NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia Pacific

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Lease arrangements for public market stalls in April

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) announced today (April 1) that open auctions for a total of 642 stalls in 46 public markets will be held in April. Market stalls not taken at open auctions will be available to the public for renting at their upset prices on April 22 on a first-come, first-served basis.

    1. Open auctions

    The types of stalls to be auctioned this time cover cooked food, frozen meat, fresh meat, fresh fish, frozen (chilled) poultry, fruits, vegetables, ready-to-eat food, food-related dry goods and wet goods, non-food related dry goods and wet goods, service trades, siu mei and lo mei, mobile phones/mobile phone accessories/electronic products/electronic parts, pet goods and pet food, hardware/locksmith, etc. The tenancy agreement is a three-year fixed term from May 1, with no right of renewal upon expiry of the tenancy agreement. The upset prices of the monthly rent of the stalls vary depending on the sizes, locations and vacancy periods of the individual stalls. The upset prices for the stalls in an open auction will be initially fixed at 80 per cent of the open market rent (OMR) if the stalls have been vacant for over six months, and at 60 per cent of the OMR if the vacant period has been over eight months. Relevant information is available on the FEHD website.

    The date and venue of the auctions and the number of stalls are as follows:

    Kowloon (except Lai Wan Market) (1)
    —————————————–
    Auction date: April 8 (Tuesday) (am)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 101

    Lai Wan Market
    —————–
    Auction date: April 8 (Tuesday) (pm)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: two

    Kowloon (except Lai Wan Market) (2)
    —————————————–
    Auction date: April 9 (Wednesday) (am)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 46

    Kowloon (except Lai Wan Market) (3)
    —————————————–
    Auction date: April 9 (Wednesday) (pm)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 28

    New Territories (1)
    ———————
    Auction date: April 10 (Thursday) (am)
    Auction venue: Tseng Choi Street Community Hall, 27 Tseng Choi Street, Tuen Mun, New Territories
    Number of stalls: 126

    Hong Kong Island and Islands District (except Aberdeen Market) (1)
    —————————————————————————-
    Auction date: April 11 (Friday) (am)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 118

    Aberdeen Market
    ——————-
    Auction date: April 11 (Friday) (pm)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 21

    Hong Kong Island and Islands District (except Aberdeen Market) (2)
    —————————————————————————-
    Auction date: April 14 (Monday) (am)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 81

    Hong Kong Island and Islands District (except Aberdeen Market) (3)
    —————————————————————————-
    Auction date: April 14 (Monday) (pm)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 63

    New Territories (2)
    ———————
    Auction date: April 15 (Tuesday) (am)
    Auction venue: Room 410, 4/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Number of stalls: 56

    Limited seats are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The admission tickets will be issued 30 minutes prior to the commencement of each auction. Persons who want to attend the auctions must wait at the waiting area of the auction venue and produce their Hong Kong identity card or passport for registration. The registered person will then be provided with an admission ticket for the auctions. In addition, eligible bidders after verification will be issued with a bidding paddle for the auction. The FEHD has also invited representatives of the Police and the Independent Commission Against Corruption to monitor the auctions at the auction venue in order to ensure that the open auctions are conducted in an orderly and fair manner.

    2. Renting at upset prices on first-come, first-served basis

    The tenancy agreement of market stalls renting on a first-come, first-served basis is a three-year fixed term from June 1, with no right of renewal upon expiry of the tenancy agreement. The upset prices of the monthly rent of the stalls vary depending on their sizes, locations, vacancy periods and the reduced upset prices from the last open auction of the individual stalls. Relevant information is available on the FEHD website after open auctions.

    Members of the public who are interested in renting a market stall at its upset price should approach the following FEHD offices, as appropriate, to apply in person from 9.30am to 12.30pm or 2.30pm to 4.30pm on April 22:
     

    Districts in which the market stalls are located Venues for selection of market stalls
    Hong Kong Island and Islands District Hawkers and Markets Section (Hong Kong and Islands) Office, 8/F, Lockhart Road Municipal Services Building,
    225 Hennessy Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong
    Kowloon Hawkers and Markets Section (Kowloon) Office, Room 301-302, 3/F, Food and Environmental Hygiene Department Nam Cheong Offices and Vehicle Depot, 87 Yen Chow Street West, Kowloon
    Kwai Tsing District Kwai Tsing District Environmental Hygiene Office, 9/F, Kwai Hing Government Offices, 166-174 Hing Fong Road, Kwai Chung, New Territories
    North District North District Environmental Hygiene Office, 4/F, Shek Wu Hui Municipal Services Building, 13 Chi Cheong Road, Sheung Shui, New Territories
    Sai Kung District Sai Kung District Environmental Hygiene Office, 7/F, Sai Kung Tseung Kwan O Government Complex, 38 Pui Shing Road, Tseung Kwan O, New Territories
    Sha Tin District Sha Tin District Environmental Hygiene Office, Units 1201-1207 and 1220-1221, 12/F, Tower 1, Grand Central Plaza, 138 Sha Tin Rural Committee Road, Sha Tin, New Territories
    Tai Po District Tai Po District Environmental Hygiene Office, 3/F, Tai Po Complex, 8 Heung Sze Wui Street, Tai Po, New Territories
    Tsuen Wan District Tsuen Wan District Environmental Hygiene Office, 3/F, Yeung Uk Road Municipal Services Building, 45 Yeung Uk Road, Tsuen Wan, New Territories
    Tuen Mun District Tuen Mun District Environmental Hygiene Office, 1/F, Tuen Mun Government Offices Building, 1 Tuen Hi Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories
    Yuen Long District Yuen Long District Environmental Hygiene Office, 2/F, Yuen Long Government Offices, 2 Kiu Lok Square, Yuen Long, New Territories

     
         A spokesman for the FEHD said, “Bidders or applicants for the market stalls must be at least 18 years old and ordinarily reside in Hong Kong. To allow more people to bid for or select the stalls and increase customer choices by enhancing the diversity in terms of the variety of stalls, there will be a restriction on the number of stalls to be rented in the same market by a single tenant. Any person who is currently a stall tenant is not allowed to bid in the first round of auction for any stall in the same market, and will only be allowed to bid for one stall in the second round of auction or to select one stall in the same market on a first-come, first-served basis. The existing tenants under the new three-year fixed term tenancy scheme (i.e. those persons who became stall tenants through the market open auctions after August 2022) are allowed to bid for a stall in the auction or select a stall on a first-come, first-served basis in the same market, but shall vacate the current stall and return it to the FEHD before the effective date of commencement of the new tenancy agreement.”

    ​Details of the open auctions and the public market stalls concerned (including stalls for open auction at reduced upset prices) have been uploaded to the FEHD website (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/pleasant_environment/tidy_market/open_auction_coming.html). Details on renting public market stalls on a first-come, first-served basis will be uploaded to the FEHD website after open auctions (www.fehd.gov.hk/english/pleasant_environment/tidy_market/FCFS/index.html). Interested bidders or applicants may visit the department website or contact the respective District Environmental Hygiene Office.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: BUDGETARY ALLOCATION TO MEGA HANDLOOM CLUSTERS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:07AM by PIB Delhi

    Government of India through the Office of Development Commissioner (Handlooms), Ministry of Textiles is implementing Mega Cluster Development Programme, a component of National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), all across the country (including Andhra Pradesh State). Under Mega Cluster Development Programme, need based financial assistance upto Rs.30.00 Crore (GOI share) per Mega Handloom Cluster is provided on receipt of complete proposals for various interventions like upgraded looms & accessories, solar lighting units, worksheds, design and product development, marketing support, setting up of common infrastructure such as Value Addition Centre (Garmenting/Apparel unit), Reeling, Processing, Printing units etc.

