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Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Russia: NSU hosted the first economic quest “Knowledge — Money”

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Novosibirsk State University –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    On July 10, Novosibirsk State University hosted a fascinating economic quest, “Knowledge — Money,” in which 65 high school students from different schools in Novosibirsk took part. It was not just an intellectual challenge, but also a real immersion into the world of economics, where knowledge, logic, and teamwork become the key to success.

    The quest was organized by the public organization “Laboratory of Economics and Business” with the support of Faculty of Economics, NSU, the “First” movement and the low-rise eco-quarter “Spectrum”.

    —The Laboratory of Economics and Business was created three years ago. Our mission is to develop schoolchildren’s interest in economics and to form a culture of systems thinking. The first event we held last year was a course of lectures and interactive seminars “Basics of Economics and Business for Schoolchildren”. Instead of the planned 20 people, more than 60 took part in it. We realized that schoolchildren have a huge interest in economics and new educational formats. This is how the idea of a quest was born, which we decided to hold in the summer, — said Dmitry Markov, a lecturer in the Department of Management of the Faculty of Economics of NSU, head of the laboratory.

    The participants united into 14 teams, each of which went through 13 stations in four thematic “economic laboratories” in three hours. At each station, the teams passed tests on knowledge, logic and ingenuity, solved problems of varying difficulty levels and earned points. The maximum for each station was 100 points, and at the end the strongest team was determined.

    1. Systems Analysis Laboratory

    The children were given tasks that clearly demonstrated the importance of a systematic approach to solving problems. A crossword, a fillword, and a Japanese puzzle called “Bridges” — all of this forced the participants to think logically, find patterns and relationships. And most importantly, it helped them better understand how economic processes are structured in reality.

    2. Laboratory of Economic Intuition

    Here, participants encountered economic puzzles, asset turnover tasks, and cases that required filling in missing terms. These tasks helped participants not only remember the terms, but also understand how they work in the context of business and finance.

    3. Business Analytics Lab

    It turned out to be the most difficult — and, perhaps, the most educational. The kids had to understand the financial statements of the Magnit retail chain, pass tests on formal logic, and solve numerical problems that are used when hiring in large financial companies. This gave the schoolchildren the opportunity to “try on” the role of a business analyst and understand how interesting and in-demand this profession is.

    4. Bipolar Laboratory

    This lab turned out to be the most creative and memorable. Participants had to not only think, but also act:

    Assemble a product according to the technical specifications from a construction set. Assemble a puzzle from the logos of famous brands and compare them with the companies’ missions. Restore the system by analogy with the game “Tetris”. Assemble slides with company analytics to create a complete picture.

    These tasks developed not only logic and economic thinking, but also teamwork skills, attentiveness and creativity.

    Each laboratory had its own curators, who were students from the Faculty of Economics of NSU.

    Artem Bezrukov commanded the business analytics laboratory.

    — Three stations: calculation tasks, a logic storm and a hellish quiz on financial reporting. I thought that my stations would be the hardest for the participants, but the guys turned out to be great! We were especially impressed with the financial reporting of Magnit. We compared profitability, revenue, turnover — like analysts with real cases! Honestly, I thought that out of 100 points our maximum would be 50, but I was pleasantly surprised by other results!) I admit, the logic test turned out to be the most tricky. Only two teams were able to solve it 100 out of 100! Apparently, numbers are closer to them than puzzles.) Even my fifth-graders learned to calculate profitability! — said Artem.

    Kira Kurmasheva was responsible for the bipolar laboratory.

    —We had a great time and enjoyed it as much as the quest participants. Our lab had the most stations — four. All the tasks in my lab were interactive, the kids were asked to assemble a flower from a construction set, restore economic slides, assemble puzzles with logos of famous companies, and solve a riddle. All the tasks were quite easy, but very interesting. Our lab had the highest average score for the quest.

    I am very glad that our event attracted so many children from all over the region. During the game, I received a lot of positive feedback about the quest. I hope that I will participate in many more similar projects from the laboratory of economics and business! – Kira shared.

    As a result, all teams completed all stations, showed good results and acquired valuable skills. The winner of the quest was the team “EkoMi”, which scored the highest number of points.

    All participants were awarded raffle tickets and delicious pizza, which was a pleasant end to a busy but exciting day.

    Here’s what the event participants thought about the quest.

    Taisiya Gershun, 8th grade, OC “Gornostay”:

    — Although I was never particularly interested in economics, the quest even made me think about enrolling in the economics department! An interesting format that helps to apply knowledge from economics in practice. During the quest, you learn to work together and make decisions quickly. It was especially interesting to solve economic puzzles and solve different problems. At the end, there was an announcement of the winners and pizza!!

     

    Vladimir Rimmer, 9th grade, Lyceum No. 130:

    — My mother signed me up for the quest, for which I am very grateful to her. I got a lot of new emotions, made new acquaintances. I really liked the idea itself, the organization and, of course, the surprise in the form of pizza after the end. If I were to rate the quest on a ten-point scale, it would definitely be 10 out of 10!

     

    Daria Rakova, 9th grade, OC “Gornostay”:

    — Overall, the event was interesting and useful. The tasks were varied, you had to think and act. I especially liked two things: bridges and a crossword puzzle. These logic tasks are just super, and everything was exciting with the team. Overall, I spent my time usefully, learned something new and laughed.

