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Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Occupational therapists and physiotherapists participating in primary healthcare programmes must be enlisted in Primary Care Directory and join eHealth from July 2

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    The Primary Healthcare Commission (PHC Commission) under the Health Bureau announced today (June 25) that, starting from July 2, occupational therapists (OTs) and physiotherapists (PTs) participating in government-subsidised primary healthcare programmes (including the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme, and the allied health services of the Chronic Disease Co-care Pilot Scheme and District Health Centres) must first be enlisted in the Primary Care Directory (PCD) and join eHealth. To allow sufficient time for the professions to complete the enrolment process, a two-month grace period until September 1 will be provided. The PHC Commission encourages OTs and PTs to register as early as possible, so that they can continue to provide relevant government-subsidised services to members of the public.

    The Primary Healthcare Blueprint recommended expanding the PCD to cover more healthcare professionals and developing sub-directories for allied health professionals, including OTs and PTs, with a view to ensuring their participation in continuing medical education or continuing professional development programmes relevant to their disciplines, thereby enhancing the quality of primary healthcare services. In addition, the Blueprint recommended requiring all primary healthcare service providers to use eHealth to promote continuity of healthcare services and cross-sector collaboration.

    To minimise the impact on citizens enjoying the subsidised services concerned, the PHC Commission has maintained close communication with the OT and PT professions through different channels since March to introduce them to the details of the new requirements and assist them in enlisting in the PCD and/or joining eHealth. Those OTs and PTs currently participating in relevant government-subsidised programmes but who are yet to be enlisted in the PCD and join eHealth by the end of the grace period (i.e. from September 2 onwards) will no longer be able to offer those government-subsidised primary healthcare services to their patients.

    Members of the public may enquire with their OTs or PTs or visit the PCD website (apps.pcdirectory.gov.hk/Public/EN) to confirm whether they are enlisted in the PCD, to ensure that they can continue receiving the relevant subsidised services from the same OT or PT after the grace period.

    The PCD is a web-based database containing practice information and professional qualifications of primary healthcare service providers in the community. It enables members of the public to look for service providers’ information, such as their practice addresses, telephone numbers, consultation hours, and service provisions, as well as their participation in various government-subsidised programmes, and to choose a suitable primary healthcare service provider according to their personal needs. Subsequent to the establishment of sub-directories for OTs and PTs, the Government will continue to develop sub-directories for other healthcare professionals in phases, with a view to promoting multidisciplinary collaboration in providing comprehensive primary healthcare services to members of the public.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Enhancing Cantonese proficiency of non-ethnic Chinese

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ21: Enhancing Cantonese proficiency of non-ethnic Chinese 
    Question:
     
    It has been learnt that with the continuous increase in the Cantonese proficiency requirements for job seekers in various trades and industries in Hong Kong, quite a number of non-ethnic Chinese people face difficulties in securing employment due to the language barrier, and in particular, the limited availability of Cantonese courses is further restricting their learning channels. Some self-financing programmes offered by higher education institutions have been cancelled one after another due to under-enrolment, hindering non-ethnic Chinese people from enhancing their language proficiency and integrating into the community. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether it will communicate with the universities funded by the University Grants Committee to encourage them to offer more Cantonese courses (such as those similar to the courses offered by the Yale-China Chinese Language Academy of the Chinese University of Hong Kong), particularly those designed specifically for non-ethnic Chinese people; if so, of the details (e.g. the estimated cost of the courses); if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (2) whether it has plans to collaborate with self-financing institutions and other educational institutions to offer more Cantonese learning courses targeting non-ethnic Chinese people, so as to enhance their language proficiency and employment competitiveness; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (3) whether it will consider setting up dedicated scholarships or subsidy schemes to encourage and assist non-ethnic Chinese people in enrolling in the relevant courses offered by various major Cantonese learning centres in Hong Kong; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (4) whether it will consider launching summer Cantonese courses for non-ethnic Chinese youths, with a tailored design for the contents and mode of teaching and learning of such courses, so as to enhance their language proficiency and social confidence; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (5) whether the Government has conducted any study or assessment in the past five years to analyse the actual Cantonese proficiency levels required by different industries in Hong Kong of their employees, as well as the impact on the employment of non-ethnic Chinese people; if so, of the findings of the relevant studies or assessments; if not, whether it will consider conducting relevant studies, so as to facilitate the formulation of corresponding policies?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The Government has all along been committed to building a harmonious, inclusive and caring society for ethnic minorities and non-Chinese speakers to enjoy equal opportunities and integrate into the community. Different bureaux and departments of the Government all encourage and support non-Chinese young people to equip themselves for future employment. Regarding the question raised by the Hon Dominic Lee, the consolidated reply after consultation with relevant bureaux and departments is as follows:
     
    Support for non-Chinese speaking (NCS) students
     
    The Education Bureau (EDB) actively assists NCS students in adapting to the local education system at an early stage, encouraging them to make full use of their studies in primary and secondary schools to learn Chinese and integrate into the community. The EDB is committed to enhancing students’ proficiency in biliteracy and trilingualism (written Chinese and English; spoken Cantonese, Putonghua, and English) at both the primary and secondary levels. All eligible children (including NCS students) enjoy equal access to publicly-funded kindergartens, primary and secondary schools. The EDB also encourages parents of NCS students to arrange for their children to study in local kindergartens for early exposure to and learning of the Chinese language. In the 2024/25 academic year, more than 70 per cent of publicly-funded kindergartens, primary and secondary schools admitted NCS students. The EDB has also adopted a multi-pronged approach in providing NCS students with all-encompassing learning support from pre-primary to secondary levels.
     
    At the post-secondary education level, to develop more internationalised campuses and promote cultural integration on campuses, the EDB encourages the University Grants Committee-funded universities to step up their support for students from different backgrounds, including offering appropriate courses and workshops to non-local students who wish to learn Chinese/Cantonese. Additionally, the Vocational Training Council is committed to supporting NCS students in pursuing its vocational and professional education and training programmes, helping them enhance their Chinese language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing for both daily communication and workplace contexts.
     
    Support for school leavers and working individuals
     
    The Government promotes lifelong learning and is committed to enhancing the overall quality of the manpower. At present, many operators in Hong Kong offer a wide range of self-financing programmes to meet the continuing education needs of different individuals. As at June 2025, on the Qualifications Register under the Hong Kong Qualifications Framework (QF), based on registered course titles searches, there are around 100 Cantonese language educational courses targeting non-Chinese speakers, involving 22 course providers, covering QF Levels 1 to 4. Among them, there are part-time certificate courses on vocational Cantonese offered by the Employees Retraining Board (ERB) for non-Chinese speakers. NCS school leavers and working individuals may pursue relevant courses based on their personal interests and circumstances.
     
    Moreover, the Home Affairs Department (HAD) provides subsidies for non-school-attending ethnic minorities enrolled in dedicated language courses of the ERB, targetting members of low-income families with an attendance rate of 80 per cent or above. The HAD also provides funding to non-governmental organisations to organise language classes at the Support Service Centres for Ethnic Minorities and in the community to help ethnic minorities meet their basic daily needs.

         On the other hand, the Standing Committee on Language Education and Research has launched the Vocational Chinese Language Programme for NCS School Leavers initiative, inviting post-secondary institutions/training providers to develop and deliver vocational Chinese courses that are recognised under the QF. Upon completing the courses and meeting the attendance or assessment requirements, learners may receive up to 85 per cent tuition fee reimbursement. Over the past five years, an average of 200 NCS school leavers have benefited annually.
     
    The Government will continue to review the implementation of the different measures to better support the employment and learning needs of ethnic minorities and facilitate their integration into the community.
    Issued at HKT 14:45

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Eradicating youth consumption of “space oil drug”

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ1: Eradicating youth consumption of “space oil drug” 
    Question:
     
         The Government statistics show that 128 young people aged under 21 were reported to have consumed “space oil drug” in the first quarter of this year, accounting for over 67 per cent of all reported cases. The youngest among them was just 12 years old. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the respective numbers of cases of young people possessing and consuming “space oil drug” received by the authorities in the past three years; the specific measures in place to assist them in drug treatment and rehabilitation, and the total number of young people who have quit “space oil drug” with such assistance to date;
     
    (2) whether it will establish a regular mechanism for primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong to handle cases of young people consuming “space oil drug”, while strengthening training for frontline personnel, including teachers and social workers, in order to enhance their ability to identify, handle, and prevent cases of students consuming “space oil drug”; and
     
    (3) given that the Government launched the Healthy School Programme some years ago to establish a healthy and drug-free culture in schools by organising personal growth activities and voluntary school drug testing, whether the authorities will step up the promotion of this programme in primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong, so that teachers and social workers can have opportunities to identify those young people who consume “space oil drug” at an early stage and provide them with immediate and appropriate assistance?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Government attaches great importance to combating the emerging “space oil drug” problem. A number of targeted measures have been launched on multiple fronts to curb the use of “space oil drug”, which often illegally contains the anesthetic etomidate. Among these measures, we have already listed etomidate and its three analogues as dangerous drugs through legislation, and have recently proposed listing other analogues as dangerous drugs as well. Since the listing of etomidate as a dangerous drug on February 14, 2025, law enforcement agencies (LEAs) have successfully stopped the supply of more than 220 000 drug-filled cartridges by the end of last month with a total of 405 persons arrested. Among those arrested, 153 were involved in trafficking dangerous drugs, accounting for nearly 40 per cent of the arrests. Apart from legislation and law enforcement, the Government has also launched a number of publicity programmes to educate the public to stay away from “space oil drug” and raise awareness among young people of its serious harm.
     
         In consultation with the Education Bureau (EDB), replies to each of the Member’s questions are as follows:
     
    (1) The “space oil drug” has been gradually on the rise since 2023. From 2023 to May 31, 2025, the LEAs arrested a total of 566 persons for unlawful possession of etomidate, and among them, 134 persons or about 20 per cent were young people aged below 21. Regarding the number of abusers, data from the Central Registry of Drug Abuse show that from 2023 to May 31, 2025, there were 493 recorded “space oil drug” abusers, of whom 356 persons, or about 70 per cent, were young people aged below 21. These young people are being followed up by relevant drug treatment institutions or outreaching social work teams with a view to helping them to quit drugs. Indeed, drug treatment and rehabilitation services are an integral part of the Government’s anti-drug strategy. For young people addicted to “space oil drug”, drug treatment and rehabilitation agencies (e.g. Counselling Centres for Psychotropic Substance Abusers (CCPSAs)) provide education programmes, vocational training, and counselling on careers and studies, tailored to their personal growth stages, learning needs and interests. Anti-drug workers also provide young people with essential emotional support and mental health counselling.
     