    There is no separate budget allocation for Mega Cluster Development programme however, during financial year 2022-23 to 2024-25, financial assistance of Rs.3,029.327 lakh has been provided for setting up of Mega Handloom Clusters.

    No financial assistance has been provided to Mega Handloom Cluster identified in Prakasam and Guntur districts of Andhra Pradesh State during financial year 2022-23 and 2023-24.

    This information was provided by THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR TEXTILES SHRI PABITRA

    MARGHERITA in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    DHANYA SANAL K

    (Rajya Sabha US Q3360)

    (Release ID: 2117108) Visitor Counter : 51

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen related to Chong Hing Bank Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Chong Hing Bank Limited relating to a fraudulent website and an internet banking login screen, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.
     
    The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
     
    Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website or login screen concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: SUPPORT TO SILK FARMERS AND WEAVERS

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:07AM by PIB Delhi

    The Government through implementation of Silk Samagra-2 scheme has extended support for the development of sericulture industry in the country and to increase the productivity & livelihoods of silk farmers and weavers. So far, an assistance of Rs. 1,074.94 crore has been extended to State Governments covering around 78,000 beneficiaries, for implementation of beneficiary oriented critical field level components under the scheme.

    Further, under the National Handloom Development Programme and Raw Material Supply Scheme implemented by the Handloom sector, support to handloom workers including silk handloom workers is provided.

    The thrust of the ongoing Silk Samagra-2 scheme is to become Aatmanirbhar in silk sector.  The initiatives under Silk Samagra-2 scheme are to enhance international grade bivoltine silk production and boosting of silk exports.

    The Government aims to establish India as a global leader in silk production and exports through a multi-pronged strategy focusing on production enhancement, quality improvement, infrastructure development, R&D, and market expansion.

    This information was provided by THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR TEXTILES SHRI PABITRA MARGHERITA in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    ****

    DHANYA SANAL K

    (Rajya Sabha US Q3348)

    (Release ID: 2117109) Visitor Counter : 54

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent mobile application related to Bank of Singapore Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Bank of Singapore Limited relating to a fraudulent mobile application (App), which has been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

    The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).

    Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the App concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM pays tributes to His Holiness Dr. Sree Sree Sree Sivakumara Swamigalu on his Jayanti

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 9:05AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi paid tributes to His Holiness Dr. Sree Sree Sree Sivakumara Swamigalu on the special occasion of his Jayanti today. Hailing his extraordinary efforts, Shri Modi lauded him as a beacon of compassion and tireless service, who showed how selfless action can transform society.

    In separate posts on X, he wrote:

    “Heartfelt tributes to His Holiness Dr. Sree Sree Sree Sivakumara Swamigalu on the special occasion of his Jayanti. He is remembered as a beacon of compassion and tireless service. He showed how selfless action can transform society. His extraordinary efforts across various fields continue to inspire generations.”

    “ಪರಮಪೂಜ್ಯ ಡಾ. ಶ್ರೀ ಶ್ರೀ ಶ್ರೀ ಶಿವಕುಮಾರ ಸ್ವಾಮೀಜಿ ಅವರ ಜಯಂತಿಯ ಈ ವಿಶೇಷ ಸಂದರ್ಭದಲ್ಲಿ ಅವರಿಗೆ ಹೃತ್ಪೂರ್ವಕ ನಮನಗಳು. ಕಾರುಣ್ಯ ಮತ್ತು ದಣಿವರಿಯದ ಸೇವೆಯ ದಾರಿದೀಪವೆಂದು ಅವರನ್ನು ಸ್ಮರಿಸಲಾಗುತ್ತದೆ. ನಿಸ್ವಾರ್ಥ ಸೇವೆಯು ಸಮಾಜವನ್ನು ಹೇಗೆ ಪರಿವರ್ತಿಸುತ್ತದೆ ಎಂಬುದನ್ನು ಅವರು ತೋರಿಸಿದ್ದಾರೆ. ನಾನಾ ಕ್ಷೇತ್ರಗಳಲ್ಲಿ ಅವರ ಅಸಾಧಾರಣ ಪ್ರಯತ್ನಗಳು ಪೀಳಿಗೆಗಳಿಗೆ ಸ್ಫೂರ್ತಿ ನೀಡುತ್ತಲೇ ಇವೆ.”

    ******

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2117099) Visitor Counter : 217

    Read this release in: Hindi

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Fraudulent website and internet banking login screen related to Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Monetary Authority:

    The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) wishes to alert members of the public to a press release issued by Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited relating to a fraudulent website and an internet banking login screen, which have been reported to the HKMA. A hyperlink to the press release is available on the HKMA website.

    The HKMA wishes to remind the public that banks will not send SMS or emails with embedded hyperlinks which direct them to the banks’ websites to carry out transactions. They will not ask customers for sensitive personal information, such as login passwords or one-time password, by phone, email or SMS (including via embedded hyperlinks).
     
    Anyone who has provided his or her personal information, or who has conducted any financial transactions, through or in response to the website or login screen concerned, should contact the bank using the contact information provided in the press release, and report the matter to the Police by contacting the Crime Wing Information Centre of the Hong Kong Police Force at 2860 5012.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM extends greetings on Utkala Dibasa

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 8:59AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi extended warm wishes to the people of Odisha on the occasion of Utkala Dibasa today. He remarked that India takes pride in Odisha’s history, literature and music, adding that Centre and Odisha Governments are working extensively to further the state’s progress.

    In separate posts on X, he wrote:

    “Warm wishes on Utkala Dibasa!

    This day is a fitting tribute to Odisha’s glorious culture. India takes pride in Odisha’s history, literature and music. Odisha’s people are hardworking and have excelled in diverse fields. Over the last year, the Centre and Odisha Governments are working extensively to further the state’s progress.”

    “ଉତ୍କଳ ଦିବସରେ ହାର୍ଦ୍ଦିକ ଶୁଭେଚ୍ଛା !

    ଏହି ଦିବସ ଓଡ଼ିଶାର ସମୃଦ୍ଧ ସଂସ୍କୃତି ପ୍ରତି ଏକ ଉପଯୁକ୍ତ ସମ୍ମାନ । ଓଡ଼ିଶାର ଇତିହାସ, ସାହିତ୍ୟ ଓ ସଂଗୀତକୁ ନେଇ ଭାରତ ଗର୍ବିତ। ଓଡ଼ିଶାର ଲୋକମାନେ କଠିନ ପରିଶ୍ରମୀ ଏବଂ ବିଭିନ୍ନ କ୍ଷେତ୍ରରେ ଉତ୍କର୍ଷ ହାସଲ କରିଛନ୍ତି । ଗତ ଏକ ବର୍ଷ ଧରି କେନ୍ଦ୍ର ଏବଂ ଓଡ଼ିଶା ସରକାର ରାଜ୍ୟର ଆହୁରି ପ୍ରଗତି ପାଇଁ ବ୍ୟାପକ ଭାବେ କାର୍ଯ୍ୟ କରୁଛନ୍ତି ।”

    *******

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2117100) Visitor Counter : 217

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Welcome remarks by SDEV at opening ceremony of International Water Pioneers Summit (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Welcome remarks by SDEV at opening ceremony of International Water Pioneers Summit (English only) 
    Honourable Minister Li Guoying (the Minister of Water Resources), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    A very warm welcome to all of you to Hong Kong and to this International Water Pioneers Summit. It is my honour to join prestigious water leaders on this significant occasion and to benefit from discussions among experts.
     