     

    The Laboratory of Economics and Business is already drawing up a plan for future events, where schoolchildren not only gain new knowledge, but also come into contact with university life.

    — The guys spent the whole day at NSU, got to know the university, its teachers and students better. We are sure that many of them will choose NSU as the place of their admission and further education, — Dmitry Markov emphasized.

     

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Inflation at 1.4% in June

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Overall consumer prices rose 1.4% year on year in June, less than the 1.9% increase in May, the Census & Statistics Department announced today.

    Netting out the effects of the Government’s one-off relief measures, underlying inflation was 1%, the same as that in May.

    Compared with a year before, price increases were recorded in May in the following categories: housing; transport; electricity, gas and water; alcoholic drinks and tobacco; meals out and takeaway food; miscellaneous goods; and miscellaneous services.

    Meanwhile, year-on-year decreases were logged in clothing and footwear; durable goods; and basic food.

    The Government said consumer price inflation stayed modest in June, and that price pressures on various major components were contained in general.

    It expects that overall inflation should remain modest in the near term, with pressures from domestic costs and external prices staying broadly in check.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Jockey Club Yan Oi Tong Swimming Pool to be reopened

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals:

         Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 21) that Jockey Club Yan Oi Tong Swimming Pool in Tuen Mun District, which was closed earlier due to urgent clearance work after the typhoon, will be reopened at 7pm today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SJ to lead government officials to attend joint conference on Belt and Road Initiative in Beijing

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, in his capacity as the chair of the sub-group on Belt and Road development under the Steering Group on Integration into National Development, will lead Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government officials, including the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau; the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn; the Permanent Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Ms Maggie Wong; the Under Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, Mr Joseph Chan; and the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Ms Lillian Cheong, to attend the eighth Joint Conference on Advancing Hong Kong’s Full Participation in and Contribution to the Belt and Road Initiative to be held on Thursday morning (July 24), with departures for Beijing tomorrow (July 22) and on July 23 respectively.
     
         During his stay in Beijing, Mr Lam and the Law Officer (International Law) of the Department of Justice, Dr James Ding, will visit the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to report on the progress of the Department of Justice’s major policy initiatives, including the relevant works on the International Organization for Mediation and promoting Hong Kong’s position as an international legal and dispute resolution services centre. He will also visit the Ministry of Commerce to exchange views on matters of mutual interest.

         Mr Lam will return to Hong Kong on the afternoon of July 24. During Mr Lam’s absence, the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, will be the Acting Secretary for Justice. During Mr Yau’s absence, the Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, will be the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development. During Ms Linn’s absence, the Under Secretary for Development, Mr David Lam, will be the Acting Secretary for Development.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Study tour on national water infrastructure, culture and technology celebrating 60th anniversary of Dongjiang’s water supply to Hong Kong departs today for Hubei (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    In celebration and commemoration of the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang’s water supply to Hong Kong, a study tour on national water infrastructure, culture and technology jointly organised by the Water Supplies Department, the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers and the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers departed this afternoon (July 21) for Xiangyang, Hubei Province, to begin its itinerary. The 120-person study tour comprising secondary students, tertiary engineering undergraduates, young engineers, and representatives from the engineering profession and related government departments will visit key national water infrastructure projects and historical, cultural and technological landmarks in Zhengzhou, Anyang and Beijing.
     
    The Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn; the Permanent Secretary for Development (Works), Mr Ricky Lau; and the Director of Water Supplies, Mr Roger Wong, saw off the study tour this afternoon. Ms Linn encouraged participants to take advantage of this valuable opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the country’s history, culture and modernisation process through site visits, and be inspired to make contributions to the development of the country and Hong Kong. She also expected that participants can gain deeper insights into the history of national water infrastructure projects, including how the country has rendered immense support in safeguarding a stable water supply to Hong Kong through Dongjiang’s water supply.
     
    Secondary student members on the tour will visit the ancient city of Anyang and its Yinxu Museum tomorrow (July 22), while tour members from the professional sector, consisting of tertiary engineering undergraudates, young engineers, representatives from the engineering profession and related government departments, will visit the “Crossing the Yellow River Project” under the middle route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project and the Henan Museum in Zhengzhou. On July 23, the study tour will begin its itinerary in Beijing to visit Tuancheng Lake Regulating Pond, the central dispatch centre of the middle route of the South-to-North Water Diversion Project, the National Museum for Modern Chinese Scientist, and Shougang Park. On July 25, the tour will conclude the achievements of the visits in a seminar with the Hong Kong and Macao Affairs Office of the State Council and the Ministry of Water Resources, and will return to Hong Kong on the same day.
     
    Ms Linn, Mr Lau and Mr Wong will join part of the tour’s itinerary in Beijing.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Film Archive to present screening programme “Cantonese Opera Films: The Legend of Guan Gong” (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Hong Kong Film Archive (HKFA) of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will present a programme entitled “Cantonese Opera Films: The Legend of Guan Gong” from August 30 to September 7. Five Cantonese opera films in the 1950s and 1960s starring virtuosos will be screened at the Cinema of HKFA to revisit the incomparable skills and talents of the masters. This screening programme is one of the programmes of the Chinese Culture Festival (CCF) 2025.
     
