1 976

    Deteriorated or mouldy food
    649
    577
    804

    Others (e.g. chemicals in food or food improperly handled)
    914
    943
    1 186

    Total
    5 260
    4 834
    6 903

    (2) The FEHD does not keep the relevant statistics.

    (3) The FEHD investigates complaints regarding unhygienic food from restaurants etc. If there is sufficient evidence, the Department will initiate prosecution against the sellers of such food in accordance to the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132) and its subsidiary legislation. However, in most cases, it is often challenging to obtain sufficient evidence to initiate prosecution, as the complainants had expressed unwillingness to testify in court. Over the past three years (i.e. 2021-2023), the number of convictions for violations of the relevant legislation was 82, 70 and 81 respectively.

         Even in cases where there is insufficient evidence for prosecution (e.g. the complainant is unwilling to testify in court or complete a statement of food complaint), the FEHD will still conduct inspections of the premises concerned. If any irregularities are found during inspections, the FEHD will take appropriate follow-up actions.

    (4) The FEHD maintains Health Inspectors on duty at various times to respond to public inquiries or requests for assistance. During office hours, one to two Health Inspectors are on duty at each of the FEHD’s 19 District Environmental Hygiene Offices across Hong Kong to manage routine work and food complaints in their respective districts. Outside office hours, one to two Health Inspectors are on duty at each of the three regional duty rooms in Hong Kong, Kowloon and the New Territories to handle enquiries or requests for assistance in the region. Upon receipt of any complaint regarding unhygienic food or related issues, the duty officer will process it as soon as possible. The FEHD does not keep the statistics on the time taken by officers to collect exhibit at the scene.

    (5) The FEHD reviews its workflow from time to time. The Environmental Hygiene Offices in various districts will continue to investigate complaint cases expeditiously according to the resources available and the actual situation, and handle each complaint case in a fair and impartial manner to safeguard the interests of both restaurants and diners.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ18: Promoting digital policies to enhance service quality

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ18: Promoting digital policies to enhance service quality
    LCQ18: Promoting digital policies to enhance service quality
    ************************************************************

         Following is a question by the Hon Sunny Tan and a written reply by the Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, in the Legislative Council today (October 23): Question:      In July this year, the Efficiency Office (EffO) and the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer merged to become the Digital Policy Office (DPO). Through the promotion of data-driven, people-centric and outcome-based digital policies, DPO enhances the efficiency and service quality of the Government to deliver better services to the citizens and the business sectors. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) given that the provision of consultancy services to bureaux and departments for business process re-engineering, organisation restructuring, performance measurement, knowledge management and change management is one of EffO’s key non-digital policy areas of work, of the arrangements for such work following the establishment of DPO; (2) whether it will consider having dedicated higher-level leadership to spearhead a sound top-level design, encompassing business process re-engineering, organisation restructuring and performance measurement, etc., so as to bring convenience and benefits to the people on a par with the Mainland’s “one-stop handling” inter-‍departmental approach, thereby more effectively enhancing the efficiency and service performance of Hong Kong’s public administration in dealing with members of the public and enterprises; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and (3) whether it has plans to make better use of survey reports and recommendations from relevant departments (e.g. by linking them with relevant information from the Chief Executive’s Policy Unit) to assist in the proper conduct of internal studies to examine policy issues; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that? Reply: President,      Our consolidated reply to the three-part question is as follows:      The Digital Policy Office (DPO) established in July this year is a top-level design announced by the Chief Executive in the 2023 Policy Address. By merging the Office of the Government Chief Information Officer (OGCIO) and the Efficiency Office (EffO), the DPO is tasked to formulate policies and measures related to digital government, data governance and information technology, and accelerate the development of digital government through a top-down approach, thereby improving governance and efficacy of the administration.      Following the re-organisation, the DPO consolidates the expertise and experience of the OGCIO and the EffO to provide comprehensive advice and consultancy services to various policy bureaux and departments (B/Ds) in areas such as design thinking, digital technology application, and innovation and technology project management, with a view to accelerating the development of digital government. As such, the non-digital technology related work of the former EffO, including business process re-engineering, organisation re-structuring, performance measurement, knowledge management and change management, can be further strengthened through the DPO’s digital policies and digital technology solutions.      Specifically, one of the priority tasks of the DPO is to integrate the digital technologies and services of the OGCIO and the professional knowledge and talents of the EffO in promoting business efficiency, so as to steer various B/Ds in leveraging advanced technologies (including big data analytics, artificial intelligence, geospatial analysis, data dashboards, etc.) to improve decision-making and strategic planning; and to continuously enhance the government’s central data platforms and services (including Government Cloud Infrastructure Services, Big Data Analytics Platform, Shared Blockchain Platform, “iAM Smart”, Consented Data Exchange Gateway (CDEG)) to support various B/Ds in developing and implementing more data-driven, people-centric, outcome-based and efficient e-government services that bring convenience and benefit to the public and businesses. These include:(1) To drive B/Ds to achieve service integration through “iAM Smart” to optimise user experience, with a view to achieving full adoption of “iAM Smart” by all e-government services by the end of 2025 to achieve “single portal for e-government services”; (2) To promote the use of the CDEG by various B/Ds to facilitate data exchange between B/Ds, enabling citizens to authorise government departments to use personal information stored in other departments, thereby obviating the need for repetitive submission of the same information and enhancing efficiency of government services; (3) To develop the Digital Corporate Identity Platform to facilitate corporations in Hong Kong to undergo corporate identity authentication and corporate signature verification processes when they use e-government services or conduct online business transactions in a secure, convenient and efficient manner, hence simplifying the complicated procedures and accelerating their digital transformation; and (4) To continue promoting the open data policy and formulate data governance standards to facilitate the collection, analysis, sharing and application of data, and to compile departmental data catalogues to promote the opening up and sharing of data among B/Ds.      The DPO will continue to play its top-level role in collaborating and co-ordinating with relevant B/Ds and rendering advice on service improvement of departments; promoting data-driven, people-centric and outcome-based digital government services within the government; and accelerating the development of digital government, thereby enhancing government efficiency and service quality and bringing more benefits to citizens and the business sectors.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:30