    First of all, I would like to take this opportunity to extend my sincere gratitude to the co-organisers, including Hong Kong branch of the Chartered Institution of Water and Environmental Management, the Hong Kong Institution of Engineers and the Hong Kong branch of the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering. I thank them for their collaboration and generous effort to make the Summit possible. My heartfelt thanks also goes to the Minister of Water Resources of China and his team for their presence in this Summit. Your presence means a lot to us. I also wish to thank all our distinguished speakers and moderators from the Mainland and overseas for accepting our invitations and travelling to Hong Kong to participate in this Summit. We are honoured to welcome an exceptional lineup of speakers and moderators from nine countries across four continents here today. They are distinguished experts and leaders of international water and health organisations and senior government officials. With these renowned leaders sharing their insights, I am sure the upcoming exchanges would be inspiring and rewarding.
     
    From the Hong Kong Palace Museum to the theme of the Summit
     
    Today’s venue, the Hong Kong Palace Museum showcasing the rich tapestry of Chinese art and culture, is a setting particularly fit for the Summit. Water is the essence of life and the cornerstone of human civilisation. It also has symbolic meanings in the Chinese culture. Most of you would have come across the Exhibition of Chinese Water Culture in the foyer before entering this Auditorium. The exhibition explains the origin, symbolism, philosophy and wisdom of water through the lens of Chinese culture. It also reminds us how water has shaped human civilisation, culture and connections.
     
    The supply of Dongjiang water from the Mainland is a showcase of the Chinese water culture. It is not just an engineering achievement to address Hong Kong’s water demand. More importantly, it is a touching demonstration of the core value in Chinese culture, “血濃於水” in Chinese, which means “family connections are inseparable”. The supply of Dongjiang water underscores the deep bonding between our country and Hong Kong as a special administrative region, as well as the unwavering love of our Motherland for Hong Kong. The extended spirit of unity and the sense of mission extending beyond the family to make the world a better place, serves as a guiding principle for us to work together to foster a community of life against the global water challenges.
     
    With the growing impacts of global climate change and increasing pressure on how best we should use the finite resources around the world, the sustainable management of water is no longer optional but imperative. The theme of the Summit, “Smart Water · High-Quality Development”, is undoubtedly very close to our hearts as it captures the urgency and importance of our having to overcome challenges we face nowadays. We need collective responses. We need innovative and actionable solutions. We also need forward-thinking strategies. Today’s Summit comes in time.

    The theme of the Summit – “Smart Water · High-Quality Development”
     
    So how can we achieve “Smart Water · High-Quality Development”? Our morning session will focus on the high-quality development of water supply and technologies in response to global crises, the essential co-ordination of water, economy, and ecology for sustainable growth, and the transformative role of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in enhancing water management.
     
    And we all know that the reliability and safety of water supplies are crucial to public health. So in the afternoon session, our speakers will lead us in delving into crucial strategies and technological advances for developing low-carbon, as well as green urban and rural water systems. We will also touch on recent developments in drinking water safety, and the challenges and opportunities in protecting health through water, adaptability, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
     
    The special panel discussion – Belt and Road
     
    The Belt and Road Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping in 2013 has connected countries, regions and continents through advancing infrastructure development and strengthening collaboration in various aspects. To bolster high-quality co-operation in water management among countries along the Belt and Road, a special panel discussion is arranged in this Summit to showcase successful examples of collaboration and highlight how shared expertise and resources can pave the way for sustainable water management across borders.
     
    Special keynote speeches on the Dongjiang Water Supply
     
    Another highlight of today’s programme is the special keynote session on the Dongjiang water supply to Hong Kong, which is scheduled to take place later in the afternoon. I am sure that the renowned speakers would provide valuable insights on this mega water supply project, the achievement in safeguarding the water quality of the Dongjiang water and a great strive taken over the years in advancing the operation and maintenance through smart technologies.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, the significance of this Summit lies not only in the exchange of knowledge but also in the spirit of collaboration it fosters. Water is not just a resource, it is a lifeline of the ecosystems, economies and communities to where we belong.
     
    As we embark on today’s discussions, let us remember that the challenges we face can only be solved through collective efforts. I encourage everyone here to actively engage in the discussions. Once again, a warm welcome to all of you and I wish the Summit every success. Thank you.
    Issued at HKT 13:23

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Red flag hoisted at Silverstrand Beach

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    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 (April 1) that due to big waves, the red flag has been hoisted at Silverstrand Beach in Sai Kung District. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: New sections of GreenWay in Kai Tak open today (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    A spokesman for the Development Bureau said today (April 1) that two new sections of the GreenWay in the Kai Tak Development are open to the public. Located at Shing Fung Road Park and the Kai Tak Promenade adjacent to the To Kwa Wan Typhoon Shelter respectively (please refer to the location map), each section is approximately 1 kilometre long, offering the public scenic views of the harbour along the Greenway.

    The newly opened sections are about 6 metres wide, with ground markings, signs and speed-reducing rumble strips in place to ensure safe use for both pedestrians and cyclists. Moreover, bicycle parking spaces are available, and there is a barrier-free walkway running alongside the GreenWay for pedestrians, offering an additional option for the public. Banners listing relevant rules have also been placed on-site. At the initial stage after the opening, ambassadors will be present at the GreenWay to provide appropriate reminders to users.

    ​The GreenWay was planned and designed by the Civil Engineering and Development Department, while the sections opened today are managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department. The remaining sections of the Greenway will be opened progressively in alignment with the implementation programme of infrastructure projects and open spaces in the area. For more details about the opened sections and the GreenWay, please refer to the location map and thematic website (www.kaitakgreenway.hk/en).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Missing man in Yau Ma Tei located

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         A man who went missing in Yau Ma Tei has been located.

         Law Ah-cheung, aged 70, went missing after he was last seen at an elderly home on Man Ying Street on March 28 afternoon. Staff of the caring home then made a report to Police.

         The man was located in a park at the junction of Canton Road and Jordan Road yesterday afternoon (March 31). He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Government Cracks Down on Substandard Imports of Goods to Protect Domestic Industry

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:17PM by PIB Delhi

    The Government of India has implemented various measures to curb the import of substandard goods in Indian markets. To protect the domestic industry from the adverse impact of cheaper imports, the Directorate General of Trade Remedies (DGTR), an attached office of Department of Commerce, conducts various investigations (anti-dumping/safeguard (quantitative restrictions)/ countervailing) under the Customs Tariff Act, 1975 and the rules made thereunder on the basis of duly substantiated petition filed by the domestic industry. The Authority at DGTR examines applications filed by the domestic industry and evaluates responses received from importers, exporters and other interested parties in accordance with the provisions of the Customs Tariff Act, 1975. Based on this examination, the DGTR submits its recommendations to the Ministry of Finance for final consideration.

    In the current F.Y. 2024-2025 (upto February, 2025), a total of 206 cases against import of substandard goods violating IPR, BIS and FSSAI norms, valued at Rs.206.62 crore, have been booked by Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and Customs field formations under Customs Act, 1962.

    Directorate of Revenue Intelligence and Customs field formations under CBIC keep constant vigil to check import of substandard goods into India. On the detection of such cases, action is taken in accordance with Customs Act, 1962 & other Allied Acts. Further, the Indian Customs Risk Management System (RMS) implements the policies of risk-based selective examination and testing based on the selectivity criteria of the respective regulatory agency, thereby thwarting the attempts of import of substandard goods.

    Further, Section 25 of Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and Food Safety and Standards (Import) Regulations, 2017 regulates the import of food articles into the country. The clearance or No Objection Certificate(NOC) issued by the FSSAI is subject to scrutiny of documents, visual inspection, sampling and testing, in order to determine whether or not they conform to the safety and quality standards.

    In addition to the above, with a view to protect its domestic producers and consumers, India has an elaborate and robust legal framework and institutional set up to protect environment, life and health of its people, plants and animals. Adequate provisions exist under the Foreign Trade 2 Policy to protect the Indian consumers and producers as imported goods are subject to domestic laws, rules, orders, regulations, technical specifications, environmental and safety norms. The BIS standards applicable to domestic goods are also applicable to imported goods. Besides, imports of plant & plant-based products are subject to Plant Quarantine measures and sanitary & phyto-sanitary measures, imports of animal & animal-based products are subject to sanitary import permits and imports of food/edible items are subject to FSSAl standards.