         Guan Yu, a famous general of the Three Kingdoms period, was well known for his loyalty and righteousness. His legend has been frequently adapted in Chinese opera and theatre, to the extent that Peking and Cantonese opera traditions, among others, have Guan Gong (Lord Guan) as a genre of performance. The highlight of any notable interpretation of Lord Guan in the genre is how the performer brings out the stature and impressiveness of the character. The performer also needs to display mastery of both stage movements and vocal techniques, while complementing the majesty of luogu (gong-and-drum) music and showcasing the aesthetics of unadorned simplicity and elegance.
     
         Kwan Tak-hing, who was lauded as “Living Lord Guan” for his virtuoso skills, plays the role of Guan Yu in “Kwan-Ti, God of War” (1956) (2K Digitised Version) and “General Kwan Escorts His Sisters-in-Law on a Thousand Mile Journey” (1957) (2K Digitised Version). The former focuses on the tales between Guan and the legendary beauty Diao Chan, played by Tang Bik-wan, while the latter tells the story of the dangers and hardships that Guan encountered while escorting Liu Bei’s two wives on their journey. The films recorded Kwan’s impressive Cantonese opera performances in the role of Lord Guan, especially through his postures, movements and walking styles. The screening of “General Kwan Escorts His Sisters-in-Law on a Thousand Mile Journey” features a newly digitised version of the film from the HKFA’s collection, which should not be missed.
     
         The “General Kwan Guards the Huarong Path Lau Bei Crosses the River to Meet His Bride” (1957) tells the story of Sun Quan pretending to offer his sister’s hand in marriage to Liu Bei, played by Cheung Wood-yau, in an ultimately failed attempt to take back Jingzhou from Liu. Leng Wah Hang, a highly acclaimed wusheng actress of Cantonese opera, gives a definitive performance as Lord Guan in the film, especially in the scenes where she wields the Green Dragon Crescent Blade masterfully in a perfect display of techniques. The film will be screened with “Drowning Seven Armies” from “An Ideal Couple” (1960) (2K Digitised Version), starring another Cantonese opera virtuoso Sun Chu, who was also lauded as “Living Lord Guan”, in the role of Guan Yu. Following the Peking opera tradition, Sun Chu portrayed Lord Guan with a red face. The image of Lord Guan with a red face was so well received that it has since become the hallmark of the role in Cantonese opera.
     
         “Lui Bo” (1961) (2K Digitised Version) depicts the life of general Lü Bu, played by actress Yu So-chow, as described in the classical novel “Romance of the Three Kingdoms”. In the film, the character of Guan Yu is played by the acclaimed Peking opera actor Yu Zhanyuan, father of Yu So-chow. The father-daughter duo appears onscreen together as enemies in a fight scene, which is a spectacular display of their skills and stage presence.
     
         Some of the screenings will be accompanied by post-screening talks, hosted by Professor Yuen Siu-fai and Yuen Tsz-ying.
     
         Tickets priced at $60 will be available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk) from July 25 (Friday). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. A 20 per cent discount is available for every purchase of regular-priced tickets for two or more screenings of this programme. For programme details, please visit (www.filmarchive.gov.hk/en/web/hkfa/2025/ccf-guan-gong/pe-event-2025-ccf-guan-gong.html) or call 2739 2139.
     
         The CCF, presented by the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and organised by the Chinese Culture Promotion Office under the LCSD, aims to promote Chinese culture and enhance the public’s national identity and cultural confidence. For more information about programmes and activities of the CCF 2025, please visit www.ccf.gov.hk.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Kwai Shing Swimming Pool and Tuen Mun Swimming Pool to be reopened

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals:

    Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 21) that Kwai Shing Swimming Pool in Kwai Tsing District and Tuen Mun Swimming Pool in Tuen Mun District, which were closed earlier on due to urgent clearance work after the typhoon, will be reopened at 10am today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Two swimming pools in Sham Shui Po reopened

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals:

    Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 21) that Lei Cheng Uk Swimming Pool and Sham Shui Po Park Swimming Pool in Sham Shui Po District, closed earlier on due to urgent clearance work after the typhoon, have been reopened.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pao Yue Kong Swimming Pool reopened

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals:

    Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 21) that Pao Yue Kong Swimming Pool in Southern District, closed earlier on due to urgent clearance work after the typhoon, has been reopened.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of several swimming pools (2)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals:

         Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

         The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 20) that due to urgent clearance work after the typhoon, Lei Cheng Uk Swimming Pool and Sham Shui Po Park Swimming Pool in Sham Shui Po District have been temporarily closed until further notice.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Development Bureau and relevant departments proactively follow up on relief work after passage of Typhoon Wipha

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    A spokesman for the Development Bureau today (July 20) said that its departments and relevant departments are making all-out efforts to carry out relief work after the passage of Typhoon Wipha, with a view to enabling the community to resume normalcy as soon as possible.
     
    As at 8pm today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received 286 and 425 reports of fallen trees respectively. In order to remove fallen trees affecting carriageways and footpaths as early as possible, prior to the issuance of Strong Wind Signal No. 3 by the Hong Kong Observatory, the Highways Department has commenced inspections of carriageways across the territory to immediately remove fallen trees when necessary.
     