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Australia PET imaging agents market to grow at 2% CAGR through 2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    Australia PET imaging agents market to grow at 2% CAGR through 2033, forecasts GlobalData

    Posted in Medical Devices

    Prostate cancer is one of the most diagnosed cancers in Australia, making effective diagnostic tools and agents crucial for better patient outcomes. Positron emission tomography (PET) imaging agents, especially those targeting prostate-specific membrane antigen (PSMA), offer a powerful way to detect and monitor prostate cancer at a molecular level. Against this background, the Australian PET imaging agents market is expected to grow at a 2% CAGR through 2033, forecasts GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    GlobalData’s Nuclear Imaging Agents Market Size by Segments, Share, Regulatory, Reimbursement and Forecast to 2033 report reveals that Australia accounts for around 15% of the Asia-Pacific nuclear imaging agents market in 2024.

    The Australian Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA) has recently approved the use of Illuccix to diagnose prostate cancer and help identify a course of treatment, such as PSMA-targeted radionuclide therapy.

    Aditi Dakshesh Parikh, Medical Devices Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The addition of this new indication is expected to bring a transformation in prostate cancer management as Illuccix remains the only PSMA-PET agent approved in Australia and listed on the Medicare Benefits Schedule, to date. By providing insights into cellular activity, PET imaging agents can detect disease recurrence and the effectiveness of the ongoing therapies can also be easily assessed.”

    The PET imaging agents’ market is witnessing a steady growth as these agents are poised to become integral not only in prostate cancer treatment but across a wider range of cancers.

    Parikh concludes: “PET imaging agents are becoming the essential components in modern medical diagnostics, setting new standards in clinical practice as a result of technological advancements in hybrid imaging systems such as PET/CT and PET/MRI, enhancing diagnostic accuracy and treatment outcomes.”

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: India’s sustainable eating habits offer glimmer of hope to mitigate climate change, says GlobalData

    Source: GlobalData

    India’s sustainable eating habits offer glimmer of hope to mitigate climate change, says GlobalData

    Posted in Consumer

    Sustainable eating encompasses of practices such as minimizing food waste, prioritizing plant-based diets, and consuming locally sourced foods. India is known for its extensive history of vegetarian diets. As the world grapples with the urgent need to address climate change, India’s sustainable eating habits offer a glimmer of hope to address the heightened ecological concerns, according to GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

    India’s traditional, climate friendly dietary habits have been spotlighted as a global blueprint for sustainable living in a recent Living Planet Report by the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF). It identified India’s food consumption pattern as the most climate friendly among G20 nations. The report further stated that if all countries across the globe would adopt the current food consumption pattern of India, the world would need 0.84% of an Earth to support food production by 2050+.

    Shravani Mali, Consumer Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “In recent years, India observed an intensified vegan movement, especially in metropolitan cities. The country’s current food consumption practices, emphasizing plant-based diets and climate-resilient crops such as millets, require fewer resources and generate lower emissions compared to meat-heavy diets. This transition is also connected to a wider focus on sustainability. Underlining this trend, 79% of Indian respondents in GlobalData’s recent consumer survey stated that the sustainable/environmentally friendly feature is essential/nice to have when deciding to make a food and drinks purchase*.”