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Shri Jitin Prasada, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal /Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2117283) Visitor Counter : 16

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: APEDA Boosts Millet Exports with Trade Fairs, Exhibitions & Global Promotions

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:16PM by PIB Delhi

    Department of Commerce, through Agricultural & Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) organized trade fairs, exhibitions and Millet Conclave for awareness, usage and export promotion of millets. Under the International Year of Millets 2023, a host of activities were conducted in close association with Indian Embassies/Missions and Government departments, which included millet themed participation in international trade fairs, sampling events, millet galleries, international buyer seller meets etc. Further, Millets are one of the key focus areas for enhanced branding and publicity in key global and domestic fairs, in which APEDA participates.

    The Government of India launched the National Mission on Natural Farming (NMNF), to promote natural farming in a mission mode across the country as a standalone Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare. NMNF aims at promoting natural farming practices for providing safe & nutritious food for all. There is significant scope for promotion of India’s natural products abroad, based on availability of certified natural products, given the global trend of increasing demand for healthy and chemical free produce.

    The government is taking focused initiatives for boosting India’s agricultural exports making India a key exporter of agricultural products. Some of the key initiatives are:

    i. Broad basing India’s agricultural export basket by exporting new products.

    ii. Penetration of exports into new markets.

    iii. Exporting from new producing regions and exports.

    iv. Enhanced branding and promotion of India’s agricultural produce.

    v. Increase export realization by value added agri exports.

    vi. Expanding exports of Organic products.

    vii. Enhanced training and capacity building of producers and stakeholders to ensure quality produce and meeting of phyto-sanitary requirements of importing countries.

    viii. Development of Sea Protocols for enhancing exports of Perishable Horticultural produce.

    ix. Linking Farmers Producers Organizations (FPOs) and Self Help Groups(SHGs)to the export value chain.

    x. Enhanced market access through FTAs and engagements with trading partners.

    To enhance the export of Indian agricultural products and to protect exporters from protectionist trade policies, the Government is actively engaging in intensive bilateral discussions with respective importing countries to secure market access and to address trade barriers. The Government is also engaging in Free Trade Agreement (FTA) discussions with trading partners for duty-free/concessional access to those countries. In case of barriers in the form of strict Sanitary and Phytosanitary (SPS)/Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT), efforts are made to resolve them through bilateral meetings with trading partners and in case of their no-resolution, by raising Specific Trade Concerns (STCs) at the World Trade Organization (WTO).

    This information was given by the Minister of State for Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Shri Jitin Prasada, in a written reply in the Lok Sabha today.

    ***

    Abhishek Dayal /Abhijith Narayanan/ Ishita Biswas

    (Release ID: 2117282) Visitor Counter : 20

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: India’s Coal Sector has Crossed the One Billion Tonne Milestone in Cumulative Production for the Financial Year 2024-25

    Source: Government of India

    India’s Coal Sector has Crossed the One Billion Tonne Milestone in Cumulative Production for the Financial Year 2024-25

    Coal Dispatch has also Demonstrated Remarkable Progress

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:13PM by PIB Delhi

    In a remarkable achievement, India’s coal sector has crossed the One Billion Tonne (BT) milestone in cumulative production for the financial year 2024-25. This unprecedented feat underscores the Ministry of Coal’s relentless efforts to enhance production, streamline dispatches, and strengthen the nation’s energy security.

    The cumulative coal production in FY 2024-25 has now crossed the One Billion Tonne (BT) mark, reaching1047.57 (Provisional), compared to 997.83 MT in FY 2023-24, recording a substantial growth of 4.99%. Commercial & Captive, and other entities have also recorded a stupendous coal production of 197.50 MT (Provisional), reflecting a growth of 28.11% over the same period last year recorded at154.16 MT.

    Similarly, coal dispatch has also demonstrated remarkable progress, The cumulative coal dispatch in FY 2024-25 has also exceeded the One BT milestone, reaching 1024.99MT (Provisional), as compared to 973.01 MT in FY 2023-24, reflecting a significant increase of 5.34%. Dispatch from Commercial, Captive, and other entities also witnessed a significant rise, reaching 196.83MT (provisional), with a growth of 31.39% compared to the corresponding period of previous year which was recorded at 149.81 MT.

    This milestone highlights India’s progress in ramping up domestic coal production while ensuring efficient distribution to meet growing energy demands. The Ministry of Coal remains committed to fostering self-reliance, reducing import dependency, and driving sustainable mining practices to bolster the nation’s energy security and economic resilience.

    ****

    Sunil Kumar Tiwari

    (Release ID: 2117280) Visitor Counter : 53

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: ECI’s biggest engagement drive with political parties

    Source: Government of India

    ECI’s biggest engagement drive with political parties

    4,719 meetings conducted at CEOs, DEOs, and EROs level nationwide engaging over 28,000 party representatives

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 4:05PM by PIB Delhi

    The Election Commission of India (ECI) conducted a series of structured engagements with political parties at the level of Electoral Registration Officer (ERO), District Election Officer (DEO), and Chief Electoral Officer (CEO) across the country. In a span of 25 days and as of 31st March 2025, a total of 4,719 meetings were conducted, with 40 meetings by CEOs, 800 by DEOs, and 3,879 by EROs, engaging over 28,000 representatives of political parties nationwide.

    These meetings were held in accordance with the directives issued by Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) Shri Gyanesh Kumar along with ECs Dr Sukhbir Singh Sandhu and Dr Vivek Joshi, during the Chief Electoral Officers’ conference held on March 4-5 2025, at IIIDEM, New Delhi.

    The engagements are aimed to resolve any pending issues by the concerned competent authority i.e. ERO or DEO or CEO within the existing legal framework of the Representation of the People Act 1950 and 1951; the Registration of Electors Rules, 1960; the Conduct of Elections Rules, 1961 and the manuals, guidelines, and instructions issued by ECI from time to time. An action taken report has been sought from all State/UT CEOs for further assessment and any issue, if unresolved within the existing legal framework, will be taken up by the Commission.

    These engagements have been well-received by political parties, with active and enthusiastic participation across Assembly Constituencies, districts, and States/UTs. Photos from nationwide meetings can be viewed on ECI’s official social media handle:

    https://x.com/ECISVEEP?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

    ******

    PK/GDH/RP

    (Release ID: 2117277) Visitor Counter : 70

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Speech by CE at International Water Pioneers Summit (English only)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is the speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at International Water Pioneers Summit today (April 1):
     
    Honourable Li Guoying, Minister of Ministry of Water Resources, Honourable Wang Weizhong, Governor of Guangdong Province, Honourable Zheng Yanxiong, Director of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Honourable Xiang Bin, Member of the Office Leadership of the Hong Kong and Macao Work Office of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
     
    Good morning. I am pleased to join you today for the opening of the International Water Pioneers Summit. Gathered here are nearly 400 high-profile professionals and senior government officials from Hong Kong, Mainland China, Asia and around the world. Present here to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Dongjiang’s water supply to Hong Kong, and to work together to ensure a sustainable water supply for us all.
     
    Hong Kong’s water story is one of transformation, illustrating how a city with limited water resource, can turn geographic and resource limitations, into engineering triumphs.
     
    Hong Kong’s water story is also one of deep and abiding ties. Because without the strong bonds and blood relation between Hong Kong and the Mainland, the engineering, and the water it made possible, would not have taken place. Certainly not in the 1960s.
     
    As for the engineering, the main challenge was geography. Dongjiang is more than 50 kilometres away from Hong Kong. That meant building an 83-kilometre water channel, crossing half a dozen mountains. The water had to be lifted, via multi-stage pumping stations, from two metres above sea level to 46 metres at the highest point.
     