    During the passage of Typhoon Wipha, five reports of collapsed scaffolding were received as at 7pm. Among these, the Housing Department removed the scaffolding affecting Choi Hung Road at around 3pm and is making arrangement to dismantle the scaffolding collapsed on Wah King Street near Wah Fu Estate. The Architectural Services Department is striving to remove the scaffolding collapsed on Siu Sai Wan Road, with a view to resuming traffic soonest. There are two separate scaffoldings collapsed at private housing estates at Cloud View Road, North Point and Tin Hau Temple Road respectively. The former is affecting the outdoor carpark of the estate while the latter is affecting Tin Hau Temple Road. The Buildings Department (BD) is proactively following up with relevant owners’ corporations and the scaffolding affecting Tin Hau Temple Road will be removed as soon as possible.
     
    As at 6pm, the BD received 21 reports of building-related incidents, which mainly involve unstable windows. The BD is following up on 15 cases and has referred the remaining six cases to relevant departments for follow up.
     
    As at 8pm, the Drainage Services Department (DSD) has received seven confirmed cases of flooding at Lam Kam Road in Tai Po, Lung Cheung Road near Lung Cheung Mall, Lung Cheung Road near Ngau Chi Wan Village, Tai Hom Road in Wai Tai Sin, Clear Water Bay Road in Sai Kung, Chuk Yuen Road in Wong Tai Sin, and Ko Chiu Road in Yau Tong. The aforementioned cases have been resolved.
     
    As storm surge might lead to a rise in sea levels and increase the flooding risk in the area of Tai Po Market, the DSD made early preparation and implemented various flood prevention measures last night (July 19), including installing temporary water-filled flood barriers near Kwong Fuk Bridge along Lam Tsuen River in Tai Po, and placing water pumps in the vicinity of Tai Po Market and Sam Mun Tsai New Village. No report of flooding at the aforementioned locations has been received so far.
     
    Moreover, Typhoon Wipha did not result in any landslide incidents.
     
    The spokesman said the relevant departments have commenced a new round of special inspections after the issuance of Strong Wind Signal No. 3 by the Hong Kong Observatory to inspect roadside trees, structures (including external walls and signboards), slopes and construction sites, etc. to identity locations with potential risks after the passage of strong wind to ensure public safety. The Government urges members of the public to remain vigilant when going outdoors, and avoid staying under trees, signboards or structures with signs of concrete spalling, as well as in the vicinity of slopes. They may call the Government’s 1823 hotline to report dangerous trees, slopes and structures.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha roundup

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    As Typhoon Wipha is moving away from Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Observatory issued the Strong Wind Signal No. 3 at 7.40pm today (July 20). It replaced the No. 8 Southeast Gale or Storm Signal at 4.10pm today.
     
    As at 7pm today, the Home Affairs Department has opened 34 temporary shelters in various districts and 277 people have sought refuge at the shelters.
     
    As at 8pm today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received 286 reports and 425 reports of fallen trees respectively, while the Drainage Services Department has received seven confirmed flooding cases. In addition, no report of landslide has been received so far.
     
    According to the Hospital Authority, as at 7.40pm today, 33 people (18 men and 15 women) have been injured during the typhoon period and received medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Department of public hospitals.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha situation report (6)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Hurricane Signal No. 10 issued by the Hong Kong Observatory at 9.20am today (July 20) remains in force.
     
    The Home Affairs Department has so far opened 34 temporary shelters in various districts and 242 people have sought refuge at the shelters.
     
    As at 2pm today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received 117 reports and 246 reports of fallen trees respectively. No report of landslide or flooding has been received so far.
     
    According to the Hospital Authority, as at 2pm today, 13 males and eight females have sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments at public hospitals so far during the typhoon period.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New District Officer for North District assumes office (with photo)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    ​Ms Winkie Chick will assume the post of District Officer (North) tomorrow (July 21), succeeding Mr Derek Lai.

         Since joining the Administrative Service in 2015, Ms Chick has served in various bureaux, including the then Transport and Housing Bureau, the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau and the Education Bureau.

         She was the Assistant Secretary (Heritage Conservation) at the Development Bureau before taking up the new post of District Officer (North).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha situation report (5)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Hurricane Signal No. 10 issued by the Hong Kong Observatory at 9.20am today (July 20) remains in force.
     
    The Home Affairs Department has so far opened 34 temporary shelters in various districts and 234 people have sought refuge at the shelters.
     
    As at 12 noon today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received 76 reports and 164 reports of fallen trees respectively. No report of landslide or flooding has been received so far.
     
    According to the Hospital Authority, as at 12 noon today, seven males and seven females have sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments at public hospitals so far during the typhoon period.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Typhoon Wipha situation report (2)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         The Hong Kong Observatory replaced the No. 8 Northeast Gale or Storm Signal by the Increasing Gale or Storm Signal No.9 at 7.20am today (July 20).

         The Home Affairs Department has so far opened 34 temporary shelters in various districts and 198 people have sought refuge at the shelters.