    (2) Schools are key partners in the Government’s anti-drug efforts. The Narcotics Division (ND) of the Security Bureau (SB), in collaboration with the EDB, has established a regular mechanism for all primary and secondary schools in Hong Kong to handle drug-related incidents, including cases involving the use of “space oil drug”. The EDB has also issued guidelines to schools in this regard. To assist schools in handling such cases, the ND of the SB has been working with non-governmental organisations to provide anti-drug professional training for frontline staff, including teachers and social workers, to enhance their capacity in identifying, handling and preventing “space oil drug” abuse cases among students.
     
    (3) After years of implementation, the Healthy School Programme spearheaded by the ND has been proven capable of strengthening students’ resolve to stay away from drugs, thereby fostering an anti-drug culture in schools. In light of the latest drug scene, the ND plans to include etomidate testing in its voluntary school drug testing, targeting its introduction within the next school year. The ND has also required schools to incorporate knowledge on the prevention of “space oil drug” into the activities organised under the Programme, including understanding the harm of “space oil drug”, the serious consequences of committing relevant offences, and the skills to refuse “space oil drug”. While promoting the Healthy School Programme, the ND is also implementing the Beat Drugs with Sports Programme to help young people stay away from “space oil drug” and other drugs through sports activities. About 60 per cent of all secondary schools in Hong Kong have participated in these two anti-drug programmes.
     
         Apart from the Healthy School Programme and the Beat Drugs with Sports Programme just mentioned, the ND has been promoting a healthy and drug‑free school culture through enhanced cross‑disciplinary and cross‑sectoral collaboration with various anti-drug service units and welfare service units. This collaboration provides teachers and social workers with opportunities to identify young people who have taken “space oil drug” at an early stage, and offer timely and appropriate assistance. In this regard, the ND arranges for the CCPSAs to reach out to schools and organise anti-drug school talks, including providing training for teachers and social workers, and educating students about the harm of “space oil drug”. Since 2024, over 170 schools with a total of 38 000 students, teachers and social workers have participated in these talks. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Drug InfoCentre will also organise a new round of interactive activities in July 2025 for candidates of the Hong Kong Diploma of Secondary Education Examination and senior secondary school students. These activities aim to provide students with a stress-relieving occasion and reinforce their resistance against “space oil drug”. The ND also conducts free drama tours for schools to educate upper primary students in an interactive manner on the harm of “space oil drug”. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Police Force has staged a new play, “Interactive Anti-Drug Theatre – A Space Study Adventure”, to safeguard schools from the emerging “space oil drug”. Finally, on parental education, the ND works closely with the Committee on Home-School Co-operation and the Federations of Parent-Teacher Associations in various districts to provide parents and young people with timely and appropriate assistance related to “space oil drug”. 
     
         President, the Government has taken various measures to curb “space oil drug”. We have strategies in place to address the situation, ranging from legislation and law enforcement to treatment and rehabilitation. We will humbly listen to the views of the community, adjust our strategies as situation changes, and proactively adopt innovative and targeted approaches to combat drug harm together with the public.
     
         Thank you, President.
    Issued at HKT 14:35

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ6: Improve the accessibility of West Kowloon Cultural District

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    ​Following is a question by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (June 25):
     
    Question:

    There are views that the road ancillary facilities and experience of walking to the West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD) are not satisfactory at present, and during festivals, holidays and large-scale activities, congestion often occurs on the roads in the vicinity. On improving the accessibility of the WKCD, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) as it has been reported that the southern landing facility of the WKCD is expected to come into operation in the fourth quarter of this year, of the specific timetable; of the specific measures in place to expedite the development of waterborne transport there, and whether it has studied developing the area into one of the distribution points for marine tours;

    (2) as some members of the public and tourists have reflected that the current experience of walking from the Xiqu Centre along Austin Road West to the area around the M+ is not satisfactory, whether the authorities will consider prioritising the creation of a pleasant harbourfront promenade from the Xiqu Centre to the WKCD to facilitate access of members of the public and tourists to the area; and

    (3) as there are views that the existing road design of Museum Drive outside the Hong Kong Palace Museum is unsatisfactory and prone to causing traffic congestion, and the authorities are conducting a road network study in the vicinity of Museum Drive, including a study on the construction of additional slip road exits to the West Kowloon Expressway, of the details of the study and whether the relevant works can commence as soon as possible?

    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The West Kowloon Cultural District (WKCD or the District) is an important strategic cultural infrastructure investment of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. The WKCD is not only a popular choice for local residents to participate in cultural activities, but also one of the must-visit cultural and creative attractions welcomed by tourists.
     
    The Government and the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority (WKCDA) have always attached great importance to the accessibility of West Kowloon. Currently, there are many public transport services and routes to the WKCD, including the MTR, seven franchised bus routes, five green minibus (GMB) routes as well as Water Taxis.
     
    When large-scale activities such as fireworks displays are held at the WKCD or in its vicinity, the WKCDA will closely liaise with the Police and Transport Department (TD). The Police will implement temporary traffic management measures, including road closures, as needed within the WKCD and its vicinity whereas the TD will co-ordinate with public transport services providers to increase their services. Visitors can walk to the two MTR stations (i.e. Kowloon Station and Austin Station) or nearby places to access public transports when roads in the vicinity are still closed after the activities. During major festivals in the past two years, the said arrangements have been working smoothly.
     
    Having consulted the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the WKCDA, my reply to the question raised by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung is set out below:
     
    (1) The Southern Landing Facility (SLF) located opposite to M+ is expected to complete and open in quarter four of this year (2025). By then, the existing berthing point of Water Taxi at the New Yau Ma Tei Typhoon Shelter will be relocated to this new landing facility. The WKCDA is also liaisng with the TD in actively exploring the introduction of a new ferry route between the WKCD and Central, so as to fully utilise the new landing facility for further improving waterborne transport to and from the WKCD.
     
    The SLF is a public landing facility. The WKCDA is currently formulating the future arrangements for the use of the SLF, including reservation arrangements for berthing public vessels other than Water Taxi, and will maintain close communication with the tourism industry and relevant Government departments to explore ways to maximise the utilisation of the SLF.
     
    (2) The WKCD is situated on a 40-hectare site next to the High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, the MTR Tuen Ma Line Austin Station as well as the Tung Chung Line Kowloon Station. Citizens and visitors can choose to use the nearest MTR station according to the different arts and cultural facilities in the District they want to visit.
     
    Taking M+ as an example, visitors can use the MTR Kowloon Station and walk about 10 minutes via Elements Shopping Mall and the Art Square Bridge to reach it. As for the Hong Kong Palace Museum (HKPM), visitors can go for Exit E of the MTR Kowloon Station, walk via Nga Cheung Road and the pedestrian footbridge of the former toll plaza of the Western Harbour Crossing to enter the WKCD West Gate, and then walk along the District’s roads to reach the HKPM in 15 minutes. Visitors going to the Xiqu Centre can use the Austin Road Pedestrian Linkage System at Exit E of the MTR Austin Station to reach the destination within 5 minutes on foot.
     
    The development of the WKCD has always adopted the “City Park” design concept. The planning fundamental of the WKCD is pedestrian-oriented with emphasis on its connectivity, encouraging visitors to walk to and from different arts and cultural facilities within the District. For instance, from M+ to the HKPM, visitors can walk for about 10 minutes through the Art Park or along the WKCD Promenade, both of which are places where citizens and tourists love to linger. As for going from Xiqu Centre to M+, since there are still works in progress in the relevant waterfront and Austin Road West section, we recommend citizens to take about 15 to 20 minutes to walk via Austin Station, High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station, Elements, and the Artist Square Bridge at this stage.
     
    If visitors choose to travel between the WKCD and the High Speed Rail Hong Kong West Kowloon Station and MTR Austin Station by public transport, they can take the GMB Route CX1, or take the Kowloon Motor Bus Route W4 on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
     
    (3) The Government and the WKCDA have been exploring various options for improving the road network of the WKCD, including the addition of an exit from Museum Drive to the West Kowloon Highway to improve vehicular accessibility of the northern part of the WKCD. The Government will continue to study with the WKCDA in this regard to meet the development needs of the WKCD.

    Thank you, President.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Mainland-Hong Kong Green Energy Matchmaking Event promotes development of green maritime fuel supply chain

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Mainland-Hong Kong Green Energy Matchmaking Event organised by the Trade Development Bureau of the Ministry of Commerce of the People’s Republic of China and co-organised by the Transport and Logistics Bureau (TLB) and the Department of Commerce of Guangdong Province was held today (June 25) simultaneously in Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The Event aims to provide a collaborative platform for relevant suppliers and companies with demand to catalyse a comprehensive green maritime fuel supply chain and trade.
     
         The Event is supported by the Department of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Commerce, the Commercial Office of the Economic Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government (LOCPG) in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), as well as a number of relevant organisations, associations and enterprises from Hong Kong and the Mainland. More than 200 representatives from various enterprises, including those from Hong Kong companies with demand for green maritime fuels and relevant fuel suppliers from the Mainland, gathered in the two venues to exchange views and discuss collaborations in relation to fuel off-take and to sign relevant Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs).
     
         The Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, said at the Hong Kong venue, “Hong Kong and the Mainland share the same roots and are closely connected, with strong complementarity in the development of green maritime fuels. The Mainland’s core strength lies in the production of green fuels, while Hong Kong, as the southern gate of Mainland China and an international financial, trading and maritime centre, is not only home to a large number of international shipping enterprises, but also enjoys advantages such as free flow of capital, a financial and legal system that is in line with the rest of the world, and a trade settlement mechanism that allows immediate payment settlements. In addition, Hong Kong is the top bunkering centre in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, the second largest in the whole of China and ranks seventh globally. By adopting the ‘north-to-south sales’ model, under which the high-quality green maritime fuels produced on the Mainland can be exported to the world through Hong Kong’s international trading gateway, we will open up new ‘blue ocean’ opportunities for enterprises from the two places.
     
         “Today’s Event demonstrates the impactful materialisation of the target of the Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering promulgated by the HKSAR Government in November last year. We will develop Hong Kong into the preferred green maritime fuel bunkering and trading centre in the region. We have clearly set out in the Action Plan that we will establish a collaborative platform and provide facilitation measures for stakeholders engaged in green maritime fuel bunkering and related businesses, to help establish an efficient supply chain and trading channels. Today’s first-of-a-kind Event provides a high-quality and efficient networking platform for the supply and demand sides of green maritime fuels, to help Hong Kong and the Mainland to jointly build a green maritime fuel supply chain.”
     
         The signing of nine MOUs by various parties was witnessed by Ms Chan and representatives of relevant enterprises at the Hong Kong venue, and the Deputy Director-General of the Department of Foreign Trade of the Ministry of Commerce, Mr Chang Hui; Deputy Director-General of the Trade Development Bureau of the Ministry of Commerce Mr Zeng Huacheng; the Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department and Head of the Commercial Office of the LOCPG in the HKSAR, Mr Zhou Qiang; Deputy Director-General of the Department of Commerce of Guangdong Province Mr Sun Bin; member of the Legislative Council Mr Frankie Yick; the Commissioner for Maritime and Port Development, Miss Amy Chan, and representatives of various attending enterprises at the Shenzhen venue. Among them, the TLB signed MOUs with the China Chamber of Commerce of Metals, Minerals & Chemicals Importers & Exporters, a representative industry organisation; Chimbusco Pan Nation Petro-Chemical Co Ltd, a bunkering service provider; CIMC Enric Holdings Limited and the Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited, green methanol producers, to collaborate on promoting the development of green maritime fuel-related businesses and establishing a market for the trade of green maritime fuels, etc, with a view to integrating the needs of Hong Kong with the capabilities of industry, and further promoting the development of Hong Kong into a green maritime fuel bunkering and trading centre, thereby achieving mutually beneficial co-operation. In addition, the Hong Kong and China Gas Company Limited and the Pacific Basin Shipping Limited signed an MOU at the Hong Kong venue on their preliminary intent for business collaboration on green maritime fuels, which is a solid step forward for the development of a green maritime fuel trading centre in Hong Kong.
     
         In addition, Miss Chan briefed representatives of the attending enterprises on the direction and latest progress of the development of green maritime fuel bunkering and trading in Hong Kong at the Shenzhen venue, including announcing that the Marine Department will gazette the Code of Practice for Methanol Bunkering within this month, and launch the Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering Incentive Scheme which will offer incentives of up to $1 million per enterprise to pioneer enterprises that provide and engage in green maritime fuel bunkering in Hong Kong, for bunkering operations for specific fuels in Hong Kong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Third application announced under New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme supported by Vetting Committee and enhancement measure launched for New Industrialisation Funding Scheme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Third application announced under New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme supported by Vetting Committee and enhancement measure launched for New Industrialisation Funding Scheme 
    At the same time, to further support enterprises in adopting smart manufacturing and to seize market opportunities, the ITC has introduced an enhancement to the New Industrialisation Funding Scheme (NIFS). For NIFS applications seeking funding support of no more than $2.8 million, they will be processed according to the newly established streamlined procedures to speed up the process of approving NIFS applications.
     
    The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, said, “The Government actively promotes the development of new industrialisation through the NIAS and the NIFS, injecting new impetus into Hong Kong’s economy. We are pleased that enterprises are making use of the funding support from these two schemes to set up new smart production facilities in Hong Kong. Funded enterprises will bring to Hong Kong the relevant technologies and expertise of product manufacturing, driving the development of Hong Kong’s new industrialisation and diversified economy.”
     
    The Government launched the NIAS in September 2024. The NIAS provides funding support on a 1 (Government): 2 (enterprise) matching basis for enterprises engaging in industries of strategic importance (i.e. life and health technology, AI and data science, advanced manufacturing and new energy technologies) and contributing no less than $200 million to setting up new smart production facilities in Hong Kong. For each project, the minimum total project cost is $300 million. Each enterprise can receive up to $200 million of funding under the NIAS. In addition, the Government encourages enterprises with approved projects under the NIAS to carry out research or increase their scale of research in Hong Kong by providing additional funding for them to engage research talent, as well as facilitating such enterprises in employing non-local talent required for setting up or operating the new production facilities in Hong Kong.
     
    The NIFS aims to subsidise manufacturers on a 1 (Government): 2 (enterprise) matching basis to set up new smart production lines in Hong Kong. The funding ceiling for each project is one-third of the total project cost or $15 million, whichever is lower. Each enterprise can carry out up to three projects concurrently to receive a maximum total funding of up to $45 million under the NIFS.
     
    The NIAS and the NIFS are open for applications throughout the year. Details are available on the website of the Innovation and Technology Fund (www.itf.gov.hkIssued at HKT 11:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Technology Voucher Programme

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ22: Technology Voucher Programme 
    Question:
     
         The Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) launched the Technology Voucher Programme (TVP) in 2016 to subsidise enterprises in using technological services on a matching basis to enhance their productivity. It has been reported that since the launch of TVP, a total of nearly 35 000 projects involving a total of over $6.2 billion of public funding have been approved. However, suspected abuse cases have been found in a number of projects, including: (i) individuals with the same name registering with different companies and repeatedly applying for subsidies for the research and development of the same projects, (ii) nearly 2 000 projects and over 1 000 projects being approved with the same funding amount (accurate to one decimal place and some economists have described the figures as rather “statistically odd”), (iii) some applicant companies are suspected of having no actual operational activity or having already closed down, and (iv) there are doubts about the time taken to complete the development of the approved projects (e.g. $180,000 was granted to a company that updated its website and developed its mobile phone application in a speedy manner within two days; there was also a case in which a company developed an “Intelligent Anatomical Model Measurement System” in 27 days and was granted $480,000), etc. This has aroused suspicion that there are loopholes in the monitoring of TVP. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) whether the authorities have conducted random checks for subsidised projects granted under TVP in the past three years; if so, of the number and content of the random checks conducted and, among them, the respective numbers of applications suspected and confirmed to be abusive; if not, whether it will expeditiously activate the investigations in the light of the aforesaid media reports;
     
    (2) in respect of each application involving abuse of public subsidies or even fraud under TVP, of the follow-up actions actually taken by the authorities and the respective amounts of subsidies successfully and unsuccessfully recovered in such cases;
     
    (3) as the aforesaid reports have pointed out that some companies funded under TVP closed down shortly after receiving grants, of the measures put in place by the authorities to eradicate this situation; whether enterprises receiving approved grants will be required to regularly submit data on the use of technology projects/systems for monitoring purposes; and
     
    (4) whether the authorities will conduct a comprehensive review of TVP’s effectiveness since its implementation; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; whether they have assessed the actual increase in productivity, competitiveness and entrepreneurial return achieved by enterprises that applied for subsidies after upgrading their technological level?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         In response to the Hon Paul Tse’s question, our consolidated reply is as follows:
     
         The Government ceased accepting new applications for the Technology Voucher Programme (TVP) after December 31, 2024. To ensure proper use of public funds, the Hong Kong Productivity Council as the TVP Secretariat (the Secretariat) has been rigorously reviewing the applications, final project reports and supplementary information submitted by the applicants, and conducting random on-site checks on individual projects in order to ensure that the applications are eligible for funding and that the project deliverables conform to relevant requirements. When submitting TVP applications, every applicant must provide documentary evidence proving its substantive business operations in Hong Kong. Relevant documents include information on business operations, financial operations and employment. If any suspicious cases are identified, Innovation and Technology Commission will immediately withhold processing the relevant cases, cease disbursing any payments, and refer them to law enforcement agencies for follow-up. 
     
         After rigorous review by the Secretariat, each eligible TVP application will be assessed based on individual merits and considered on a case-by-case basis. According to the TVP Guidance Notes, the TVP Committee/the Secretariat will assess whether the project budget is reasonable by making reference to market prices of the technologies as known to them. If a project is worthy of support in principle but the project budget is higher than the estimated price, the Secretariat will, on a modular basis, adjust the level of funding with reference to the project cost approved by the TVP Committee. Therefore, projects/technological solutions of similar nature and scale (e.g. Enterprise Resource Planning System) will have the same approved amounts after the aforementioned adjustments. In addition, since the amount of funding is calculated on the basis of the funding ratio, there may be odd cents after the calculation.
     
         TVP has established rigorous checking mechanism to verify whether the approved projects are implemented. Applicants are required to implement the project in accordance with the approved application and funding agreement, and submit a final project report to the Secretariat upon completion of the project, together with evidence of deliverables (such as hardware photos and system screen captures), copy of invoice(s) and corresponding receipt(s) in relation to the payment for each expenditure item, an audited statement of income and expenditure for the project from an independent auditor (if the approved funding exceeds HK$50,000)/a final income and expenditure statement prepared by the applicant (if the approved funding is HK$50,000 or below). The Secretariat will also conduct random on-site checks on individual projects, requiring applicants to demonstrate the developed technological solutions on the spot so as to verify whether they comply with the requirements of the approved application and the TVP. Taking the cases with “progress issues” mentioned by media report and quoted in the question as an example, the final reports failed to pass the Secretariat’s assessment and no funding was disbursed.
     
         According to the TVP funding agreement, applicants are required to keep the relevant hardware and software for at least one year after project completion, and keep a proper and separate set of books and records for the project for seven years after project completion for checking. The Secretariat will conduct random checks on applicants to see if they comply with the relevant requirements.  
     
         In the past three years, the Secretariat has conducted random on-site checks on 1 860 projects and referred 15 suspicious cases to law enforcement agencies for follow-up. The Secretariat will recover the funding from applicants convicted in the cases. As the investigations/judicial proceedings by the law enforcement agencies are still ongoing, we have no record of funding recovery for the time being.
     
         To assess the effectiveness of the TVP on the funded enterprises/organisations, we require enterprises/organisations to submit evaluation reports six months after project completion on whether the project could achieve the objectives of improving productivity, or upgrading or transforming their business processes. As at end-2024, 8 587 of the funded enterprises/organisations with completed projects had submitted evaluation reports to the Secretariat. Ninety-nine per cent of them were of the view that the projects were conducive to enhancing their competitiveness. Specific benefits include saving manpower, time and/or cost, increasing revenue, and upgrading/transforming/streamlining business processes.
     
         The Government conducted a fundamental review on the TVP in 2024 and considered that the programme has achieved its original intent. In recent years, the Government has continued to strengthen support measures for different industries, and many bureaux and departments have introduced more targeted funding schemes dedicated to the specific conditions or operational needs of individual industries. It was therefore decided that TVP would cease accepting new applications after December 31, 2024.
     
    The Secretariat will continue to review and enhance the vetting procedures of TVP so as to process the outstanding cases. In view of the large number of applications received before the deadline on December 31, 2024, the Secretariat has adopted a stringent vetting approach, requiring applicants to provide documents to prove that they have substantive business operations, the procurement procedures meet the requirements, and the budget and other details of the proposed technological solutions are reasonable and realistic. The Secretariat will continue to rigorously review the documents submitted by applicants for each application to ensure proper use of public funds.
    Issued at HKT 11:30

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Preventing dog excreta from fouling public places and streets

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Following is a question by the Hon Judy Chan and a written reply by the Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Mr Tse Chin-wan, in the Legislative Council today (June 25):

    Question:

    At present, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department have both drawn up guidelines for people walking dogs on cleaning up dog excreta in public places and on streets. However, there are views that the cleaning methods set out in such guidelines are inadequate. For example, people walking dogs are advised to use paper to wrap up dog faeces and deposit it in rubbish bins or dog excreta collection bins, and rinse the floor with water only, which are all ineffective in cleaning up dog excreta and removing its lingering odour, thereby affecting the cityscape. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the number of cases and total amount of fines imposed in each of the past three years for allowing dogs to foul (i) the streets or public places with faeces, and (ii) the common parts of buildings with excreta;
     
    (2) of the number of surprise inspections conducted by the authorities in each of the past three years to address the issue of dogs excreting indiscriminately (broken down by the 18 districts across the territory);
     
    (3) given that the existing legislation does not impose penalties on people walking dogs who allow their dogs to urinate and foul the streets, whether the Government has plans to amend the legislation to impose regulation; and
     
    (4) whether the authorities have plans to update the guidelines on cleaning up dog excreta (e.g. instructing people walking dogs to use cleaning agents with deodorising and stain-removing properties to rinse the areas where their dogs excrete); if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,

    Under the Public Cleansing and Prevention of Nuisances Regulation (Cap. 132BK), a person who allows his dog to cause fouling by depositing faeces in the common parts of a building or in any street or public place is liable on a first conviction to a maximum fine of $10,000 and on each subsequent conviction to a maximum fine of $25,000; and a person who allows his dog to cause fouling by depositing urine in the common parts of a building is liable on a first conviction to a maximum fine of $5,000 and on each subsequent conviction to a maximum fine of $10,000. Moreover, under the Fixed Penalty (Public Cleanliness and Obstruction) Ordinance (Cap. 570), any person allowing dogs to foul the streets or public places with faeces is liable to a fixed penalty of $3,000.

    The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) have provided the public with guidelines on prevention of fouling of places by dog excreta, advising dog walkers to take enough paper to wrap up the faeces and place it into the dog excreta collection bin, and bring sufficient clean water to rinse the spot where the dog has urinated in order to maintain environmental hygiene.

    My reply to the question raised by the Hon Judy Chan is as follows:

    (1) The number of cases in which the FEHD took enforcement actions against fouling of streets or public places by dog faeces, as well as the total amount of fines imposed between 2022 and 2024 are as follows:
     

      2022 2023 2024
    Number of cases 16 19 24
    Total amount of fines imposed on cases handled ($) 22,500 33,000 70,000*

    *The significant increase in fines was mainly due to the increase in the amount of fixed penalty for fouling of street by dog faeces from $1,500 to $3,000 with effect from October 22, 2023.

    Having considered its enforcement priorities and resource deployment, the FEHD focuses its enforcement efforts against cleanliness offences in streets and public places, while the management and hygiene problems of the common parts of buildings are generally followed up by owners or management companies. The FEHD does not maintain records of enforcement against dogs fouling the common parts of buildings with excreta between 2022 and 2024.

    (2) The numbers of blitz operations conducted by the FEHD in the 18 districts across the territory in response to dog fouling between 2022 and 2024 are as follows:
     

    District 2022 2023 2024
    Central and Western 10 12 14
    Wan Chai 17 15 23
    Eastern 12 10 17
    Southern 10 11 9
    Islands 4 15 8
    Yau Tsim Mong 22 30 28
    Sham Shui Po 11 13 18
    Kowloon City 14 16 16
    Wong Tai Sin 30 24 28
    Kwun Tong 24 24 26
    Kwai Tsing 12 10 10
    Tsuen Wan 15 12 18
    Tuen Mun 20 19 20
    Yuen Long 15 12 16
    North 8 8 10
    Tai Po 12 12 12
    Sha Tin 8 10 12
    Sai Kung 12 12 12
    Total 256 265 297

    The AFCD and the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) also conduct enforcement operations at their respective sites from time to time, addressing various irregularities such as dogs fouling. The AFCD and the LCSD do not maintain specific figures on enforcement actions solely targeting dog fouling issues.

    (3) In general, rinsing the spot where the dog has urinated with sufficient clean water is enough to clean the spot properly and avoid causing environmental hygiene problems. Considering the habits of dogs marking their territory with urine and urinating outdoors, as well as the fact that using sufficient clean water is enough for cleaning, the Government currently has no plans to amend the legislation to regulate dog urination in streets or public places.

    The Government will continue to promote the message of “be a responsible pet owner” to the public and educate dog walkers to properly clean up after their dogs through various channels, including posters, pamphlets, thematic websites and roving exhibitions, so as to maintain environmental hygiene.

    (4) The guidelines issued by the FEHD and the AFCD have clearly required dog walkers to clean up after their dogs by properly wrapping up the faeces with sufficient paper or cleaning urine with sufficient clean water. As regards the requirement for dog walkers to use cleaning agents, we have to consider the impact on the public and the environment, such as whether the cleaning agents may cause pedestrians to slip and whether the discharge of cleaning agents into stormwater drains may cause pollution. The Government will continue its promotional and educational efforts so that dog walkers will follow the guidelines and properly dispose of the droppings of their dogs.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ16: Manpower of lifeguard

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ16: Manpower of lifeguard 
    Question:
     
    It is learnt that, due to the shortage of lifeguard manpower, some gazetted beaches managed by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) have been unable to provide lifeguard services during the swimming season. This includes Cheung Sha Beach on Lantau Island (comprising Upper Cheung Sha Beach and Lower Cheung Sha Beach), which the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) recommends on its website as an ideal location for water sports. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) which gazetted beaches under the LCSD’s management were unable to provide lifesaving services for the entire swimming season over the past three years due to a shortage of lifeguard manpower, together with a tabulated breakdown by the 18 districts in Hong Kong;
     
    (2) given that the LCSD provides lifesaving services at its gazetted beaches daily from 9am to 6pm during the swimming season (i.e. from April to October), which of these beaches were unexpectedly closed for half a day or longer last year due to insufficient lifeguard manpower, together with the total number of closure days for each of such beaches;
     
    (3) given that, in the face of the lifeguard manpower shortage, the LCSD has been outsourcing lifesaving and first aid services at public swimming pools on a trial basis since September 2024, whether the Government has studied the possibility of outsourcing the operation of beaches with greater potential for water sports development to private organisations, including the provision of water sports facilities, beach umbrellas for hire, as well as life-saving and first-aid services; if such studies have been conducted, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (4) whether the authorities will co-ordinate their efforts more effectively to prevent the temporary closure of beaches recommended by the HKTB due to a shortage of lifeguard manpower (for example, Cheung Sha Beach has been unable to provide lifeguard services for the past two swimming seasons), so as to avoid an adverse impact on visitors’ experiences?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) has all along adopted a multi-pronged approach to increase and stabilise the manpower supply of lifeguards, including implementing various measures proactively such as increasing the salaries of seasonal lifeguards and enhancing the flexibility of recruitment process. During the swimming season (i.e. from April to October every year), in addition to civil service lifeguards, the LCSD will employ seasonal lifeguards to assist in providing lifesaving services as well as deploy serving lifeguards and other resources flexibly to maintain services at the 42 gazetted beaches as far as practicable.
     
    My reply to the Hon Chan Hok-fung’s questions are set out below:
     
    (1) During the period from 2022 to 2024, the gazetted beaches where lifesaving services were not available for the entire swimming season due to a shortage of lifeguards are listed at Annex. Members of the public, however, can still enjoy sunbathing and use other facilities at these gazetted beaches.
     
    (2) In 2024, no gazetted beaches were temporarily closed for half day or more due to a shortage of lifeguards.
     
    (3) In September 2024, the LCSD launched a two-year programme of outsourcing the lifesaving and first aid services at six public swimming pools on a trial basis. This is one of the measures to increase and stabilise the supply of lifeguards. The programme has run for around nine months, during which the service contractor has been providing stable services. The LCSD will continue to review and evaluate the implementation of the programme.
     
    At present, over half of the 42 gazetted beaches managed by the LCSD are already equipped with facilities operated commercially by enterprises or organisations, including light refreshment kiosks, fast food kiosks, restaurants and canoe training centres. These operators currently provide sale or rental services (including rental of sun umbrellas, beach chairs and lifebuoys) for the convenience of swimmers. As for the feasibility of outsourcing the lifesaving and first aid services, the LCSD will take into account a basket of factors, including the outcome and experience of the outsourced lifesaving and first aid services mentioned above, the usage patterns of the public at beaches and the safety of swimmers. The LCSD will continue to actively engage with all stakeholders to jointly provide leisure experiences of better quality for the general public.
     
    (4) When deciding which gazetted beaches to be provided with full lifesaving services, the LCSD will consider multiple factors, including the number of swimmers, the ancillary facilities in the vicinity of beaches as well as the views and demand of the District Councils and local communities.
     
    As for those beaches where full lifesaving services are yet to be provided temporarily, members of the public and tourists can still enjoy a variety of leisure activities there, such as strolling, sand-sculpting and sunbathing. They can also use facilities such as light refreshment kiosks, barbecue pits, playgrounds and beach volleyball courts.
     
    The LCSD will continue to monitor the situation of the beaches, and maintain close communication and co-ordination with relevant stakeholders (including the Hong Kong Tourism Board) to make appropriate arrangements for the general public and tourists.
    Issued at HKT 11:05

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Adjustment in ceiling prices for dedicated LPG filling stations in July 2025

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) today (June 25) announced an adjustment to the auto-LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) ceiling prices for dedicated LPG filling stations from July 1 to July 31, 2025, in accordance with the terms and conditions of the contracts for dedicated LPG filling stations.

         A department spokesman said that the adjustment on July 1, 2025, would reflect the movement of the LPG international price in June 2025. The adjusted auto-LPG ceiling prices for dedicated LPG filling stations would range from $3.55 to $4.47 per litre, amounting to a decrease of $0.05 to $0.06 per litre. 

         The spokesman said that the auto-LPG ceiling prices were adjusted according to a pricing formula specified in the contracts.  The formula comprises two elements – the LPG international price and the LPG operating price. The LPG international price refers to the LPG international price of the preceding month. The LPG operating price is adjusted on February 1 and June 1 annually according to the average movement of the Composite Consumer Price Index and the Nominal Wage Index. 