    Mali adds: “Traditional Indian diets primarily consist of lentils, grains, and vegetables. For instance, “Thali” is a meal that includes a combination of various food groups and shows a strong connection to the country’s land and history. These traditional diets, which place an emphasis on seasonal and local produce, are becoming more popular as environmental issues gain more attention. Consequently, with increasing awareness, consumers will look forward to curtailing environmental burdens by adopting traditional dietary practices that prioritize plant-based foods.”

    Deepak Nautiyal, Consumer and Retail Commercial Director, APAC and Middle East at GlobalData, notes: “The Indian government has introduced several initiatives to promote environmentally sustainable practices in the country. For instance, the government launched schemes such as National Millet Campaign and the International Year of Millets (2023) to enhance the production and consumption of millets since it is an environmentally sustainable source of food and nutrition. In addition to this, the National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) aims to improve climate-resilient farming.

    “Furthermore, the socioeconomic advantages of sustainable food production are exemplified by the Andhra Pradesh Community-Managed Natural Farming (APCNF) program in southern India. Hence, these initiatives have positively contributed to India’s food practices as a model of sustainability.”

    Mali concludes: “By adopting climate-friendly diet, individuals can make a tangible impact on the environment. Adopting Indian sustainable eating habits worldwide offers a clear path to address critical environmental and health challenges. With the food system being one of major contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions, shifting towards plant-based diets, as exemplified by Indian cuisine, could reduce emissions significantly, creating a more sustainable future for generations to come.”

    *GlobalData 2024 Q3 Consumer Survey – India, with 500 respondents, published October 2024

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Agencies Continue To Monitor For Oil Sightings

    Source: Asia Pacific Region 2 – Singapore

    JOINT NEWS RELEASE BETWEEN NEA, BCA, JTC, MPA, NPARKS, PUB, SDC, SFA AND SLA

    Singapore, 22 October 2024 – The clean-up of oil in the channel between Pulau Bukom and Bukom Kechil is progressing. The clearing of the remaining trapped oil within the containment booms in the channel and the cleaning of the stained rock bunds and infrastructure are targeted to be completed in the coming days.

    2       There are no other oil sightings at sea and ashore as at 3pm (Singapore time).

    3       National water agency PUB continues to monitor the seawater intakes at its desalination plants. Seawater quality readings remain normal.

    4       There are no reports of fish farms being affected by the oil leak.

    5      Agencies will continue to monitor for oil sightings.

    ~~ End ~~

    For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Pui-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Lam Sai-hung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):Question:      Regarding the crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules, will the Government inform this Council:(1) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of pedestrian casualties in traffic accidents in the past five years, with a breakdown by cause of accident;(2) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of traffic contraventions involving pedestrians in the past five years and, among such cases, the respective numbers of verbal warnings given and prosecutions instituted (including summonses) by the Police (set out by relevant contravention);(3) whether it has analysed the reasons for pedestrians not complying with the traffic rules for crossing roads, for example, whether such acts were caused by objective factors such as road design, traffic system, etc; if it has, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(4) of (i) the 10 traffic black spots in Hong Kong with the highest number of traffic accidents involving pedestrian casualties and the number of accidents involved, and (ii) the 10 traffic black spots in Hong Kong with the highest number of traffic contraventions involving pedestrians and the respective numbers of jaywalking cases in the past five years; in respect of such traffic black spots, of the improvement measures put in place by the authorities, including whether they will consider extending the duration of green signal of pedestrian traffic lights or adding footbridges; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;(5) given that the Police conducted a number of large-scale territory-wide law enforcement operations against jaywalking in the past, whether the authorities have assessed the effectiveness of such operations; whether they will consider increasing the amount of penalties for pedestrians who do not comply with traffic rules for crossing roads; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and(6) how the authorities will further step up efforts in publicity and education on road safety, so as to enhance pedestrians’ awareness on road safety?Reply:President,     Having consulted the Transport Department (TD) and the Hong Kong Police Force (Police) in respect of crackdown on pedestrians crossing roads without complying with traffic rules, my reply to the various parts of the question raised by the Hon Chan Pui-leung is as follows:(1) and (2) The numbers of pedestrian casualties by casualty contributory factors and degree of injury in traffic accidents as well as the enforcement figures on pedestrian offences by the Police in the past five years are provided in Annex 1 and Annex 2 respectively. On the whole, from 2020 to 2023, the yearly casualty number ranged between about 2 300 and 2 800. The pedestrian casualty number involved in traffic accidents happened in the first half of 2024 has decreased by about 10 per cent compared to the same period in 2023. This reflects that the recent enhanced safety improvement measures are effective. The Government will continue to implement relevant road safety enhancement measures. The ratio of pedestrian contributory factors to accidents has decreased from about 30 per cent in 2020 to 22 per cent in the first nine months in 2024.(3) and (4) The Government has been striving to provide a safe, reliable and efficient traffic and transport system, including the provision of appropriate pedestrian crossing facilities during the planning and design of pedestrian network, for pedestrian to cross the road conveniently at suitable locations. The Government also proceeds with various walkability enhancement and pedestrian safety improvement measures at suitable locations, which include footpath widening, provision or improvement of pedestrian crossings, provision of raised crossings, provision of additional traffic signs and road markings, setting up of low speed limit zones, replacement of Belisha beacons at zebra crossings as well as installation of auxiliary devices that project a red light at signalised junctions. These measures improve pedestrians’ walking experience on one hand and enhance road safety on the other.     According to the quarterly blacksite locations published by the TD, the top 10 pedestrian blacksites and the numbers of accidents happened thereat in the past five years are provided in Annex 3. Relevant departments do not have statistics of the reason(s) of pedestrian offences. Having said that, the Police make reference to the information on accident blackspots when prioritising enforcement actions and publicity/education activities at district levels.(5) Road safety is one of the Commissioner’s Operational Priorities of the Police. Apart from conducting territory-wide enforcement actions against pedestrian offences periodically, the Police will closely monitor the issue of pedestrian safety and continue to adopt multi-pronged approach through publicity, education and enforcement to strengthen public awareness on pedestrian safety, thereby reducing traffic accidents.      From the second half of 2023 to September 2024, the Police have co-ordinated a total of three territory-wide thematic operations on pedestrian safety. With the concerted efforts of the Police and stakeholders, the number of accidents involving pedestrians as a whole in the first three quarters of 2024 has dropped, which is detailed as follows:      The Government will keep in view the penalties for traffic offences and will propose amendments timely so that the relevant penalties can maintain their deterrence to safeguard pedestrian safety.(6) The Government attaches great importance to road safety and has been closely collaborating with the Road Safety Council to promote road safety amongst different road users (including pedestrians) through various publicity and education channels. Examples include production and broadcasting of television and online publicity video clips, publication and distribution of Road Safety Bulletins and leaflets, affixing publicity covers on traffic signal controllers, conducting road safety talks in primary and secondary schools and elderly centres, disseminating information on social media platforms, to educate different road users about road safety matters that require their attention, such as obeying traffic rules and traffic signals, proper use of crossing facilities, following the Road Crossing Code and staying alert at all times. We will continue to carry out publicity and education activities to enhance road users’ awareness on safety.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Public swimming pools