    And the project was completed in less than one year. At 4pm on the 1st of March 60 years ago, the supply of Dongjiang water to Hong Kong began.
     
    For the past six decades, Dongjiang has provided 70 to 80 per cent of the water needed by Hong Kong.
     
    And the engineering feats continued. Because of our increasing demand for water, the Dongjiang-Shenzhen Water Supply Scheme, as it is presently known, was expanded three times from the 1970s to the 1990s. It was improved again in the early 2000s. These raised Hong Kong’s annual water supply ceiling from the original 68.2 million cubic metres, to today’s 820 million cubic metres, a rise of 12 times.
     
    We are eternally grateful for the enormous commitment, and technical ingenuity, by the country and all our compatriots involved.
     
    We like Dongjiang water. For good reasons. It meets the highest national standard for surface water used for human consumption. No less essential, it continues to flow, fuelling Hong Kong’s economic miracle, supporting our economy and community, while helping to ensure our city’s sustainable development and long-term prosperity.

    The theme of this Summit is “Smart Water, High-Quality Development”. That tells me that if we want to ensure a sustainable water supply, we need to invest in its future, and do it innovatively.
     
    Hong Kong has long been recognised for its infrastructure prowess. Indeed, Hong Kong’s infrastructure was ranked among the top 10, globally, in the World Competitiveness Yearbook last year.
     
    Our major water supply projects include High Island Reservoir, Hong Kong’s largest reservoir, and the Tseung Kwan O Desalination Plant, the first waterworks in Hong Kong to adopt advanced reverse osmosis desalination technology.
     
    As an international centre of innovation and technology, we are keen on applying I&T to water management. Last year, we set up a Digital Water Office to drive the digitalisation of our water supply services.
     
    The Office promotes the use of smart devices, digital twin technology and artificial intelligence, to gradually gain full automation of operations in our waterworks installations.
     
    Innovation in infrastructure development will power our water-secure future. Our goal is to establish Hong Kong as an international infrastructure centre, that serves our city and China, our country.
     
    Speaking of our country, let me add that it has built numerous water conservancy projects. And I’m sure you’ll hear more about them in today’s Summit.
     
    I am grateful to the organisers of today’s International Water Pioneers Summit. Grateful, too, to our distinguished speakers and moderators, here in Hong Kong from all over the world.
     
    While you’re here, I invite you to take full advantage of all that Hong Kong has to offer, in arts and culture. You can start right here, in West Kowloon Cultural District, Hong Kong’s largest arts development.
     
    Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you all a rewarding summit and an enjoyable and memorable stay in Hong Kong.
     
    Thank you.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PARLIAMENT QUESTION: PROMOTING LIVELIHOOD OF RURAL WOMEN THROUGH SERICULTURE

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:07AM by PIB Delhi

    The Government through Central Silk Board has been implementing the Silk Samagra-2 scheme with an outlay of Rs.4,679.85 crore for the overall development of sericulture industry throughout  the country, which covers around  55 -60% participation of women beneficiaries.

    Central schemes like Silk Samagra, Silk Samagra-2 and North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS) have been implemented wherein, extended assistance, training & support to sericulture stakeholders including women is provided through States for the beneficiary oriented components.

    Ministry of Textiles implements SAMARTH Scheme for skilling and up-skilling through training in various textile sectors including Silk. Since 2021-22, 7,985 beneficiaries including women has been trained in silk sector under SAMARTH Scheme.   

    The Government through CSB is supporting States under its central schemes for creation of marketing facilities and infrastructure. In addition, to give wider exposure to all the textile stakeholders, several marketing events in the form of fairs/melas, exhibitions and expos are organised through support of CSB, National Handloom Development Programme (NHDP), Export Promotion Councils (EPC) of textiles including Indian Silk Export Promotion Council, with the support of Ministry of Textiles.

    This information was provided by THE MINISTER OF STATE FOR TEXTILES SHRI PABITRA MARGHERITA in a written reply to a question in Rajya Sabha today.

    ***

    DHANYA SANAL K

    (Rajya Sabha US Q3320)

    (Release ID: 2117107) Visitor Counter : 55

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: All gazetted beaches continue to meet bacteriological Water Quality Objective (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) released the 2024 Beach Water Quality Report today (April 1). The report reveals that all 42 gazetted beaches in Hong Kong continued to fully achieve the bacteriological Water Quality Objective (WQO) for bathing waters in that year, with 23 beaches ranked as “Good” and the remaining 19 ranked as “Fair”. No beaches were ranked as “Poor” or “Very Poor”.
     
         An EPD spokesman said, “All gazetted beaches have fully complied with the WQO for 15 consecutive years since 2010.
     
         “The satisfactory beach water quality over the years is attributed to various pollution control and environmental improvement measures implemented by the Government, including the enforcement of the Water Pollution Control Ordinance and Livestock Waste Control Scheme, extension of the sewerage network to the beach hinterland, and the implementation of the Harbour Area Treatment Scheme.
     
         “The EPD will continue to embrace the use of innovative technologies to enhance the effectiveness of environmental water quality management, with a view to protecting and improving beach water quality to safeguard the health of swimmers,” the spokesman added.
     
         The 2024 Beach Water Quality Report can be found at the EPD’s website (www.epd.gov.hk/epd/beach).

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Hong Kong Youth Symphonic Band Annual Concert “Echoes of the Harmony: An American Tapestry” to be held May 1

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Hong Kong Youth Symphonic Band (HKYSB) of the Music Office under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department will hold its annual concert, this one entitled “Echoes of the Harmony: An American Tapestry”, at 3pm on May 1 (Thursday) at the Concert Hall of Hong Kong City Hall. 

         The concert will be conducted by Music Office instructors Lee Sing-wan and Kevin Ling. The HKYSB will perform the jazz-infused “The Fast Lane” from the “Cinnamon Concerto”, with Music Office instructor Lau Tsz-kit as saxophone soloist.

         Other programme highlights include “The Nine”, inspired by a historical event and conveying positive values such as compassion and unity; “Machu Picchu: City in the Sky”, portraying the mystery and grandeur of the “golden city” of the Inca Empire; and “Foster Rhapsody”, blending the characteristics of the classic folk melodies by renowned American composer Stephen Foster.

         The HKYSB was formed in 1978 with the aim of nurturing young musicians and arousing greater interest in symphonic band music in Hong Kong. The Band currently has around 60 members and recruits annually by open audition. It has performed in Hong Kong and overseas, winning much acclaim.

         Tickets priced at $70, $90 and $115 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2796 1003 or 3842 7784 or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/musicoffice.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Red flag hoisted at Stanley Main Beach

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    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 (April 1) that due to big waves, the red flag has been hoisted at Stanley Main Beach in Southern District, Hong Kong Island. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: PM reflects on the immense peace that fills the mind with worship of Devi Maa in Navratri

    Source: Government of India

    Posted On: 01 APR 2025 10:02AM by PIB Delhi

    The Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi today reflected on the immense peace that fills the mind with worship of Devi Maa in Navratri. He also shared a Bhajan by Pandit Bhimsen Joshi.

    ***

    MJPS/SR

    (Release ID: 2117105) Visitor Counter : 85

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Adjustment of income and asset limits of Working Family Allowance Scheme and arrangements for disbursement of one-off extra allowance announced

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Government announced today (April 1) the adjustment of income and asset limits of the Working Family Allowance (WFA) Scheme for 2025-26.

         The WFA Scheme supports low-income working households not receiving Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA), promoting full-time employment and self-reliance, as well as rewarding hard work. It also provides a child allowance for households with eligible children. The allowance under the WFA Scheme is assessed on a monthly basis with reference to the household income and working hours. Under the WFA Scheme, the claim period covers the six calendar months preceding the submission of an application, and eligible households must make applications for each claim period.