         As at 8am today, the Government’s 1823 Call Centre and the Fire Services Department received two reports and 11 reports of fallen trees respectively. No report of landslide or flooding has been received so far.

         According to the Hospital Authority, as at 8am today, one male has sought medical treatment at the Accident and Emergency Departments at public hospitals so far during the typhoon period.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hospital Authority service arrangement

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:

    The Hospital Authority (HA) announces that as the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 has been issued, its general out-patient clinics will be closed today (July 20). Outpatients are advised to make a new appointment after the cancellation of the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8. The service of Accident & Emergency Department of public hospitals remains normal.
     
    The HA has made preparations to cope with the adverse weather conditions and established contingency plans for inclement weather. Drills have been conducted to ensure uninterrupted medical services across all public hospitals. Also, the HA has reminded all clusters to conduct a comprehensive review of their preparedness to effectively respond to adverse weather conditions.
     
    All clusters have allocated additional manpower, food and medical supplies to maintain normal hospital operations. Enhanced inspections have been carried out at various locations within public hospitals, including potential flood-prone areas, drainage systems and trees. Furthermore, contractors of HA construction sites have been instructed to implement proper reinforcement and safety precautionary measures against strong wind and heavy rain to minimise the impact of severe weather.
     
    The HA Major Incident Control Centre will closely monitor the operations of all hospitals and maintain close communication with relevant government departments to ensure public hospital services remain unaffected during adverse weather conditions.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Care centres, services units and SWD welfare units operating on Sundays and public holidays will not open

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following special announcement immediately, and repeat it at frequent intervals:

    “The Social Welfare Department announces that as Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above is now hoisted, all welfare services units of the department, services units providing after school care programmes for primary school children and elderly services centres will not open to the public. After the No. 8 signal is cancelled, those centres and units that normally operate on Sundays and public holidays will resume normal operation in two hours, if the weather and conditions permit.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Classes of all day schools are suspended today

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    As the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above is now in force, classes of all day schools, including secondary schools, primary schools, special schools, kindergartens, and kindergarten-cum-child care centres, are suspended today (July 20). If classes of evening schools are required to be suspended tonight, the Education Bureau will make the announcement in due course.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LD urges employers and employees to make work arrangements in times of tropical cyclones and rainstorms

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         As Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 (T8) will soon be in force, the Labour Department (LD) today (July 19) reminded employers to make work arrangements for employees during and after tropical cyclone warnings, rainstorm warnings and extreme conditions, including arrangements on reporting for duty, release from work, resumption of work and remote work (if applicable). 
          
         An LD spokesman said, “In drawing up and implementing the work arrangements, apart from factors such as operational needs of establishments, employers should give prime consideration to employees’ safety and the feasibility of employees travelling to and from their workplaces. Employers should also give consideration as much as possible to the different situations faced by individual employees, such as their place of residence and the road and traffic conditions in the vicinity, and adopt a sympathetic and flexible approach with due regard to their actual difficulties and needs. For example, employers may permit employees who have difficulties in returning to workplaces to work remotely (if applicable) or allow more time for them to report for duty and resume work.”
          
         If the Government makes an extreme conditions announcement, apart from those required by employers to report for duty at workplaces, employees are advised to stay in the place they are currently in or in safe places when extreme conditions are in force, instead of heading for work. Employees who have already reported for duty at workplaces could continue to work as usual in a safe manner. If the workplaces are in danger, employers should release staff from work early under feasible conditions and in a safe manner, or make available a safe place as temporary shelter for employees. If the working time ends while extreme conditions are still in force, employers can release employees from workplaces in a safe manner or provide a suitable area as temporary shelter for those still at workplaces.
          
         If it is necessary for employees to report for duty at workplaces under adverse weather or extreme conditions, employers should work out arrangements for their transportation, safety, meals, rest places and more. If public transport services are suspended or limited when there is a T8 signal or higher, or extreme conditions are in force, employers should provide safe transport services for employees travelling to and from workplaces, or grant them an extra travelling allowance.
          
         The spokesman reminded employers to observe the statutory liabilities and requirements under the Employment Ordinance, Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance, Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance, Employees’ Compensation Ordinance and Minimum Wage Ordinance.
          
         The LD has published the “Code of Practice in Times of Adverse Weather and ‘Extreme Conditions’”, which provides the major principles, reference guidelines and information on relevant legislation on making work arrangements for the reference of employers and employees. The booklet can be obtained from branch offices of the Labour Relations Division or downloaded from the department’s webpage (www.labour.gov.hk/eng/public/wcp/Rainstorm.pdf). 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Pilotage service to be suspended

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

         The Marine Department has received notification from the Hong Kong Pilots Association Limited that due to the tropical cyclone, the pilotage service will be suspended from 10pm today (July 19). Shipowners, agents, masters and other port users are advised to pay attention.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: IAC 2025: “Ace Agent’s Writing class” Parent-child Creative Workshop event cancelled

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV & Radio Announcers:

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced that the event IAC 2025: “Ace Agent’s Writing class” Parent-child Creative Workshop scheduled for tomorrow at Cultural Activities Hall, Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre at 3pm has been postponed due to the issuance of Typhoon Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8.

     For enquiries, please call 2550 7309 (Sai Wan Ho Civic Centre)

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Service suspension of Children Community Vaccination Centre and Private Clinic COVID-19 Community Vaccination Stations tomorrow

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention duty announcers, radio and TV stations:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at suitable intervals:

         As the Hong Kong Observatory will issue Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 tomorrow (July 20), the Government announced that the Children Community Vaccination Centre (CCVC) and Private Clinic COVID-19 Vaccination Stations (PCVSs) under the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme will remain closed tomorrow and their vaccination service will be suspended. 

         If the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 is cancelled before 1pm tomorrow, the CCVC and PCVSs will reopen and resume vaccination service two hours after the cancellation and they will operate until the normal closing time. 

         Affected persons can make a new vaccination appointment through the booking system on the website of the COVID-19 Vaccination Programme (booking.covidvaccine.gov.hk) after the scheduled time of the original booking.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Innovate and Lead – The New Wave Logistics Competition held today for students from Hong Kong and Macao to exhibit innovative solutions

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    ​The Innovate and Lead – The New Wave Logistics Competition, funded under the Logistics Promotion Funding Scheme of the Maritime and Aviation Training Fund launched by the Transport and Logistics Bureau (TLB) and organised by the Hong Kong Association of Freight Forwarding and Logistics (HAFFA), was held today (July 19). The competition attracted 40 secondary school teams from Hong Kong and Macao, providing students with the opportunity to propose innovative solutions for the future development of the logistics industry in three specific themes, namely smart city logistics, sustainable logistics and Environment, Social and Governance (ESG) as well as entrepreneurship and innovation in logistics.
     
    In the Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development promulgated in 2023, the TLB proposed to strengthen the promotion of the modern logistics industry with a view to enriching the younger generation’s understanding of the latest developments in the logistics sector, thereby inspiring their interest in and attracting them to join the industry. This competition provides a platform for students to unleash their creativity on one hand and promotes the innovation of the industry on the other hand.
     
    The participating teams showcased their solutions to the public and the professional judging panel via exhibitions at the Grand Hall of Hong Kong Science Park. The judging panel evaluated each team based on their understanding of industry development challenges, the feasibility and practicability of their proposed solutions, and so on. Gold, silver, bronze, and merit prizes, as well as an overall grand champion and Cathay Cargo merit prize were awarded to the winning teams to recognise their efforts and creativity. 
     
    At the award ceremony, the Under Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mr Liu Chun-san, pointed out that the logistics sector has been advancing towards smart development, digitalisation and modernisation. He expressed his trust that the competition helped students experience the professionalism, innovation and vitality of the modern logistics industry. He also encouraged students to participate in the Internship Scheme on Modern Logistics to gain personal exposure to the interesting work of the industry and understand its various opportunities for career development.
     
    To better equip students for the competition, HAFFA arranged a series of logistics-related seminars, simulation and virtual-reality trainings, as well as workshops ahead of the event. Senior industry professionals were invited to share their knowledge and insights, with a view to helping students gain an understanding of the latest developments in the modern logistics industry.
     
    The event was fully supported by the logistics sector and academia, demonstrating the collaborative effort across sectors to promote young talent development in the logistics industry. Members of the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council also visited the exhibitions this morning to understand the details and ideas behind each participating team’s creative proposal and spoke highly of the students for their creativity. For more information on the Innovate and Lead – The New Wave Logistics Competition, please visit haffa.aiatros.com/.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Red flags hoisted at Cheung Chau Tung Wan Beach and Silver Mine Bay Beach

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Attention TV/radio announcers:

    Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

    Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (July 19) that due to big waves, red flags have been hoisted at Cheung Chau Tung Wan Beach and Silver Mine Bay Beach in Islands District. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at these beaches.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: “She Inspires” Mentorship Programme Launched (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, and the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, officiated at the kick-off ceremony of the first cohort of the “She Inspires” Mentorship Programme launched by the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau today (July 19).
     
    In his speech, Mr Chan noted that this year marks the 30th anniversary of the adoption of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action at the United Nations’ Fourth World Conference on Women. The two milestone documents have laid the foundation for the advancement of women’s causes globally. Hong Kong, as the international gateway for the country, has consistently taken concrete actions to promote women’s development. The launch of the Programme represented a significant step forward in this endeavour.
     
    Mr Chan also encouraged the mentees of the Programme, “I hope that all of you will not only possess professional expertise, but also resilience and a heart that cares for our country and gives back to society. Today, you benefit from the selfless guidance of your mentors. I hope that when you become leaders in the future, you will also be beacons for the next generation, your juniors, passing on the power of women.”
     
    Miss Mak expressed her gratitude to the mentors and mentees for their active participation, as well as to the local universities for their assistance and support.
     
    She said, “Looking forward, we hope this Programme will become a source of strength which encourages more women to realise their potential in the workplace. I look forward to seeing each mentee to face challenges bravely, discover their talents, and achieve excellence in their future careers under the guidance of mentors.”
     
    Also officiating at the ceremony were the Chairperson of the Women’s Commission (WoC), Dr Eliza Chan, and the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Ms Shirley Lam. Members of the WoC, mentors and mentees participating in the Programme as well as representatives from local universities also attended the ceremony.
     
    The Programme matches local female university students who aspire to pursue a career in the professional or business sectors with women leader mentors, and provides relevant training and activities to help them enhance their skills, build confidence and network to thrive in their future career and nurture the future strength that “hold up half the sky”. For the first cohort of the Programme, over 50 women leaders participated as mentors, and more than 250 applications from students were received, with more than 80 of them being selected as mentees.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Cluster of Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci cases in Princess Margaret Hospital

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Cluster of Vancomycin Resistant Enterococci cases in Princess Margaret Hospital The hospital will continue the enhanced infection control measures and closely monitor the situation of the ward concerned. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
     
    Issued at HKT 17:50

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Landmine dispute escalates tensions between Thailand and Cambodia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Thailand has accused Cambodia of recently placing landmines in a disputed border area after three soldiers were injured, but Phnom Penh said they had veered off agreed patrol routes and triggered a mine left behind from decades of war.

    Thai authorities made the claim after three soldiers were injured, with one losing a foot, by a landmine explosion while on a routine patrol on July 16 on the Thai side of the disputed border area between Ubon Ratchathani and Cambodia’s Preah Vihear province.

    Cambodia’s Defence Ministry denied that new mines had been planted, saying in a statement on Sunday the soldiers had strayed from agreed patrol routes into areas that contain unexploded landmines. The country is littered with landmines laid during decades of war.

    Thailand’s army said on Monday that 10 freshly laid Russian-made PMN-2 type landmines, which are not used or stockpiled by Thailand, were found between July 18 and July 20 in areas near where the soldiers were injured.

    “This is a clear violation of the sovereignty and territorial integrity of the Kingdom of Thailand and an outright breach of principles that are fundamental to international law,” Maratee Nalita Andamo, deputy spokesperson for the Thai Foreign Ministry, said on Monday in Bangkok.

    Data from the Cambodia Mine Action Centre, which estimates there are still 4 to 6 million landmines scattered across the country, shows five people were killed and a dozen injured by mines and unexploded ordnance in Cambodia in the first four months of 2025.

    The area where the mine exploded is near where a Cambodian soldier was killed in May after a brief exchange of gunfire between troops on both sides.

    The incident has flared into a broader diplomatic dispute between the Southeast Asian neighbours that has destabilised the Thai government and seen the Prime Minister suspended from office.

    Thailand said it will issue a formal condemnation and call for accountability from Cambodia for breaching the anti-landmine convention under the Ottawa Treaty, and the army will also increase vigilance during border patrols.

    (Reuters)

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Japan’s PM vows to stay in office after election defeat

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian – People’s Republic of China in Russian –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    TOKYO, July 21 (Xinhua) — Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba vowed on Monday to remain in office despite a major defeat in the House of Councillors (upper house) election where the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) and its coalition partner failed to secure a majority.

    Speaking at a press conference, he acknowledged the poor election results and stressed that he felt a great responsibility. “The most important thing now is to avoid stagnation in national politics,” the prime minister said, promising to make efforts to fulfill the duties befitting a leading party.

    His comments come amid growing public discontent over rising living costs and policy mistakes that analysts say contributed to the ruling coalition’s election defeat.

    In the current election, Japanese people voted for candidates for 125 of the 248 seats in the House of Councillors. After the final vote count ended Monday morning, the LDP had won only 39 seats, while its partner, the Komeito Party, had won eight. The coalition had planned to win 50 seats, but failed to do so.

    Now the coalition’s MPs have 122 seats in the upper house, which is less than the 125 needed for a majority.

    Despite the failure, S. Ishiba stressed the need for stability and continuity in the government and officially announced his intention to continue as prime minister. –0–

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI: S.BIOMEDICS Cell Therapy for Parkinson’s Disease Shows Positive Data from Its Phase 1/2a Clinical Trial

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    SEOUL, SOUTH KOREA, July 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — S.BIOMEDICS announced encouraging one-year post-transplant results from Phase 1/2a clinical trial evaluating A9-DPC cell therapy for Parkinson’s disease. The data demonstrate a favorable safety and efficacy profile of A9-DPC in 12 participants at 12 months compared to baseline. Participants were divided equally into a low-dose group (3.15 million cells) and a high-dose group (6.30 million cells).

    • A9-DPC (TED-A9) consists of high-purity ventral midbrain dopaminergic progenitor cells derived from human embryonic stem cells (hESCs) under rigorous GMP conditions.
    • A total of 12 participants received bilateral putamen transplantation with either a low-dose (3.15 million cells; n = 6) or a high-dose (6.30 million cells; n = 6) of A9-DPC, with the last participant receiving treatment in February 2024.
    • At 12 months, the safety profile was favorable, with no tumorigenesis, overgrowth of transplanted cells, ectopic cell migration, or immune-mediated inflammation observed.
    • Clinical improvements were observed, along with evidence of cell survival and engraftment at the 12-month follow-up.
    • Increased dopamine transporter (DAT) signals in putamen, measured by [18F]FP-CIT PET, correlated with the observed improvements of motor function.