         The auto-LPG ceiling prices for respective dedicated LPG filling stations in July 2025 are as follows:
     

    Location of
    Dedicated
    LPG Filling Station    		 Auto-LPG
    Ceiling
    Price in
    July 2025 (HK$/litre)    		 Auto-LPG
    Ceiling
    Price in
    June 2025 (HK$/litre)
    Kwai On Road, Kwai Chung 3.55 3.61
    Sham Mong Road, Mei Foo 3.62 3.68
    Wai Lok Street, Kwun Tong 3.67 3.73
    Cheung Yip Street, Kowloon Bay 3.72 3.78
    Ngo Cheung Road, West Kowloon 3.73 3.79
    Yuen Chau Tsai, Tai Po 3.78 3.84
    Tak Yip Street, Yuen Long 3.89 3.95
    Hang Yiu Street, Ma On Shan 3.91 3.97
    Marsh Road, Wan Chai 3.93 3.98
    Fung Mat Road, Sheung Wan  3.95 4.01
    Yip Wong Road, Tuen Mun 4.05 4.11
    Fung Yip Street, Chai Wan  4.47 4.53

        The spokesman said that the details of the LPG international price and the auto-LPG ceiling price for each dedicated LPG filling station had been uploaded to the EMSD website (www.emsd.gov.hk) and posted at dedicated LPG filling stations to enable the trades to monitor the price adjustment.

         Details of the pricing adjustment mechanism for dedicated LPG filling stations can also be viewed under the “What’s New” section of the department website at www.emsd.gov.hk/en/what_s_new/current/index.html.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCED attends China Forum in Paris, France (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SCED attends China Forum in Paris, France  
         Speaking at the forum, Mr Yau remarked that Asia is currently contributing 60 per cent to global growth, and that the Asian market, in particular the Mainland market, presents a unique opportunity for businesses looking to expand their horizons across the global trade landscape. As a “super connector” between foreign investors and the Mainland market, Hong Kong serves as a perfect springboard for French businesses to tap into the Mainland market.
     
         Mr Yau said that in 2024, Hong Kong’s total trade amounted to US$1,350 billion, and was the world’s fifth-largest trading entity. Every year Hong Kong channels a massive volume of trade between the Mainland and the rest of the world. Meanwhile, under the Mainland and Hong Kong Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement (CEPA), the most liberal free trade agreement ever offered by the Mainland, Hong Kong enterprises and professionals can enjoy the most preferential access to the Mainland market. CEPA is also nationality neutral and does not impose any restrictions on the source of investments. He encouraged the French business sector to set up company in Hong Kong to enjoy the preferential treatment under CEPA to enter the Mainland market.
     
         Mr Yau added that Hong Kong has a simple and low tax system and there is no restriction on the flow of capital. In addition to the Mainland market, French businesses can also access the Southeast Asian market by using Hong Kong as a base for their regional operations in Asia. Hong Kong is also deepening its trade ties with the Middle East and the Association of Southeast Asian Nations countries, and is reaching out to Central Asia to explore new markets. 
     
         Mr Yau concluded that Hong Kong already has strong links with France, adding that the French community is one of the largest and most successful in Hong Kong. Among the European Union member states, France is the third largest in merchandise trade with Hong Kong and second largest in services trade. He believes that there is still significant trade potential between Hong Kong and France that would bring better synergy and mutual benefits.
     
         During his stay in Paris, Mr Yau also paid a courtesy call on Minister of the Chinese Embassy in France Mr Chen Dong to update him on Hong Kong’s latest economic and trade developments, and new initiatives such as the reduction of liquor duty to promote liquor trading.
     
         Mr Yau also visited the headquarters of Elior Group SA and its facilities to learn about the company’s operation and business development. He then hosted a dinner for representatives of the France Hong Kong Business Association to learn about the latest development directions of local enterprises and exchange views on enhancing co-operation between Hong Kong and France.
     
         Before proceeding to Paris, Mr Yau visited a wine cellar in Armagnac and met with representatives of the Armagnac trade on June 23 (France time) to promote the advantages of Hong Kong as a liquor trading hub.
     
         Mr Yau will depart for Hong Kong on June 25 (France time). 
    Issued at HKT 9:00

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    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • Iranian parliament approves bill to suspend cooperation with UN nuclear watchdog

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Iran’s parliament approved a bill on Wednesday to suspend cooperation with the U.N. nuclear watchdog, state-affiliated news outlet Nournews reported.

    The move, which needs the final approval of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council to be enforced according to Nournews, follows an air war with Israel in which its longtime enemy said it wanted to prevent Tehran developing a nuclear weapon.

    Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf was quoted by state media as also saying Iran would accelerate its civilian nuclear programme.

    Tehran denies seeking nuclear weapons and says a resolution adopted this month by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) declaring Iran in breach of its non-proliferation obligations paved the way for Israel’s attacks.

    The parliament speaker was quoted as saying the IAEA had refused even to appear to condemn the attack on Iran’s nuclear facilities and “has put its international credibility up for sale.”

    He said that “for this reason, the Atomic Energy Organisation of Iran will suspend its cooperation with the Agency until the security of the nuclear facilities is guaranteed, and move at a faster pace with the country’s peaceful nuclear programme.”

    Earlier this week, parliament’s national security committee approved the bill’s general outline and the committee’s spokesperson, Ebrahim Rezaei, said the bill would suspend the installation of surveillance cameras, inspections and filing of reports to the IAEA.

    Following the Israeli attacks on its nuclear sites, and U.S. bombing of underground Iranian nuclear facilities at the weekend, the Iranian government also faces calls to limit the country’s commitments to the nuclear non-proliferation regime.

    In an interview with Qatar’s Al-Araby Al-Jadeed on Tuesday, Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi said: “I think that our view on our nuclear programme and the non-proliferation regime will witness changes, but it is not possible to say in what direction.”

    (Reuters)

  • Nefarious attempt to strangle Indian democracy: Rajnath Singh on 50 years of Emergency

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday said that 50 years ago, a nefarious attempt was made to strangle Indian democracy with the imposition of the Emergency, during which civil liberties were suspended and opposition leaders were jailed under the rule of then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi.

    In a post on X, he called the Emergency “the darkest chapter in Indian democracy”, while paying tribute to those who resisted the authoritarian rule.

    “Fifty years ago today, a nefarious attempt was made to strangle Indian democracy through the imposition of the Emergency. People still remember the Emergency as the darkest chapter in Indian democracy. Sidelining the Constitution, the manner in which the Emergency was imposed on the country is a glaring example of the misuse of power and dictatorship. All opposition leaders were sent to jail. There was no constitutional institution left that was not misused. Yet, the democratic traditions of this country could not be erased by the then government, no matter how much they tried,” said Rajnath.

    The Union Minister also highlighted the role of those who fought against the Emergency.

    “Today, democracy is alive in India, and for this, those who struggled during the Emergency, endured imprisonment, and suffered hardships have made an immense contribution. The future generations of India will never forget their contribution. Prime Minister Shri Modiji has decided to observe June 25 as ‘Samvidhan Hatya Diwas’ so that every citizen remembers how dictatorship attempts to murder democracy,” he added.

    In 2024, the Government of India officially notified June 25 as Samvidhan Hatya Diwas marking the imposition of Emergency in the country in 1975.

    To mark what it calls a moment of serious institutional breakdown in India’s democratic journey, the BJP has planned extensive outreach programmes at the booth and district levels. The aim, according to BJP leaders, is to educate the younger generation about the consequences of authoritarianism and the importance of preserving democratic values.

    (With inputs from IANS)

  • Emergency black chapter in India’s democracy, Cong still carries dictatorial mindset: JP Nadda

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Union Minister and BJP National President J.P. Nadda on Wednesday launched a scathing attack on the Congress, accusing it of continuing to carry the same “dictatorial mindset” that, according to him, marked the 21-month Emergency imposed by former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi in 1975.

    Calling the period a “black chapter” in India’s democratic journey, Nadda said the events of that era remain a stark reminder of how democratic institutions were “subverted” under Congress rule.

    Recounting the events of June 25, 1975, Nadda said, “India is the oldest and largest democratic country in the world. Some such incidents have also happened in the country where a malicious attempt has been made to tamper with the basic spirit of the Constitution. The country sees it as a black chapter in democracy. On this day, 50 years ago, the then Prime Minister (of Congress), Indira Gandhi, had declared Emergency, which was not just a political event but a direct attack on democracy. It was a blow.”

    Referring to the midnight proclamation of Emergency by Indira Gandhi, Nadda alleged, “On the midnight of June 25, 1975, the then Prime Minister Indira Gandhi imposed Emergency on India on the pretext of internal unrest and murdered the Constitution of the country. Even after 50 years, Congress is living with the same mentality. Its intentions are still the same, dictatorial.”

    Nadda noted that the Emergency followed a court verdict against Indira Gandhi.

    “In 1975, the High Court held Indira Gandhi guilty of violating the code of conduct in the elections and declared her ineligible to hold any elected post for six years. Overnight, the electricity to the press was cut off. The entire opposition was put in jail. Freedom of the press was taken away. Democracy was trampled by misusing Article 352. Parliament and judiciary were paralysed and on the morning of June 26, the dictatorial government of Congress imposed Emergency on the country,” he stated.

    Calling the resistance against the Emergency a broader fight for the soul of the nation, Nadda said, “The opposition to the dictatorship of Congress was not merely political. It was a movement to protect the soul of India and the Constitution in which nationalists put their lives at stake. Jai Prakash Narayan and Chaudhary Charan Singh, as well as Atal ji, Advani ji, Rajmata Vijaya Raje Scindia, Murli Manohar Joshi, and thousands of party workers and ‘Vichar Parivar’ workers were forcibly put in jail by Indira Gandhi’s government.”

    He also highlighted Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s contribution during that period and said, “Our Prime Minister Narendra Modi, as a responsible worker, threw dust in the eyes of the dictatorial government and with the help of lakhs of dedicated volunteer workers, took the truth of Congress to every village, every street and every house.”

    He mentioned that PM Modi has recorded the “struggles and unheard incidents” of that time in his book ‘The Emergency Diaries, Years that Forced a Leader’.

    Reflecting on the current political context, the BJP chief added, “In the 50 years of the murder of the Constitution in the country, it is necessary to remember and remind people of the pain of the Emergency. Because even today, Congress is living with the same dictatorial mindset. We all must read this book to know how Congress had conspired to crush the democracy of the country. How the worshippers of democracy, without caring for their lives, foiled this conspiracy of Congress by highlighting the struggle.”

    Nadda criticised the Congress leadership’s approach to governance and press freedom. “Slogans like ‘India is Indira, Indira is India’, reflected the mindset of Congress under which Indira Gandhi had turned the country into a laboratory of individualism and dynasty.”

    He said that Congress supports the idea of only one family ruling the country, and that is why it had “placed a super PM above the Prime Minister of its government.”

    “Congress is not able to digest the fact that a poor person has become the Prime Minister of the country. The law and order situation in Congress-ruled states is the same today as it was during the Emergency. Suppression of opposition, religious appeasement and arrogance of power are openly visible,” he added.

    Referring to the judiciary, Nadda said, “Indira Gandhi did not make an honest judge like Justice H.R. Khanna the Chief Justice, despite him being senior. Because he had made a decision against the government. Congress had ensured that any officer or judge who did not follow their orders should either be removed or transferred. Indira Gandhi changed the basic spirit of the Constitution by making anti-democratic amendments in the Constitution to keep her power safe.”

    Highlighting the repression during the Emergency, he added, “During the Emergency, even if a citizen was shot, he did not have the right to go to court. Even today, Rahul and Congress are seen to be lying about the Constitution. During the Emergency, people imprisoned were not even allowed to attend the last rites of their relatives. Congress has never apologised for its actions during the Emergency to date.”

    Nadda also cited Congress’ conduct ahead of the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, when the party had officially issued a list of “boycotted journalists” whose debates the party spokespersons were “forbidden from attending.”

    “On one hand, they file cases against journalists during their rule, while on the other hand, they boycott them when they are in the opposition,” he said.

    Concluding his remarks, Nadda paid tribute to those who resisted the Emergency, stating, “Today, on this occasion, I pay tribute, on my behalf and on behalf of crores of Bharatiya Janata Party workers, to the true soldiers of democracy who risked their lives to free the country from the curse of Emergency, and thank them for protecting the Constitution and the country.”

    (IANS)

     

  • MIL-OSI China: Infographic: Commemorating 80th anniversary of victory against Japanese aggression, fascism

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

    China on Tuesday unveiled plans for the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. A grand gathering and a military parade will be held on Sept. 3 in Beijing. Here are more highlights of the commemorative events.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Cricket coup for Leeds as city cements status as a big hitter on global sporting stage

    Source: City of Leeds

    Leeds is set to come out to bat as a global sporting city as it prepares to host the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup next year.

    Following on from hosting England men’s triumph against India in the first Test this week, Headingley stadium will once again be placed firmly on the worldwide cricket stage as it welcomes the landmark women’s tournament in 2026.

    The iconic venue is scheduled to host five nail-biting showdowns as the likes of Australia, India, West Indies, Pakistan and England battle it out for the prestigious trophy, currently held by New Zealand.

    The action initially kicks off on Friday June 12, 2026, marking the start of a whirlwind month of world-class cricket, with fixtures in Headingley set for:

    • June 17 (Australia Women vs Qualifier at 10.30am and India Women vs Qualifier at 2.30pm);
    • June 18 (West Indies Women vs Qualifier at 6.30pm);
    • June 20 (England Women vs Qualifier at 6.30pm); and
    • June 23 (Australia Women vs Pakistan Women at 6.30pm)

    And from today (Wednesday June 25) for the next 12 days, people in Leeds and beyond will have the opportunity to gain exclusive, priority tickets via an online link.

    The access window opened at 10am today and ends at midnight on July 8, to help the city’s fans beat the ballot and secure a seat to watch the action in Leeds and other venues across the country.

    The announcement of Headingley as a host venue for the high-profile tournament further bolsters Leeds’s reputation as an all-rounder when it comes to global sporting events.

    Recent prominent national and international events hosted by the city include the AJ Bell World Triathlon Championship Series, the Westfield Health British Transplant Games, a number of fixtures for 2022’s Rugby League World Cup and the ICC Cricket World Cup in 2019.

    As well as raising Leeds’s profile as a sporting heavyweight, such occasions also provide a massive boost to the city’s and regional economy, as evidenced by 2014’s Tour de France Grand Depart bringing in more than £100m in addition to other long-term benefits including increased tourism and trade deals.

    The council also works alongside individual organisers to ensure that large-scale events follow robust sustainability strategies that support the city’s net zero ambitions.

    Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, said: “Hosting the ICC Women’s T20 World Cup is great news for Leeds, enhancing our already-impressive track record of staging major events of all kinds.

    “It’s a privilege to be among the many iconic venues up and down the country showcasing world-class cricket and propelling the women’s game into the mainstream – and hopefully inspiring new generations to get involved in the sport.

    “With the opening today of the priority window to access tickets, now is the chance for fans across Leeds and beyond to snap up the opportunity to enjoy what promises to be thrilling days of cricketing action right here in city.”

    Yorkshire CCC Chief Executive Officer Sanjay Patel said: “We are delighted to be hosting five fixtures in the 2026 ICC Women’s T20 World Cup.

    “Headingley has an incredible track record of hosting entertaining matches, and I’m sure it’ll be no different next summer.

    “The opportunity to host some of the world’s best cricketers is really exciting, and I’m sure the population of Leeds and the surrounding areas will come out in their numbers to support the teams.

    “Alongside this, the potential legacy that a tournament like this can have on the game is transformative and we will be working hard with a range of partners to maximise its impact.”

    Tournament director Beth Barrett-Wild said: “The ICC Women’s T20 World Cup provides us with an unparalleled opportunity to transform a month of sporting excellence into a movement that will rewrite the narrative about women’s cricket.

    “At iconic venues like Headingley, we’ll see incredible, world-class athletes battling it out in front of hundreds of thousands of fans, who with every ball bowled and run scored, will be contributing to lasting change.

    “It’s our opportunity to give women’s cricket the stage it deserves, and to inspire fans across Leeds to get involved!”

    To access tickets via the priority window, visit: https://tickets.womens.t20worldcup.com/list/partnerAdvantage?code=PQENvVsvPs.

    ENDS

    For media enquiries please contact:

    Leeds City Council communications and marketing,

    Email: communicationsteam@leeds.gov.uk

    Tel: 0113 378 6007

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Emergency response drill a succes

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Civil Service Bureau today conducted a tabletop exercise, testing the mobilisation efficiency of all government departments to further familiarise them with the operation of the mobilisation protocol and enhance the Government’s emergency response capabilities.

     

    The exercise simulated a scenario in which a super typhoon was approaching Hong Kong and its associated torrential rain might result in serious flooding in some low-lying areas.

     

    As a consequence, it was necessary for the Government to promptly mobilise a significant number of staff across departments to form a quick response unit accordingly to provide timely support.

     

    In accordance with the requirement of the “government-wide mobilisation” level, all bureaus and departments, as well as the Independent Commission Against Corruption, have to arrange around 10,000 personnel on standby through an interdepartmental communication mechanism established for the “government-wide mobilisation” level.

     

    Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung, who was briefed on the communications among the different departments during the exercise, noted that the exercise was generally smooth, fully demonstrating the departments’ progressive enhancements in alertness and responsiveness under the “government-wide mobilisation” level.

     

    The interdepartmental communication mechanism can also continue to support the operation of the mobilisation protocol in a highly efficient manner, Mrs Yeung said, adding that the exercise’s successful completion is an affirmation of the mature operation of the mobilisation protocol, and showcases the flexibility, efficiency and solidarity of the civil service.

     

    In September 2023, the Government activated the mobilisation protocol twice, mobilising more than 600 government staff from 16 bureaus and department to take part in the operations that assisted in the recovery work in the wake of Super Typhoon Saola and the torrential rain.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Courtesy call on State Minister for Foreign Affairs Fujii by H.E. Mr. Alnaas, Charge d’Affaires of the Embassy of the Republic of Libya in Japan


    Download logo

    On June 25, Mr. FUJII, State Minister for Foreign Affairs, received a courtesy call by Mr. Ahmed S. A. ALNAAS, Chargé d’Affaires ad interim, Embassy of the State of Libya in Japan. The overview is as follows.

    • At the outset, State Minister Fujii welcomed the steady progress in bilateral relations since the reopening of the Japanese Embassy in Libya in January last year, noting that the high-level visits between both countries, including the two visits to Japan by H.E. Mr. Abdullah Allafi, Vice President of the Presidential Council of the State of Libya, have been invigorated.
    • In response, Charge d’Affaires Alnaas explained about the security situation in Libya, while expressing hope to strengthen ties between Japan and Libya across a broad range of areas, including through opportunities such as TICAD 9.
    • The two sides agreed to further collaborative efforts to enhance the Japan-Libya relationship.

    Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan.

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • PM Modi hails successful launch of space mission with astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and US

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Wednesday welcomed the successful launch of the space mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland, and the United States. He also extended his best wishes to Indian astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is set to become the first Indian to travel to the International Space Station (ISS).

    PM Modi said on X: “We welcome the successful launch of the Space Mission carrying astronauts from India, Hungary, Poland and the US. The Indian Astronaut, Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla is on the way to become the first Indian to go to International Space Station. He carries with him the wishes, hopes and aspirations of 1.4 billion Indians. Wish him and other astronauts all the success!”

    The Axiom 4 Mission (AX-4) was launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida at 2:31 am Eastern Time (12:01pm IST).

    “Liftoff for #Ax4. The #Ax4 crew is on its way to the space station,” said the US-based Axiom Space, which has, in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX, organised the mission.

    “Liftoff of Ax-4!” added SpaceX.

    The lift-off comes after being deferred at least six times.

    In his remarks from onboard the Dragon spacecraft, Shukla said, “Namaskar, my dear countrymen, what a ride. We are back in the space once again after 41 years. It’s an amazing ride. We are revolving around the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me that I am with all of you. This journey of mine is not a beginning to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India’s Human Space Programme. I want all of you to be part of this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride. You all also show excitement. Together, let’s initiate India’s Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”

    “India is returning to space, Jai Hind,” Shukla wrote on X, just before the launch of the mission.

    “After 41 years, India’s flag will fly in space again,” he added.

    Earlier, Shukla also penned an emotional note for his wife.

    “Special thanks to Kamna for being the wonderful partner that you are. Without you none of this was possible but more importantly none of this would matter,” said Shukla, in a post on Instagram.

    He shared a photograph that shows them saying goodbye through opposite sides of a glass wall.

    Shukla also thanked people “involved in this mission for their support”.

    For Group Captain Shukla, this will be an opportunity to emulate fellow Indian Air Force Officer Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard Soyuz T-11 on 3 April 1984 as part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme. Sharma spent seven days in space on board the Salyut 7 space station.

    This is the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. The crew is travelling to the orbiting laboratory on a new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The targeted docking time is approximately 7 am Eastern Time (4 pm IST) on Thursday, June 26.

    (With agency inputs)

  • Govt to mark Anti-Drug Day on June 26 with nationwide campaigns

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment (DoSJE) will commemorate the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking on June 26. A central event will be held at Dr. Ambedkar International Centre in New Delhi, with Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, B.L. Verma, attending as the Chief Guest.

    The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment (MoSJE), the nodal agency for drug demand reduction in India, has been spearheading efforts to prevent drug abuse, assess the extent of substance use, and provide treatment and rehabilitation services. As part of its ongoing mission, the Ministry is implementing the Nasha Mukt Bharat Abhiyaan (NMBA), an ambitious nationwide campaign to spread awareness about the harmful effects of substance abuse.

    The NMBA, currently operational across all districts of India, focuses particularly on youth, with outreach efforts targeting universities, colleges, schools, and communities. The objective is to transform the campaign into a Jan Andolan—a people’s movement—through active community involvement and ownership.

    As of June 2025, over 15.78 crore people have been sensitized through NMBA activities, including 5.26 crore youth and 3.31 crore women. More than 4.31 lakh educational institutions have participated in spreading awareness. Additionally, over 20,000 trained Master Volunteers have been deployed to lead these efforts at the grassroots level.

    To support digital outreach, the NMBA maintains active social media accounts and has developed a mobile application available on the Google Play Store. This app allows districts and volunteers to upload real-time data, feeding into a national NMBA dashboard. The official NMBA website (http://nmba.dosje.gov.in) provides comprehensive information, including an e-pledge, online forums, and detailed reports on the campaign’s impact.

    A notable achievement under NMBA has been the National Online Pledge initiative, where more than 1.67 crore students from nearly one lakh educational institutions have pledged to live a drug-free life. The Ministry has also hosted a series of engagement programs such as Nashe se Azaadi – A National Youth and Students Interaction Programme, Naya Bharat, Nasha Mukt Bharat, and special interactions with NCC cadets.

    In collaboration with spiritual and social organizations—including The Art of Living, Brahma Kumaris, Sant Nirankari Mission, Ram Chandra Mission (Daaji), ISKCON, and All World Gayatri Parivaar—the Ministry has expanded the campaign’s reach through mass awareness events.

    To enhance public access to services, all government-supported de-addiction centers have been geo-tagged.

    Substance use and dependence remain critical public health challenges that impact not just individuals but also families and communities. The misuse of psychoactive substances often leads to serious health conditions including neuropsychiatric disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and increased risk of accidents, suicides, and violence. The Ministry emphasizes that substance use should be approached as a psycho-social-medical issue requiring coordinated and compassionate intervention.

    To mark the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, all States and Union Territories, along with NGOs and Voluntary Organizations supported under the National Action Plan for Drug Demand Reduction (NAPDDR), have been directed to organize awareness programmes from June 1 to June 26.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Exclusive: China-Central Asia Summit Demonstrates High Level and Quality of Current Regional Cooperation – Uzbek Expert

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

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

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

    Tashkent, June 25 /Xinhua/ — The meeting of the leaders of Uzbekistan and China, as well as the successful holding of the China-Central Asia summit, clearly demonstrated the high level and quality of current regional cooperation, Professor of the Nordic International University in Uzbekistan, Doctor of Economics Akram Khashimov said in an exclusive interview with Xinhua about relations between China and Central Asian countries.

    According to him, based on the statements of the heads of state, it can be concluded that the countries of Central Asia, including Uzbekistan, highly appreciate the responsibility and constructive position of China in promoting regional cooperation. As the expert emphasized, the meeting was not only an important milestone in the political dialogue, but also another confirmation of strategic trust between the parties.

    A. Khashimov noted that following the talks, the leaders of Uzbekistan and China reached a number of key agreements covering a wide range of areas – from economics and trade to transport, green energy, education and humanitarian exchanges. “For Uzbekistan, China is not only an important trade and economic partner, but also a key ally on the path to modernization of the country,” the expert emphasized, adding that the meeting gave additional confidence and outlined clear guidelines for further cooperation.

    At the regional level, according to the Uzbek analyst, the China-Central Asia summit clearly demonstrated to the world that cooperation between the countries of the region and China is based on the principles of equality, mutual trust and mutual benefit. The very creation of a mechanism of this format, according to the expert, testifies to the growing commitment of the Central Asian countries to the principles of sovereignty and strategic autonomy, as well as their readiness to jointly respond to challenges and share development opportunities on a fair basis.

    Particular attention was paid to the concept of a community with a common destiny put forward by China. A. Khashimov noted that this initiative is fully consistent with Uzbekistan’s foreign policy priorities: good neighborliness, pragmatic partnership and mutual benefit. In the context of an increasingly complex international situation, in his opinion, cooperation mechanisms between Uzbekistan, China and the Central Asian countries are becoming the most important source of peace, development and stability, representing a sustainable and future-oriented model of regional governance.

    The expert expressed confidence that in the future, the China-Central Asia summit mechanism will become a central platform for coordinating regional cooperation. Uzbekistan, he stressed, is ready to continue to act as an active participant, consistently implementing the agreements reached at the highest level, deepening practical cooperation and contributing to the formation of a closer community with a common future between China and Central Asia for the sake of sustainable peace and common prosperity. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Tender results of re-opening of 3-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Tender results of re-opening of 3-year HKD HKSAR Institutional Government Bonds 

    Tender Date* Calculated as the amount of bonds applied for over the amount of bonds issued.
    Issued at HKT 16:53

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Political polarisation is rising globally and posing new challenges for businesses, according to Willis latest report

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    LONDON, June 25, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Rising political polarisation is associated with increased political violence and unpredictable oscillations in government policies, according to the latest Political Risk Index by Willis (NASDAQ: WTW), a leading global advisory, broking, and solutions company. This edition of the Index focusses on political polarisation in countries worldwide and its main drivers and consequences.

    Findings from the index reveal affective polarisation* is at a historic high, on a global average basis. This suggests that people are increasingly likely to perceive supporters of opposing political parties as hostile. Countries enduring violent political conflicts tend to be the most polarised, but on average, affective polarisation is rising fastest in democracies like the US, Germany, India, Brazil and Bulgaria.

    The index also covers ideological polarisation** (the degree to which people agree on core policy issues) and elite polarisation*** (the degree to which political rivals consider each other as legitimate). The US is the only country globally where affective, ideological and elite polarisation have all increased at a rapid pace over the past 15 years.

    After reviewing over a century’s worth of data from more than 200 countries, Willis found that in democracies, surges in polarisation tended to follow economic crises or corruption scandals, which appeared to discredit traditional political leaders. These surges were often accompanied by the growth of populist political movements and an increased frequency of political violence events.

    Other key findings include:

    • The highest levels of affective polarisation globally are in countries where political competition happens along ethnic or religious lines.
    • Long-serving political leaders and controversial populists are a polarising force in several countries.
    • Geopolitical and foreign policy divides can also lead to polarisation of societies.
    • Polarisation and populism are rising both in the US and Europe and in the emerging world.

    The research also identifies some hopeful trends. Truth and reconciliation processes, cross-party coalitions, and open and transparent investigations in cases of corruption or other crises have been accompanied by rapid reductions in political polarisation in the past. There is reason to believe that lessons from these examples could be applied to current challenges.

    Sam Wilkin, director of political risk analytics at Willis, said: “There is a well-established correlation between polarisation and political violence. But polarisation is also being felt on a more personal basis, such as how we perceive our friends and colleagues. Businesses face growing challenges from operating in increasingly polarised societies.”

    The complete report can be downloaded here.  

    *Affective polarisation refers to the phenomenon of individuals developing strong positive feelings toward members of their own group (in-group) and negative feelings towards members of opposing groups (out-groups), particularly in a political context. It involves a difference between how people feel about their own party or group and how they feel about those who support opposing parties or groups. This can lead to increased hostility, reduced willingness to compromise, and a lack of empathy for those with different political views. 

    **Ideological polarisation refers to the extent to which political attitudes become more divided and extreme, often along partisan lines. This can manifest as individuals and groups holding increasingly divergent views on issues, and a greater emphasis on partisan identity over shared values or common ground. 

    ***Elite polarisation refers to the ideological divide and political disagreement among elites—such as elected officials, party leaders, policymakers, and influential media figures—typically along partisan lines.

    About WTW

    At WTW (NASDAQ: WTW), we provide data-driven, insight-led solutions in the areas of people, risk and capital. Leveraging the global view and local expertise of our colleagues serving 140 countries and markets, we help organizations sharpen their strategy, enhance organizational resilience, motivate their workforce and maximize performance.

    Working shoulder to shoulder with our clients, we uncover opportunities for sustainable success—and provide perspective that moves you.

    Learn more at wtwco.com.

    Media contact

    Lauren David:

    Lauren.david@wtwco.com / +44 7385947619

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    Candela.farroni@haggiepartners.com / +44 7795 155654

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Economics: Recorded Remarks at the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI

    Source: ASEAN

    Secretary-General of ASEAN, Dr. Kao Kim Hourn, today delivered Pre-Recorded Remarks at the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI, held in Bangkok, Thailand. In his remarks, Dr. Kao shared key ASEAN AI initiatives to advancing digital economy and innovation through the development of a strategic framework to drive innovation, creativity, sustainable development and economic growth. He highlighted ASEAN’s initiatives on AI, which includes the ASEAN Guide on AI Governance and Ethics, the Expanded ASEAN AI Guide, the ASEAN Responsible AI Roadmap, and the proposed establishment of an ASEAN AI Safety Network, all aimed at supporting the AI-empowered digital ecosystem in the region.
     

    The post Recorded Remarks at the 3rd UNESCO Global Forum on the Ethics of AI appeared first on ASEAN Main Portal.

    MIL OSI Economics –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Election proposals accepted

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Chief Executive-in-Council has accepted all the recommendations of the Electoral Affairs Commission (EAC) regarding the boundaries and names of geographical constituencies (GCs) for the eighth-term Legislative Council general election in 2025.

     

    The EAC recommended, with the exception of including the Loop in the only contiguous New Territories North (LC7) GC, to maintain the boundaries of the nine remaining GCs, and retain the existing names and codes of the 10 GCs.

     

    The 10 GCs are Hong Kong Island East (LC1), Hong Kong Island West (LC2), Kowloon East (LC3), Kowloon West (LC4), Kowloon Central (LC5), New Territories South East (LC6), New Territories North (LC7), New Territories North West (LC8), New Territories South West (LC9), and New Territories North East (LC10).

     

    Before submitting a report to the Chief Executive on June 13, the EAC conducted a public consultation from May 2 to 31, gave careful consideration to all the representations received, and examined the content of the representations having regard to the relevant statutory requirements and working principles.

     

    The decision of the Chief Executive-in-Council would be effected by way of the Declaration of Geographical Constituencies (Legislative Council) Order 2025, which will be published in the Government Gazette on Friday and tabled at LegCo next Wednesday for negative vetting.

     

    The report was tabled at LegCo today as required by law. It is also available on the EAC’s website.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI China: Official speaks on Chinese people’s sacrifice and role in World Anti-Fascist War

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

    From first resistance to final victory, the Chinese people relentlessly fought against Japanese aggression, making tremendous sacrifices and giving indelible contributions to the World Anti-Fascist War. As the longest-running campaign in the global war, the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression profoundly shaped the course of global victory.

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI Video: Is Asia’s Century at Risk?

    Source: World Economic Forum (video statements)

    Is Asia’s Century at Risk?

    Asia is the economic engine of the world and is projected to contribute nearly 60% of global GDP growth in 2025. However, the region increasingly finds itself at the centre of geoeconomic volatility, which threatens to impact its positive momentum.

    How can Asian nations maintain their economic strength by adapting their economies, forging new trade alliances and deepening regional integration?

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tz5PpXfR4MY

    MIL OSI Video –

  • India back in space after 41 years, says Shubhanshu Shukla after Axiom 4 lift-off

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who is piloting the Axiom-4 mission that launched from Florida on Wednesday, said that India is returning to space after 41 years and called it an “amazing ride.” Stating that the journey is the beginning of India’s human space programme, he said the chest of Indians “should swell with pride.”

    The Axiom Mission 4 of Ax-4, launched aboard a SpaceX Dragon spacecraft from Launch Complex 39A at NASA’s Kennedy Space Centre in Florida at 2:31 am Eastern Time (12 Noon IST).

    “Liftoff for #Ax4. The #Ax4 crew is on its way to the space station,” said the US-based Axiom Space, which has, in collaboration with NASA and SpaceX, organised the mission.

    “Liftoff of Ax-4!” added SpaceX.

    The lift-off comes after being deferred at least six times.

    In his remarks from onboard the Dragon spacecraft, Shukla said, “Namaskar, my dear countrymen, what a ride. We are back in the space once again after 41 years. It’s an amazing ride. We are revolving around the Earth at a speed of 7.5 kilometres per second. The Tiranga embossed on my shoulders tells me that I am with all of you. This journey of mine is not a beginning to the International Space Station (ISS) but to India’s Human Space Programme. I want all of you to be part of this journey. Your chest, too, should swell with pride. You all also show excitement. Together, let’s initiate India’s Human Space Programme. Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!”

    “India is returning to space, Jai Hind,” Shukla wrote on X, just before the launch of the mission.

    “After 41 years, India’s flag will fly in space again,” he added.

    Earlier, Shukla also penned an emotional note for his wife.

    “Special thanks to Kamna for being the wonderful partner that you are. Without you none of this was possible but more importantly none of this would matter,” said Shukla, in a post on Instagram.

    He shared a photograph that shows them saying goodbye through opposite sides of a glass wall.

    Shukla also thanked people “involved in this mission for their support”.

    For Group Captain Shukla, this will be an opportunity to emulate fellow Indian Air Force Officer Wing Commander Rakesh Sharma, who flew aboard Soyuz T-11 on 3 April 1984 as part of the Soviet Interkosmos programme. Sharma spent seven days in space on board the Salyut 7 space station.

    This is the fourth private astronaut mission to the International Space Station. The crew is travelling to the orbiting laboratory on a new SpaceX Dragon spacecraft. The targeted docking time is approximately 7 am Eastern Time (4 pm IST) on Thursday, June 26.

    Once docked, the astronauts plan to spend up to 14 days aboard the orbiting laboratory, conducting a mission comprised of science, outreach, and commercial activities. Peggy Whitson, former NASA astronaut and director of human spaceflight at Axiom Space, is in command of the mission, while Indian Space Research Organisation Astronaut Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla serves as pilot.

    The two mission specialists are European Space Agency project astronaut Slawosz Uznanski-Wisniewski of Poland and Tibor Kapu of Hungary. The astronauts are using the new Axiom Extravehicular Mobility Unit (AxEMU) spacesuit which provides them with advanced capabilities for space exploration while providing NASA with commercially developed human systems needed to access, live and work on and around the Moon.

    The advanced spacesuits ensure astronauts are equipped with high-performing, robust equipment and are designed to accommodate a wide range of crew members. The Ax-4 mission is going to conduct major research. The research complement includes around 60 scientific studies and activities representing 31 countries, including the U.S., India, Poland, Hungary, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, Nigeria, UAE, and nations across Europe.

    This will be the most research and science-related activities conducted on an Axiom Space mission aboard the International Space Station to date NASA and ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) are collaborating to launch several scientific investigations.

    These studies include examining muscle regeneration, growth of sprouts and edible microalgae, survival of tiny aquatic organisms, and human interaction with electronic displays in microgravity. The first private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 1, lifted off in April 2022 for a 17-day mission aboard the orbiting laboratory.

    The second private astronaut mission to the station, Axiom Mission 2, was also commanded by Whitson and launched in May 2023 with four private astronauts who spent eight days in orbit. The most recent private astronaut mission, Axiom Mission 3, launched in January 2024; the crew spent 18 days docked to the space station.

    (With agency inputs)

  • Roston Chase ready to lead much-changed West Indies as Australia look to the future

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Change will be a key theme for both the West Indies and Australia in their upcoming three-test series in the Caribbean with the visitors set to field a remodelled batting line-up and the hosts being led out for the first time by Roston Chase.

    Pat Cummins suggested Australia were due a top-order reset after their loss to South Africa in the World Test Championship (WTC) final earlier this month and the skipper said their line-up to face West Indies shows they are looking to the future.

    Australia have brought in teenager Sam Konstas to open the batting with Usman Khawaja and added Josh Inglis to the line-up, while they will be without the dropped Marnus Labuschagne and injured veteran Steve Smith for a series which marks the start of both teams’ new WTC cycle.

    Both Konstas and Inglis have played only two tests, the former opening the batting against India in Melbourne and Sydney last season, and the latter batting in the middle order in Sri Lanka earlier this year.

    Australia could lose as many as half a dozen test regulars to retirement after this year’s Ashes series with the likes of Khawaja, Smith, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon all in their mid to late 30s.

    When asked about the changes ahead of the first match beginning in Bridgetown later on Wednesday, Cummins told reporters: “You look forward to what the next couple of years are going to look like.

    “I think part of that’s a keenness to get Sam and Josh into the squad, into the playing 11. You start looking at what the batting order might look like for the next couple of years. I think that’s part of the reset.

    “And your goals change a little bit obviously. We’re starting on zero points, so it’s a bit of a mental reset. You block out the last couple of years and then start again.”

    Cameron Green has retained his place at number three despite scoring only four runs and facing just five balls in the WTC final, with Cummins saying he viewed the 26-year-old all-rounder as a long-term option in the slot.

    “He had a test match where it obviously didn’t go to plan,” he added.

    “Think he only faced three or four balls, so the message is not to look into that too much. We’re really happy with where his game’s placed and I dare say we’ll get a decent run of number three.”

    SCARS

    Spin-bowling all-rounder Chase, who last played a test match in March 2023, will have his work cut out for him as he takes charge of a much-changed West Indies side who finished second bottom in the previous WTC cycle.

    “You can expect positive cricket from us,” Chase, who succeeded Kraigg Brathwaite as captain in May, told reporters.

    “We’re looking to play with a bit more flair and bring back that Caribbean style to the game, and we’re looking forward to making the Caribbean nation proud.

    “It’s still test cricket, so you still have to have some type of patience, so it’ll (be on) the guys to mix their aggression with that patience.”

    The sides last met in a two-test series in January 2024 which ended all square after West Indies claimed a shock eight-run victory in the second test in Brisbane – their first test win over Australia since 2003.

    “I hope there are some scars,” Chase said.

    “If they’re still thinking about that match going out there on Wednesday, that would be very good for us – that will be part of the job done for us.”

    (Reuters)

  • Roston Chase ready to lead much-changed West Indies as Australia look to the future

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Change will be a key theme for both the West Indies and Australia in their upcoming three-test series in the Caribbean with the visitors set to field a remodelled batting line-up and the hosts being led out for the first time by Roston Chase.

    Pat Cummins suggested Australia were due a top-order reset after their loss to South Africa in the World Test Championship (WTC) final earlier this month and the skipper said their line-up to face West Indies shows they are looking to the future.

    Australia have brought in teenager Sam Konstas to open the batting with Usman Khawaja and added Josh Inglis to the line-up, while they will be without the dropped Marnus Labuschagne and injured veteran Steve Smith for a series which marks the start of both teams’ new WTC cycle.

    Both Konstas and Inglis have played only two tests, the former opening the batting against India in Melbourne and Sydney last season, and the latter batting in the middle order in Sri Lanka earlier this year.

    Australia could lose as many as half a dozen test regulars to retirement after this year’s Ashes series with the likes of Khawaja, Smith, Mitchell Starc, Josh Hazlewood and Nathan Lyon all in their mid to late 30s.

    When asked about the changes ahead of the first match beginning in Bridgetown later on Wednesday, Cummins told reporters: “You look forward to what the next couple of years are going to look like.

    “I think part of that’s a keenness to get Sam and Josh into the squad, into the playing 11. You start looking at what the batting order might look like for the next couple of years. I think that’s part of the reset.

    “And your goals change a little bit obviously. We’re starting on zero points, so it’s a bit of a mental reset. You block out the last couple of years and then start again.”

    Cameron Green has retained his place at number three despite scoring only four runs and facing just five balls in the WTC final, with Cummins saying he viewed the 26-year-old all-rounder as a long-term option in the slot.

    “He had a test match where it obviously didn’t go to plan,” he added.

    “Think he only faced three or four balls, so the message is not to look into that too much. We’re really happy with where his game’s placed and I dare say we’ll get a decent run of number three.”

    SCARS

    Spin-bowling all-rounder Chase, who last played a test match in March 2023, will have his work cut out for him as he takes charge of a much-changed West Indies side who finished second bottom in the previous WTC cycle.

    “You can expect positive cricket from us,” Chase, who succeeded Kraigg Brathwaite as captain in May, told reporters.

    “We’re looking to play with a bit more flair and bring back that Caribbean style to the game, and we’re looking forward to making the Caribbean nation proud.

    “It’s still test cricket, so you still have to have some type of patience, so it’ll (be on) the guys to mix their aggression with that patience.”

    The sides last met in a two-test series in January 2024 which ended all square after West Indies claimed a shock eight-run victory in the second test in Brisbane – their first test win over Australia since 2003.

    “I hope there are some scars,” Chase said.

    “If they’re still thinking about that match going out there on Wednesday, that would be very good for us – that will be part of the job done for us.”

    (Reuters)