         Under the established adjustment mechanism, the Government adjusts the income limits of the WFA Scheme in April each year. These limits are set with reference to the median monthly domestic household income of economically active households of the previous calendar year. According to this mechanism, and based on the 2024 figures, the income limits for households with six or more persons would have been tightened, while the income limits for five-person households would have been lower than those for four-person households. However, considering the ongoing economic challenges in Hong Kong which may affect the income levels of lower-income households, and the need to minimise the adverse impact on WFA households, the Government will:

    (a) maintain the income limits for households with six persons or more at the 2024-25 level;

    (b) adjust the income limit for five-person households to align with those for four-person households; and

    (c) increase the income limits for other household sizes according to the mechanism.

         These arrangements will apply for one year starting from the claim month of April 2025.  

         The asset limits of the WFA Scheme are set with reference to the asset limits for public rental housing. The Government will increase the asset limits for all household sizes according to the mechanism. The adjusted income and asset limits of the WFA Scheme are provided in the Annex.

         In addition, if the Appropriation Bill 2025 is passed by the Legislative Council (LegCo), the Government will, as proposed in the 2025-26 Budget, disburse a one-off extra allowance to WFA households. The allowance is expected to be disbursed one month after the passage of the Bill at the earliest.

         Households which made WFA applications during the applicable period that were eventually approved are eligible for the extra allowance. The applicable period spans from the first day of the month in which the Bill is passed by the LegCo to the date of its passage, and the six calendar months before that month. For applications submitted by post, the date of the post-stamp will be adopted as the application date.

         In order to be eligible for the extra allowance, new applicants or previous WFA recipients who have yet to submit applications during the applicable period should submit their applications before the applicable period expires (i.e. on or before the date of passage of the Bill by the LegCo). The extra allowance is equal to one half of the average monthly allowance in approved months in a recipient’s most recently submitted WFA application, which was submitted within the applicable period and eventually approved. The amount varies from case to case.

         If a WFA household is receiving CSSA on the day the LegCo passes the Bill, the household is eligible for only one single extra allowance under either the WFA Scheme or the CSSA Scheme, whichever is higher.

         For enquiries, applicants may visit the website of the Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency (wfsfaa.gov.hk) or call the 24-hour hotline of the Working Family Allowance Office at 2558 3000.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CFS announces test results of targeted surveillance on nutrition labelling of breakfast cereal

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (April 1) released the test results of a targeted food surveillance project on the nutrition labelling of breakfast cereal. Among 40 samples tested, three samples were found with total fat or saturated fat content inconsistent with the declared values on their nutrition labels, while one sample was found to have a label format on durability indication that was not in compliance with legal requirements. The remaining 36 samples passed the test.

    “The CFS collected samples from different retail outlets for the targeted food surveillance project. Tests were conducted to check if the energy content and specified nutrient content (total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sugars, sodium, protein, carbohydrates, and more) are consistent with the declared values on their nutrition labels. The food labels were also checked if they comply with relevant requirements under the laws,” a spokesman for the CFS said.

    The CFS has announced the irregularities on the actual nutrient contents earlier. The vendors concerned have also stopped selling the relevant batches of the affected products. Prosecution will be instituted should there be sufficient evidence.

    The Food and Drugs (Composition and Labelling) Regulations (Cap. 132W) require all applicable prepackaged foods to list the ingredients and the content of energy plus seven core nutrients, namely carbohydrates, protein, total fat, saturated fat, trans fat, sodium and sugars, and regulate any associated nutrition claims. The “best before” or “use by” date of all prepackaged food shall be shown either in Arabic numerals or in both the English and Chinese languages.

    Nutrition labelling can assist consumers in making informed food choices, encourage food manufacturers to apply sound nutrition principles in the formulation of foods, and regulate misleading or deceptive labels and claims. According to Section 61 of the Public Health and Municipal Services Ordinance (Cap. 132), if any person falsely describes food or misleads as to the nature, substance or quality of the food on a label of the food sold by him or her, he or she shall be guilty of an offence and liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and six months’ imprisonment upon conviction.

    The CFS will continue to conduct surveillance on other food samples to check if their energy content and specified nutrient content are consistent with the declared values on their nutrition labels, and the results will be released in due course. The spokesman reminded the food trade to comply with the law, and urged members of the public to pay attention to the information on nutrition labels when purchasing food to make informed food choices to achieve a balanced diet and stay healthy.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Arrangements for reassignment of spectrum in 2.5/2.6 GHz band and related spectrum utilization fee

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Communications Authority (CA) announced today (April 1) its decision to reassign 50 MHz of spectrum in the 2.5/2.6 GHz band by way of auction for the provision of public mobile services upon the expiry of its existing assignments. The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development (SCED) also announced his decision on the method for determining the related spectrum utilization fee (SUF).

         The existing assignments of the relevant spectrum are due to expire in May 2028. In arriving at the decisions about the reassignment arrangements of the spectrum and the related SUF, the CA and the SCED have considered thoroughly the views and comments received in the public consultation conducted between September and October last year.

         “Spectrum in the 2.5/2.6 GHz band belongs to the mid-band spectrum within the 1-7 GHz range, which provides longer range propagation than the high-band spectrum above 7 GHz, and wider bandwidth than the low-band spectrum below 1 GHz, thereby meeting both network coverage and capacity demands. It possesses the potential to support mobile broadband services and other innovative applications adopting fourth generation, fifth generation mobile services or beyond,” a spokesman for the CA said.

         On the relevant SUF, the SCED decided to prescribe that it will be determined by auction, with the auction reserve price to be specified nearer the time of the auction after taking into account all relevant factors. To provide greater financial flexibility to spectrum assignees, the assignees will be given a choice to pay the SUF either by lump sum payment upfront or by annual instalments in the reassignment period of about 10 years and 10 months.

         The Government needs to make necessary amendments to the relevant subsidiary legislation to provide legal basis for the reassignment arrangements and the decision to levy the SUF in relation to the above-mentioned spectrum. Subject to the completion of amendments to the relevant subsidiary legislation, the CA targets to conduct the auction in the fourth quarter of this year.

         For details of the arrangements for the spectrum reassignment and the related SUF, please refer to the joint statement published by the SCED and the CA today.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Trust Stamp files its 2024 10-K and gives forward-looking revenue and expense guidance

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    Atlanta, GA, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Trust Stamp announces that:

    1. It filed its 10-K report for the 2024 Financial Year after the Nasdaq market closed on March 31st, 2025.
    2. Q4 2024 Revenue was $1.50m increased from $0.51m for Q3 of 2024 and $0.58m for Q4 of 2023.
    3. Estimates of anticipated revenue from existing contracted customers for FY 2025 are believed to exceed $5.0m and do not include projected revenue from contracted customers that are not yet revenue-generating.
    1. Expenses reductions for the balance of 2025 are estimated to result in new savings of $0.1m per month versus expenses in 2024.
    1. Cash burn for Q1 of 2025 is estimated at $0.75m with an average burn over the balance of FY 2025 estimated at $0.2m per month based solely on revenue from existing customers that are both contracted and currently revenue-generating.

    Inquiries:
    Trust Stamp                                                   Email: Shareholders@truststamp.ai 

    About Trust Stamp

    Trust Stamp, is a global provider of AI-powered services for use in multiple sectors including banking and finance, regulatory compliance, government, healthcare, real estate, communications, and humanitarian services. Its technology empowers organizations via advanced solutions that reduce fraud, tokenize and secure data, securely authenticate users while protecting personal privacy, reduce friction in digital transactions, and increase operational efficiency, enabling customers to accelerate secure financial inclusion and reach and serve a broader base of users worldwide.

    Located in eight countries across North America, Europe, Asia, and Africa, Trust Stamp trades on the Nasdaq Capital Market (Nasdaq: IDAI).