    The MDS-UPDRS Part III (off) score, a standard scale for assessing motor symptom severity in Parkinson’s disease, showed a mean decrease (improvement) of 12.7 points in the low-dose group and 15.5 points in the high-dose group at 12 months compared to baseline. There were also improvements in MDS-UPDRS Part I, II and IV scores. The MDS-UPDRS Total (off) score showed mean improvements of 29.0 points and 34.7 points in the low- and high-dose groups, respectively.

    Clinical improvements were further supported by changes in the Hoehn and Yahr stage, an ordinal scale categorizing disease severity based on motor function. On average, low-dose recipients improved (decreased) from stage 3.7 to 2.7, while high-dose recipients demonstrated a greater improvement from stage 3.8 to 2.2.

    A9-DPC also demonstrated favorable outcomes in other assessments, including the Non-Motor Symptoms Scale (NMSS), the Parkinson’s Disease Questionnaire-39 (PDQ-39) and the Schwab and England Activities of Daily Living Scale (SEADL). NMSS score improved by 31.7 points in the low-dose group and by 35.8 points in the high-dose group.

    [18F]FP-CIT PET imaging showed an overall increase in putamen DAT signals, with greater increases observed in the high-dose group, providing additional evidence for the underlying mechanism of action. Notably, there was a statistically significant correlation between improvements in MDS-UPDRS Part III (off) scores and increased DAT signal in the posterior dorsal putamen, supporting the hypothesis of synaptic restoration through engrafted cells.

    In terms of safety, the safety profile remained favorable. No treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) related to the transplanted cells were reported. Tumorigenesis, cell overgrowth, or ectopic cell migration was not observed. Most of TEAEs were mild to moderate. One participant experienced an asymptomatic mild hemorrhage, but no neurological abnormalities or other serious side effects were observed.

    “Our data show a consistent positive trend throughout the study period, demonstrating the favorable safety and efficacy profiles. Importantly, increased DAT signals on PET imaging correlated with the observed behavioral recovery, which is very promising in terms of the mechanism of A9-DPC through neuroimaging.” said Prof. Dong-Wook Kim of Yonsei University College of Medicine and CTO of S.BIOMEDICS. “We will continue to present additional data through our ongoing study.”

    About A9-DPC and Phase 1/2a clinical trial

    A9-DPC (also called TED-A9) is an investigational cell therapy designed to replace ventral midbrain-specific dopaminergic neurons lost in patients with Parkinson’s disease. These ventral midbrain-specific dopaminergic cells are derived from hESCs (human embryonic stem cells) by exclusively utilizing small molecules under strict GMP conditions. A9-DPC represents a significant advancement in the field, offering highly purified dopaminergic cells derived from hESCs. Through a stereotactic surgical procedure, these hESC-derived dopaminergic progenitor (precursor) cells are transplanted into three segments of the putamen: the anterior, middle, and posterior sections, with three tracks per each putamen. Bilateral putamina were treated in a single surgical procedure, with cells injected at three points within each track. After transplantation, the progenitor cells are expected to mature into dopaminergic neurons, enhancing neural connectivity and restoring motor function in patients.

    The Phase 1/2a clinical trial enrolled 12 participants diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease for more than 5 years who exhibited motor complications such as wearing off, freezing of gait, or dyskinesia. Participants ranged from 50 to 75 years old. An initial low-dose cohort (3.15 million cells) of three patients was first enrolled to assess initial safety including dose-limiting toxicity (DLT) over three months. After confirming safety, an additional three patients received the high dose (6.30 million cells) for similar evaluation. With continued safety confirmation, three more patients were enrolled in each dose group, totaling 12 participants. The final participant received A9-DPC in February 2024.

    The primary objective of the Phase 1/2a trial is to evaluate the safety and exploratory efficacy for up to two years post-transplantation, with safety follow-up continuing for an additional three years.

    About S.BIOMEDICS

    Established in 2005, S.BIOMEDICS Co., Ltd. is a leading innovator in stem cell therapy, specializing in regenerative medicine powered by data-driven biology. Leveraging two core platform technologies, S.BIOMEDICS is currently advancing seven cell therapy programs targeting intractable diseases. Several of its lead candidates are now in clinical development, demonstrating the company’s leadership in advancing cell-based medicine:

    • A9-DPC (TED-A9): Ventral midbrain-specific dopaminergic progenitor cells derived from hESCs for Parkinson’s disease (Phase 1/2a)
    • TED-N: PSA-NCAM-positive neural progenitor cells derived from hESCs for spinal cord injury (Phase 1/2a)
    • FECS-Ad: 3D MSC spheroids for critical limb ischemia (completed Phase 1/2a)

    As the foremost authority and trailblazer in Parkinson’s disease treatment in South Korea, S.BIOMEDICS is setting the national standard for cell therapy innovation.

    More Information about the Phase 1/2a clinical trial for Parkinson’s disease is available at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05887466).

    For more information about S.BIOMEDICS, visit https://www.sbiomedics.com/. S.BIOMEDICS is listed on the Korea Exchange and is also the founder and controller of S.THEPHARM (www.sthepharm.com), a corporation specializing in anti-aging products such as HA-Filler.

    Media contact

    Brand: S.BIOMEDICS

    Contact: Sarang Kim

    Email: ksr7744@sbiomedics.com

    Website: https://www.sbiomedics.com

    The MIL Network –