Category: Asia

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE’s speech in delivering “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” to LegCo (10)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

(C) Take Forward the Construction of Transport InfrastructurePromote Major Transport Infrastructure Development183. The Government is actively following through the Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint for Hong Kong, under which the Hung Shui Kiu Station and the NOL Main Line are to commence construction this year and next year for tentative completion in 2030 and 2034 respectively. In parallel, cross‑boundary railway projects are pressed ahead at full speed, including the Hong Kong‑Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu‑Qianhai) and the NOL Spur Line, to enhance linkage between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.Build Smart and Green Mass Transit Systems184. Devoted to take forward the three smart and green mass transit systems, and for compressing the time required for construction, we invited suppliers and operators to submit expressions of interest for the East Kowloon and Kai Tak projects this August. We will invite expressions of interest for the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen projects later this year. Through innovative implementation mode and construction methods, we aim to complete the Kai Tak project three years ahead of the original target completion date.(D) Deepen Reform of the Healthcare System185. To enhance the health of the people of Hong Kong, improve healthcare protection and quality, and capitalise on our healthcare professions’ strengths, the Government will conduct a comprehensive review on the positioning and objectives of the healthcare system. The review will cover the following areas: reforming the functions and division of work among the Hospital Authority (HA), the Department of Health (DH) and the Primary Healthcare Commission (PHC Commission), strengthening health promotion and disease prevention in primary healthcare, and improving public healthcare services. In parallel, we will reform private healthcare services in terms of their quality, cost‑effectiveness and price transparency, providing the public with high quality, cost‑effective and affordable healthcare service options. We will also support manpower training and technology innovation, helping to uphold the global standing and regional advantage of Hong Kong’s healthcare professions. This will also be conducive to the development of Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub, an advanced medical service centre in Asia, a place where medical professionals cluster, as well as a bridge for East‑and‑West healthcare exchanges.Advance Primary Healthcare Development186. The Government will promote the development of primary healthcare on all fronts, including:(i) formulating legislation to strengthen the regulatory framework of primary healthcare and authorise the PHC Commission to set up quality assurance and monitoring mechanisms;(ii) developing a community drug formulary and launching a community pharmacy programme to help the public obtain affordable, primary‑healthcare drugs through central purchasing and the community network;(iii) devising health promotion strategies by adopting a life‑course framework to formulate health management plans for the public according to age and health conditions;(iv) revamping maternal and child health and family‑planning services to strengthen pre‑pregnancy counselling and parental education and promote healthy fertility;(v) strengthening the Whole School Health Programme to recommend targeted school‑based measures for physical activities, meals and other matters for each school to improve students’ physical and psychological well‑being;(vi) upgrading more District Health Centre Expresses into District Health Centres (DHCs), and expanding the service network, and integrating the services of Woman Health Centres and Elderly Health Centres;(vii) expanding the Chronic Disease Co‑Care Pilot Scheme to cover blood lipid testing; positioning the HA’s general out‑patient services as the comprehensive, primary healthcare service providers for the underprivileged;(viii) formulating risk‑based screening programmes for prevalent cancers on a gradual basis, including breast cancer screening, exploring the use of AI to assist lung cancer screening, and implementing hepatitis B screening to prevent liver cancer;(ix) launching a Primary Dental Co‑Care Pilot Scheme for Adolescents to encourage the prevention of dental diseases, as well as a Community Dental Support Programme to enhance dental services for underprivileged groups. This would include elderly persons in financial hardship, replacing the Community Care Fund Elderly Dental Assistance Programme, and introducing preventive dental services for pre‑school children; and(x) continuing efforts in tobacco control.Enhance Public and Private Healthcare Services187. The Government will strengthen the HA’s public healthcare services, including:(i) reviewing the structure and levels of the HA’s fees and charges to encourage prudent use of services and direct resources to patients who need them most and for those with serious or critical conditions, while increasing support for patients with financial difficulties and strengthening the financial sustainability of the targeted subsidisation of public healthcare services;(ii) strengthening the centralised procurement of drugs and medical devices by various clusters of the HA system in order to enhance their bargaining power and to expedite, in a more proactive manner, the introduction of new drugs, meeting efficacy and cost‑effectiveness standards to the Drug Formulary;(iii) formulating a directory for inherited and rare diseases by using the Hong Kong Genome Institute’s genomic data, thereby facilitating early diagnosis and treatment by clinical teams, while supporting relevant research and clinical trials to promote precision medicine;(iv) fully integrating the paediatric services of various clusters at Hong Kong Children’s Hospital and developing more advanced healthcare services to make the best use of the Children’s Hospital;(v) finalising the projects and timetable of the Second Hospital Development Plan to dovetail with the development of the Northern Metropolis and to address the needs of local districts;(vi) setting up, in accordance with national accreditation standards, the first stroke centre and the second chest pain centre;(vii) enhancing the triage system and referral arrangements for specialist out‑patient services, including setting up inter‑specialty, integrated, out‑patient clinics to avoid the need for multiple referrals; and(viii) increasing the service capacity for cataract surgeries by at least 20%.188. The Government will also enhance the quality and efficiency of healthcare services, including:(i) establishing a professional platform for developing evidence‑based clinical protocols and exploring the feasibility of devising service quality and efficiency standards for public and private healthcare sectors;(ii) developing quality indicators for public and private healthcare systems and exploring legislating for private healthcare price transparency to enhance service efficiency and address the issue of medical inflation, with the plan to consult the healthcare sector next year; and(iii) amending relevant legislation to require all healthcare providers to deposit essential health data in the personal eHealth accounts of members of the public, enabling the latter to have more complete electronic health records and enhance continuity of medical care.Bring in More Healthcare Professionals189. We will promote the use of the legislation passed earlier to proactively admit more non‑local doctors, nurses and dentists to enhance manpower. The Government will introduce a bill on the admission of qualified non‑locally trained supplementary medical professionals next year.Support Establishment of a Third Medical School190. In addition to increasing training places of the existing two medical schools, the Government supports the plan, by local universities, to establish a third medical school, increasing the number of doctors and supporting the city’s development as an international health‑ and medical‑innovation hub. A task group will be set up, inviting universities interested in establishing the new medical school to submit proposals. The Government will set aside sites in the Northern Metropolis Ngau Tam Mei to develop the new medical school campus and build an integrated medical teaching and research hospital.Promote Development of Chinese Medicine191. To develop Hong Kong into a bridgehead for the internationalisation of Chinese medicine (CM), the Government will make use of Hong Kong’s advantages in its healthcare system, regulatory regime, standard‑setting, clinical research and trade, and other areas. We will publish the CM Development Blueprint next year, and take forward the following measures:(i) exploring the application of big data to foster international research collaboration on herb‑drug interaction to discover more evidence of clinical significance, promoting the internationalisation of CM;(ii) expanding integrated Chinese‑Western medicine services to cover more diseases in which CM has an advantage, including respiratory diseases and knee osteoarthritis, and to progressively extend the cancer care programme to all hospital clusters;(iii) rolling out the first Chinese Medicine Hospital and the permanent premises of the Government Chinese Medicines Testing Institute, which are expected to be completed and begin phased operation next year; and(iv) organising the first edition of the Hong Kong Chinese Medicine Cultural Festival to promote the culture of CM in collaboration with the industry.Promote Mental Health192. The Government will extend integrated services based on a medical‑educational‑social collaboration model to promote mental health. Relevant measures include:(i) formulating a stepped care model for mental health – We will develop a multi‑disciplinary framework with tiers, from dealing with general emotional problems in the frontline to handling cases requiring follow‑up and more serious mental illnesses cases. The framework sets out the roles of different professionals (such as teaching staff, social workers and healthcare workers) and their division of work in the provision of mental health services for cases in each tier, enabling them to work together and perform their respective roles smoothly;(ii) raising community awareness of mental health – An annual promotional theme will be set for the Mental Health Workplace Charter, and recognition will be given to participating organisations for achieving targets. We will also promote the 4Rs Mental Health Charter in schools to promote the mental health of students, teaching staff and parents in a more holistic manner;(iii) enhancing support for children and adolescents – We will extend and enhance the Three‑Tier School‑based Emergency Mechanism, and launch the “Mental Health Literacy” resource packages for senior secondary and lower primary levels. A real‑time, online youth‑emotional‑support platform will be set up in the second quarter of next year;(iv) facilitating the integration of persons in mental recovery into the community – We will set up Transitional Support Service Teams for Persons in Mental Recovery, offering support to discharged patients waitlisted for halfway house service. The Social Welfare Department (SWD) will also set up an additional Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness; and(v) strengthening teacher training and parent education – We will strengthen teachers’ capacity in the early identification of, and support for, students with mental health needs, and assist parents in acquiring the knowledge and skills in addressing children’s mental health.(E) Build a Caring and Inclusive Society193. I attach great importance to building a harmonious and stable community, one that is caring and inclusive, providing targeted assistance to the underprivileged and families in need. Social welfare tops public expenditures of all policy portfolios, with more than $300 million spent on social welfare each day. This underlines the Government’s emphasis on social welfare.Targeted Poverty Alleviation194. The Government has adopted the strategy of targeted poverty alleviation by directing resources to those most in need. This approach is well‑received by the community. We will focus on the following key areas:(i) expanding the Strive and Rise Programme – We will launch the third cohort of the programme this year to recruit 4 000 mentees. We will also encourage youth leaders of the Alumni Club to organise activities for self‑development, enhance training for mentors and related initiatives;(ii) extending the Pilot Programme on Community Living Room (CLR) – We will set up three additional CLRs next year in areas clustered with SDUs. They are expected to benefit about 1 300 target households, serving about 200 000 attendances a year. Including the four CLRs already launched, they are expected to serve about 3 050 SDU households, drawing about 470 000 attendances a year;(iii) enhancing the School‑based After‑School Care Service Scheme – Beginning this school year, the number of primary schools covered by the Scheme will increase from 50 to over 110, enabling students in need to stay at school outside school hours for care and learning support, allowing their parents to take up jobs. Subject to actual utilisation and outcome of the scheme, we plan to encourage more schools to participate in the scheme, without capping the number of places, in the 2025/26 school year; and(iv) subsidising elderly recipients of the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) to reside in residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs) in the Guangdong Province – We will launch a three‑year pilot scheme next year to subsidise elderly CSSA recipients retiring in Guangdong to reside in designated RCHEs in the Guangdong Province. Each eligible elderly person will receive a monthly subsidy of $5,000, subject to a quota of 1 000.Care for the Elderly195. The Government attaches great importance to caring for the elderly in need and has been constantly strengthening elderly services. The total number of vouchers under the Residential Care Service Voucher Scheme for the Elderly will be increased by 20% to 6 000, allowing more frail elderly persons to be admitted to RCHEs of their choice and receive subsidised care services without waiting.196. We will enhance the Residential Care Services Scheme in Guangdong to provide more choices and support for elderly persons who opt to stay in RCHEs in the province. Relevant measures include:(i) increasing the number of participating RCHEs from the existing 4 to 11 in November 2024;(ii) sharing part of the elderly participants’ medical expenses in Guangdong; and(iii) engaging organisations to provide care services for participating elderly persons to help them adapt to living in Guangdong.197. We are providing, through the Special Scheme to Import Care Workers for RCHs, additional manpower support for local residential care homes (RCHs) and enhancing their staff quality. We are also conducting a holistic review of the skill and qualification requirements of RCH staff providing health and rehabilitation services, including the creation of promotion ranks for incumbent health workers and the relaxation of the academic qualification for the Certificate in Progression Training for Care Workers programme. The review is expected to be completed by the end of this year.198. The Government is also discussing with the banking sector possible ways to enable Hong Kong elderly persons retiring in Guangdong and Fujian Provinces to receive portable cash assistance from the Government more conveniently through banks.Support Carers199. The Government is committed to supporting carers. In addition to providing carers’ allowance, respite services, a one‑stop information gateway and the 24‑hour Designated Hotline for Carer Support 182 183, we launched the District Services and Community Care Teams – Pilot Scheme on Supporting Elderly and Carers in Tsuen Wan and Southern District this March. Trained by the SWD, Care Teams of the two districts identify and reach out to households in need, and provide support to the elderly and carers who seek help from the Designated Hotline. The scheme has achieved good results. In the past six months, the Care Teams visited 4 700 families and referred about 900 cases to social welfare organisations for follow‑up. Next year, we will extend the scheme to across the territory, supporting elderly persons and carers in all 18 districts.200. We will also explore the setting up of an inter‑disciplinary and inter‑organisation database. It will cover carers of elderly persons and carers of persons with disabilities (PWDs) and the use of identification tools designed by university teams for the detection of high‑risk cases and early intervention and support.Strengthen Support for Persons with Disabilities201. We will further enhance the rehabilitation services for PWDs, including:(i) establishing 14 Integrated Community Rehabilitation Centres across the city with the provision of 1 280 additional service places, to support PWDs based on their individual needs and rehabilitation progress through an integrated, case‑management approach;(ii) creating 90 additional peer‑support posts to enhance peer assistance for PWDs and their carers;(iii) setting up an additional District Support Centre for PWDs in New Territories East; and(iv) providing about 1 040 additional places for day, residential and pre‑school rehabilitation services, and exploring the establishment of Special Child Care Centres on vacant kindergarten premises.202. To encourage and support PWDs to engage in employment, the Government will introduce the “Caring Employer” medal, commending employers who actively engage PWDs; promote the establishment of more social enterprises engaging PWDs; and enhance the services and training models of sheltered workshops and integrated vocational rehabilitation services centres, building a better vocational rehabilitation and training ladder for PWDs.Promote Women’s Development203. There are many women in Hong Kong playing leading roles. To promote women’s workplace development, we will establish a network run by leading women from all walks of life and launch a mentorship programme “She Inspires”. Under the programme, female university students will be paired with mentors from the senior management of different sectors.Support Working Parents204. To support working parents, I announced the setting up of 10 aided, standalone, child care centres last year. The Government will set up one more child care centre providing 100 additional places for day child care services. Service places under the Neighbourhood Support Child Care Project will be increased by 25%, to 2 500, with the estimated number of beneficiaries increasing to 25 000.Protect Children205. The LegCo has enacted the Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse Ordinance to require professionals in the social welfare, education and healthcare sectors to report serious child‑abuse cases. To strengthen parental education, the SWD will launch a pilot scheme to set up four Community Parents and Children Centres to promote parent‑child interaction and pass on positive‑parenting skills to parents through play‑based services, supporting families in need.Provide Support for Ethnic Minorities206. To help ethnic minorities (EMs) better integrate into the community, I announced the setting up of two additional support‑service centres for EMs last year, which will begin operation by the end of this year. The Government will engage one more support service centre to provide interpretation and translation services for EMs next year, reducing language barrier concerns. The EDB will strengthen Chinese learning support and parental assistance for non‑Chinese speaking (NCS) students (including EM students), providing after‑school Chinese‑language courses, enhancing the Online Chinese Language Self‑learning Resources and organising cross‑school, teacher‑learning communities. The EDB will also provide parental education activities for the parents of NCS children.Care Teams207. Care Teams are the Government’s key service teams under the improved district governance structure. Fully launched across the city last year, all 452 Care Teams have been working diligently and providing a wide range of caring and support services for the community. To date, they have visited about 230 000 elderly households and other households in need, and provided over 22 000 counts of simple household care or other support services. Their service have been well‑received by the public. The Government will regularise the funding provision for Care Teams and increase funding by 50% in the next term of service in support of their work.(To be continued.)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE’s speech in delivering “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” to LegCo (9)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

VIII. Improve People’s Livelihood in Pursuit of Happiness (A) Housing: Continuously Enhance Speed, Quantity, Quality and EfficiencyIncrease Public Housing Supply157. Housing is an issue of great public concern. Despite the relatively slow pace of creating land for housing development in the past, the problem of back‑loaded public housing supply has started to turn around through the unremitting efforts of the Government. While we have identified land for providing sufficient public housing units to meet the long‑term demand and enhanced the speed as well as efficiency of housing development, land creation and housing construction take time. To bridge the short‑term supply gaps in these few years, I announced in 2022 the introduction of the innovative LPH with the provision of 30 000 units, in order to reduce the Composite Waiting Time for Subsidised Rental Housing (CWT).158. This measure has been bearing fruit. Coupled with LPH, the total public housing supply in the coming five years (2025‑26 to 2029‑30) will reach 189 000 units, which is about 80% higher than that of the first five‑year period since the current‑term Government took office (2022‑23 to 2026‑27). In the past two years, the average waiting time for PRH dropped by half a year, from the peak of 6.1 years to the current 5.5 years. Following the gradual completion of LPH next year, the CWT could be shortened by one and a half years to 4.5 years in 2026‑27.159. I am eager to house PRH applicants as early as possible. The Advance Allocation Scheme I proposed when I took office has so far helped more than 2 000 families move in their flats five to nine months in advance, saving nearly $50 million of rental expenditure on the part of the beneficiaries. By 2027‑28, about 10 000 additional units will be completed, enabling PRH applicants to move in earlier than originally anticipated.160. In addition, the first batch of some 2 100 LPH units, located on Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long, will be completed for intake in the first quarter of next year. We expect to complete a total of about 9 500 units next year, moving towards the target of completing about 30 000 units by 2027‑28.Devise a System on the Renting of Subdivided Units in Residential Buildings to Tackle the Issue161. The Task Force on Tackling the Issue of SDUs has already submitted a report. The Government has decided to put in place, through legislation, a system on the renting of SDUs in residential buildings. SDUs meeting the required standards will be named as Basic Housing Units.162. Current SDUs differ significantly in their conditions regarding fire safety, ventilation, floor area, availability of individual kitchens and toilets and whether they are separated or combined, among others. As such, it is necessary to set minimum standards to eradicate inadequate SDUs. At present, there are some 110 000 households living in SDUs, indicating a genuine demand for these units. As the aggregate rent received from several units subdivided from a single flat is much higher than the rent of one whole flat without subdivision, it gives owners a strong financial incentive to operate rental SDUs. Under appropriate regulation, the market demand for SDUs will be satisfied by Basic Housing Units that meet the required standards.163. Substandard SDUs in residential buildings must be converted into Basic Housing Units that meet the required standards. Upon conversion, these units must be confirmed by professionals their compliance with the required standards and apply for recognition. Otherwise, there would be criminal liability on the part of owners to rent out substandard SDUs, while the tenants concerned will not be held liable. We will allow time for owners of existing SDUs in residential buildings to carry out the necessary works. A grace period will be prescribed by law, during which enforcement actions will not be taken against the illegal renting of substandard SDUs. To this end, the Government will set up a registration system, enabling registered owners to be entitled to the grace period. The registration system only accepts applications from owners of pre‑existing SDUs in residential buildings under rental. New SDUs entering the market must apply for recognition as up‑to‑standard Basic Housing Units before renting out, hence no grace period is needed for their conversion. Given that only new SDUs recognised as up‑to‑standard Basic Housing Units are allowed to be rented out, and that pre‑existing registered SDUs must be converted into Basic Housing Units in conformity with the required standards or they will face orderly eradication if the owners concerned continue to rent out substandard SDUs illegally after the grace period, the number of substandard SDUs in residential buildings will gradually go down to zero.164. The Government will allow an adequate grace period for pre‑existing SDU owners and households to make necessary arrangements, and handle SDUs in residential buildings by batches in an orderly manner having regard to the market supply of Basic Housing Units and taking into consideration the supply of and policy on public housing. The Secretary for Housing will be empowered by law to decide, upon expiry of the grace period, when to take enforcement actions against substandard SDUs by batches in an orderly manner in light of actual circumstances.165. The Government proposes that the standards of “Basic Housing Units” should include the provision of windows, an individual toilet, a floor area of no less than 8 square metres, etc. The Deputy Financial Secretary and the Secretary for Housing, being the head and deputy head of the Task Force respectively, will announce the details and seek the views of the LegCo and stakeholders for drawing up the legislative proposals and related measures, such as the timetable for registration.Enhance the Housing Ladder166. The HKHA will further enhance the housing ladder in addressing the aspiration of the public for home ownership, including:(i) adjusting the ratio between PRH (including Green Form Subsidised Home Ownership Scheme (GSH) units) and subsidised sale flats (SSF) – The HKHA is reviewing public housing projects to be completed in the middle or near the end of the next decade, with an aim to gradually adjust the ratio between PRH and SSF from the current 7:3 to 6:4;(ii) increasing the chance of applicants who have made repeated attempts to purchase SSF – Starting from the next GSH and HOS sale exercises, an extra ballot number will be allocated to applicants who failed to purchase an SSF in the last two consecutive sale exercises of the same type of SSF; and(iii) expediting the circulation of PRH units – The HKHA will tighten up the Well‑off Tenants Policies by raising the additional rent and lowering the income limits for well‑off tenants, so that public resources are appropriately allocated to applicants in need. Meanwhile, the ratio between Green Form and White Form in respect of HOS flats will be revised from 4:6 to 5:5 to encourage more PRH tenants to buy HOS flats.Combat Public Rental Housing Tenancy Abuse167. In recent years, the HKHA has been strengthening its efforts to combat PRH tenancy abuse. The number of PRH flats recovered by the HKHA due to tenancy abuse and breach of tenancy agreement or housing policies over the last two years adds up to 5 000, equivalent to building a medium‑sized housing estate. The results are prominent. The HKHA will launch the “Cherish Public Housing Resources Award Scheme” in January next year to offer rewards to persons who provide concrete intelligence that leads to identification of substantiated tenancy abuse of PRH.Take Forward Public Rental Housing Redevelopment168. The HKHA is proceeding with 11 redevelopment projects. We will announce the findings and details of the study on the redevelopment of Choi Hung Estate later this year, and release the redevelopment plans for Sai Wan Estate and Ma Tau Wai Estate next year.Stabilise the Supply of Spade-ready Sites for Private Housing169. According to the Long Term Housing Strategy, the supply target for private housing in the coming decade is projected to be 132 000 units. The Government will make available land over the next five years to provide about 80 000 private housing units.Relax the Maximum Loan-to-Value Ratios of Property Mortgage Loans170. Taking into account the latest economic and financial environment and on the basis that the stability of the banking system is maintained, the HKMA will adjust the maximum loan‑to‑value ratio for residential properties to 70%, regardless of the value of the properties, whether the properties are for self‑use or held by companies, and whether the purchasers are first‑time home buyers, while the maximum debt servicing ratio will be adjusted to 50%. For non‑residential properties, the maximum loan‑to‑value ratio and maximum debt servicing ratio will be adjusted to the respective same levels.Further Improve Building Safety and Building Management171. Through the Building Management Professional Advisory Service Scheme, the Home Affairs Department assisted in the formation of about 100 owners’ corporations in the past two years in nine districts with more “three‑nil” buildings. The scheme has been expanded to cover all districts across the city in mid‑2024, with the contract period extended to three years.172. Next year, the Government will implement a pilot scheme on “joint property management” in selected areas, under which the same property management company will be engaged to provide joint management services for aged building clusters in the vicinity, enabling “three‑nil” and aged buildings to have access to basic property management services at affordable fees.173. To enhance deterrence against failure to comply with notices or orders by required time and against the erection of large‑scale unauthorised building works (UBWs), the Government will put forth proposals to amend the Buildings Ordinance and launch a public consultation later this year. Among other things, we will propose increasing the types of exempted works and minor works under the Buildings Ordinance, so as to handle minor illegal structures of lower risks in a pragmatic manner. The relevant legislative amendment proposals will be introduced in 2026.174. To foster an elderly‑friendly building environment, the Government will put forward a series of proposals on elderly‑friendly building design for phased implementation.(B) Create Land to Build More Housing175. The Government remains determined to sustain efforts in land production. We will assess the situation and take forward various projects in a steady and paced manner. According to the latest forecast, the supply of developable land, i.e. spade‑ready sites, from Government‑led projects will reach about 3 000 hectares in the next decade. The Government will take into account the latest market changes when disposing land, ensuring a stable and healthy development of the market.Cut More Red Tapes and Lower Costs176. The Government is making vigorous efforts in streamlining land development procedures. We have promulgated an internal circular, expressly stating that all approving departments are required to take a facilitating role and strive to streamline the relevant procedures when processing applications. The initiative is well‑received by the industry. We will continue to cut red tapes and streamline procedures. Relevant measures include:(i) leveraging industry resources to enhance speed and efficiency – We will outsource drone inspections of external walls of buildings and UBWs as well as associated analyses, to private companies. We will also engage professionals to handle the vetting work of small‑scale or temporary structures through self‑certification;(ii) reducing construction costs – We will strengthen the role of the Project Strategy and Governance Office under the DEVB to complete a strategic study on construction costs by the end of this year and propose improvement measures such as increasing direct procurement of construction materials and products by the Government, reviewing the building design standards, and facilitating local application of cost‑effective construction materials and technologies from the Mainland and overseas; and(iii) expanding project co‑ordination – We will expand the purview of the Development Projects Facilitation Office under the DEVB to facilitate co‑ordination with departments in expediting the approval of land use and related matters for the development of I&T and other industries in the Northern Metropolis, in addition to vetting of large‑scale private residential and commercial developments.Facilitate R&D and Application of Construction Technologies and Align Hong Kong Standards with Guobiao177. The DEVB established the Building Technology Research Institute (BTRi) this August. Apart from conducting R&D on innovative materials, construction methods and technologies, the BTRi also devises standards, conducts testing and provides accreditation to spearhead innovation in the industry. A Modular Integrated Construction (MiC) Manufacturer Certification Scheme will also be launched in synergy with production bases in the Mainland, so as to leverage the complementarity of the construction industries in Guangdong and Hong Kong.178. We will also review and enhance Hong Kong’s building standards, which have been in place for many years, through the BTRi by making reference to overseas building standards and Guobiao (GB), with a view to promoting local application of high‑quality and cost‑effective construction materials from the Mainland and overseas. Moreover, when high‑quality GB construction materials and technologies are applied locally, it will also be beneficial for GB to explore international markets. We will also closely liaise with our counterparts in the Guangdong Province to take forward the formulation of the GBA Construction Standards.179. The HKHA will make wider use of MiC 2.0, the second generation MiC approach jointly developed with research institutions, and streamline the on‑site installation procedures to safeguard construction safety. Tender documents will also expressly state the works procedures permissible for the use of construction robotics to enhance site safety and construction efficiency.Commence the Environmental Impact Assessment Process for Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands180. The Government will take forward the Kau Yi Chau Artificial Islands project in a steady and prudent manner. We will commence the statutory environmental impact assessment (EIA) process for the reclamation works under the project by the end of this year. The target is to complete the relevant approval procedures next year. The related detailed engineering design will commence later this year.Expedite Urban Redevelopment181. The Urban Renewal Authority is conducting planning studies for Tsuen Wan and Sham Shui Po, and will submit renewal master plans in the second half of next year. Meanwhile, the DEVB is examining the use of newly developed land to drive large‑scale urban redevelopment projects, including the cross‑district transfer of plot ratios and the construction of more dedicated rehousing estates, etc. The target is to formulate proposals in the first half of next year.182. To continue encouraging redevelopment and conversion of aged industrial buildings, we will extend an array of measures, which are expiring soon under the revitalisation scheme for industrial buildings, to the end of 2027, continuing to allow an increase in plot ratio of up to 20% for industrial building redevelopment projects.(To be continued.)

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: I&T will drive city’s development: CE

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Delivering his 2024 Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee said today that Hong Kong must harness new quality productive forces and technological innovation as it seeks to achieve high-quality economic development.

Mr Lee outlined that in its efforts to become an international centre for innovation and technology (I&T), the city is upgrading and transforming traditional industries, while actively nurturing emerging ones. He vowed that no effort will be spared in developing new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions.

Measures announced in Mr Lee’s speech include the drawing up of a development plan for new industrialisation, the setting up of a third InnoHK research cluster, a new round of $1.5 billion in funding under the Research Matching Grant Scheme, a revamping of the Government’s approach to I&T investment, and the launch of an I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme.

Besides drawing up a medium to long‑term development plan for new industrialisation, Mr Lee said the Government will also press ahead with the establishment of the Hong Kong New Industrialisation Development Alliance. He explained that this will promote closer collaboration among the Government, industry, academia, and the research and investment sectors, expand financing opportunities, and foster I&T co‑operation between newly‑listed companies and local universities.

In terms of research and development (R&D), Mr Lee highlighted that preparatory work is underway to establish a third InnoHK research cluster. He mentioned that the existing two such clusters are now home to about 2,500 R&D personnel from Hong Kong and around the world, and iterated that the new cluster will focus on advanced manufacturing, materials, energy and sustainable development.

In addition to the new round of funding under the Research Matching Grant Scheme, which encourages organisations to support research endeavours by institutions, Mr Lee pledged that the Government will increase its own investment in I&T industries and guide more market capital to invest in the sector. This will include setting up a $10 billion I&T Industry‑Oriented Fund, a “fund of funds” that will channel market capital to invest in emerging industries of strategic importance, including life and health technology, AI and robotics, semi‑conductors and smart devices, advanced materials, and new energy.

The Chief Executive added that $1.5 billion from the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund will be redeployed to set up funds that will invest – jointly with the market, on a matching basis – in start‑ups operating in strategic industries. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Investment Corporation will continue to channel and leverage market capital to attract I&T enterprises to establish operations in Hong Kong.

Announcing plans to allocate $180 million to establish an I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme, Mr Lee said it will offer institutions government funding on a one-to-two matching basis, with a subsidy ceiling of $30 million. He explained that the scheme will attract professional start‑up service providers to set up accelerator bases in Hong Kong, thereby fostering the robust growth of start‑ups.

Mr Lee also outlined plans to unlock the potential of Hong Kong’s low-altitude airspace economy. A working group led by the Deputy Financial Secretary will be established to formulate development strategies and action plans for this issue, and will collaborate with Mainland authorities in exploring the joint establishment of low‑altitude cross‑boundary air routes, as well as immigration and customs clearance arrangements. It will also carry out studies and make plans for the establishment of effective systems, networks and infrastructure for managing low-altitude activities.

With regard to Low Earth Orbit satellites, Mr Lee announced that the Government will conduct a study aimed at streamlining vetting procedures in relation to licence applications for their operation. He also revealed that the Government will set up a research centre to participate in the Chang’E‑8 lunar mission.

In relation to new energy development, around $750 million under the New Energy Transport Fund will be earmarked to subsidise the taxi trade and franchised bus companies to purchase electric vehicles, and to launch the Subsidy Scheme for Trials of Hydrogen Fuel Cell Electric Heavy Vehicles.

Mr Lee added that the Government will speed up the reduction of carbon emissions by setting a target for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) consumption, and formulate a long-term plan for the development of SAF and green maritime fuel supply chains. Furthermore, it will support industry in establishing a solar-to-hydrogen demonstration facility, and introduce a bill next year to ensure the safe use of hydrogen fuel.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-Evening Report: Charles III will be the first king of Australia to visit our shores. He could also be the last

Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Jess Carniel, Associate professor in Humanities, University of Southern Queensland

King Charles III and Queen Camilla’s upcoming visit to Australia is significant for several reasons. It is Charles’ first visit since ascending to the throne – as well as the first time a British male head of state has visited Australia.

Some observers are also wondering whether it might be one of the last royal tours, as debates about Australia potentially becoming a republic are reignited.

As the monarchy tries to “modernise” alongside growing support for republicanism, this visit will be one to watch.

The curse of the Antipodes?

As Prince of Wales, Charles had a long and successful track record of royal tours to Australia, having visited 16 times. The visits included a term attending Geelong Grammar School in 1966, as well as the 1983 tour with Princess Diana that saw Australians caught up in Di-mania – and Charles reportedly gripped by jealousy.

But Charles’ royal predecessors weren’t as lucky in their trips down under. His own grandfather, King George VI, planned to visit Australia in the late 1940s with Queen Elizabeth and Princess Margaret, but the tour was postponed due to his poor health. While he had previously visited as the Duke of York, George VI never made it here as king.

King George VI was born in 1895 and reigned from 1936 until his death in 1952.
Wikimedia

The very first royal visit to Australia – Prince Alfred’s 1867 tour – had all appearance of being cursed. One of his crew members drowned during the first stop in South Australia. Several more people died in a major fire accident and a Catholic-Protestant skirmish in Melbourne.

Most memorably – certainly for Alfred – was an assassination attempt on the prince in Sydney. This, interestingly, is an experience King Charles has also had.

Read more:
Royal visits to Australia can be disaster magnets. In the first one, the prince barely made it out alive

During Charles’ 1994 visit, student protester David Kang fired blanks from a starter pistol in protest of Australia’s treatment of Cambodian refugees. The then Prince of Wales wasn’t harmed and Kang went on to become a barrister.

For non-British royals, however, Sydney has been a lucky location. King Frederick X’s decidedly modern romance with Tasmania-born Queen Mary famously began when they met at a bar during the Sydney Olympics in 2000.

Prince or king – does it matter?

This will be Charles’ seventeenth visit to Australia, but his first as reigning monarch. This means he is visiting not on behalf of the head of state, but as the head of state.

The royal couple’s planned Australian engagements are as strategic as they are symbolic. They reflect carefully curated and ostensibly “non-political” issues such as environmental sustainability, cancer research and family violence.

The visit also includes a meeting with Indigenous representatives. Notably, it is the first royal tour to not use the term “walkabout” to describe public meet-and-greets, as this term had been criticised as cultural appropriation.

It seems Charles’ modernised monarchy is seeking to distance itself from overtly colonial language – as much as a foreign monarchy can, anyway. The king has yet to respond to Indigenous leaders calling for an apology for British colonisers’ genocides of First Nations peoples.

Read more:
Should King Charles apologise for the genocide of First Nations people when he visits Australia?

Although the Australian media has focused on the stops in Canberra and Sydney, the main purpose of the tour is for the king to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa between October 21 and 26.

It is the first time the meeting will be hosted by a Pacific Island state. The talks are an important opportunity for the king to highlight issues such as climate change, to which small island states in the Pacific are particularly vulnerable.

Are people happy about the visit?

All six state premiers have declined their invitations to meet the king at his welcome reception in Canberra, citing other commitments. Their excuses might be genuine in some cases. For example, Queensland Premier Steven Miles is in the last few weeks of an election campaign.

However, critics from the monarchist camp have viewed the move as a political response to debates over whether Australia should remain a constitutional monarchy with the king as its head of state.

A YouGov Australia poll published on the first anniversary of Charles’s ascension showed Australians are divided on republicanism. While 32% want to become a republic “as soon as possible”, 35% preferred to remain a constitutional monarchy and 12% wanted to become a republic after the king’s death. The remaining respondents didn’t know.

Notably, the poll found republican sentiment had increased since Queen Elizabeth II’s death in September 2022.

The Albanese government established an assistant minister for the republic upon entering office in 2022 (although the portfolio was abolished with this year’s reshuffle). Upon taking the role, assistant minister Matt Thistlethwaite suggested the “twilight of [Queen Elizabeth’s] reign” presented “a good opportunity for a serious discussion about what comes next for Australia”.

Charles doesn’t seem to be taking all this too personally. In a letter responding to the Australian Republican Movement in March this year, his private secretary said the king viewed this as “a matter for the Australian public to decide”.

The royal tour and the meeting in Samoa will be important opportunities for the monarchy to connect with Australia and other Commonwealth nations.

By presenting itself as a modern institution engaged with contemporary issues such as climate change, the monarchy will also have to engage with the possibility of new political identities for its former colonies.

Jess Carniel does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

– ref. Charles III will be the first king of Australia to visit our shores. He could also be the last – https://theconversation.com/charles-iii-will-be-the-first-king-of-australia-to-visit-our-shores-he-could-also-be-the-last-241345

MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI: ‘PROJECT 7’ by SLL’s STUDIO SLAM Shatters 100 Million Views across Multiple Platforms

Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

SEOUL, KOREA, Oct. 16, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — The first-ever idol assembly and enhancement audition in Korea, PROJECT 7, has reached a staggering milestone, achieving over 100 million total views across multiple platforms in a phenomenal surge of popularity.

– STUDIO SLAM, the mastermind behind Culinary Class Wars, proves its global fanbase with PROJECT 7

– Views skyrocketing on YouTube, Instagram, X, TikTok, and more, igniting an online frenzy

PROJECT 7 (produced by STUDIO SLAM, SLL) is a groundbreaking idol audition program that introduces the concept of “assembly and enhancement.” It allows viewers to directly vote for and select participants from the very first round, building new teams while watching their favorite contestants grow through each stage. For SLL, PROJECT 7 marks its first venture into the music industry through an investment in the program’s IP, adding even greater significance to its success.

STUDIO SLAM, the powerhouse behind the global hit survival show Culinary Class Wars, which dominated not only Korea but the world, is responsible for producing PROJECT 7. This has fueled growing anticipation for the show. STUDIO SLAM, a label under the global creative studio SLL, has rapidly evolved into a dominant force in audition entertainment.

Since the release of the second teaser on September 19, PROJECT 7 has captured audiences’ attention. On October 15, the total number of views for content across YouTube, Instagram, X, TikTok, and other platforms hit a jaw-dropping 100,128,164 views, proving the show’s massive popularity even before its official premiere.

One of the key drivers of this explosive growth has been the short-form content introducing the contestants, such as the “Up to You Title Song Self-Introduction Shorts,” which showcased the unique appeal of each contestant. These clips racked up the highest number of views across all platforms, igniting momentum. The “Profile Cut Images” of the contestants, who beat fierce competition to secure their spots, also added to the surge in views, highlighting the diverse personalities of the participants.

In addition, the program’s innovative planning and fresh approach have been demonstrated through the “Personal PR Shorts,” the “Heart Assembly Challenge Shorts,” the “Up to You Title Song” stage performance, and the contestants’ “Personal Fancam Videos,” all of which have recorded overwhelming numbers.

Not just in Korea, but globally, K-pop fans have been watching PROJECT 7 content on repeat and flooding the comment sections with enthusiastic reactions. With the program’s total view count now surpassing 100 million, all eyes are on how far the skyrocketing popularity of PROJECT 7 will go.

The production team expressed their gratitude, saying, “We are incredibly thankful for the passionate support and interest in PROJECT 7 even before its premiere. We are doing our best to meet the expectations of fans who love the show. Don’t miss the first broadcast on Friday, October 18.”

Meanwhile, the first-ever idol assembly and enhancement audition show, JTBC’s PROJECT 7, will air its first and second episodes consecutively on Friday, October 18, starting at 8:50 PM.

About SLL

SLL is a complete content studio that oversees the entire value chain of the content business, from story planning and development to production, investment, and distribution, opening new horizons for K-content. From top-tier dramas like SKY Castle, The World of the Married, Reborn Rich, Hellbound, D.P., All of Us Are Dead, Narco-Saints, and Big Bet, to films and variety shows like The Roundup series, Sing Again, and Culinary Class Wars, SLL has led the trends with high-quality works, regardless of platform or format.

With over 200 key creators and 15 labels, SLL has produced more than 150 pieces of content and continues to expand its global content competitiveness.

Social Links

X: https://www.x.com/sll_official_

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sll_official

Media Contact

Brand: SLL

Contact: PR Team

Email: lee.eunhye2@sll.co.kr

Website: https://www.sll.co.kr

SOURCE: SLL

The MIL Network –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Banking: Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Digital of Malaysia

Source: ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today met with H.E. Gobind Singh Deo, Minister of Digital of Malaysia, on the sidelines of the 9th ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity. During their bilateral meeting, they discussed key digital priorities agenda during Malaysia’s upcoming Chairmanship of ASEAN in 2025.

The post Secretary-General of ASEAN meets with the Minister of Digital of Malaysia appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Joint Statement of The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for The Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024

Source: ASEAN

We, Brunei Darussalam, the Kingdom of Cambodia, the Republic of Indonesia, the Lao People’s Democratic Republic, Malaysia, the Republic of Union of Myanmar, the Republic of the Philippines, the Republic of Singapore, the Kingdom of Thailand and the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam, join our hands as One ASEAN on the occasion of the Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction 2024 (APMCDRR 2024), in Manila, the Philippines.
We reaffirm our strong commitment to the full and effective implementation of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) 2015-2030. We will persist in our dedicated efforts to execute the ASEAN Agreement on Disaster Management on Emergency Response (AADMER) Work Programme 2021-2025 which has been aligned with the SFDRR, leverage the Midterm Review of the SFDRR and implement the Asia-Pacific Action Plan 2024-2027 to further enhance disaster risk reduction and build disaster resilience in the ASEAN region.
Download the full statement here.
The post Joint Statement of The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) for The Asia-Pacific Ministerial Conference on Disaster Risk Reduction (APMCDRR) 2024 appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI USA: Renters in South Carolina Can Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

Source: US Federal Emergency Management Agency

Headline: Renters in South Carolina Can Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

Renters in South Carolina Can Apply for FEMA Assistance After Hurricane Helene

FEMA assistance is available to renters, including students, with uninsured losses from Hurricane Helene in Abbeville, Aiken, Allendale, Anderson, Bamberg, Barnwell, Beaufort, Cherokee, Chester, Edgefield, Fairfield, Greenville, Greenwood, Hampton, Jasper, Kershaw, Laurens, Lexington, McCormick, Newberry, Oconee, Orangeburg, Pickens, Richland, Saluda, Spartanburg, Union and York counties and the Catawba Indian Nation.

FEMA may be able to help renters as well as homeowners with serious needs, displacement, temporary lodging, basic home repair costs, personal property loss or other disaster-caused needs.

The quickest way to apply is to go online to DisasterAssistance.gov. You can also apply in person at a Disaster Recovery Center where you can meet with representatives of FEMA, the state of South Carolina and the U.S. Small Business Administration. No appointment is needed. To find center locations, go to fema.gov/drc or text “DRC” and a Zip Code to 43362.

You can also apply using the FEMA App for mobile devices or by calling toll-free 800-621-3362. The telephone line is open every day and help is available in many languages. If you use a relay service, such as Video Relay Service (VRS), captioned telephone or other service, give FEMA your number for that service. For a video with American Sign Language, voiceover and open captions about how to apply for FEMA assistance, select this link.

FEMA programs are accessible to survivors with disabilities and others with access and functional needs.

kwei.nwaogu
Wed, 10/16/2024 – 04:42

MIL OSI USA News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Enhancement measures on New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     â€‹As announced in the 2024 Policy Address, with effect from October 16, 2024, an applicant under the New Capital Investment Entrant Scheme (New CIES) is allowed to invest in residential properties, provided that the transaction price of a single property must be HK$50 million or above. The total investment amount in real estate (the aggregate of all residential and non-residential properties) that counts toward fulfilling the minimum investment threshold is subject to an aggregate cap of HK$10 million.

     Invest Hong Kong has updated the Rules for the New CIES and relevant application documents. Details can be found on the New CIES website (www.newcies.gov.hk/en/resources/scheme-rules-and-documents).

     With regard to the details of allowing investment made through an eligible private company wholly owned by the applicant to be counted toward the value of permissible investment with effect from March 1, 2025, Invest Hong Kong will make a further announcement later.

     For more information of the eligibility criteria and relevant details, please visit the New CIES website (www.newcies.gov.hk/en). For enquiries, please call the enquiry hotline at 3904 3001 or email to newcies@investhk.gov.hk.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Govt intensifies super hub strategy

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

While delivering the 2024 Policy Address, Chief Executive John Lee announced today that the Government has made meticulous plans to strengthen Hong Kong’s position as an international hub for trade, aviation and legal services.

He called attention to the reason behind why his administration is building a high value-added supply chain services centre to serve the Mainland and overseas enterprises, and facilitate their establishment of an offshore trading headquarters in Hong Kong.

“Hong Kong is home to a deep pool of talent and extensive networks in offshore trading and supply chain management, including production chain management, export credit risk management, trade financing, marketing, testing and certification, accounting and other professional services.”

He explained that Invest Hong Kong and the Trade Development Council will set up a mechanism and enhance the interface for attracting Mainland enterprises to establish international or regional headquarters in Hong Kong, providing one-stop, diversified professional advisory services for enterprises in Hong Kong looking to go global.

In an effort to provide greater export protection for enterprises, Mr Lee stated that the Government plans to raise the statutory maximum indemnity percentage of the Hong Kong Export Credit Insurance Corporation to 95%. It also encourages the China Export & Credit Insurance Corporation to establish a presence in Hong Kong.

Another goal includes actively promoting the development of a headquarters economy to bring strategic enterprises from outside Hong Kong and extending the validity period of multiple-entry visas to the Mainland for foreign staff of companies registered in Hong Kong to up to five years.

Additionally, Mr Lee described the Government’s aim of promoting electronic trade financing.

“The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) is experimenting with tokenised electronic bills of lading through its Project Ensemble Sandbox. The goal is to lower fraud risks through the better use of technology and to facilitate the provision of trade financing by financial institutions.

“The HKMA will work with other jurisdictions on a pilot basis to develop mechanisms for trade information transmission, promoting cross-boundary data transfers and the digitalisation of international trade.

“It will also allow potential stablecoin issuers to test blockchain use cases, including solutions for cross-boundary payments through the stablecoin issuer sandbox.”

He added that to enhance financial services with data, the HKMA expects to connect its Commercial Data Interchange with the system of the Land Registry next year to facilitate enhancement of banking services through the better use of data.

In addition to developing the European and American markets, the Chief Executive stressed that the Government will continue to expand Hong Kong’s economic and trade networks, especially with Belt & Road (B&R) countries.

It will do so by further opening up trade in services with the Mainland so as to attract more Hong Kong start-ups, overseas enterprises, and talent from around the world to establish their presence in Hong Kong to tap the Mainland market.

Mr Lee noted that another goal calls for reinforcing the interface of trade mechanisms.

“We will continue to seek early accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership. We are also in investment agreement negotiations with Bangladesh and Saudi Arabia, and plan to begin negotiations with Egypt and Peru.”

To promote liquor trade and boost the development of high value-added industries including logistics and storage, tourism as well as high end food and beverage consumption, the Government will, starting today, reduce the duty rate for liquor with an import price of over $200 from 100% to 10% for the portion above $200, while the duty rate for the portion of $200 and below, as well as liquor with an import price of $200 or below will remain unchanged.

With the Three-Runway System set to be completed this year, Mr Lee highlighted that Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub will be further accentuated.

He made it clear that Hong Kong will fully utilise the capacity of the Three-Runway System.

“The Government will step up efforts in expanding our aviation network by supporting Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) to explore new destinations and flights, particularly enhancing co-operation with civil aviation counterparts from B&R countries.

“In parallel, we will combine the strengths of our airport and Zhuhai Airport to improve the Fly-Via-Zhuhai-Hong Kong direct passenger service and jointly develop international air cargo business for greater synergy.”

Mr Lee lauded the endeavour of expanding the scale of the Airport City to build a world-leading new landmark.

“The Government will plan with Airport Authority Hong Kong (AAHK) for expanding the scale of the Airport City by more than double, building a new, world-leading landmark in the Greater Bay Area among the Airport Island, the Hong Kong Port Island of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge and Tung Chung East New Town.

“New projects will be developed to promote high-end commercial, tourist and leisure activities. These include creating an ecosystem for the arts industry, building the AsiaWorld‑Expo Phase 2, developing a yacht bay with ancillary facilities, opening a food market for imported fresh food and providing more public spaces.”

One more important objective of the Government is to expand cargo capacity through the bay area and enhance advantages of the air cargo industry, Mr Lee stated.

“AAHK is pressing ahead in full steam with the innovative development of a sea-air intermodal cargo‑transhipment mode in collaboration with Dongguan. The initial stage of first-phase construction for the permanent logistics park in Dongguan, the HKIA Dongguan Logistics Park, will be completed by the end of next year, and the cargo-handling capacity will progressively reach one million tonnes per annum.

“Advance planning will be made to commence the second-phase development, introducing more high value-added logistics, cross-boundary e-commerce and courier service facilities.”

While expounding on the Government’s consistent work to promote Hong Kong as a regional centre for international legal and dispute resolution services, the Chief Executive specified that training for international legal talent will commence and promotion of mediation services will be stepped up.

“The International Organization for Mediation will have its headquarters set up in Hong Kong upon adoption and entry into force of the relevant international convention. The Government will enhance the system on local accreditation and disciplinary matters of the mediation profession to further strengthen our role as an international mediation centre.”

Apart from incorporating mediation clauses in government contracts and encouraging private organisations to make reference to and adopt such clauses, Mr Lee stated that the Pilot Scheme on Community Mediation will also be launched to offer more training opportunities for promoting a mediation culture.

As an added bonus, he revealed that the Government is thinking about developing a sports dispute resolution system.

“With the development of sports activities and industry, sports disputes have become increasingly complicated. We will explore establishing a sports dispute resolution system and promote sports arbitration, leveraging the institutional advantages of Hong Kong in dispute resolution.”

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Canadian investigation linked to the Government of India
Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

Statement by Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office on the ongoing Canadian investigation linked to the Government of India
A FCDO spokesperson said:

We are in contact with our Canadian partners about the serious developments outlined in the independent investigations in Canada. The UK has full confidence in Canada’s judicial system. Respect for sovereignty and the rule of law is essential.

The Government of India’s cooperation with Canada’s legal process is the right next step.

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Published 16 October 2024
MIL OSI United Kingdom –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK to be hub for health innovation

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee today identified innovation in the health sector, digitalisation across key industries, and an expansion of the city’s Intellectual Property (IP) trading ecosystem as key drivers of new quality productive forces in Hong Kong.

Delivering his 2024 Policy Address, Mr Lee said the Government will combine technological and institutional innovation to develop Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub, accelerate the development of the digital economy and its integration with the real economy, and take steps to strengthen the city’s position as a regional IP trading centre.

On the first of these ambitions, the Chief Executive pledged to expedite reforms to the approval mechanism for drugs and medical devices, enhance Hong Kong’s clinical trial capabilities on all fronts, and facilitate the translation of innovative biomedical research into clinical applications.

With regard to the approval of drugs, the “1+” mechanism will be extended to all new items, including vaccines and advanced therapy products, and refined to speed up the registration process. Meanwhile, preparatory work will be undertaken for the statutory regulation of medical devices, and timetables will be drawn up for establishing a Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation, the adoption of “primary evaluation”, and measures to facilitate research and development (R&D).

In terms of clinical trial capabilities, Hong Kong will join hands with Shenzhen to establish the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Clinical Trial Collaboration Platform. A Real-World Study and Application Centre will also be established to open up local health and medical databases and promote co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen on the integration of data generated from the “special measure of using Hong Kong-registered drugs and medical devices used in Hong Kong public hospital in the GBA.”

In addition, Mr Lee set forth a number of policies designed to accelerate the digital transformation of industries and promote integration of the digital economy with the real economy.

He outlined that the Government will push forward reforms relating to the digitalisation of enterprises and trade. The Commerce & Economic Bureau is developing a Trade Single Window, a one-stop electronic platform that will allow enterprises to lodge import and export trade documents more conveniently and efficiently.

In the area of fintech, Mr Lee said that the Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau (FTSB) is due to issue a policy statement setting out its position on the application of AI (Artificial Intelligence) in the financial market. The FTSB will also complete the second round of a public consultation on regulatory proposals for over-the-counter trading of virtual assets.

In addition, the Monetary Authority (HKMA) is looking into add-on technology solutions and use cases related to cross-boundary trade settlement on the mBridge platform. It is also exploring the application of real-world asset tokenisation and the use of digital money for interbank settlements, and will work with the FTSB to introduce a bill on the regulation of fiat-referenced stablecoin issuers later this year.

Mr Lee also mentioned efforts by the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) to promote smart construction and management of public rental housing estates. The HKHA has selected 10 such estates as pilot sites for smart estate management, and plans to introduce digital technologies in daily estate management work.

Meanwhile, the Department of Justice will set up an Advisory Group on Promoting the Development of Lawtech to formulate policies and measures on the application of lawtech.

With regard to expansion of Hong Kong’s IP trading ecosystem, Mr Lee highlighted that IP-intensive industries account for about 30% of Hong Kong’s Gross Domestic Product and total employment. He vowed to strengthen the city’s position as a regional IP trading centre in relation to innovation and technology, as well as the creative industries.

Specifically, he said a proposal will be put forward next year to enhance the Copyright Ordinance with regard to AI technology development. A consultation will be launched, also in 2025, on the registered designs regime, and legislative amendments to streamline IP litigation processes will be proposed.

Moreover, the Trade Marks Registry, under the Intellectual Property Department, will next year launch a new AI-assisted image search service for public use.

Mr Lee added that the Government will continue discussions with patent agents and other stakeholders about introducing regulatory arrangements for local patent agency services, with the aim of nurturing professional talent and enhancing service quality.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Banking: Result of the Overnight Variable Rate Reverse Repo (VRRR) auction held on October 16, 2024

Source: Reserve Bank of India

Tenor	1-day
Notified Amount (in ₹ crore)	50,000
Total amount of offers received (in ₹ crore)	38,133
Amount accepted (in ₹ crore)	38,133
Cut off Rate (%)	6.49
Weighted Average Rate (%)	6.49
Partial Acceptance Percentage of offers received at cut off rate	NA

Ajit Prasad
Deputy General Manager
(Communications)

Press Release: 2024-2025/1303

MIL OSI Global Banks –

January 23, 2025

MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Govt to launch committee for talent

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee today revealed that the Government will set up a Committee on Education, Technology & Talents to promote Hong Kong as an international hub for high-calibre talent.

Unveiling a raft of measures aimed at building the city’s capacity in terms of knowledge, talent and opportunities, Mr Lee said in his 2024 Policy Address that “education nurtures our future, technology denotes our strength, and talents lead our development.” Initiatives aimed at promoting Hong Kong’s development as an international centre for post-secondary education and strengthening youth development were also announced.

The Committee on Education, Technology & Talents will be led by the Chief Secretary and will co-ordinate and drive the integrated development of education, technology and talents, expand connections, formulate policies to attract and cultivate talents, and foster the development of technologies.

Highlighting that around 160,000 individuals have come to Hong Kong under the talent admission regime, out of more than 380,000 applicants, Mr Lee stressed that various aspects of it needed to be reformed to cover a projected shortfall of around 180,000 workers across different sectors over the next five years.

Specifically, the Talent List will be updated to cover personnel required for the development of Hong Kong in eight key areas. In addition, the list of universities under the Top Talent Pass Scheme will be expanded to 198 by adding 13 top Mainland and overseas universities. The validity period of the first visas awarded to successful high-income applicants under the scheme will be extended from two to three years.

The General Employment Policy and the Admission Scheme for Mainland Talents and Professionals will be enhanced to attract experienced specialists in specific skilled trades that face acute manpower shortages. A new mechanism will also be introduced under the Quality Migrant Admission Scheme, allowing high-calibre talent to be proactively invited to come to Hong Kong. Moreover, a pilot arrangement that includes graduates from Greater Bay Area (GBA) campuses of Hong Kong universities under Immigration Arrangements for Non-local Graduates will be extended for two years.

Meanwhile, Hong Kong Talent Engage (HKTE) will step up promotion of its online platforms to offer comprehensive information on salaries, taxation, education, visas and more. It will also expand its network of collaborative partners, hold online and in-person job fairs, organise another international talent forum, and conduct overseas promotion.

With regard to promoting Hong Kong’s development as an international hub for post-secondary education, Mr Lee said the Government will set up a Hong Kong Future Talents Scholarship Scheme for Advanced Studies, beginning in the next academic year. The scheme will offer scholarships each year to up to 1,200 local students enrolling in designated postgraduate programmes.

The Chief Executive also announced the creation of the “Study in Hong Kong” brand, explaining that this will involve hosting international education conferences and exhibitions, enhanced collaboration and exchanges between local post-secondary institutions and their counterparts around the world, and increased emphasis on attracting overseas students through scholarships and other incentives.

He added that efforts will be made to improve accommodation for students through a pilot scheme aimed at streamlining the processing of applications to convert hotels and other commercial buildings into student hostels. The Government will also make available suitable sites for the private sector to build new hostels, having regard to market demand.

Also in the educational realm, Mr Lee said a bill will be introduced next year to improve the regulatory and quality assurance mechanisms of self-financing post-secondary institutions. He added that the Government has earmarked over 80 hectares of land in the Northern Metropolis for a Northern Metropolis University Town, and will encourage local post-secondary institutions to develop branded programmes, research collaboration and exchange projects with renowned Mainland and overseas institutions.

The Chief Executive highlighted that following recognition of the Hong Kong Metropolitan University as the city’s first university of applied sciences (UAS), a UAS alliance will be established this year. It will embark on joint promotion and strengthen collaboration with UAS institutions around the world. The Government has allocated a startup fund of $100 million for the alliance.

Mr Lee added that the Government will build a campus for the Vocational Training Council’s newly established Hong Kong Institute of Information Technology.

Meanwhile, the Education Bureau will establish a Steering Committee on Strategic Development of Digital Education to promote digital education, renew the Junior Secondary Science Curriculum and provide support for teachers in using AI in teaching.

In terms of broader support for teachers, the Government will allocate $2 billion to set up a Teacher Professional Development Fund to support the long-term development of the profession. About $470 million will be allocated to enhance the learning and teaching of English, Putonghua and other languages.

Turning to the housing needs of young people, Mr Lee said the Hong Kong Housing Authority will allocate an extra ballot number to young family applicants and one-person applicants under 40 with White Form status for the purchase of Home Ownership Scheme (HOS) flats from the next HOS sale exercise onwards. Starting from the next White Form Secondary Market Scheme (WSM) exercise, the WSM quota will increase by 1,500, with all of the additional places going to young family applicants and one-person applicants under 40.

Moreover, a “Youth Post” hostel and spaces for cultural and arts exchanges will be created for young people at the Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility, and a physical platform for interaction will be set up for “Youth Link” members at the Nam Cheong District Community Centre.

The Government will establish a new interactive space and set up a video studio at the Youth Square in Chai Wan, and launch a new round of the Funding Scheme for Youth Life Planning Activities, which invites NGOs to provide enhanced services and national affairs content. The Hong Kong Jockey Club will contribute $300 million to support these initiatives.

Mr Lee said the GBA Youth Employment Scheme will be enhanced through a relaxation of eligibility requirements, meaning young people aged 29 or under with sub-degrees or higher qualifications will be able to join the scheme. The Youth Employment and Training Programme will also be refined, with the upper age limit for participants rising to 29. Additional workplace attachment opportunities will be provided in the GBA under the programme.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: FDC Chairman welcomes “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” that actively promotes development of arts, culture and creative sectors

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The following is issued on behalf of the Hong Kong Film Development Council:

     The Chairman of the Hong Kong Film Development Council, Dr Wilfred Wong, welcomed “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” delivered today (October 16), which actively promotes the development of the arts, culture and creative sectors.

     Dr Wong expressed his support for the Government’s initiative to promote the development of the arts, culture and creative sectors as industries under an industry-oriented principle, with a view to creating economic impetus for the community and enhancing cultural soft power, including the provision of financial support for the film industry through the Film Development Fund to produce films that promote Chinese culture by incorporating Chinese cultural elements into film productions.

“Chinese culture has a long history and profound connotations. It is one of the unique and rich cultures in the world. As an art form that transcends geographical boundaries, film has extensive influence. It is envisaged that the new measure can, through the power of films, strengthen the promotion of the charm and diversity of Chinese culture and showcase these fine cultural elements to audiences around the world,” said Dr Wong.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI NGOs: Geneva: UN Human Rights Committee to review Pakistan’s human rights records amid ‘rampant rights abuses’

Source: Amnesty International –

Pakistan’s second review under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), to which the country is a state party, is scheduled for this week on 17 and 18 October at the UN Human Rights Committee in Geneva.

“Pakistan’s review comes at a crucial time for the country, as human rights violations and abuses remain rampant,” said Babu Ram Pant, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for South Asia.

“Two blasphemy-related extrajudicial executions by the police, crackdown on protests, enactment of the restrictive Peaceful Assembly and Public Order Act 2024, arbitrary detention and mass arrests of opposition workers and leaders, ban on the Pashtun Tahaffuz Movement, and harassment of human rights defenders like Mahrang Baloch – have all been reported in the duration of past month alone.

“The review presents an opportunity for the Pakistani government to take stock of the state of human rights in the country and implement concrete measures to address the human rights concerns raised during the review.”

The review presents an opportunity for the Pakistani government to take stock of the state of human rights in the country and implement concrete measures.

Babu Ram Pant, Amnesty International’s Deputy Regional Director for South Asia

MIL OSI NGO –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN holds media interview on the sidelines of 9th ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity

Source: ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, engaged in an interview with Manager Online, a leading Thai-language daily newspaper. Dr. Kao discussed the ASEAN key strategies in promoting cooperation among member states in combating growing cyber threats, bridge the digital divide, and advance technological innovation, particularly through the adoption of emerging technologies.

The post Secretary-General of ASEAN holds media interview on the sidelines of 9th ASEAN Ministerial Conference on Cybersecurity appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Build Back Better Sector Guides—Volume 3: Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH)

Source: Asia Development Bank

The Asian Development Bank (ADB) is committed to achieving a prosperous, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable Asia and the Pacific, while sustaining its efforts to eradicate extreme poverty. It assists its members and partners by providing loans, technical assistance, grants, and equity investments to promote social and economic development.

Headquarters

6 ADB Avenue, Mandaluyong City 1550, Metro Manila, Philippines

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE says culture to drive development

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee pledged in this morning’s 2024 Policy Address to promote the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism in Hong Kong, and to foster economic diversification in the city.

Mr Lee shared plans to enhance Hong Kong’s cultural soft power, promote sports development, build Hong Kong into a centre for international sports mega-events, and revitalise the city’s tourism industry. He also outlined initiatives to support small and medium enterprises (SMEs), develop the “silver economy”, and promote the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s agriculture and fisheries industries.

The Chief Executive said that in order to enhance Hong Kong’s role as the world’s East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange and boost its cultural confidence, the Government would deepen institutional reforms to the city’s cultural system, and improve its cultural and economic policies.

Updating the community on the formulation of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau’s (CSTB) Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development, Mr Lee said the CSTB is due to consult the Culture Commission on it and will promulgate the blueprint later this year.

He added that the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency, established in June, is incubating cultural and creative projects with potential for commercialisation through the CreateSmart Initiative, and facilitating more registration of cultural and creative products on the Asia IP Exchange Portal. It is also turning Hong Kong Fashion Design Week into an annual signature event, with a view to establishing Hong Kong as a fashion design hub.

Mr Lee also iterated that the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) Authority is taking the lead on establishing an industry chain for Hong Kong’s arts, cultural and creative industries. He reported that it will promote the creation of a comprehensive arts trading ecosystem; host more major international cultural, creative and commercial events; export more performing arts programmes and exhibitions to the Mainland and overseas on a commercial basis; and brand the WKCD as a must-visit cultural landmark in collaboration with the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB).

On sports development, Mr Lee said the Government will continue to promote sports in the community, support elite sports, enhance the professionalism of Hong Kong athletes and sports teams, maintain Hong Kong as a centre for major international sports events, and develop sports as an industry.

He mentioned that the Hong Kong Sports Institute is reviewing the mechanism for direct financial support of athletes, including those with disabilities, and has set up a committee to oversee the development of sports medicine and sports science. He added that the Government will provide more sports and recreational facilities, including a new swimming complex suitable for hosting international competitions and a new sports arena with fencing facilities.

In terms of sports governance, the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China will conclude its review of the governance and operation of national sports associations (NSAs). Mr Lee also outlined that the Government aims to develop Hong Kong as a host city economy and will make use of the new Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) and other existing venues to host large-scale international competitions so that Hong Kong athletes and teams can compete on home soil.

He added that the KTSP, due to open in the first quarter of 2025, will boost sports development and foster the synergistic development of major sports events, innovative entertainment, dining, conventions and exhibitions, and tourism activities.

With regard to tourism, the Chief Executive said the CSTB will publish its Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0 later this year. It will cover areas such as the development of eco-tourism, and the enhancement of tourism-support measures to encourage more visitor arrivals from the Middle East and Southeast Asia. There will also be efforts to create tourism products around specific themes, such as yachting, pandas and horse racing, build the city’s mega-event tourism economy, promote gastronomy tourism and cruise tourism, and develop “smart tourism” through the application of technologies such as AI (artificial intelligence).

In addition, Mr Lee said the Government will set up a Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots to co-ordinate with the community and develop new tourist hotspots in various districts. It has also proposed to the central authorities that the “multiple-entry” Individual Visit Endorsements for Shenzhen residents be resumed and that the “one trip per week” Individual Visit Endorsements pilot scheme be expanded to cover more cities.

Mr Lee added that starting from today the Government has relaxed the criteria for nationals of Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar in applying for multiple-entry visas for travel or business, and extended the validity period of the visas offered from two years to three.

The Chief Executive also unveiled a number of support measures to address challenges encountered by SMEs. These include re-launching the principal moratorium, meaning that enterprises that borrow under the SME Financing Guarantee Scheme will be allowed to apply for a principal moratorium for up to 12 months. Existing loans already granted under the 80%, 90% and special 100% guarantee products, as well as new loans under the 80% and 90% guarantee products, will be covered.

In addition, $1 billion will be injected into the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales to help SMEs upgrade their business operations and develop new markets, and the scope of Cyberport’s Digital Transformation Support Pilot Programme, which offers SMEs funding for digital transformation on a matching basis, will be expanded to cover the retail and food and beverage sectors.

Mr Lee said the Hong Kong Trade Development Council will formulate plans to set up more Hong Kong Pavilions at Mainland and overseas exhibitions, while an additional provision of $500 million will be allocated for the launch of the Incentive Scheme for Recurrent Exhibitions 2.0, which aims to attract large-scale international exhibitions to Hong Kong.

In terms of the development of a silver economy, the Chief Executive said new products and services must be developed in response to the rapid expansion of the elderly market. The Government will set up a “Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy”, led by the Deputy Chief Secretary, to implement measures to boost elderly-related consumption and support elderly consumers.

Mr Lee reported that the Government will also take forward the Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Import of poultry meat and products from areas in Hungary suspended

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

â€‹The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department announced today (October 16) that in view of a notification from the Ministry of Agriculture of Hungary about outbreaks of highly pathogenic H5N1 avian influenza in Fejér County and Hajdú-Bihar County in Hungary, the CFS has instructed the trade to suspend the import of poultry meat and products from the above-mentioned areas with immediate effect to protect public health in Hong Kong.

A CFS spokesman said that Hong Kong has currently established a protocol with Hungary for the import of poultry meat but not for poultry eggs. According to the Census and Statistics Department, Hong Kong imported about 40 tonnes of frozen poultry meat from Hungary in the first six months of this year.

“The CFS has contacted the Hungarian authority over the issue and will closely monitor information issued by the World Organisation for Animal Health and the relevant authorities on the avian influenza outbreaks. Appropriate action will be taken in response to the development of the situation,” the spokesman said.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Africa: Somalia and Turkey are becoming firm allies – what’s behind this strategy

Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Federico Donelli, Assistant Professor of International Relations, University of Trieste

Turkey has ramped up its partnership with Somalia in recent months. It is helping Somalia defend its waters, and has signed a deal to explore for oil and gas off the east African nation’s coast.

There have also been reports of advanced discussions to have Turkey set up a missile and rocket testing site in Somalia.

These agreements underscore Turkey’s strategic and economic aspirations in the broader Horn of Africa region.

Over the past four years, there has been a steady increase in Turkish partnerships and agreements for the export of defence-related products to the region. This has included the use of Turkish drones in conflict zones, such as Libya and Ethiopia.

I have studied Turkey’s historical and current involvement in Somalia to understand what’s driving Ankara’s policy in the Horn of Africa. In my view, Turkey’s involvement is driven by multiple factors. These include international status-seeking, regional balance and strategic concerns.

The opening of a training facility in Mogadishu has increased Turkey’s strategic depth in the Horn of Africa, projecting the country towards both sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean. And the use of Turkish drones in Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict has shown Turkish defence arrangements have become a factor in local dynamics.

Somalia’s appeal

Turkey’s interest in Somalia dates back to 2010-2011. At the time, Somalia was grappling with the devastating effects of 20 years of civil war, failed international interventions and the emergence of the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabaab terror group. In addition, the country was devastated by a famine that claimed more than 250,000 lives.

Somalia presented Turkey with several opportunities to establish a footprint in a region of high geostrategic value, and to enhance its image in Africa and globally.

First, there was a lack of interest in the country from major international players. Apart from anti-piracy initiatives in the Gulf of Aden and the US focus on the war on terror, international players watched Somalia with a certain detachment.

Turkey saw an opportunity to benefit from taking a leading role in an international crisis scenario.

Read more: Al-Shabaab is just a symptom of Somalia’s tragedy – the causes are still in place

Second, the world’s attention focused on the Arab world. The region was facing a wave of pro-democracy protests dubbed the Arab Spring. Somalia and the suffering of the Somali people were quickly forgotten by the international community.

Turkish policymakers saw the country’s isolation as an opportunity to gain international popularity and visibility on the continent.

Turkey took a multifaceted approach in Somalia. This encompassed humanitarian aid, diplomatic initiatives and economic investment. Turkey also supported state-building efforts and the reconstruction of Somalia’s security apparatus.

Internal dynamics

The financial and political resources that Turkey has invested in Somalia are driven by regional and domestic political considerations.

Regionally, 2016 to 2021 was a period of tension between Turkey, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Somalia and the competition for influence in its politics became one of the main areas of confrontation.

Domestically, Turkey has been able to portray its involvement in a way that’s boosted the ruling party’s standing. In addition, engagement in the Horn of Africa meets the demands of various business groups. This includes construction and defence companies that are close to the ruling political elite.

Intervention in Somalia plays an important role in the narrative of Turkish political elites associated with Turkey’s ruling party, Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi (Justice and Development Party).

The party is a conservative but non-confessional party with Islamist roots. A significant proportion of the party’s supporters consider voluntary charity (sadaqa) to be the duty of a good Muslim. As a result, Turkey’s foreign and domestic interests converged with the government’s policy to support crisis-stricken Muslim communities. This includes those in Somalia. Here, Turkey has framed its involvement as a political and humanitarian success story. The Turkish public views it as such.

Read more: Turkey’s foray into Somalia is a huge success, but there are risks

Turkey has been able to bolster its security and defence ties at a rapid pace. The country’s Savunma Sanayii Başkanlığı (Defence Industry Agency of Turkey) reports directly to the president. Established as a state body in 1985, the agency gained prominence in 2017 when President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had it placed under the direct authority of the presidency.

This has made concluding defence agreements – a key factor of Ankara’s foreign policy – much faster.

Turkey has also used the opportunity to increase its involvement in the energy sector. Ankara has long aspired to play a pivotal role as a major energy hub in the wider region. It has considered establishing exploration operations off the coast of Somalia. Like all emerging powers, Turkey has a thirst for energy. This explains its July 2024 oil and gas exploration deal with Somalia.

Turning point

Ankara’s February 2024 defence agreement marked a significant turning point in Turkey-Somalia cooperation.

The agreement deepens defence ties between the two countries. Under the deal, Turkey has agreed to train and equip the Somali navy. It will also help patrol Somalia’s extensive 3,333-kilometre coastline. Turkey’s focus is on maritime activities. This is a strategic choice largely influenced by the unstable conditions in Somalia, where exerting control over territory is difficult.

Read more: Red Sea politics: why Turkey is helping Somalia defend its waters

The deal is a response to changes in the regional landscape and the ongoing reconfiguration of power dynamics in the Horn of Africa.

This has included:

Somalia’s decision to pursue diplomatic ties and defence agreements with Turkey needs to be understood against this backdrop.

– Somalia and Turkey are becoming firm allies – what’s behind this strategy
– https://theconversation.com/somalia-and-turkey-are-becoming-firm-allies-whats-behind-this-strategy-240578

MIL OSI Africa –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Asian Development Blog: Five Strategic Steps to Unlock Armenia’s Data Center Potential for Economic Growth

Source: Asia Development Bank

Armenia’s data center industry offers significant opportunities for economic growth, with strategic reforms in regulation, financing, and technological innovation playing crucial roles. Addressing infrastructure challenges and fostering public-private partnerships will help position Armenia as a regional digital hub.

Armenia is poised for a digital transformation with the development of its data center industry. This sector holds promise for the country’s digital economy.

Key opportunities such as regulatory considerations, financing strategies, and the need for technological advancements must be embraced to leverage this industry for economic growth and digital innovation.

Armenia’s strategic location, coupled with its growing tech-savvy population and vibrant ICT ecosystem, make it a candidate for becoming a regional data hub. However, the current infrastructure and regulatory environment need improvements to attract international investments and foster local innovation. Addressing these issues is important for Armenia to unlock its potential.

The development of Armenia’s data center industry presents a unique opportunity for the country to enhance its digital presence and drive economic growth.

To overcome these challenges, five steps can be taken:

Regulatory Reforms: Streamlining regulations to facilitate easier entry and operation for data center companies. Simplifying the process for obtaining necessary permits and licenses, as well as creating a more transparent and predictable regulatory framework, can create a more business-friendly environment that attracts both local and international investors.

Financial Incentives: Providing financial support and incentives to attract investments in the data center sector. This could involve infrastructure support and sustainability incentives to companies that invest in building and operating data centers in Armenia. Additionally, exploring the establishment of public-private partnerships to share the financial risks and rewards of developing this critical infrastructure is essential.

Technological Upgrades: Investing in advanced technologies to enhance the efficiency and sustainability of data centers. This includes adopting energy-efficient cooling systems, utilizing renewable energy sources, and implementing cutting-edge data management and security solutions. Staying at the forefront of technological advancements ensures that Armenia’s data centers are competitive and reliable on a global scale.

Public-Private Partnerships: Encouraging collaboration between the government and private sector can drive innovation and growth in Armenia’s data center industry. By leveraging the expertise and resources of both sectors, Armenia can accelerate development and build a more resilient digital economy. Successful examples of such partnerships can be seen in countries like the United Arab Emirates, Singapore, and India.

Capacity Building: Developing a skilled workforce to support the data center industry through training and education programs. Offering specialized courses and certifications in data center management, cybersecurity, and related fields ensures that Armenia has the talent needed to sustain and grow its data center industry over the long term.

The development of the data center industry in Armenia is not just a local issue; it has broader implications for the region.

Successful implementation of these recommendations could position Armenia as a digital hub in Central Asia, attracting international investments and fostering regional cooperation. The ongoing efforts to address these challenges are already showing promising results, with several key players expressing interest in the Armenian market.

Moreover, the growth of the data center industry in Armenia could have a positive ripple effect on other sectors of the economy. For example, the increased demand for high-speed internet and reliable power supply could spur investments in telecommunications and energy infrastructure.

Additionally, the development of data centers could create new opportunities for local MSMEs (such as construction companies, equipment suppliers, and service providers) which are important contributors to economic welfare.

Armenia has the potential to become a center for data-driven innovation and research. By attracting leading technology companies and research institutions, Armenia can foster a vibrant ecosystem of innovation that drives economic growth and improves the quality of life for its citizens. This could include initiatives such as smart city projects, digital health solutions, and advanced manufacturing technologies.

Armenia has a lot of untapped captive renewables that can be harnessed to power these data centers sustainably. By leveraging its abundant solar and wind resources, Armenia can ensure that the growth of its tech sector is both environmentally friendly and economically beneficial. This approach not only mitigates the environmental impact but also positions Armenia as a leader in green technology and sustainable development.

While there are many positive aspects to consider, it is also important to address the potential environmental impact of data centers and the importance of sustainable practices in their development.

Data centers are known for their high energy consumption and carbon footprint, so it is crucial to adopt green technologies and practices to minimize their environmental impact. This includes using renewable energy sources, implementing energy-efficient cooling systems, and adopting sustainable building practices.

Additionally, the role of cybersecurity in ensuring the safety and reliability of data centers is another critical area that needs attention. As data centers store and process vast amounts of sensitive information, they are prime targets for cyberattacks.

Therefore, it is essential to implement robust cybersecurity measures to protect against data breaches, hacking, and other cyber threats. This includes investing in advanced security technologies, conducting regular security audits, and providing cybersecurity training for employees.

Continuous innovation and adaptation are crucial for Armenia’s data center industry. To stay competitive, data centers must adopt the latest technologies, including artificial intelligence and machine learning to enhance efficiency, security, and scalability.

If Armenia successfully addresses these challenges, it could unlock significant economic benefits and position itself as a leader in the digital economy. The future of Armenia’s digital landscape depends on the actions taken today, making it imperative for stakeholders to collaborate and drive the necessary changes.

The development of the data center industry in Armenia presents a unique opportunity for the country to enhance its digital presence and drive economic growth. By addressing the key challenges and implementing the recommended solutions, Armenia can create a thriving data center industry that benefits not only the local economy but also the broader region.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Sony Acquires KinaTrax, Inc. to Expand Its Sports Data Business into Player Performance
Source: Sony
October 16, 2024

Marking a new expansion into the biomechanics and player performance space

Sony Corporation
Hawk-Eye Innovations Limited
Tokyo, Japan / Basingstoke, United Kingdom – Oct. 16, 2024 – Sony Corporation (“Sony”) today announced that Sony welcomed KinaTrax, Inc. (“KinaTrax”), a leader in research-grade markerless motion capture technology for sports that collects in-game biomechanical performance data on athletes, into Sony’s sports businesses through a recent acquisition.

Joining forces with Hawk-Eye Innovations Limited (“Hawk-Eye”), a Sony group company that forms an integral part of Sony’s sports businesses, KinaTrax will bring its trusted biomechanical and analytical expertise, as well as its markerless motion capture technology to Sony’s portfolio and is expected to further create synergy to maximize the use of sports data for athletes, teams, leagues and fans alike.

Hawk-Eye, Beyond Sports and Pulselive form the core foundation of Sony’s sports businesses, with a shared commitment to deliver best-in-class ofﬁciating, broadcast and digital solutions to the sports world around sports data technologies. Welcoming KinaTrax bolsters Sony’s capability to serve important use cases for sports data, such as analysis and biomechanics for coaching, scouting and athletes’ performance.

Rufus Hack, CEO of Hawk-Eye, Pulselive and Beyond Sports stated: “By welcoming KinaTrax into the family, we are excited to further expand our offering, under our mission of unlocking the power and emotion of sport through data. We are incredibly privileged to partner with an overwhelming majority of the top global sports leagues, and this acquisition allows us to broaden our proposition through new biomechanical insights in the critical and growing field of player performance.”

Steven Cadavid, President of KinaTrax also said: “We’re excited to become part of Sony and its sports businesses, and to bring our know-how to complement the powerful tech Hawk-Eye, Pulselive, and Beyond Sports have developed and are delivering today. The future of sports is in deeper data tracking and the creation of smarter insights through innovative technology. With Sony, by enhancing KinaTrax’s expertise in capturing and delivering biomechanical performance data, we aim to contribute to provide sports leagues, teams and players with the best insights to improve performance and pursue success.”

KinaTrax, Inc.

KinaTrax provides professional and collegiate teams with game-changing insights focusing on teams’ most valuable asset: their athletes. The company delivers research-grade markerless motion capture technology that allows teams to collect in-game biomechanical performance data. The camera systems are currently deployed in over 75 stadiums and labs across MLB, MiLB, and NCAA organizations, and are expanding into other sports leagues.

The comprehensive sets of tools for data capture and analysis are operationalized for daily use by players, GMs, coaches, trainers, medical staff, and researchers, providing value that goes beyond traditional scouting, training, and rostering.

About Sony Corporation

Sony Corporation is a wholly owned subsidiary of Sony Group Corporation and is responsible for the Entertainment, Technology & Services (ET&S) business. With the mission to “create the future of entertainment through the power of technology together with creators,” we aim to continue to deliver Kando* to people around the world.
For more information, visit: Sony Corporation – Home

*Kando is a Japanese word that roughly translates to the sense of awe and emotion you feel when experiencing something beautiful and amazing for the first time.

About Hawk-Eye Innovations Limited

Hawk-Eye has been at the forefront of sports officiating and broadcast enhancement technology since 2001. The world’s biggest sporting events trust Hawk-Eye to make the right call when it matters most.

Hawk-Eye’s vision-processing, video replay and creative graphic technologies make sport fairer, safer, more engaging and better informed. Hawk-Eye’s innovations are constantly changing the face of sports officiating, production, content management, and fan engagement in every sport.

Hawk-Eye forms a key part of Sony’s sports businesses with a shared mission to deliver best-in-class officiating, broadcast and digital solutions to the sports world.
MIL OSI Economics –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Global: Somalia and Turkey are becoming firm allies – what’s behind this strategy
Source: The Conversation – Africa – By Federico Donelli, Assistant Professor of International Relations, University of Trieste

Turkey has ramped up its partnership with Somalia in recent months. It is helping Somalia defend its waters, and has signed a deal to explore for oil and gas off the east African nation’s coast.

There have also been reports of advanced discussions to have Turkey set up a missile and rocket testing site in Somalia.

These agreements underscore Turkey’s strategic and economic aspirations in the broader Horn of Africa region.

Over the past four years, there has been a steady increase in Turkish partnerships and agreements for the export of defence-related products to the region. This has included the use of Turkish drones in conflict zones, such as Libya and Ethiopia.

I have studied Turkey’s historical and current involvement in Somalia to understand what’s driving Ankara’s policy in the Horn of Africa. In my view, Turkey’s involvement is driven by multiple factors. These include international status-seeking, regional balance and strategic concerns.

The opening of a training facility in Mogadishu has increased Turkey’s strategic depth in the Horn of Africa, projecting the country towards both sub-Saharan Africa and the Indian Ocean. And the use of Turkish drones in Ethiopia’s Tigray conflict has shown Turkish defence arrangements have become a factor in local dynamics.

Somalia’s appeal

Turkey’s interest in Somalia dates back to 2010-2011. At the time, Somalia was grappling with the devastating effects of 20 years of civil war, failed international interventions and the emergence of the al-Qaeda-linked al-Shabaab terror group. In addition, the country was devastated by a famine that claimed more than 250,000 lives.

Somalia presented Turkey with several opportunities to establish a footprint in a region of high geostrategic value, and to enhance its image in Africa and globally.

First, there was a lack of interest in the country from major international players. Apart from anti-piracy initiatives in the Gulf of Aden and the US focus on the war on terror, international players watched Somalia with a certain detachment.

Turkey saw an opportunity to benefit from taking a leading role in an international crisis scenario.

Read more:
Al-Shabaab is just a symptom of Somalia’s tragedy – the causes are still in place

Second, the world’s attention focused on the Arab world. The region was facing a wave of pro-democracy protests dubbed the Arab Spring. Somalia and the suffering of the Somali people were quickly forgotten by the international community.

Turkish policymakers saw the country’s isolation as an opportunity to gain international popularity and visibility on the continent.

Turkey took a multifaceted approach in Somalia. This encompassed humanitarian aid, diplomatic initiatives and economic investment. Turkey also supported state-building efforts and the reconstruction of Somalia’s security apparatus.

Internal dynamics

The financial and political resources that Turkey has invested in Somalia are driven by regional and domestic political considerations.

Regionally, 2016 to 2021 was a period of tension between Turkey, and Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates. Somalia and the competition for influence in its politics became one of the main areas of confrontation.

Domestically, Turkey has been able to portray its involvement in a way that’s boosted the ruling party’s standing. In addition, engagement in the Horn of Africa meets the demands of various business groups. This includes construction and defence companies that are close to the ruling political elite.

Intervention in Somalia plays an important role in the narrative of Turkish political elites associated with Turkey’s ruling party, Adalet ve Kalkınma Partisi (Justice and Development Party).

The party is a conservative but non-confessional party with Islamist roots. A significant proportion of the party’s supporters consider voluntary charity (sadaqa) to be the duty of a good Muslim. As a result, Turkey’s foreign and domestic interests converged with the government’s policy to support crisis-stricken Muslim communities. This includes those in Somalia. Here, Turkey has framed its involvement as a political and humanitarian success story. The Turkish public views it as such.

Read more:
Turkey’s foray into Somalia is a huge success, but there are risks

Turkey has been able to bolster its security and defence ties at a rapid pace. The country’s Savunma Sanayii Başkanlığı (Defence Industry Agency of Turkey) reports directly to the president. Established as a state body in 1985, the agency gained prominence in 2017 when President Recep Tayyip Erdogan had it placed under the direct authority of the presidency.

This has made concluding defence agreements – a key factor of Ankara’s foreign policy – much faster.

Turkey has also used the opportunity to increase its involvement in the energy sector. Ankara has long aspired to play a pivotal role as a major energy hub in the wider region. It has considered establishing exploration operations off the coast of Somalia. Like all emerging powers, Turkey has a thirst for energy. This explains its July 2024 oil and gas exploration deal with Somalia.

Turning point

Ankara’s February 2024 defence agreement marked a significant turning point in Turkey-Somalia cooperation.

The agreement deepens defence ties between the two countries. Under the deal, Turkey has agreed to train and equip the Somali navy. It will also help patrol Somalia’s extensive 3,333-kilometre coastline. Turkey’s focus is on maritime activities. This is a strategic choice largely influenced by the unstable conditions in Somalia, where exerting control over territory is difficult.

Read more:
Red Sea politics: why Turkey is helping Somalia defend its waters

The deal is a response to changes in the regional landscape and the ongoing reconfiguration of power dynamics in the Horn of Africa.

This has included:
- a January 2024 agreement between Ethiopia and Somaliland, a breakaway state of Somalia, for access to the Red Sea. The deal renewed tensions between Addis Ababa and Mogadishu.
- the presence of Egyptian troops in Somalia, which Turkey is watching with a mixture of concern and irritation
- the strengthening of al-Shabaab’s position
- the participation of Ethiopian troops in the new African Union stabilisation mission in Somalia
- an upcoming election in Somaliland.
Somalia’s decision to pursue diplomatic ties and defence agreements with Turkey needs to be understood against this backdrop.

Federico Donelli is a Senior Research Associate at the Istituto di Studi di Politica Internazionale (ISPI) in Milan and a Non-Resident Fellow at the Orion Policy Institute (OPI) in Washington D.C.

– ref. Somalia and Turkey are becoming firm allies – what’s behind this strategy – https://theconversation.com/somalia-and-turkey-are-becoming-firm-allies-whats-behind-this-strategy-240578
MIL OSI – Global Reports –
January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Security: Detectives offer £20,000 reward in relation to 2004 murder of Camille Gordon in Soho

Source: United Kingdom London Metropolitan Police

Detectives are offering a £20,000 reward for information that leads to the conviction of the person responsible for brutally stabbing a student to death at the club she worked at in Soho.

Camille Gordon, 23, who was training to be a nursery assistant, was brutally murdered on the doorstep of her workplace on 1 March 2004.

Despite extensive enquiries by the Met over the past 20 years, her killer has not yet been brought to justice.

Today (Wednesday, 16 October), detectives appeared on the BBC’s Crimewatch Live with a re-newed appeal to catch Camille’s murderer.

Detective Inspector Amanda Greig from the Met’s Specialist Casework Team, who is leading the investigation, said: “It may have been more than 20 years since Camille was brutally murdered, but her family remain just as heartbroken today. They want answers and they want the person responsible for Camille’s death brought to justice – this is something we want too and we have not given up trying to get that for them. This is why we are now offering a £20,000 reward for information that leads to the successful charge and conviction of the person responsible.

“A lot can happen in 20 years, allegiances can change. Maybe you felt unable to talk to us at the time, for whatever reason, but you are now in a position to do so. Maybe you saw the attack or you were at the club or in the area at the time of the murder? Maybe the person responsible has since confided in you? I would urge you to share whatever information you have with us – it will be treated in the strictest confidence and could bring much needed closure to Camille’s family.”

Camille was born in Jamaica and came to the UK in 2001 to study as a nursery assistant in Birmingham. She moved to London in August 2003 to find better career prospects and at the time of her death she was living in South Norwood.

She started working part-time as a hostess at the Blue Bunny Club in Archer Street, Soho, to help fund her training.

The club offered female company for a short period of time, but no sexual activity took place.

At about 18:30hrs on 1 March 2004, Camille was working on the door of the club when a man approached her.

He entered the club, paying an admission fee of £5, and went to a private area with Camille.

After a short while, another member of staff presented the male customer with a bill for £375. He was unable to pay the full amount, so he paid £80 and was escorted to the exit by the other member of staff.

The customer left the venue and walked along Archer Street towards the junction with Rupert Street. He returned to the venue shortly after, but upon seeing a different member of staff he raised both hands in a submissive manner and went off towards Rupert Street.

At about 19:10hrs Camille returned to the door of the club when a man was seen to enter the doorway before very quickly leaving, walking at pace along Archer Street towards Great Windmill Street.

Camille screamed and staggered down the stairs into the club where she told colleagues she had been stabbed in the chest.

Despite the best efforts of the emergency services, she died from her injuries about an hour later.

A post-mortem examination revealed that she had died from a single stab wound to the heart.

Detectives are keen to speak to the unknown customer in relation to Camille’s murder

We have today released enhanced CCTV footage and images of this unknown customer, whom officers believe to be responsible for Camille’s murder, entering Piccadilly Circus Tube station shortly after the murder. He is described as black, aged 20-25 and 5’5″-5’8″. He was wearing a dark jacket with a large ‘Cleveland Indians’ logo on the front, dark jeans, white trainers and a hat believed to be a baseball cap.

Two days after the murder, on 3 March 2024, a man attended Kennington Police Station and asked to speak to a CID officer about a murder at the Blue Bunny Club. However, he left before CID got there and he never returned.

Detectives are urging this man to get in touch so he can share the information he has. He is described as white, about 35 years old, about 5’8″, of skinny build with defined cheek bones and light brown hair.

Anyone with information is asked to call the incident room on 020 8785 8267. Information can also be submitted online here Public Portal (mipp.police.uk)

Alternatively, you can contact the independent charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 or visit crimestoppers-uk.org.

MIL Security OSI –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Policy Address: Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, today (October 16) announced his third Policy Address entitled “Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together”, setting out a range of initiatives to create new impetus for economic development, improve people’s livelihood and enhance their quality of life. Mr Lee said, “In this Policy Address, I will continue to follow through the ‘four proposals’ put forward by President Xi Jinping in his important speech delivered on July 1, 2022. I will also outline our vision and objectives for reforms and changes, as well as the related key measures and key performance indicators. “Reform is a continuous process. Over the past two years, my team and I have focused on economic growth and on improving people’s livelihood through development, with the well-being of the people of Hong Kong close to our hearts. This Policy Address will deepen our reforms and explore new growth areas.”Consolidate and enhance Hong Kong’s status as an international financial, shipping and trade centre Hong Kong has established strengths as an international centre for finance, shipping and trade, which are closely intertwined and can be developed in a synergistic and complementary manner. On the financial front, the Policy Address sets out the strategic development of Hong Kong as an international financial centre on all fronts. It strives to reinforce Hong Kong’s status as the world’s largest offshore Renminbi business hub, enhance the asset and securities markets, and develop Hong Kong into an international gold trading market through measures such as building world-class gold storage facilities and strengthening the trading mechanism and regulatory framework. This will in turn drive demand for related services such as collateral and loan businesses, opening up new growth areas of the financial sector. On the shipping side, the existing Hong Kong Maritime and Port Board will be reconstituted into the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board. Additional funding will be provided to enhance its research capabilities, strengthen its Mainland and overseas promotional work and step up manpower training, encouraging more Mainland and overseas maritime service enterprises to establish presence in Hong Kong, promoting the sustainable development of Hong Kong’s maritime industry. The Government will advance the development of Hong Kong into a green maritime centre, while at the same time exploring the introduction of tax concessions and facilitate international commodity exchanges to set up accredited warehouses in Hong Kong, so as to establish a commodity trading ecosystem, especially for the storage and delivery of non-ferrous metal products, further promoting the development of Hong Kong’s maritime and trading services. In respect of the trade sector, the Government will establish a high-value-added supply chain service centre. Through measures such as enriching a high value-added supply chain services mechanism and enhancing export credit services, as well as making good use of the new opportunities brought about by the Second Agreement Concerning Amendment to the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA) Agreement on Trade in Services, the Government will seek to attract Mainland and overseas enterprises to set up their headquarters or corporate divisions in Hong Kong. The Government will continue to vigorously expand Hong Kong’s global economic and trade networks, with particular emphasis on strengthening Hong Kong’s economic and trade ties with and marketing efforts in emerging markets, so as to enable Hong Kong to exert a greater role in the country’s opening up to the world. Moreover, the Government will reduce the import duty on liquor, fostering trading of liquor and boosting development of high value-added industries.Develop new quality productive forces tailored to local conditions The core element of new quality productive forces is to achieve high quality economic development through technological empowerment. The Government is striving to expedite Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre. On top of the additional investment put in over the past two years, a $10 billion I&T Industry-Oriented Fund will be set up to guide more market capital to invest in specified emerging and future industries of strategic importance, including life and health technology and artificial intelligence. The Government will also launch the I&T Accelerator Pilot Scheme to attract professional start-up service providers to set up accelerator bases in Hong Kong, fostering the robust growth of start-ups. The Policy Address also proposed the establishment of the Working Group on Developing Low-altitude Economy. Starting with projects on low-altitude applications, the working group will designate specific venues for such purposes, draw up regulations and design the institutional set-up, study and map out plans to develop the required infrastructure and networks, and promote interface with the Mainland, pushing forward development of the low-altitude economy. At the same time, the Government is committed to promoting new energy development, such as green maritime fuel, sustainable aviation fuel and hydrogen energy. The Government will also expedite the reform of the approval mechanism for drugs and medical devices, establish the Real-World Study and Application Centre, and join hands with Shenzhen to establish the GBA Clinical Trial Collaboration Platform to enhance Hong Kong’s clinical trial capability and accelerate registration of new drugs, developing Hong Kong into an international health and medical innovation hub.Build Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talents To boost synergy and effectiveness of policies, the Policy Address introduced the establishment of the Committee on Education, Technology and Talents to co-ordinate and drive the integrated development of education, technology and talents. In addition to reforming various aspects of the talent admission regime to build a quality talent pool for long-term development, the Government will endeavour to create the “Study in Hong Kong” brand to attract overseas students, launch a pilot scheme to support the market to flexibly increase the supply of self-financed and private student hostels, and map out the development plan of the Northern Metropolis University Town. These measures aim to expedite the development of Hong Kong into an international hub for post-secondary education, bringing in more global high-calibre talents.Promote integrated development of culture, sports and tourism and foster economic diversification Promoting integrated development of culture, sports and tourism is the objective of this term of Government in setting up the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau. The Government will reinforce the development of the West Kowloon Cultural District to take a leading role in establishing an industry chain for the arts and culture and creative industries of Hong Kong. The Government will also strive to develop the Kai Tak Sports Park into a sports and mega event landmark, building an international sports mega event hub. The Government will publish the Development Blueprint for Hong Kong’s Tourism Industry 2.0, putting emphasis on promoting areas including culture, sports, ecology and mega events, with a view to revitalising Hong Kong’s tourism industry. A Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots will be set up to strengthen cross-departmental co-ordination, and to identify and develop tourist hotspots of high popularity and with strong appeal in various districts. Hong Kong is facing economic restructuring. To assist small and medium enterprises (SMEs) to cope with the prevailing challenges, the Government will put in place a range of support initiatives. Key measures include: relaunching the principal moratorium to offer SMEs flexibility in managing cash flows; injecting $1 billion into the BUD Fund (Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales) to facilitate upgrading of enterprises; expanding the scope of the Digital Transformation Support Pilot Programme to cover the industries of tourism and personal services; and launching the Incentive Scheme for Recurrent Exhibitions 2.0. In addition, a Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy will be set up to implement measures in five areas, namely consumption, industry, quality assurance, financial and security arrangements, and productivity, meeting the growing needs of the elderly and help the industry to seize business opportunities.Take forward the Northern Metropolis as growth engine and deepen GBA collaboration To take forward the development of the Northern Metropolis, it was announced in the Policy Address to explore the establishment of a pilot industrial park in the Northern Metropolis by granting it to a company established and led by the Government. The company will, in accordance with the Government’s industrial policies, be responsible for formulating the park’s development and operation strategies. To expedite the development, the Government will adopt, on a pilot basis, a large-scale land-disposal approach, for collective development by successful bidders. In addition, the Steering Committee on the Hong Kong Shenzhen I&T Park in the Loop, chaired by the Chief Executive, will formulate the overall strategy, planning and layout for the development of the Hong Kong Park. The Development Outline for the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone will be published later this year. Improve people’s livelihood in pursuit of happiness This year, the Policy Address outlined a number of new measures on different livelihood areas, including land creation and housing construction and healthcare, making Hong Kong a better place to live and enjoy life. On housing, a system on the renting of subdivided units (SDUs) in residential buildings will be devised, through legislation, to tackle the long-standing problem of SDUs at its roots in an orderly manner. The Government will also enhance the housing ladder to allow more people to realise their aspiration for home ownership. Regarding healthcare, as noted in the Policy Address, the Government will deepen the reform of the healthcare system, strengthen public and primary healthcare services and promote the development of primary healthcare on all fronts, and boost healthy fertility. The Government also supports the plan, by local universities, to establish a third medical school. The Government will set aside sites in Ngau Tam Mei to build a new campus and an integrated medical teaching and research hospital. To improve people’s livelihood, the Government will continue to take forward and enhance various measures for targeted poverty alleviation and focusing on different needs of the underprivileged. Meanwhile, the Government will regularise the funding provision for Care Teams and increase funding in the next term of service to strengthen support for their work. The Policy Address also proposed to reform the roles of the Employees Retraining Board to devise skills-based training programmes and strategies for the entire workforce, and lift the restriction on educational attainment of trainees. Mr Lee concluded, “This Policy Address deepens the reforms that I have introduced since I became Chief Executive. It presents enhanced measures to boost the economy and improve people’s livelihood. It seeks to address the prevailing needs of our people, while mapping our vision and long-term goals for building a brighter future for Hong Kong. I am confident that Hong Kong will continue to go from strength to strength and attain new heights. Through our united efforts to reform and innovate, our economy will go even stronger and our people will lead a better life, making Hong Kong a shining city.” A Supplement offering more backgrounds and details of various policy measures has been compiled with this year’s Policy Address. For related information and key initiatives of the Policy Address, please visit http://www.policyaddress.gov.hk.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Transport infrastructure promoted

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee highlighted today that the Government is actively following through on the Major Transport Infrastructure Development Blueprint for Hong Kong, under which Hung Shui Kiu Station and the Northern Link (NOL) Main Line are to commence construction this year and next year for tentative completion in 2030 and 2034 respectively.

Delivering his 2024 Policy Address, Mr Lee pointed out that cross-boundary railway projects are pressing ahead at full speed, including the Hong Kong-Shenzhen Western Rail Link (Hung Shui Kiu-Qianhai) and the NOL Spur Line, to enhance linkage between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.

Devoted to taking forward the three smart and green mass transit systems, and for compressing the time required for construction, the Government invited suppliers and operators to submit expressions of interest for the East Kowloon and Kai Tak projects this August. Expressions of interest for the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen projects will be invited later this year.

Through innovative implementation mode and construction methods, the Government aims to complete the Kai Tak project three years ahead of the original target completion date.

To promote a green and low-carbon lifestyle, the Government will expand the community recycling network by increasing public collection points from about 500 at present to 800.

I · PARK 1, the first waste-to-energy facility for treating municipal solid waste, is expected to begin operation next year. The construction of I · PARK 2 will also be taken forward, working towards the goal of zero landfills.

The Government will continue to assess public views on, and participation in, waste reduction, and report to the Legislative Council by mid-2025.

With a view to expanding the city’s waste-to-resources capacities, the Government will establish a common legislative framework for the producer responsibility schemes applicable to different products, facilitating the future inclusion of such products as plastic beverage containers and beverage cartons progressively.

In relation to green industry, the Environment & Ecology Bureau is assisting two local companies in setting up production lines to upcycle local waste materials into high-value products – core materials for electricity-free cooling products and acoustic metamaterial products.

The Government will inject $100 million for a new round of the Cleaner Production Partnership Programme to expedite green transformation, renovation and the upgrading of local factories and Hong Kong-owned factories in the Guangdong Province, bringing Hong Kong closer to its carbon-neutrality targets.

The Chief Executive also outlined his plan to expand the charging network for electric vehicles.

Through the electric vehicle (EV) charging at Home Subsidy Scheme and the gross floor area concession arrangement, about 200,000 EV-charging parking spaces are expected to be available by mid-2027. The Government will earmark $300 million for a new scheme, providing subsidies to the private sector for installing quick-charging facilities. The target is to have a total of 3,000 quick chargers installed by 2030.

Mr Lee added that two vacant petrol-filling station sites were granted for conversion into quick-charging stations earlier this year. Expressions of interest from the industry will be invited next year to repurpose existing petrol-filling station sites as charging stations, with topside development for other purposes under the single site, multiple use model.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: HK stands to prosper: CE

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee

Since taking up office, I have pushed ahead with many reform measures to transform government culture, strengthen the systems and improved various regimes. Our goal is to keep Hong Kong going, and make it a city in which people live in better homes, enjoy better education and cherish their lives. We strive for this goal.

I always take time to reflect and listen to views of others to ensure that our policies are working and our measurers are effective. I take a close look into the daily needs of our people while staying abreast from a global perspective of the world trend, our nation’s strategic outlook and the societal interests. While keeping our principles and being innovative when taking forward reforms, we have to look at the flip sides that a measure may bring other than its benefits. Reform is essential, but we should always be mindful that it is a means and not an end, that it should never undermine success factors that are well established and work effectively.

Having regard to various objective facts, I do believe that our overall policy directions are on the right course. Over the past two years or so, median monthly household income has risen by about $2,800, up over 10%, while over 100,000 jobs have been added. The waiting time for public housing has been shortened by six months, and the first batch of Light Public Housing will soon be completed for intake, filling the gap in the supply of public housing. District governance and Care Team services are firmly in place in all 18 districts across the city. Outcomes of our efforts to trawl for talent and enterprises are also well recognised.

Thanks to the concerted efforts of all concerned, Hong Kong’s status as an international financial centre has climbed up one place to restore the global third position, putting an end to the negative narratives of our city’s future. We moved up two places to rank fifth in world competitiveness, and rose seven places in talent competitiveness, to stand among the world’s top 10 once again. Hong Kong also retains the top spots in global ranking in investment environment, international trade, business legislation and air cargo throughput, etc.

That said, past performance is no guarantee of future success. We must not be complacent, but keep up our momentum for advancement and reforms. We must remain confident in ourselves and uphold our morale, standing firm against any efforts to downplay our success story.

This Policy Address deepens the reforms that I have introduced since I became Chief Executive. It presents enhanced measures to boost the economy and improve people’s livelihoods. It seeks to address the prevailing needs of our people, while mapping our vision and long term goals for building a brighter future for Hong Kong.

Amid the accelerating global changes not seen in a century and complex geopolitics, the uncertainties surrounding Sino-US relations have exposed Hong Kong to frontline external political forces. But while we are facing many challenges, they are outweighed by the opportunities available to us. Global economic gravity continues to shift eastward and investment is also shifting in the same direction to balance geopolitical risks. Hong Kong boasts a secure and stable investment environment, enjoys a favourable location at the heart of Asia, and is the only city in the world where China’s advantages and international advantages converge. Blessed with our linkage with our motherland and close connection to the world, as well as the solid backing of our country, including the central government’s support and measures benefitting our city, Hong Kong stands to prosper. We must seize every opportunity to make progress and renew ourselves. Indeed, with the wisdom and experiences of Hong Kong people, coupled with the ‘dare to fight and win’ spirit in us, I am confident that Hong Kong will continue to go from strength to strength and attain new heights. Through our united efforts to reform and innovate, our economy will go even stronger and our people will lead a better life, making Hong Kong a shining city.

This is an English translation of the closing remarks in Chief Executive John Lee’s 2024 Policy Address, which he delivered on October 16.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Economics: Secretary-General of ASEAN holds discussions with the Dutch Ambassador-at-large for cybersecurity

Source: ASEAN

Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, met with H.E. Ernst Noorman, the Dutch Ambassador-at-large for cybersecurity. They exchanged views on the potential cooperation activities to advance mutual priorities on cybersecurity within the framework of the ASEAN-Netherlands Development Partnership.

The post Secretary-General of ASEAN holds discussions with the Dutch Ambassador-at-large for cybersecurity appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

MIL OSI Economics –

January 23, 2025
MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Metropolis project to be expedited

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee says the Government will expedite the implementation of economic and housing-related projects in the Northern Metropolis while maintaining a prudent fiscal position, highlighting that some 60,000 housing units will be completed in the next five years.

Unveiling his third Policy Address today, Mr Lee said the Government is taking an innovative approach to advancing the development of the Northern Metropolis. This involves exploring the establishment of a pilot industrial park by means of granting some of the logistics sites in the Hung Shui Kiu/Ha Tsuen New Development Area (NDA) to a company established and led by the Government.

The company will, in accordance with the Government’s industrial policies, be responsible for formulating the park’s development and operational strategies, and will decide whether to accept strategic investment. Details will be announced in the first quarter of next year.

Separately, the Government will also consider flexible disposal of land to meet the development needs of individual industries, with a view to driving industrial development.

Moreover, the Government will adopt, on a pilot basis, a large-scale land disposal approach, under which sizable land parcels with commercial value and earmarked for the provision of community facilities will be selected and granted to successful bidders for collective development.

This approach is aimed at speeding up development of the land parcels, enabling a more co-ordinated approach to their design. Three land parcels, each of 10 to 20 hectares, have been identified as pilot sites.

Entering maturity

Noting that the Northern Metropolis project will gradually enter its maturity phase, Mr Lee said that in the next five years some 60,000 housing units there, involving about 10 new public rental housing estates, will be completed and ready for intake.

In the same period, the first batch of land at the San Tin Technopole will be offered to the market, and the new Huanggang Port building, providing co-location of immigration and customs clearance, will be completed.

In the subsequent five‑year period, the number of new housing units will increase by about 150,000, with over 10 million sq m of gross floor area becoming available for economic uses. The first joint-user government building, in Kwu Tung North, will also be put to use, and the expanded North District Hospital will be ready for service.

As for transport infrastructure, construction of the Northern Link Main Line is scheduled for completion in 2034, and the Northern Metropolis Highway (San Tin Section) is set to open in 2036.

Mr Lee said that apart from enhancing the quality of life of Hong Kong people, these developments will significantly boost the city’s economic growth and bolster its technology industries, while providing a living environment that will help to attract talents and encourage them to settle in Hong Kong for good.

The way forward

The Government will seek funding for the first stage of the San Tin Technopole’s infrastructure and begin construction works this year. The target is to deliver about 20 hectares of new innovation and technology (I&T) sites in phases, beginning in 2026-27, for the Hong Kong Science & Technology Parks Corporation’s development and operation.

In addition, the second phase of the Yuen Long South NDA will begin in mid-2025. The preliminary development proposal for Ngau Tam Mei will be announced imminently, with land being reserved for developing the Northern Metropolis University Town, a third medical school and an integrated teaching hospital.

This will be followed by the announcement of preliminary development proposals for the New Territories North New Town and the Ma Tso Lung area before the end of this year.

The rezoning process for Sandy Ridge in the North District will begin this year, with its I&T sites being expanded to 10 hectares.

I&T zone

Mr Lee said the “Development Outline for the Hong Kong Park of the Hetao Shenzhen Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone” will be published later this year.

It will set out innovative policies to facilitate the flow of personnel, materials, capital and data between the Hong Kong Park and the Shenzhen Park in the zone, making the co-operation zone a crucial source of new quality productive forces for the country.

In addition, the Government is boosting both the speed and quantity of the Hong Kong Park project, which will be developed in two phases from west to east.

The first-phase development’s gross floor area will be doubled to 1 million sq m. Construction of the first three buildings will be completed in phases, from the end of this year.

The first batch of tenants, from the life and health technology, AI, data science and other pillar industries, will begin to move in next year. The remaining five buildings will be completed in the coming five years.

The Government is also exploring with the Mainland authorities the trial implementation of innovative facilitation measures.

These include facilitating cross-boundary travel of designated personnel from the two parks, enabling the cross-boundary movement of materials by using low altitude, unmanned aerial vehicles, and facilitating cross-boundary fund transfers by Mainland enterprises settling in the Hong Kong Park.

Bay area strengths

Turning to Greater Bay Area (GBA) development, Mr Lee said he has established the Steering Group on Integration into National Development to lead the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and all sectors of the community to be more proactive in promoting the integrated development of Hong Kong and the Mainland, particularly the Mainland cities of the GBA.

The Chief Executive said the Government will continue to promote GBA development by building a higher level of connectivity, facilitating policy innovations and breakthroughs, pursuing wider harmonisation of rules and mechanisms, and expediting the co-ordinated development of I&T and related industries.

The Government will work with the Dongguan Municipal Government, among others, to jointly develop a permanent Hong Kong International Airport (HKIA) Dongguan Logistics Park.

It will also seek to combine the strengths of the HKIA and Zhuhai Airport by enhancing the Fly Via Zhuhai Hong Kong direct passenger service and promoting the development of the international air-cargo business in collaboration with the Zhuhai Municipality.

On recognition of professional qualifications, Mr Lee said that following the establishment, in collaboration with Guangdong, of an evaluation mechanism in relation to post titles for the first batch of Hong Kong engineering professionals, the Government will do the same for other construction professions on a gradual basis.

The Government is also collaborating with Guangdong and Macau to create GBA Standards on the skill levels of skilled workers in the construction sector, and will adopt the “One Examination, Multiple Certification” arrangement. Under this arrangement, those who pass examinations adopting the GBA Standards can concurrently obtain vocational skill certificates issued by the three places.

To accelerate development of the pharmaceutical industry, the Government will work to enable the cross-boundary use of data, samples, drugs and medical devices through the GBA Clinical Trial Collaboration Platform and the Real World Study & Application Centre in the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science & Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone.

MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

January 23, 2025

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