    Safe Harbor Statement: Caution Concerning Forward-Looking Remarks 

    All statements in this release that are not based on historical fact are “forward-looking statements” including within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995 and the provisions of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended. The information in this announcement may contain forward-looking statements and information related to, among other things, the company, its business plan and strategy, and its industry. These statements reflect management’s current views with respect to future events-based information currently available and are subject to risks and uncertainties that could cause the company’s actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date on which they are made. The company does not undertake any obligation to

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: CECO Environmental Announces Completion of the Divestiture of Its Fluid Handling Business to May River Capital

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    ADDISON, Texas, April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — CECO Environmental Corp. (Nasdaq: CECO), a leading environmentally focused, diversified industrial company whose solutions protect people, the environment and industrial equipment, today announced it has completed the previously announced divestiture of its Fluid Handling business (also known as its Global Pump Solutions, or GPS, business) contained in its Industrial Process Solutions segment to May River Capital, effective March 31, 2025.

    The enterprise value of the transaction is approximately $110 million, paid in cash at closing. The Company intends to use the proceeds from this transaction to pay down debt and to fund future strategic growth investments.

    The GPS business consists of three niche leadership severe service industrial metallic, fiberglass and thermoplastic centrifugal pump brands – Dean, Fybroc and Sethco – which joined the CECO family through an acquisition in 2013. The business operates from strategic locations in Indianapolis, Indiana and Telford, Pennsylvania, and services over 1,500 customers globally.

    “I am pleased to have completed our previously announced divesture of GPS, which enables greater alignment of our portfolio of leading environmental solution businesses against our high growth opportunities in energy and industrial markets,” said Todd Gleason, CECO’s Chief Executive Officer. “We believe that the GPS business is well positioned as a niche leader in its respective end markets and applications, and we also believe that we have found the right buyer and future home to ensure its continued success and development of the GPS team. This sale will – after our recent acquisitions of Verantis Environmental and Profire Energy – create additional capacity for further investment in CECO’s growth and business expansion, and execution of our strategies in Industrial Air, Industrial Water, and the Energy Transition.”

    EC M&A and Koley Jessen were the primary financial and legal advisors to CECO for the transaction. Paul Hastings and TD Securities served as legal and financial counsel to May River Capital.

    ABOUT CECO ENVIRONMENTAL
    CECO Environmental is a leading environmentally focused, diversified industrial company, serving a broad landscape of industrial air, industrial water, and energy transition markets globally through its key business segments: Engineered Systems and Industrial Process Solutions. Providing innovative technology and application expertise, CECO helps companies grow their business with safe, clean, and more efficient solutions that help protect people, the environment and industrial equipment. In regions around the world, CECO works to improve air quality, optimize the energy value chain, and provide custom solutions for applications in power generation, petrochemical processing, refining, midstream gas transport and treatment, electric vehicle and battery production, metals and mineral processing, polysilicon production, battery recycling, beverage can production, and produced and oily water/wastewater treatment along with a wide range of other industrial applications. CECO is listed on Nasdaq under the ticker symbol “CECO.” Incorporated in 1966, CECO’s global headquarters is in Addison, Texas. For more information, please visit www.cecoenviro.com.

    About May River Capital
    May River Capital is a Chicago-based private equity firm focused on partnering with lower middle-market industrial growth businesses. The firm invests in high-performing companies in advanced manufacturing, engineered products and instrumentation, specialized industrial services, and value-added industrial distribution services. For more information, please visit www.mayrivercapital.com.

    SAFE HARBOR STATEMENT
    Any statements contained in this Press Release, other than statements of historical fact, including statements about management’s beliefs and expectations, are forward-looking statements within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933 and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, both as amended, and should be evaluated as such. These statements are made on the basis of management’s views and assumptions regarding future events and business performance. We use words such as “believe,” “expect,” “anticipate,” “intends,” “estimate,” “forecast,” “project,” “will,” “plan,” “should” and similar expressions to identify forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ materially from any future results, performance or achievements expressed or implied by such statements. Potential risks and uncertainties, among others, that could cause actual results to differ materially are discussed under “Part I – Item 1A. Risk Factors” of the Company’s Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended December 31, 2024 and may be included in subsequently filed Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, and include, but are not limited to: the effect of the divestiture of our Global Pump Solutions business on business relationships, operating results, and business generally, disruption of current plans and operations and potential difficulties in employee retention as a result of the transaction, diversion of management’s attention from ongoing business operations in connection with the integration of recent acquisitions, the amount of the costs, fees, expenses and other charges related to the transaction, the achievement of the anticipated benefits of transactions, our ability to successfully integrate acquired businesses and realize the synergies from acquisitions, as well as a number of factors related to our business, including the sensitivity of our business to economic and financial market conditions generally and economic conditions in CECO’s service areas; dependence on fixed price contracts and the risks associated therewith, including actual costs exceeding estimates and method of accounting for revenue; the effect of growth on our infrastructure, resources, and existing sales; the ability to expand operations in both new and existing markets; the potential for contract delay or cancellation as a result of on-going or worsening supply chain challenges or other customer considerations; liabilities arising from faulty services or products that could result in significant professional or product liability, warranty, or other claims; changes in or developments with respect to any litigation or investigation; failure to meet timely completion or performance standards that could result in higher cost and reduced profits or, in some cases, losses on projects; the potential for fluctuations in prices for manufactured components and raw materials, including as a result of tariffs and surcharges, and rising energy costs; inflationary pressures relating to rising raw material costs and the cost of labor; the substantial amount of debt incurred in connection with our strategic transactions and our ability to repay or refinance it or incur additional debt in the future; the impact of federal, state or local government regulations; our ability to repurchase shares of our common stock and the amounts and timing of repurchases; our ability to successfully realize the expected benefits of our restructuring program; economic and political conditions generally; our ability to optimize our business portfolio by identifying acquisition targets, executing upon any strategic acquisitions or divestitures, integrating acquired businesses and realizing the synergies from strategic transactions; and the unpredictability and severity of catastrophic events, including cyber security threats, acts of terrorism or outbreak of war or hostilities or public health crises, as well as management’s response to any of the aforementioned factors. Many of these risks are beyond management’s ability to control or predict. Should one or more of these risks or uncertainties materialize, or should the assumptions prove incorrect, actual results may vary in material aspects from those currently anticipated. Investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements as they speak only to our views as of the date the statement is made. Except as required under the federal securities laws or the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission, we undertake no obligation to update or review any forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

    Company Contact:
    Peter Johansson
    Chief Financial and Strategy Officer
    888-990-6670

    Investor Relations Contact:
    Steven Hooser and Jean Marie Young
    Three Part Advisors
    214-872-2710
    Investor.Relations@OneCECO.com

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI: Lantronix Names Tech Industry Veteran Todd Rychecky General Manager and Head of Out-of-Band Management Business

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    IRVINE, Calif., April 01, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Lantronix Inc. (NASDAQ: LTRX), a global leader of compute and connectivity for IoT solutions enabling Edge AI Intelligence, today announced the appointment of Todd Rychecky as general manager and head of its Out-of-Band (OOB) Management Business Line. With a proven track record in network resilience, SaaS solutions and OOB management, Rychecky will play a pivotal role in expanding Lantronix’s market presence and driving strategic growth in this critical sector.

    Rychecky brings a proven track record of success in the OOB management space, having played a key role in scaling OpenGear’s business as well as leading major strategic deals, including a landmark $100 million network resilience contract. With deep expertise in product positioning, SaaS business models and global sales leadership, Rychecky is well-positioned to drive growth and innovation at Lantronix.

    “This is an exciting time for Lantronix as we continue to position ourselves as a leader in AI-driven networking solutions,” said Mathi Gurusamy, chief strategy and product officer at Lantronix. “With Todd’s deep expertise and strategic vision, we are confident in our ability to scale our Out-of-Band business, enhance our market presence and deliver groundbreaking solutions to our customers.”