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         â€‹â€‹Following is a question by the Hon Doreen Kong and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):
     
    Question:

         Regarding public swimming pools under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) of the utilisation rates (set out by session for admission) and attendances of various public swimming pools in each of the past five years;

    (2) of the number of schools holding swimming galas at public swimming pools in the past five years;

    (3) of the expenditure on the staff salaries and benefits, operating costs and maintenance fees of public swimming pools in the past five years;

    (4) in respect of the public swimming pools with utilisation rates on the low side, whether the authorities will consider consolidating them with those public swimming pools in the neighbouring districts to increase the overall utilisation rates, thereby better meeting the demand of members of the public;

    (5) as there are views pointing out that the mode of leisure and entertainment of members of the public is constantly changing, whether the authorities have plans to upgrade facilities of public swimming pools and include more diversified entertainment elements (such as water parks and water play facilities), so as to attract members of the public of different age groups to use them; and

    (6) as some persons with disabilities (PWDs) have relayed that barrier-‍free facilities at some public swimming pools are inadequate, of the current situation of the provision of barrier-free facilities at public swimming pools; whether it will consider further increasing and upgrading the barrier-free facilities at public swimming pools by, for example, providing additional ramps, lanes for exclusive use by PWDs and so on, at the swimming pools to improve the inclusiveness of public swimming pools, thereby benefiting a wider group of members of the public?

    Reply:
     
    President,

         My reply to the questions raised by the Hon Doreen Kong is as follows:

    (1) As the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) does not maintain record of individual swimmer’s time of entry and exit at its public swimming pools, there is no information about the utilisation rate of its swimming pools at different periods of time. Details of the attendance of public swimming pools managed by the LCSD are set out at Annex I.

    (2) In the past five years, the number of schools that have hosted swimming galas in public swimming pools managed by the LCSD is as follows:
     

    Year
    2019
    2020
    2021
    2022
    2023

    Number
    234
    31
    30
    101
    231

    * In view of the situation of COVID-19, public swimming pools were closed during various periods from 2020 to 2022. Hence, the number of swimming galas held was lower.

    (3) In the past five years, the expenditure on staff remuneration and fringe benefits as well as the operating cost of public swimming pools are as follows:
     

    Year
    2019-20
    2020-21
    2021-22
    2022-23
    2023-24

                              ($ million)

    Expenditure on staff remuneration and fringe benefits
    660.06
    660.06
    660.06
    686.17
    720.30

    Operating cost
    520.34
    513.36
    532.91
    563.55
    596.61

         â€‹As for repair and maintenance, multiple works departments are responsible for the maintenance and repair of various recreation and sports facilities under the LCSD. Costs of works such as repair, maintenance, improvement and refurbishment of facilities, as well as expenses on equipment procurement, are included in the overall expenditure of those works departments. The LCSD does not have a breakdown of the repair and maintenance costs of public swimming pools.

    (4) and (5) In order to cater for the public demand for different swimming pool facilities, the number and type of facilities as well as design and layout of public swimming pools vary. At present, 25 of the public swimming pools under the LCSD (such as Kennedy Town Swimming Pool, Hammer Hill Road Swimming Pool and Tseung Kwan O Swimming Pool etc) offer water play equipment in addition to conventional swimming facilities, addressing the needs of different age groups and allowing more citizens to experience the fun of aquatic activities.
     
         The selection of location, types of facilities offered as well as design and layout of each swimming pool must meet the needs of the public (especially the local residents) for swimming facilities. The LCSD will optimise the use of resources according to the actual situation, closely monitor the utilisation of public swimming pools and take into account different factors, including the impact on local residents, future demographic changes and the views of relevant district councils, when reviewing the future planning of its facilities.

    (6) At present, among the 46 public swimming pools under the LCSD, 36 (about 78 per cent) are equipped with accessible lifting platforms or ramps to assist persons with disabilities in entering the pools. A list of these swimming pools is at Annex II. As for the remaining public swimming pools where accessible lifting platforms or ramps have yet to be installed, there are other pools equipped with relevant facilities within the same district. Persons with disabilities may consider visiting another pool in the same district for the swimming facilities thereat according to their needs.
     
         All leisure venues of the LCSD built after 2008 (including public swimming pools) are in compliance with the requirements of the “Design Manual: Barrier Free Access 2008”, including the provision of ramps or accessible lifting platforms as far as possible to assist persons with disabilities in entering the pools. As for the leisure venues built before 2008 (including public swimming pools), subject to geographical environment, allocation of resources, architectural conditions and technical feasibility, the LCSD will arrange for relevant improvement works to be carried out, such as providing facilities for barrier-free access, accessible toilets and parking spaces, as well as adding facilities such as tactile guide paths, Braille signage, Braille and tactile maps, for the convenience of the visually impaired, in the course of renovation or conversion so that persons with disabilities can also enjoy swimming pool facilities provided by the LCSD.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Fatality following assault, Onehunga

    Source: New Zealand Police (National News)

    Police can confirm that a person has died following an assault on a bus in Onehunga, reported at 2.30pm this afternoon.

    Police are making urgent enquiries to locate the offender who has been identified through CCTV footage.

    Parts of Captain Springs Road and Church Road remain closed while enquiries are underway.

    ENDS

    Issued by Police Media Centre

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Australia: Delivering local priorities in Brisbane

    Source: Australian Ministers 1

    The Albanese Labor Government continues to boost the liveability of Oxley, with federal funding unlocking a pipeline of local road and community infrastructure projects.

    Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain MP joined Federal Member for Oxley, Milton Dick MP on Tuesday to inspect the progress of projects in the Brisbane area, and to discuss the city’s priorities. 

    Brisbane City Council will receive more than $103 million in Roads to Recovery funding over the next five years – a boost of over $44.4 million thanks to the Albanese Government. 

    This will pave the way for local road upgrades that will improve safety and reduce traffic congestion, building on improvements already delivered.

    Traffic lights and a pedestrian crossing were recently installed at the Blunder Road and Wallaroo Road intersection – thanks to over $1.5 million in federal funding.

    Over $4.1 million in federal funding supported the major upgrade to the Dandenong Road and Sirocco Street intersection, with new traffic lights improving traffic flow and safety for pedestrians and cyclists.

    Through Phase 4 of the Local Roads and Community Infrastructure program, Brisbane City Council is receiving over $11.7 million for high-impact local projects.

    As part of this, over $7.7 million is supporting repairs and upgrades to 29 community facilities, including new retaining walls along the rugby and cricket fields at the Forest Lake Junior Rugby Union Club.

    Work is also underway on upgrades to aquatic centres across Brisbane, with $4 million from the Albanese Government supporting new lighting, heat pumps and switchboards, along with the installation of solar equipment, batteries and smart energy monitoring.

    These upgrades – fully funded by the Albanese Government, will reduce energy consumption and emissions, and support Brisbane City Council to reinvest money saved into other important local services. 

    Nationally, the Albanese Government is delivering significant funding increases to support local councils deliver their priority projects. 

    The Roads to Recovery program is progressively increasing from $500 million to $1 billion per year, the Road Black Spot Program is increasing from $110 million to $150 million per year, and $200 million per year is available under our Safer Local Roads and Infrastructure Program.

    Quotes attributable to Federal Member for Oxley, Milton Dick MP:

    “It’s wonderful to welcome Minister McBain to Oxley to highlight how we’re partnering with Brisbane City Council to turn federal funding into local results – from making our local roads safer and easier to navigate, to ensuring our sporting facilities are fit-for-purpose.

    “With a population of over 2.4 million people, Brisbane is one of Australia’s largest and busiest cities – and I’m so proud to have secured funding increases for projects in this area that are supporting local jobs and uplifting our economy.”  

    Quotes attributable to Federal Minister for Local Government, Kristy McBain MP:

    “Milton Dick has a strong record of delivering for communities in Oxley, which is why it was terrific to join him in Brisbane to see high-impact local projects underway, and to discuss what support is needed for future priorities.

    “Our funding increases to Brisbane City Council and strengthened partnership will ensure that we continue to deliver the projects that matter to people in Oxley – whether that’s upgrading the local roads they take to work, or improving the sports fields their kids train on after school.” 

    MIL OSI News –

  • MIL-OSI New Zealand: Minister clears up incident information

    Source: New Zealand Government

    Minister for Children Karen Chhour wants to clarify the facts following Chloe Swarbrick’s questions in Parliament this afternoon about the incident at Korowai Manaaki this week.

    “Claims that young people there didn’t have access to food, are false,” Children’s Minister Karen Chhour says.

    “Claims that young people there didn’t have access to fresh air, are false.

    “The only young people who have been denied time outdoors, are those who did not participate in the incident, because staff had to keep them inside while they cleaned up the damage caused by the young people on the roof and made the place safe for them.

    “The young people on the roof did not make any requests or demands to Oranga Tamariki staff.

    “I agree these young people should be taken seriously. That is why there will be consequences for their actions.” 

    MIL OSI New Zealand News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SED expresses deep sorrow over passing of Mr Michael Suen

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, today (October 23) expressed deep sorrow over the passing of former Secretary for Education, Mr Michael Suen, and extended her heartfelt condolences to his family.

         Mr Suen was appointed as the Secretary for Education in 2007, a post he held until June 2012.

         Dr Choi said, “Mr Suen provided dedicated services to Hong Kong people and the Government for decades, making tremendous contributions and earning respect from various sectors of the community. During his tenure as the Secretary for Education, he formulated and implemented a number of important education policies, including promotion of the development of higher education institutions and broadening of multiple study pathways, implementation of the New Academic Structure for Senior Secondary Education and Higher Education (namely the ‘334’ academic structure), the fine-tuning of medium of instruction for secondary schools and implementation of small class teaching in primary schools, benefiting students and making far-reaching impacts.

          “Mr Suen spared no effort and was dedicated in everything. He often communicated with frontline education personnel in person and resolved problems with wisdom. He was a role model for colleagues.

          “The Education Bureau is deeply saddened by his passing. We will fondly remember him.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Activities in celebration of the National Day and exhibitions relating to patriotic education

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Yung and a written reply by the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, in the Legislative Council today (October 23):
     
    Question:
     
         Regarding the activities in celebration of the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China and the exhibitions relating to patriotic education organised by the HKSAR Government this year, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the following information on the aforesaid celebratory activities: (i) the names of the activities, (ii) the organising government departments, (iii) the dates on which the activities were held (with commencement and end dates) and (iv) the numbers of participants, and set out the breakdown in the table below; and

    (i)
    (ii)
    (iii)
    (iv)

     
     
     
     

           
    (2) whether it has assessed the overall effectiveness of the various exhibitions relating to patriotic education (including the national security exhibition and the “Glorious Voyage: Splendid Achievements of the People’s Republic of China in Its 75 Years” exhibition series at the Hong Kong Museum of History, as well as the exhibitions at the Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence) in terms of the attendances, the level of satisfaction, etc; whether it will continuously step up promotion of such exhibitions through more innovative means, so as to attract more members of the public and tourists to visit them?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         Having consulted the relevant bureaux and departments, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Chan Yung is as follows:
     
         This year marks the 75th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Republic of China. To celebrate this important day with members of the public, the HKSAR Government has spared no effort in planning and launching a wide array of rich, diverse and creative celebratory activities before and after the National Day featuring the spirit of patriotism, so as to share the joy of the National Day with the public, while at the same time promote patriotism.
     
         Regarding part (1) of the question, the HKSAR Government and various sectors of the community has organised more than 400 celebratory activities before and after the National Day. Details of the events are available on the dedicated website (www.nationalday75.gov.hk). As at October 16, 2024, 38 amongst the 71 highlight celebratory events organised by various policy bureaux and departments had been completed. Please refer to the Annex for details.
     
         Regarding part (2) of the question, the HKSAR Government has organised a number of exhibitions with elements of patriotism, for example, the thematic exhibition “Brothers in Arms: War of Resistance Activities of the East River Column in Shenzhen and Hong Kong” exhibited at the Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence since September 4, 2024, and the “Glorious Voyage: Splendid Achievements of the People’s Republic of China in Its 75 Years’ Exhibition Series” at the Hong Kong Museum of History and Hong Kong Science Museum since September 27, 2024, etc. Moreover, the covered walkway of Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park is currently hosting the “Trendsetting Travel in China” display to showcase national achievements, whereas the thematic book exhibition “The Glorious and Momentous Days – Celebrating the 75th Anniversary of the Founding of the People’s Republic of China” is being held at various public libraries and the Hong Kong Museum of History. These exhibitions cover various themes across different areas, presenting a comprehensive display of the country’s development. Overall speaking, the exhibitions are effective and the response of the public is overwhelming. As at October 15, the exhibitions organised by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) have recorded over 300 000 visitors. The LCSD will continue to promote the exhibitions through various channels including online media, and organise related education and extension programmes to attract more locals and visitors.
     
         In addition, the National Security Exhibition Gallery, located at the Hong Kong Museum of History, is the first dedicated exhibition in Hong Kong to systematically introduce national security. It has been opened to the public for visits with free admission since August 7 this year and has already welcomed 100 000 visitors in just two months. This shows that the community attaches great importance to and is supportive for national security education. Visitors have given very positive feedback about the exhibition hall, and consider the exhibition contents rich, diverse, and educational. In order to attract more locals and visitors, the National Security Exhibition Gallery will roll out thematic exhibitions in mid-2025 for the 10th National Security Education Day and the 5th anniversary of the promulgation of the Hong Kong National Security Law.
     
         The HKSAR Government is truly grateful for the staunch support received from various sectors of the community and the general public, without such, these many celebratory events would not have completed so successfully. This fully reflects the passion and love from all Hong Kong citizens for our country. The HKSAR Government will continue to press ahead with perseverance and determination, bring together the community forces, and take on the responsibility to lead Hong Kong to a brighter future.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ2: Developing cruise tourism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ2: Developing cruise tourism
    LCQ2: Developing cruise tourism
    *******************************

         Following is a question by the Hon Chan Yuet-ming and a reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Kevin Yeung, in the Legislative Council today (October 23): Question:      It has been reported that the number of cruise ships arriving in Hong Kong this year is far lower than that in Singapore, and a related association has also withdrawn from Hong Kong. On the other hand, the Government mentioned in the Policy Address delivered last year that it would review the development of cruise tourism economy and announce an action plan in the first half of 2024. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: (1) of the number of ship calls in Hong Kong in each of the past five years, as well as the numbers of inbound and outbound cruise passenger trips, and the age distribution and per capita spending of passengers; (2) whether further plans in the short, medium and long terms are in place to attract cruise ships to visit Hong Kong and consider Hong Kong as homeport; and (3) of the positioning of and division of functions between the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (KTCT) and the Ocean Terminal, and how the occupancy rates of the commercial floor space of the two terminals compare with each other; as there are views that when compared with the Ocean Terminal, there is much room for improvement in respect of transport connectivity between the KTCT and the shopping malls nearby as well as the luxury goods and commercial contents of such shopping malls, how the Government will enhance the transport connectivity between the KTCT and the surrounding scenic spots and key shopping malls in the short term? Reply: President,      After the pandemic, the Government has been making all-out efforts in promoting the recovery of the tourism industry, amongst which Hong Kong’s cruise tourism is actually one of the work priorities. With the concerted efforts of the industry and the Government, a total of 30 cruise lines are scheduled to visit Hong Kong in 2024, representing an increase of 12 over 2023 and comparable to pre-pandemic levels. It is estimated that the non-local cruise passenger throughput this year will increase to about 330 000, representing an increase of 50 per cent compared with 220 000 the year before. Moreover, attributable to the efforts we have made, several new cruise lines will have their first ship calls in Hong Kong in the coming year, and new itineraries will also be launched by cruise lines to attract a more diverse sources of customers.           We sought views extensively from relevant local and international stakeholders of the cruise industry earlier on the development of cruise tourism in Hong Kong, and formulated an action plan for further promoting cruise visits to Hong Kong. It will be published together with the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 by the end of this year.           Having consulted the Development Bureau and the Transport and Logistics Bureau, below is the reply to the question raised by the Hon Chan Yuet-ming: (1) The total numbers of ship calls and cruise passenger throughputs in Hong Kong in the past five years are at Annex. Separately, according to a survey conducted by the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) in 2023, the onshore per capita spending of inbound cruise passengers embarking or disembarking in Hong Kong was about $3,000. Nevertheless, the contribution of cruise tourism to Hong Kong’s economy is not restricted to the spending by passengers, but also includes the expenses incurred in Hong Kong by the cruises (such as the expenses of arranging shore excursions or transport for passengers, reprovisioning for the cruises, berthing at terminals and hiring of ground crew members), as well as the onshore spending of crew members on leave.  We do not maintain statistics on the age distribution of cruise passengers. (2) The Tourism Commission (TC) and HKTB will continue to promote the development of Hong Kong’s cruise tourism through various measures, attracting cruises to visit Hong Kong, and leveraging Hong Kong as the homeport for passengers to start or complete their cruise voyages. Those measures include: (a) developing new cruise itineraries and visitor source markets. For instance, introducing cruise itineraries departing from the Mainland, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand to Hong Kong in the coming months; and stepping up the promotion and publicity of fly-cruise and rail-cruise packages; (b) facilitating cruise lines in making proper planning for cruises visiting Hong Kong, and providing them with various support and concessions, with a view to encouraging cruise lines to increase the number of ship calls, make overnight calls and leverage Hong Kong as the homeport; (c) supporting the tourism trade in fully leveraging Hong Kong’s unique tourism elements to design different featured shore excursions. Cruise passengers visiting Hong Kong this week will be arranged to join the Hong Kong Wine & Dine Festival, thereby creating synergy between cruise tourism and mega events. In addition, a night time itinerary of Hong Kong classic tram tour has recently been selected by a cruise line as one of its top 10 shore excursions in the world; (d) providing facilitation for inbound passengers who start their cruise voyage in Hong Kong, such as baggage delivery services for debarking cruise passengers to enable them to explore the city hassle-free. TC also co-ordinates ship calls with a large number of Mainland visitors, streamlining the boundary crossing arrangements, and arranging coaches for them to travel direct to the Kai Tak Cruise Terminal (KTCT) in just 40 minutes; (e) seizing the new opportunities brought about by cruise-related policies in the Mainland, such as the policy of allowing visa-free entry of foreign tourist groups aboard cruise ships at provinces along the country’s coastline, and the measures allowing Mainland visitors to travel to Hong Kong in transit to join international cruise itineraries involving port-of-call in Mainland cruise ports, thereby attracting international cruise lines to develop more cruise itineraries covering Hong Kong and Mainland ports; and (f) proactively participating in major industry events in the Mainland and overseas, and collaborating with ports in the Mainland and the Asian region to jointly promote Asia’s cruise tourism in these events. (3) Though complementing each other, the development and functions of the KTCT and the Ocean Terminal (OT) in Tsim Sha Tsui are not entirely the same and a direct comparison cannot be made between them. The OT was completed in 1966. Due to limitations in respect of water depth and clearance facilities etc, it can only accommodate small to medium-sized cruise ships with a gross tonnage of fewer than 90 000 tons and a smaller passenger capacity. Its floor area is primarily used for commercial purposes. As Tsim Sha Tsui has developed into one of Hong Kong’s premier shopping and sightseeing hot spots, passengers joining cruise voyages there can also be benefited. As for the KTCT, it is an infrastructure specifically built for the berthing of mega-size cruise ships and is able to accommodate simultaneously two mega-size cruise ships with a gross tonnage of up to 220 000. The terminal provides sufficient space and facilities for handling a large number of inbound and outbound passengers as well as their embarkation and disembarkation within a short period of time, but only has a small ancillary commercial area. The KTCT commenced operation in phases from mid-2013, and since 2015 and 2017 respectively, it has already surpassed the OT in terms of annual passenger throughput and the number of ship calls.      Upon getting onshore, cruise passengers may either join shore excursions with connecting transport arrangements provided by cruise lines or local travel agents, or travel to destinations by public transport. The KTCT is being part of the Kai Tak Development (KTD). With the gradual completion of the traffic network and commercial facilities within the KTD, cruise passengers will be provided with greater convenience and more options for shopping and sightseeing. Those options include the major retail facility adjacent to Kai Tak MTR Station opened in September last year and another commercial project comprising a large department store scheduled for opening in November this year. In addition, the Kai Tak Sports Park, to be opened in the first quarter of next year, will not only provide over 700 thousand square feet of retail and catering facilities, but also venues for hosting various types of mega sports, cultural and recreational events, thereby creating synergy effects with the KTCT.           There are currently four regular franchised bus routes serving the KTCT, with three of them connecting Kai Tak Station. Subject to demand, an additional special bus route directly connecting the station will also be provided by public transport operator during the berthing of cruise ships. The Transport Department has also planned to provide two additional franchised bus routes, one of them providing connecting services to Kai Tak Station via Sung Wong Toi Station, while another providing express services to Hung Hom and Tsim Sha Tsui direct.      Thank you, President.

     
    Ends/Wednesday, October 23, 2024Issued at HKT 12:55

    NNNN

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