    As general manager of Lantronix’s OOB Management Business Line, Rychecky is responsible for:

    • Strategic leadership of Lantronix’s OOB Management business, aligning it with the company’s broader AI and connectivity strategy;
    • Driving revenue growth and profitability, leveraging his extensive experience in scaling technology businesses and building successful sales teams;
    • Expanding Lantronix’s OOB market share through product innovation, strategic partnerships and enhanced customer engagement; and
    • Enhancing financial performance, overseeing P&L and optimizing cost efficiencies.

    Rychecky joins Lantronix at a vital moment as the company leverages AI-driven solutions across its core business lines, including OOB Management, Network Equipment and Industrial IoT.

    With a robust product pipeline, including its LM80, LM83, LM4, SLC8000, EMG7500/8500 and Spider as well as its upcoming innovations SLC9000, LM48 and 5G-enabled LM series, Lantronix offers a comprehensive suite of OOB management solutions. These solutions empower enterprises with secure, resilient network management tools, ensuring uninterrupted connectivity and streamlined IT operations. Additionally, Lantronix’s LEVEL SERVICES provide enterprise customers with customized, high-touch technical support to meet evolving network demands.

    “I am thrilled to join Lantronix at this crucial juncture to lead the company’s Out-of-Band management business to new heights,” said Rychecky. “Lantronix has a strong foundation, cutting-edge AI-driven solutions and an unmatched product portfolio. I look forward to driving innovation, scaling the business and helping our customers achieve greater network resilience and operational efficiency.”

    About Lantronix

    Lantronix Inc. is a global leader of compute and connectivity IoT solutions that target high-growth markets, including Smart Cities, Enterprise and Transportation. Lantronix’s products and services empower companies to succeed in the growing IoT markets by delivering customizable solutions that enable AI Edge Intelligence. Lantronix’s advanced solutions include Intelligent Substations infrastructure, Infotainment systems and Video Surveillance, supplemented with advanced Out-of-Band Management (OOB) for Cloud and Edge Computing.

    For more information, visit the Lantronix website.

    “Safe Harbor” Statement under the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995: This news release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of federal securities laws, including, without limitation, statements related to Lantronix products or leadership team. These forward-looking statements are based on our current expectations and are subject to substantial risks and uncertainties that could cause our actual results, future business, financial condition, or performance to differ materially from our historical results or those expressed or implied in any forward-looking statement contained in this news release. The potential risks and uncertainties include, but are not limited to, such factors as the effects of negative or worsening regional and worldwide economic conditions or market instability on our business, including effects on purchasing decisions by our customers; our ability to mitigate any disruption in our and our suppliers’ and vendors’ supply chains due to the COVID-19 pandemic or other outbreaks, wars and recent tensions in Europe, Asia and the Middle East, or other factors; future responses to and effects of public health crises; cybersecurity risks; changes in applicable U.S. and foreign government laws, regulations, and tariffs; our ability to successfully implement our acquisitions strategy or integrate acquired companies; difficulties and costs of protecting patents and other proprietary rights; the level of our indebtedness, our ability to service our indebtedness and the restrictions in our debt agreements; and any additional factors included in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) on Sept. 9, 2024, including in the section entitled “Risk Factors” in Item 1A of Part I of that report, as well as in our other public filings with the SEC. Additional risk factors may be identified from time to time in our future filings. In addition, actual results may differ as a result of additional risks and uncertainties about which we are currently unaware or which we do not currently view as material to our business. For these reasons, investors are cautioned not to place undue reliance on any forward-looking statements. The forward-looking statements we make speak only as of the date on which they are made. We expressly disclaim any intent or obligation to update any forward-looking statements after the date hereof to conform such statements to actual results or to changes in our opinions or expectations, except as required by applicable law or the rules of the Nasdaq Stock Market LLC. If we do update or correct any forward-looking statements, investors should not conclude that we will make additional updates or corrections.

    Lantronix Media Contact:
    Gail Kathryn Miller
    Corporate Marketing &
    Communications Manager
    media@lantronix.com

    Lantronix Analyst and Investor Contact:        
    investors@lantronix.com

    ©2025 Lantronix, Inc. All rights reserved. Lantronix is a registered trademark. Other trademarks and trade names are those of their respective owners.

    A photo accompanying this announcement is available at https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/cd905e61-186c-497b-a86f-26916432a567.

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: US sanctions strongly condemned

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government today issued a strong condemnation of the US for including central authorities and Hong Kong SAR officials on a “sanctions list”.

    In a statement, it said the move was a despicable attempt to intimidate officials and amounted to barbarity.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government stressed that it will make every effort to protect the legitimate rights and interests of all personnel, and that its officials will continue to resolutely discharge their duty of safeguarding national security.

    It said that the reason absconders from Hong Kong who are at large in countries such as the US, the UK and Australia have had arrest warrants issued against them by Hong Kong courts is not because they have “exercised their freedom of speech”, but because they continue to engage in activities endangering national security. It explained that these activities include inciting secession and requesting that foreign countries impose “sanctions” or engage in other hostile activities against the People’s Republic of China and the Hong Kong SAR.

    The statement outlined that it is necessary for the Hong Kong SAR to take all lawful measures to combat such acts. It said such measures are aimed at combating, deterring and preventing acts of abscondment, and at procuring the return of the absconded persons to Hong Kong to face judicial proceedings.

    Moreover, it stressed that all the measures align with human rights requirements, adding that countries including the US, the UK and Canada would impose similar measures on wanted criminals.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government said that in an attempt to mislead the public the US had deliberately smeared Hong Kong and spread irresponsible remarks about measures and actions taken in accordance with the law.

    It also stated that the US has disregarded the non-interference principle of international law, choosing instead to interfere with other countries’ internal affairs, groom agents, instigate colour revolutions, and create social unrest and multiple humanitarian disasters through economic and military coercion, causing suffering to people in many countries.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government said that with China’s central authorities enacting Hong Kong’s National Security Law and the Hong Kong SAR implementing Article 23 of its Basic Law, the legal regime in safeguarding national security in Hong Kong has been strengthened, prevented the US from succeeding in its aims.

    It added that false accusations by the US against Hong Kong SAR personnel involved in safeguarding national security dutifully, faithfully and in accordance with the law, and the imposition of “sanctions” in the guise of defending human rights and democracy, constitute a demonstration of shameless hypocrisy.

    The Hong Kong SAR Government emphasised that it has a responsibility to pursue those who suspected of committing offences endangering national security and absconding overseas.

    It added that Hong Kong law enforcement agencies’ actions are evidence-based and are taken in strict accordance with the law in respect of acts committed by people or entities, having nothing to do with their political views, background or occupation. In addition, it said, the Department of Justice makes prosecutorial decisions based on an objective analysis of all admissible evidence and applicable laws.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Youth symphonic band to play in May

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Music Office’s Hong Kong Youth Symphonic Band will hold its annual concert, “Echoes of the Harmony: An American Tapestry”, on May 1.

    The symphonic band will perform the jazz-infused The Fast Lane from the Cinnamon Concerto, with Music Office instructor Lau Tsz-kit as saxophone soloist.

    Other programme highlights include The Nine, inspired by a historical event and conveying compassion and unity, and Machu Picchu: City in the Sky, which portrays the mystery and grandeur of the Inca Empire’s “golden city”.

    Tickets for the show, which will be held at 3pm on May 1 at the Cultural Centre, are now available at URBTIX.

    Call 3166 1288 for telephone bookings, and 2796 1003 or 3842 7784 for enquiries.

    Formed in 1978 with the aim of nurturing young musicians and arousing greater interest in symphonic band music in the city, the band currently has around 60 members and recruits annually by open audition.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –