NewzIntel.com

Category: Asia

  • MIL-OSI Russia: The new security architecture in the world must be equal and indivisible – V. Putin

    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

    Moscow, May 28 /Xinhua/ — Russia’s approaches remain principled and unchanged, the new security architecture must be equal and indivisible. This was stated by Russian President Vladimir Putin in a video address to participants of the 13th International Meeting of High Representatives Responsible for Security Issues.

    “All states must receive firm guarantees of their own security, but not at the expense of the security and interests of other countries,” said the Russian leader.

    He noted that it is important to make the Eurasian continent “a space of peace and stability, an example of sustainable economic, social and cultural development.”

    “We believe that the basis for creating such a universal security system could be the existing and well-proven multilateral formats of interaction, such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, the Eurasian Economic Union, the Collective Security Treaty Organization, the Association of Southeast Asian Nations and others,” said V. Putin.

    He also called on the meeting participants to draw on past experience when building joint work, recalling that 2025 will mark 80 years since the end of World War II, which had a dramatic impact on the development of the international community.

    The 13th International Meeting of High Representatives Responsible for Security Issues is taking place in Moscow on May 27-29. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI NGOs: Beyond Political Crisis: Building a Rights-Based Future in South Korea

    Source: Amnesty International –

    By Boram Jang, East Asia Researcher at Amnesty International

    On December 3, 2024, in an extraordinary and alarming move, South Korea’s then-President Yoon Suk-yeol declared martial law. Although martial law was reversed within hours by the National Assembly, the damage to public trust in the presidency was profound.

    In the aftermath of that night, thousands gathered across the country – many of them young people and women who had been placed in increasingly vulnerable situations by Yoon’s policies. They protested against more than just a president. They protested against the manipulation of national security rhetoric and the rollback of human rights protections.

    The pivotal presidential election scheduled for June 3 represents more than just a routine electoral exercise – it is an opportunity to raise fundamental human rights deficits that preceded Yoon’s tenure and will persist beyond any single administration if left unaddressed.

    Yoon’s presidency brought a further decline in South Korea’s already halting progress on human rights. His approach represented a coordinated effort to undermine mechanisms and institutions protecting the human rights of marginalized people. The martial law crisis was the culmination of this strategy.

    One of Yoon’s earliest and most symbolic moves was his proposal to abolish the Ministry of Gender Equality and Family. While the ministry ultimately survived due to parliamentary opposition, the attempt signaled an ideological alignment of government policy with anti-feminist narratives that had fueled his electoral campaign.

    Meanwhile, South Korea has become a hotbed of tech-facilitated gender-based violence. The Nth Room case in 2020 revealed systemic failures in both prevention and response to digital sex crimes. Despite public outrage, survivors continue to face digital abuse, delayed or inadequate responses from platforms, and limited legal protection. These are not mere oversights – they represent systemic failures of both state and corporate accountability.

    For LGBTI South Koreans, legal invisibility remains the status quo. No comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation exists. No recognition of same-sex partnerships has been established. No specific protections from housing, education, or employment discrimination have been enacted.

    Since 2007, at least eight anti-discrimination bills have been introduced and subsequently withdrawn due to political pressure – primarily from conservative religious groups. Despite public support for such legislation, most recently polling over 60 percent, no bill has passed. U.N. bodies have repeatedly recommended that South Korea adopt comprehensive protections against discrimination. Still, the legal void remains.

    Judicial progress has been limited. A 2023 appellate court recognized spousal health insurance coverage for same-sex partners. But broader questions – such as legal recognition of queer families – remain unresolved. The Constitutional Court has yet to issue a ruling.

    The struggle for disability rights illustrates how institutional inadequacies have pushed discontent into public spaces. Solidarity Against Disability Discrimination (SADD) has conducted early morning subway demonstrations since 2021 to highlight the persistent exclusion of people with disabilities from public transportation. Their approach – non-violent yet purposefully disruptive – ignited national dialogue precisely because conventional advocacy channels had proven ineffective.

    Amnesty International documented forceful removal of SADD protesters during peaceful protest, including police dragging protesters out of trains and stations. The Seoul Metro has filed multiple lawsuits against the group seeking damages, and lawmakers have proposed legislation to restrict similar protests in the future.

    The protection of all these individuals’ rights requires any incoming administration to prioritize concrete policy action.

    Ahead of the upcoming election, ongoing presidential campaigns have been dominated by promises for economic and political reforms. Substantive human rights commitments remain notably absent from major candidates’ platforms.

    Comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation, disability access, and protest rights are hardly mentioned. This silence speaks volumes – not only about the continued marginalization of human rights in political discourse, but also about the ongoing neglect in prioritization and implementation of human rights reforms.

    South Korea needs comprehensive anti-discrimination legislation that explicitly safeguards against discrimination based on gender, disability, sexual orientation, and gender identity, among other factors. Digital rights must be secured through robust regulation of tech platforms and redress for victims of online gender-based violence. Public infrastructure must become genuinely accessible for all, with clear implementation schedules and sufficient funding. And the right to protest must be upheld, ending punitive measures against peaceful demonstrators.

    The resilience of South Korea’s rule of law will be measured by more than the avoidance of martial law. It will depend on how the state responds to the persistent exclusion of people in vulnerable situations from legal protection and public debate.

    The current elections should not be seen as a conclusion of the martial law saga, but as the beginning of a new chapter – a fresh opportunity to build a future in which human rights are not ignored, but protected.

    This article was originally published by The Diplomat

    MIL OSI NGO –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Polytechnic at Metalloobrabotka 2025: exhibition activity and negotiation process

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University – Peter the Great St Petersburg Polytechnic University –

    The key event of the international exhibition “Metalloobrabotka – 2025” took place in the Moscow-City Expo Center – a plenary session dedicated to the implementation of the national project “Means of Production and Automation”. The event was organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

    Opening the meeting, the Minister of Industry and Trade of Russia Anton Alikhanov presented the main parameters of the discussed project “Means of Production and Automation” and spoke about the key support measures. Thus, compensation of 50% of the cost of domestic robots makes them profitable in just one year.

    According to the results of last year, the level is 29 robots per 10 thousand people. A year ago, this figure was 19. That is, we have grown quite well. But I repeat once again, our task is to reach the level, approximately, taking into account the growth of the entire parallel world, of 145 robots per 10 thousand people. This, in fact, is within our power, – the minister said.

    In 2025, more than 1,200 companies from seven countries will participate in Metalloobrabotka: Russia, Belarus, India, Italy, China, the Republic of Korea and Turkey. More than 800 Russian companies will take part in the exhibition. Belarus and China will present national expositions.

    The key topics of this year’s exhibition are: “Innovations in Machine Tool and Tool Building”; “Automated Lines and Robotic Systems”; “Software for Smart Factory Management”; “Artificial Intelligence Technologies and Digital Twins”; “New Materials and Additive Technologies”.

    Visitors can see the equipment “in action” – from heavy metal-cutting machines to robotic complexes and artificial intelligence systems that manage production. The Polytechnic University stand is of particular interest to visitors. The University presents not just scientific developments, but ready-to-implement technological solutions – from 3D metal printing to robotic welding and the creation of intelligent materials. The Polytechnic University demonstrates the unique potential of laser and additive technologies, which today are becoming not just tools, but key drivers of the technological sovereignty of the Russian Federation. We are confident that these innovations are the future.

    On Tuesday, a series of business negotiations and meetings with potential partners took place at the Polytechnic stand. The official delegation of SPbPU was headed by the Director of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport Anatoly Popovich. Polytechnicians met with representatives of the leading IT company of the Russian Federation — Softline Group. At the negotiations, SPbPU was also represented by the Director of the Scientific and Educational Center “Mechanical Engineering Technologies and Materials” Pavel Novikov and the Scientific Secretary of the Polytechnic Dmitry Karpov.

    The partners discussed the horizons of possible cooperation. Following the meeting, it is planned to create an inter-industry center for additive technologies. The meeting participants also considered the prospects for creating new-generation laser equipment.

    The Director of the IMMI, Chief Designer of the KNU NEW Materials, Technologies, Production, as part of the Strategic Technological Leadership project, Anatoly Popovich shared his impressions of SPBPU in the exhibition: at the Metal processing-2025 exhibition, Polytechnic University of Peter the Great, a leader in the field of laser and additive technologies. The main task of SPBPU, as a scientific center with world -class competencies, is to ensure the country’s technological leadership. Our competitive advantage is the ability to create and introduce breakthrough technologies in various scientific areas. At the exhibition, employees of the Institute of Mechanical Engineering, Materials and Transport of St. Petersburg State University demonstrate the unique potential of laser and additive technologies, which today become not just tools, but key drivers of technological sovereignty of Russia. We are sure that it is the future for these innovations.
    The use of laser technologies allows us to significantly improve the quality of products, reaching an inaccessible level of accuracy and reliability. Additive methods, in turn, open new horizons to create materials that can be adapted to the specific needs of industry. This is especially relevant in the conditions of a rapidly changing market, where flexibility and adaptability become decisive success factors. The future belongs to those who are ready not only to follow the trends, but also to create them themselves. Polytechnic University of Peter the Great is a reliable partner and platform for the implementation of the most daring ideas. Time to act is time to introduce innovations.

    The Laboratory of Light Materials and Constructions surprises everyone with electric arc printing right at the exhibition. Students of IMMiT, under the guidance of Oleg Panchenko, assembled a welding cell in the shortest possible time so that everyone at the event could get acquainted with the process and see how a new metal part is born. Also on display at the exhibition are previously printed parts, such as a wheel rim, impeller, burner and other samples made by friction stir welding.

    The new technology of direct printing of plastic on metal interested visitors and gave rise to ideas for further cooperation. A cone gear is printed at the exhibition. It is used in heavy industry, can be used in the automotive industry, aircraft manufacturing and other industrial areas.

    The exhibition guests are shown the process of high-temperature (1200 degrees) selective laser melting in real time. Unique developments of bimetallic samples of promising materials obtained by additive technologies are presented. Works in the field of composite materials are also demonstrated – a polymer compressor wheel reinforced with carbon fiber.

    The staff of the research laboratory “Laser and Additive Technologies” brought to the exhibition samples manufactured by the method of direct laser growth and repaired by the method of laser cladding. Also presented are exhibits formed by laser and hybrid laser-arc welding methods.

    The exhibits created by laser welding of 316L steel with a thickness of 100 µm to 10 mm are of the greatest interest to the guests. The employees demonstrated a sealed miniature flat sample of a hydrogen energy source fuel cell with a wall thickness of 100 µm, welded with an overlap. Samples of armor steel grades with a thickness of 7 mm to 20 mm, welded in one pass in the lower position, are presented.

    Mikhail Kuznetsov, head of the laboratory, noted: In the era of rapid innovation, laser welding is becoming not just a technology, but a necessity. This process ensures high precision and speed of obtaining a permanent connection of the required quality, which is critically important in modern production conditions.

    Please note: This information is raw content directly from the source of the information. It is exactly what the source states and does not reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: China’s Finance Ministry to issue 68 billion yuan worth of sovereign bonds in Hong Kong Special Administrative Region in 2025

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: People’s Republic of China in Russian –

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

    BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) — China’s Ministry of Finance said Wednesday that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) is expected to issue 68 billion yuan (about 9.46 billion U.S. dollars) in yuan-denominated government bonds in 2025. The bonds will be issued in six stages.

    The first two issues, totaling 25 billion yuan, took place in February and April of this year.

    The third batch of bonds, worth 12.5 billion yuan, is planned to be issued following a tender on June 4.

    The Chinese Ministry of Finance said that the specific issuance mechanisms will be announced on the website of the Central Clearing and Settlement System for Debt Securities of the Financial Administration of the People’s Republic of China. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Chinese Premier returns to Beijing after official visit to Indonesia and ASEAN-China-GCC summit in Malaysia

    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

    BEIJING, May 28 (Xinhua) — Chinese Premier Li Qiang returned to Beijing on a chartered plane on Wednesday after wrapping up an official visit to Indonesia and attending the ASEAN-China-GCC (Gulf Cooperation Council) summit in Malaysia.

    Before leaving Kuala Lumpur, Li Qiang was seen off at the airport by, among others, Malaysian Transport Minister Anthony Loke Siew Fook, Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia Ouyang Yujing and Chinese Ambassador to ASEAN Hou Yanqi. -0-

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Fire breaks out in old commercial building in Seoul

    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

    SEOUL, May 28 (Xinhua) — A fire broke out at an old commercial building in Seoul on Wednesday, South Korean media reported.

    The incident occurred at around 3:25 p.m. local time, and there are no confirmed casualties. Television footage showed a thick plume of black smoke in central Seoul.

    Some media outlets noted that firefighters had difficulty putting out the fire because there were too many stores in the building. –0–

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • Delhi CM Rekha Gupta announces plan for three hospital beds per 1,000 citizens

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Delhi Chief Minister Rekha Gupta on Wednesday announced her government’s plan to raise the hospital bed ratio to three per 1,000 citizens, aiming to significantly upgrade the city’s healthcare capacity.

    Gupta made the remarks while laying the foundation stone for the construction of a new footpath at the SU Block park in Pitampura, located in the Shalimar Bagh Assembly constituency.

    Addressing local residents gathered at the park, she said, “With everyone’s blessings, the government is completing 100 days on May 30, and we will present our report card before the public on May 31. But I can say this much: I do not make big promises. However, Delhi has now elected a government that can reduce problems. Your trust is our effort.”

    Reflecting on the past 100 days of governance, Gupta said her administration has made a series of important policy decisions aimed at resolving long-standing public grievances.

    “In the 100 days of service that our government has spent in Delhi, we have taken a lot of policy decisions because all these issues have been troubling the people of Delhi for years,” she said.

    “The previous governments never tried to solve any problem, citing conflict. This lack of effort was a loss to the people of Delhi,” she added.

    The Delhi Chief Minister revealed that a high-level health committee meeting she recently chaired brought to light a concerning statistic — Delhi had just 0.47 hospital beds per 1,000 people, far below the World Health Organization’s recommended minimum of two beds.

    “I chaired a high-level health committee meeting, and I was shocked to learn that although the WHO recommends a minimum of 2 hospital beds per 1,000 people, Delhi had only 0.47 beds per 1,000 people—not even one bed per 1,000 citizens. This is a serious concern. Now, this elected government is working towards a goal of 3 beds per 1,000 people,” she said.

    Calling for unified governance, she added, “Whether it is with the MCD, the Delhi Government, or the Central Government, an integrated system should be created so that no Delhiite remains without treatment, and no one dies due to lack of medical care.”

    She also highlighted the implementation of Ayushman Bharat in Delhi, crediting Prime Minister Narendra Modi for enabling the rollout of the healthcare scheme.

    “I congratulate you that after you elected our government in Delhi, the Ayushman Yojana was implemented here. Today, Ayushman Yojana cards are being issued to the people of Delhi. We are issuing cards to all elderly residents above 70 years of age, and the Delhi government is providing treatment coverage of up to Rs 10 lakh—Rs 5 lakh from the Centre and Rs 5 lakh from the Delhi government,” she said.

    “This scheme is not available anywhere else in the world. This is the only government that gives every elderly person above 70 years of age Rs 10 lakh for treatment,” she claimed.

    Expressing gratitude for public support, Gupta concluded, “I sincerely thank PM Modi and all of you for your decision. It’s your single vote that has pushed Delhi forward on the path of progress.”

    —IANS

  • Cabinet approves Rs. 3,653 crore Badvel-Nellore highway project to boost connectivity and logistics in Andhra Pradesh

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    In a major push to bolster infrastructure and connectivity in Andhra Pradesh, the Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved the construction of a four-lane highway corridor between Badvel and Nellore. The project, to be executed under the Design-Build-Finance-Operate-Transfer (DBFOT) model, will cover a distance of 108.134 kilometers at an estimated cost of ₹3,653.10 crore.

    The newly approved Badvel-Nellore corridor is set to play a vital role in integrating key industrial nodes across the state. It will connect Gopavaram village in YSR Kadapa District, located on National Highway NH-67, to Guruvindapudi on NH-16 near Krishnapatnam Port in SPSR Nellore District.

    The corridor is expected to enhance linkages to three major industrial corridors—Kopparthy on the Visakhapatnam-Chennai Industrial Corridor (VCIC), Orvakal on the Hyderabad-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (HBIC), and Krishnapatnam on the Chennai-Bengaluru Industrial Corridor (CBIC).

    By facilitating direct access to the Krishnapatnam Port, which has been identified as a priority node under the CBIC, the highway will bolster logistics efficiency and improve India’s Logistic Performance Index (LPI). The improved route will shorten the existing travel distance to the port by nearly 34 kilometers, reducing it from 142 kilometers to just over 108 kilometers. This reduction is projected to save commuters up to one hour in travel time, while also lowering fuel consumption, vehicle operating costs, and the overall carbon footprint.

    In addition to improving transportation infrastructure, the project is expected to have a positive economic impact by generating significant employment. It is projected to create approximately 20 lakh man-days of direct employment and an additional 23 lakh man-days of indirect employment. Moreover, the corridor is expected to stimulate economic growth in surrounding areas through increased commercial and industrial activity.

  • Rashtrapati Bhavan to host National Literary Conference on May 29-30

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Rashtrapati Bhavan is set to host a two-day national literary conference titled “How Much Has Literature Changed?” at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on May 29 and 30. The event is being organized in collaboration with the Sahitya Akademi under the Ministry of Culture.
     
    President Droupadi Murmu will inaugurate the conference at the Rashtrapati Bhavan Cultural Centre on Thursday. The inaugural session will also be attended by Union Minister for Culture and Tourism, Gajendra Singh Shekhawat, alongside eminent literary figures from across the country.
     
    The conference will feature multiple thematic sessions, delving into the nuances of modern literary expression. Key sessions include Poets’ Meet – Straight from the Heart, which will focus on the personal and political dimensions of poetry, and Feminist Literature of India: Breaking New Grounds, which will examine the evolving voice of women in Indian literary discourse.
     
    Other sessions such as Change in Literature vs. Literature of Change and New Directions of Indian Literature in Global Perspective will reflect on the interplay between literature and societal transformation, as well as India’s literary presence on the global stage.
     
    The conference will conclude with a cultural narrative session centred around the life and legacy of Devi Ahilyabai Holkar, highlighting her contributions to India’s social and cultural fabric.

  • Operation Sindoor outreach: Baijayant Panda-led delegation to convey India’s stance against terrorism in Saudi Arabia

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The all-party Indian parliamentary delegation, led by BJP MP Baijayant Jay Panda in Saudi Arabia, is set to present India’s strong stance against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism in Riyadh.

    The delegation arrived in Riyadh early on Wednesday (Indian time) and later interacted with India’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, Suhel Khan, at the India House.

    Later, the delegation also offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi’s statue at the Indian Embassy in Riyadh.

    “Along with my colleagues from the all-party delegation, offered floral tributes to Mahatma Gandhi, honouring his timeless message of peace, non-violence & tolerance. We also had a detailed interaction with Ambassador Suhel Khan, reaffirming India’s resolute stand against terrorism and commitment to global peace,” Panda posted on X.

    During the three-day visit, the delegation will interact with a cross-section of political dignitaries, government officials, thought leaders, business and media representatives. They will also engage with members of the Indian community, the Indian Embassy in Riyadh said in a statement.

    Earlier on Tuesday, the delegation arrived in Riyadh on the third leg of their four-nation tour to highlight the significance of Operation Sindoor and India’s continued fight against Pakistan-sponsored cross-border terrorism after concluding successful engagements in Kuwait and Bahrain.

    The delegation was received by Abdulrahman Sntian A. Alharbi, Chairman of the Saudi-India Parliamentary Friendship Committee of the Shura Council.

    “India’s stand on terrorism is resolute and uncompromising — a message we bring to Saudi Arabia with our all-party delegation. Appreciate the warm welcome by Abdulrahman Alharbi, Chair of the Saudi Arabia-India Friendship Committee of the Sura Council, as we begin key engagements to strengthen our growing partnership,” Panda posted on X.

    The delegation, led by Panda, includes BJP MP Nishikant Dubey, BJP MP Phangnon Konyak, BJP MP Rekha Sharma, All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) MP Asaduddin Owaisi, BJP MP Satnam Singh Sandhu, former Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Ghulam Nabi Azad, and former Indian diplomat Harsh Vardhan Shringla.

    During the visit, the delegation will interact with a cross-section of political dignitaries, government officials, thought leaders, business and media representatives. They will also engage with members of the Indian community.

    As part of their concluding day of engagements in Kuwait on Tuesday, the delegation undertook a series of media engagements and cultural visits aimed at strengthening bilateral ties and highlighting India’s united stance against terrorism.

    “The delegation concluded its highly productive visit to Kuwait by effectively conveying India’s message of ‘Zero Tolerance’ and ‘New Normal’ against terrorism to a variety of interlocutors in Kuwait, including the Government, civil society, media, think tanks, opinion-makers and members of the Indian community,” said the Indian Embassy in Kuwait.

    (IANS)

  • MSP for paddy, pulses, oilseeds raised ahead of Kharif season

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs on Wednesday approved an increase in the Minimum Support Prices (MSP) for 14 Kharif crops for the 2025–26 marketing season.

    Among the crops that saw the highest MSP hike, nigerseed received the biggest absolute increase of ₹820 per quintal, followed by ragi at ₹596 per quintal, cotton at ₹589 per quintal, and sesamum at ₹579 per quintal. For paddy, the staple crop, the MSP has been raised by ₹69 per quintal.

    In the pulses category, the MSP of tur (arhar) has been raised by ₹450, moong by ₹86, and urad by ₹400 per quintal. Among oilseeds, the support prices for groundnut, sunflower seed, and soybean have been increased by ₹480, ₹441, and ₹436 respectively. The move is expected to support better price realization for farmers and reduce dependence on imports.

    The increase is in line with the Union Budget 2018-19 announcement of fixing MSPs at a minimum of 1.5 times the all-India weighted average cost of production. According to the government, the expected margin for farmers over their cost of production is estimated to be highest in bajra at 63 per cent, followed by maize and tur at 59 per cent each, and urad at 53 per cent. For the remaining crops, the margin is estimated to be at least 50 per cent.

    The government stated that in recent years it has consistently promoted the cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and nutri-cereals, also known as Shree Anna, by offering comparatively higher MSPs. This is intended to not only improve farmers’ income but also to encourage nutritional security and crop diversification.

    Data shared by the government highlights a significant increase in procurement and financial support to farmers over the last decade. From 2014-15 to 2024-25, procurement of paddy stood at 7,608 lakh metric tonnes (LMT), compared to 4,590 LMT during 2004-05 to 2013-14. For all 14 Kharif crops combined, procurement during the same period was 7,871 LMT, as against 4,679 LMT in the previous decade.

    The MSP payout to paddy farmers surged to ₹14.16 lakh crore in the last decade, as compared to ₹4.44 lakh crore during 2004-05 to 2013-14. Similarly, the total MSP amount paid for all 14 Kharif crops was ₹16.35 lakh crore, a sharp rise from ₹4.75 lakh crore during the earlier period.

    India follows a three-season cropping calendar: Kharif crops, which are monsoon-dependent, are sown in June-July and harvested in October-November; Rabi crops are sown post-monsoon in October-November and harvested from January onwards; and summer crops are grown between the Rabi and Kharif seasons.

  • Sensex, Nifty slip amid valuation concerns; FMCG drags indices

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    The Indian stock market ended in the red for the second consecutive session on Wednesday, weighed down by premium valuations and mixed global cues.

    The BSE Sensex slipped 239.31 points, or 0.29 per cent, to close at 81,312.32, while the NSE Nifty dropped 73.75 points, or 0.30 per cent, settling at 24,752.45.

    The decline was primarily driven by FMCG stocks, with the Nifty FMCG index ending nearly 1.5 per cent lower. Other sectoral indices such as Nifty Auto, Pharma, Metal, Realty, Infra, Commodity, and Healthcare also closed in negative territory.

    Midcap and smallcap indices showed mixed trends. The Nifty Midcap 100 fell slightly by 13 points to 57,141, whereas the Nifty Smallcap 100 rose by 58 points, or 0.33 per cent, to 17,784.

    Analysts attributed the subdued market sentiment to a lack of support from foreign institutional investors (FIIs) and the prevailing premium valuations.

    “Domestic indices remained rangebound with a negative bias due to limited FII support and stretched valuations,” said Vinod Nair, Head of Research at Geojit Financial Services.

    He added that key economic indicators such as a favourable monsoon forecast, a benign inflation outlook, and expectations of a strong Q4 GDP could help cushion downside risks. However, earnings visibility needs to improve alongside macroeconomic fundamentals to ensure stability in market direction, Nair noted.

    Volatility eased, with the India VIX falling 2.79 per cent to 18.02, reflecting a drop in market uncertainty.

    “Technically, the Nifty formed a red candle on the daily chart, indicating weakness. However, it continues to trade above its 21-day Exponential Moving Average (21-DEMA), which is currently around 24,570. As long as it holds above this level, a pullback move remains possible,” said Hrishikesh Yedve, Technical and Derivative Analyst at Asit C. Mehta Investment Interrmediates Ltd (a Pantomath Group company).

    He noted that the index may face stiff resistance near the 25,000–25,100 zone in the near term.

    Meanwhile, the Indian rupee traded flat around 85.40 against the US dollar, as the dollar index remained stable near the 99.45 mark.

    “With key global economic data due this week—including the US Fed meeting minutes, Q4 GDP data, and the Core PCE Price Index—the rupee’s movement will largely depend on foreign fund flows in the secondary market,” said Jateen Trivedi, VP Research Analyst at LKP Securities.

    Gold prices traded firm, finding strong support in the $3,280–$3,300 range on Comex. On the domestic front, MCX gold gained Rs 600, supported by a base around the Rs 95,000 level.

    -IANS

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Toll changes set to be implemented

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    The Government will substantially reduce tolls when it takes over the Tai Lam Tunnel (TLT) at 0.00am on Saturday.

    In addition, the HKeToll free-flow tolling service will begin from 5am on the same day.

    Outlining the takeover arrangements today, the Transport Department said that the TLT will briefly cease operating for five minutes at 0.00am on May 31 to facilitate the updating of toll collection facilities. Thereafter, manual or Autotoll toll collections will be in operation until 3am.

    From 3am to 5am, the tunnel will be fully closed for switchover works. It will reopen at 5am, when motorists can start using HKeToll without having to stop or queue to make payments.

    As May 31 falls on a public holiday, fixed tolls will be applied throughout the day for private cars and motorcycles, of $18 and $7.2 respectively. The same fees also apply on Sundays.

    Starting from June 2, tolls for private cars during the peak, normal and off-peak time slots from Monday to Saturday will be $45, $30 and $18 respectively.

    For motorcycles, the toll for all time slots is set at 40% of the private car toll, which is between $7.2 and $18.

    Taxis and other commercial vehicles, such as goods vehicles and buses, will continue to have a fixed toll on all days, set at $28 for taxis and $43 for other commercial vehicles.

    The new tolls for all vehicle types will be lower than the existing tolls by between 22% and 80%, the department highlighted.

    To facilitate the launch of HKeToll, temporary traffic and transport arrangements will take place in phases in the tunnel vicinity from 1am on May 31, with the tunnel and all slip road entrances being fully closed from 3am to 5am. Motorists should opt for Tuen Mun Road during the full closure.

    During the tunnel’s temporary closure, the bus stops at the toll plaza will be suspended. As a result, three overnight bus routes – namely KMB Route Nos. N269 and N368, and Long Win Bus Route No. NA43 – will be diverted via Yuen Long Highway and Tuen Mun Road. Temporary bus stops will be set up at the “Tuen Mun Road Bus-Bus Interchange”.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ3: Addressing measures of United States aimed against China’s shipping industry

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Yim Kong and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 28):

    Question:

    Last month, the United States released the findings of the “Section 301 Investigations” under the Trade Act of 1974 and announced that port fees would be imposed on vessels owned or controlled by Chinese entities (including Hong Kong entities), including vessels whose owner or operator is headquartered in Hong Kong and vessels of which more than 25 per cent of the equity interest is held by a citizen or citizens or the Government of Hong Kong. Hong Kong is the fourth largest shipping register in the world, with over 1 100 maritime-related companies currently operating here. Some preliminary analyses have pointed out that such maritime companies will be faced with risks such as an upsurge in operating costs and a decline in market competitiveness, and ship leasing and ship financing businesses will also be affected by knock-on impacts. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) whether the Government has systematically assessed the negative impact of the aforesaid measures of the United States on Hong Kong’s shipping and maritime-related industries, and formulated a cross-departmental collaboration plan to safeguard Hong Kong’s status as an international shipping centre, as well as companies’ legitimate rights and interests;

    (2) whether it will provide targeted relief measures to the affected companies engaged in shipping, ship leasing and so on, or provide certain financial support for them to adjust their route deployments; and

    (3) whether it has proactive measures to attract “non-US” ship operators or relevant high-end maritime service providers to carry on developing their business in Hong Kong?

    Reply:

    President,

    The United States (US) Government announced on April 17 this year the results of its Section 301 Investigations against Chinese maritime, logistics and ship building industries and decided to impose port fees on vessels owned or operated by Chinese (including Hong Kong and Macao) companies, and vessels built in China for the use of US ports. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government has immediately issued a press release to express its strong opposition to the decision, particularly for the fact that the measures are blatantly discriminatory, deliberately dividing the international maritime community and undermining the spirit of international solidarity and co-operation.

    The HKSAR Government is highly concerned about the incident and the Transport and Logistics Bureau (TLB) has been maintaining close liaison with the industry to assess the situation and respond as needed. With regard to the various parts of Hon Yim’s question, my reply is as follows:

    (1) The US authorities has announced that the port fees will take effect on October 14 this year. For a vessel of 50 000 net tonnage, it will be charged US$2.5 million per entry into a US port, thereafter increased annually reaching US$7 million in April 2028. Each vessel will be charged up to a maximum of five times per year. The fees are indeed detrimental to others without beneficial to oneself, not only undermining the interests of the US port industry, cargo owners and consumers but also unfairly increasing the costs of Hong Kong’s shipping companies on their business operations routing to and from the US ports.

    Hong Kong is an international maritime centre supported by our country. Over the years, Hong Kong has attracted shipping companies of different capital backgrounds from all over the world to operate in the city by virtue of our “one country, two systems”, bilingual common law as well as a free and open business environment. Each of these shipping companies has its own specific business portfolio and clientele. The extent to which they will be affected would depend on the share of the US market in their respective portfolios and their scope for adjusting shipping routes and business portfolios. It is therefore difficult to generalise the situation.

    Recently, we have been visiting the shipping companies one after another, and the industry has reflected that the business environment in Hong Kong is indeed unrivalled and that the Hong Kong’s ship registry has brought an edge to their ships in terms of quality assurance and international reputation. The industry is striving to identify solutions to the incident, and we do not underestimate the pressure faced by them due to various commercial considerations. On the strength of our country’s strong backings, the HKSAR Government will render its full support to the Hong Kong’s shipping companies to cope with the challenges. At the same time, we urge the industry to stay confident and avoid making hasty decisions under short-term geopolitical pressures at the expense of the long-term development opportunities in Hong Kong.

    (2) We understand from the affected companies that they consider financial subsidies from the Government neither financially sustainable nor an effective solution to the problem. In contrast, the industry hopes that the Government can better consolidate the edges for the maritime sector operating in Hong Kong.

    In recent years, the Government has introduced a number of measures to enhance the competitiveness of the maritime industry, which has indeed saved up for a rainy day and enhanced the industry’s resilience in coping with the complex external circumstances. We will capitalise on our strengths via a systematic and proactive approach to reinforce the local maritime industry chain internally as well as to expand market opportunities in our country and the world externally. We would have four key areas of work in future, including strengthening the maritime ecosystem, leading the industry to seize the opportunities arising from green shipping, deepening Hong Kong’s role as an international exchange platform, and expanding opportunities in Mainland and overseas markets:

    (i) Strengthening the maritime ecosystem, including the introduction of a half-rate tax concession for commodity traders and enhancement of the existing tax concessions for the maritime industry, for which the legislative bill is to be submitted to the Legislative Council in the first half of next year; continuing to provide green cash incentives and implementing the Block Registration Incentive Scheme for Hong Kong-registered ships;

    (ii) Supporting and leading the industry to seize the opportunities arising from green shipping. The TLB has promulgated the Action Plan on Green Maritime Fuel Bunkering at the end of last year, with a view to promoting Hong Kong into a high-quality green maritime fuel bunkering centre by, inter alia, providing collaborative platforms for catalysing green maritime fuel supply and trading, thereby equipping the industry to cope with the international trend of green transition.

    (iii) Deepening Hong Kong’s role as an international exchange platform for facilitating interfaces between the local and overseas industry and expanding global business opportunities. The Government has been actively deepening collaborations with the international maritime organisations. The Hong Kong Maritime Week last year has been one of the most international editions ever where the key organisations like the International Chamber of Shipping and the International Maritime Organization had staged events in Hong Kong. These organisations have confirmed their continued participation in the Hong Kong Maritime Week this year and there would also be other international organisations staging events in Hong Kong for the first time.

    (iv) Assisting and leading Hong Kong shipping companies to expand opportunities in Mainland and overseas markets, capitalising on Hong Kong’s connectivity. This include establishing a “rail-sea-land-river” intermodal transport system with the Mainland for securing more cargo sources for Hong Kong, as well as utilising the port community system to be launched in January next year for connecting with the international maritime community, thereby assisting the industry to further enhance efficiency and reduce costs.

    In addition, the Government will soon set up the Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board to be chaired by a non-official and provided with dedicated team and resources for enhancing its research, promotion and manpower training capabilities, so as to provide more effective support to the Government in promoting the development of Hong Kong’s maritime industry.

    (3) The aforementioned measures will significantly enhance Hong Kong’s business environment and attractiveness, reinforcing Hong Kong’s position as an international maritime centre. We will continue to step up external promotion on the advantages of operating in Hong Kong through the Marine Department’s service points located in seven different continents and Invest Hong Kong’s network at home and abroad. The Marine Department will also set up a new dedicated team in the Middle East in the fourth quarter of this year for targeted promotion towards the emerging markets there.

    Thank you, President.

    Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2025
    Issued at HKT 18:25

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Oil spill sighted at Silverstrand Beach

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Oil spill sighted at Silverstrand BeachIssued at HKT 16:50

    Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department said today (May 28) that because of an oil spill, Silverstrand Beach in Sai Kung District has been closed until further notice. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach.

    The red flag was hoisted earlier at the beach due to big waves.

    Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2025
    Issued at HKT 16:50

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Temporary closure of Yuen Long Swimming Pool

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Temporary closure of Yuen Long Swimming PoolIssued at HKT 15:02

    The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (May 28) that, due to suspension of water supply resulting from a water pipe burst in the vicinity, Yuen Long Swimming Pool in Yuen Long District has been temporarily closed until further notice.

    Ends/Wednesday, May 28, 2025
    Issued at HKT 15:02

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Banking: Young Innovators Take Centre Stage as Samsung ‘Solve for Tomorrow’ Rolls Through Hyderabad and Bengaluru

    Source: Samsung

     
    Samsung’s Solve for Tomorrow Season 4 has made its way to South India, fueling a wave of youth-driven innovation. Across the dynamic campuses of Hyderabad and the bustling tech hubs of Bengaluru, students are uniting to envision a brighter future for their communities, armed with empathy, purpose, and the principles of design thinking.  
     
    Samsung ‘Solve for Tomorrow 2025’ will provide INR 1 crore to the top four winning teams to support the incubation of their projects, along with hands-on prototyping, investor connects, and expert mentorship from Samsung leaders and IIT Delhi faculty.
     
    At the University of Hyderabad, hundreds of students immersed themselves in a design thinking workshop, challenging the status quo and uncovering solutions to everyday problems.  
     
    “For me, the turning point was when the instructor said, ‘There are countless problems in the world, but only a few who take action to solve them,’” said R. Deepika, a Business Analytics student. “That statement inspired me to become one of those problem-solvers and create meaningful impact.”   
     
    Mukta, a Healthcare and Hospital Management student, also experienced a shift in perspective. “This session taught me to think like an entrepreneur. A simple idea can transform the world, and now I’m determined to bring mine to life,” she said.  
     
    The momentum didn’t stop in there. At KG Reddy Engineering College in Hyderabad, D. Ganesh Reddy, a BTech Computer Science Engineering student, left the workshop with a clear understanding of how technology can address local challenges.  
     
    “The session showed me that student ideas can lead to real-world change if we approach them with curiosity and structure,” he said.  
     
    Similarly, over 500 students from top institutions like Jain University, Dr. Chandrama Dayanand Sagar Institute of Medical Education and Research, and Kempowda Institute of Medical Sciences gathered to explore design thinking and innovation in action.  
     
    “This workshop opened my eyes to the problems in my own community,” said Joel J, a second-semester B.Tech student. “For the first time, I realized I could be the one to solve them.”  
     
    A Movement for Innovation  
    Across these cities, the workshops have done more than generate ideas—they’ve sparked confidence. Confidence that young minds, with the right mindset and guidance, can drive transformative change.  
     
    As Solve for Tomorrow continues its journey across India, it’s not just expanding its reach—it’s unlocking new possibilities. From Hyderabad to Bengaluru and soon to regions like the North-East, the program is cultivating a future powered by student-led innovation.  
     
    Applications are open, and the next generation of problem-solvers is already in motion.  
     
    Let the ideas flow.

    MIL OSI Global Banks –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: New EU strategy for secure, prosperous and resilient Black Sea region

    Source: European Commission

    European Commission Press release Brussels, 28 May 2025 Today the EU is putting forward a new strategy for a stable and secure Black Sea region. This Strategy aims to boost connections and growth, by linking Europe with the South Caucasus, Central Asia, and beyond. Amidst Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine, the strategy will also reinforce the EU’s geopolitical role as a reliable actor in the Black Sea region.

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Appointment to Chief Executive’s Policy Unit Expert Group announced

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Appointment to Chief Executive’s Policy Unit Expert Group announced 
         The Head of the CEPU, Dr Stephen Wong, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the Expert Group members for putting forth their views and suggestions proactively, as well as for their generous sharing of expertise, insights and research findings in their respective fields over the past year. These contributions have provided important references for the Policy Address.
     
         Dr Wong said, “In addition to plenary meetings, the interaction between the CEPU and Expert Group members took various forms in the past year, including forums, seminars, sharing sessions, group discussions, individual meetings, visits and written exchanges, etc. The CEPU also invites universities and think tanks from the community that have received funding support under the Public Policy Research Funding Scheme and the Strategic Public Policy Research Funding Scheme to organise opening and concluding seminars. Members of the Expert Group are invited to provide views from their industry perspectives to enhance the applicability of the research studies. They also serve as external examiners for the two funding schemes, assisting in vetting relevant research proposals and advising on funding applications.”
     
         Dr Wong continued, “I look forward to maintaining close liaison and co-operation with Expert Group members in the coming year, and to working together to assist the HKSAR Government on the 2024 Policy Address goal of ‘Reform for Enhancing Development and Building Our Future Together’.”
     
         As an advisory body, the CEPU Expert Group was established in May 2023 and consists of members of different backgrounds including business, finance, professional, think-tanks and academia to provide expert views and new ideas to the CEPU on various topics. To facilitate the work of the Expert Group and its conduct of more focused discussions, members of the Expert Group are assigned into three broad streams, namely the Economic Advancement Expert Group, the Social Development Expert Group and the Research Strategy Expert Group. For details of the events of the Expert Group, please refer to the website of the CEPU:
    (www.cepu.gov.hk/en/whats_new/index.html 
         The full membership of the Expert Group is as follows (listed in alphabetical order of surnames):

    Economic Advancement Expert GroupMrs Bonnie Chan Woo
    Dr Haywood Cheung
    Mr Hong Xiaoyuan
    Mr Peter Kung
    Mr Adam Kwok
    Mr Peter Lai
    Mr David Lau
    Dr Martin Lee
    Ms Nisa Leung
    Mr Laurence Li, SC
    Mr Li Xiguang
    Mr Dowson Tong
    Mr Patrick Tsang
    Dr Levin Wang
    Mr Allen Yeung
    Mr Samuel Yung
    Mr Jonathan Zhu
     
    Social Development Expert GroupDr Eugene Chan
    Mr Kevin Chan
    Mr Nicholas Chan
    Mr Chen Shaobo
    Mr Albert Lee
    Mr Edward Liu
    Ms Anthea Lo
    Ms Lo Po-man
    Mr Lo Wing-hung
    Dr Lewis Luk
    Dr Ma Jun
    Dr Chloe Suen
    Mr Tai Hay-lap
    Dr Stephen Tai
    Mr Tang Fei
    Mr Xu LinProfessor Thomas Chan
    Mr Chang Ka-mun
    Professor Christopher Chao
    Dr Francis Cheung
    Dr Chow Man-kong
    Dr Chow Pak-chin
    Dr Guo Wanda
    Professor Alfred Ho
    Dr Henry Ho
    Professor Huang Ping
    Professor Lau Pui-king
    Professor Lau Siu-kai
    Professor Dennis Lo
    Professor Francis Lui
    Professor Terry Lum
    Professor Mao Zhenhua
    Professor Charles Ng
    Professor Naubahar Sharif
    Dr Wang Fuqiang
    Professor Richard Wong
    Professor Wong Yuk-shan
    Professor Xiao Geng
    Professor Zheng Yongnian
    Issued at HKT 16:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ17: Coping with extreme weather

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ17: Coping with extreme weather 
    Question:
     
    There are views pointing out that in recent years, Hong Kong has been affected time and again by localised rainstorms, super typhoons and even very hot weather, thereby exposing the safety as well as lives and properties of members of the public to a greater risk. On coping with extreme weather, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the respective numbers of weather warnings and signals issued by the Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) in each of the past five years (set out by type of weather warnings and signals);
     
    (2) in order to cope with extreme weather (including super typhoons and severe rainstorms) that may occur in Hong Kong, of the details of the interdepartmental drills conducted and contingency plans drawn up by various government departments so far this year (including the number of government departments and personnel involved); whether various government departments have put in place a comprehensive contingency mechanism for coping with extreme weather to assist members of the public and disseminate the relevant information in a timely manner;
     
    (3) given that in the past, flooding and landslides frequently occurred in some districts (including Chai Wan, Wong Tai Sin, Wan Chai, Yuen Long and Tsim Sha Tsui) during rainstorm, whether the authorities have increased the supporting staff for flood and disaster prevention work specifically for those districts; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (4) whether the authorities will formulate a mechanism to require the relevant government departments to take corresponding measures in the districts concerned simultaneously when the Localised Heavy Rain Advisory was issued by the HKO, e.g. strengthening local flood monitoring and deploying manpower to clear the drains, with a view to preventing the occurrence of localised large-scale flooding;
     
    (5) given that the 2023 Policy Address indicated that the Drainage Services Department would complete the “Strategic Planning Study on Flood Management against Sea Level Rise and Extreme Rainfall” and develop a forward-looking strategy, of the progress of the relevant work and the findings of the Study; whether the Government has set aside resources for the implementation of the recommendations of the Study and the construction of the relevant infrastructure facilities; and
     
    (6) whether it has further stepped up public education on disaster preparedness, e.g. regularly arranging for members of the public and students to participate in disaster prevention exercise, and teaching members of the public the corresponding measures to take when extreme weather and even natural disasters occur; if so, of the details; if not, whether it will strengthen such efforts in the future?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The responses to the various parts of the question are as follows:
     
    (1) Based on the information provided by the Environment and Ecology Bureau and the Hong Kong Observatory, the number of various warnings and signals issued by the Observatory in the past five years is set out below:
     
    (i) Number of Tropical Cyclone Warning Signals issued

    Year (ii) Number of Thunderstorm Warning, Special Announcement on Flooding in the northern New Territories, Rainstorm Warning Signal and Landslip Warning issued

    Year(iii) Number of other warning and signal issued

    Year(2) After consultation with the Security Bureau and the Home Affairs Department, our reply is as follows:
     
    The Government has implemented the following measures in relation to emergency response mechanisms, interdepartmental drills, and the provision of timely assistance and dissemination of relevant information:
     
    To address extreme weather events, the Security Bureau has formulated the Contingency Plan for Natural Disasters, which sets out the Government’s strategies, organisational framework, and alerting system for dealing with natural disasters, as well as the functions and responsibilities of Government bureaux/departments, public utility companies, and non-governmental organisations in the events of natural disasters. When major natural disasters happen, the Security Bureau will immediately activate the Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre to co-ordinate a comprehensive response and collaborate the actions of relevant departments and organisations (including their emergency control centres) to ensure the incidents are handled swiftly and effectively.
     
    In the event of super typhoons or other large-scale natural disasters, the Chief Secretary for Administration will convene an interdepartmental Steering Committee meeting for provisioning high-level co-ordination and supervision in the various stages of preparedness, contingency and recovery as well as setting priorities for various tasks, thereby enabling the normal daily living of the community to resume as quickly as practicable. If a natural disaster has caused extreme and widespread impacts, such as widespread flooding, severe landslides, or severe disruption to public transportation services, the Steering Committee will consider making an “extreme conditions” announcement to advise members of the public to remain in their original safe locations.
     
    The Security Bureau has been organising interdepartmental drills to enhance communication and collaboration among various government departments under different extreme weather conditions. Through the drills with various testing scenarios, the departments’ emergency plans will be refined. As at May 18 this year, the Security Bureau and relevant departments had conducted a total of 10 drills related to extreme weather, involving 33 policy bureaux and departments, with a total of 960 participants. For areas vulnerable to flooding or seawater inundation, the respective District Offices will also conduct interdepartmental drills before the typhoon season to strengthen co-ordination among departments, enhance response capabilities and raise residents’ understanding of response arrangements.
     
    The Government will also, as appropriate, disseminate to the public the latest weather forecasts, natural disaster alerts, and related information including flooding, landslides, and traffic arrangements for affected roads through the Information Services Department, the media and social media platforms.
     
    (3) The Drainage Services Department (DSD) is currently taking forward 15 major drainage improvement works and it is anticipated that these projects will be completed progressively by 2030. These projects include works in the abovementioned areas of concern, namely Chai Wan, Wong Tai Sin, Yuen Long, and Tsim Sha Tsui (Note). In recent years, the DSD has also completed a number of minor works in these districts, including improvement works to the drainage systems near Chai Wan Road roundabout and in Wong Tai Sin.
     
    The DSD has identified around 240 locations prone to blockage in Hong Kong. Whenever the Hong Kong Observatory forecasts severe rainstorm, the DSD will arrange and deploy resources to step up their inspections and, where necessary, carry out immediate clearance of blocked drains to ensure proper functioning of the drainage system.
     
    In relation to landslides, apart from conducting regular inspections of slopes under their maintenance responsibilities, relevant government departments need to additionally carry out special inspections for government man-made slopes adjacent to sole accesses to community or important livelihood facilities before each wet season. This helps minimise the potential impact on people’s lives due to incidents on these slopes. The relevant inspections were completed before the wet season this year. On the other hand, the Geotechnical Engineering Office will remind private owners to complete all regular slope inspections and the necessary slope maintenance before the onset of wet season through letters, social media posts, television promotional videos, radio broadcasts and media briefings, etc.
     
    (4) The DSD has been working closely with the Hong Kong Observatory and has implemented the “Just-in-time Clearance” arrangement since 2020. Under this arrangement, when the Observatory forecasts severe rainstorms, the DSD will immediately deploy manpower to inspect locations prone to blockage and clear any blocked drains, thereby reducing the risk of flooding during heavy rainstorms. Since 2022, the DSD has taken proactive measures to further enhance its preparatory measures following the Hong Kong Observatory’s issuance of the Localised Heavy Rain Advisory. During periods of heavy rainstorms, the DSD, depending on the rainfall severity, will increase the number of emergency response teams to 180 teams. These teams are deployed to various districts to promptly handle flooding incidents so as to minimise the impact of flooding on the public.
     
    The DSD also adopts innovative technologies, including the deployment of powerful pumping robots, piloting artificial intelligence-based flood monitoring systems, and the use of new flood monitoring devices, such as Flood Monitoring Devices, and dissemination of real-time water level information.
     
    (5) The DSD completed the “Strategic Planning Study on Flood Management Against Sea Level Rise and Extreme Rainfall”, and the findings and recommendations were presented at the meeting of the Panel on Development held on May 27, 2025. Please refer to the relevant document for details www.legco.gov.hk/yr2025/english/panels/dev/papers/dev20250527cb1-904-4-e.pdf 
    (6) To enhance public awareness of disaster preparedness, departments under the Security Bureau carry out publicity and education through websites, social media platforms, and carnival events. In addition, the DSD promotes awareness of the risks associated with extreme weather and the corresponding measures to the public and stakeholders through a variety of channels, including TV promotional videos, publications, and outreach education programmes. The DSD also assists the property management sector to understand appropriate actions to take during flooding incidents. The Civil Engineering and Development Department also formulates action plans to address floods in low-lying coastal areas, maintains communication with residents and raises awareness of climate change through various activities. Furthermore, the Geotechnical Engineering Office promotes public awareness of slope safety through public education and publicity activities, including exhibitions and talks in shopping malls and schools, and providing maintenance advice to private slope owners.
     
    Note: Major drainage improvement works in Chai Wan, Wong Tai Sin, Yuen Long and Tsim Sha Tsui include: (i) Drainage improvement works in Eastern District – phase 1, (ii) Drainage improvement works in Wong Tai Sin, (iii) Yuen Long Barrage Scheme, (iv) Improvement of Yuen Long Town Nullah (town centre section), (v) Drainage improvement works at Yuen Long – stage 2 and (vi) Drainage Improvement Works in Tsim Sha Tsui.
    Issued at HKT 17:12

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: DH organises International Medical Device Regulatory Forum to promote advancement of health through research and technology (with photos)

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    DH organises International Medical Device Regulatory Forum to promote advancement of health through research and technology  
    Addressing the opening ceremony, the Director of Health, Dr Ronald Lam, said, “Given the rapid development of AI technology, the DH is committed to developing a regulatory framework in Hong Kong to help healthcare workers and members of the public choose safe and reliable medical devices. The DH has issued guidance on cybersecurity and AI medical devices in 2023 and 2024 to help manufacturers navigate and follow the voluntary Medical Device Administrative Control System (MDACS), which was introduced by the DH. To date, 22 AI medical devices have been listed in the MDACS, including magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and electrocardiography (ECG) systems.
     
    “The HKSAR Government is committed to developing Hong Kong as a hub for health and medical innovation. The soon-to-be-established Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation will conduct independent evaluations on the safety, quality, and efficacy of medical products based on clinical data. In addition, with the development of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, Hong Kong will leverage its unique advantages under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle and serve as a ‘super connector’, linking Mainland China and the global market. This will create opportunities for entrepreneurs to thrive while supporting our country in enhancing its new quality productive forces in the health field,” said Dr Lam.
     
    “The emergence of innovative medical devices is bringing revolutionary changes to the healthcare industry. Multinational and cross-border collaborations are required to enable the development of a regulatory system that aligns with the rapid advancement in medical technology. The CUHK is delighted to partner with the DH in hosting the first forum to strengthen co-operation in medical innovation. The goal is to enhance health and medical industry standards by engaging leaders and pioneers in the field,” said the Dean of the Faculty of Medicine of the CUHK, Professor Philip Chiu.
     
    Today’s forum featured keynote speeches by representatives of medical device regulatory authorities from Hong Kong, the Mainland, Malaysia and Saudi Arabia, as well as local and Hungarian academia. The forum focused on trends in the medical device industry, international regulatory co-ordination mechanisms and breakthroughs in AI technology in the healthcare sector. Participants proactively engaged in discussions, sharing their insights and experiences.
     
    The DH will continue to promote exchanges between governments, industry, and academia through various means to strengthen international collaboration networks, and lay a solid foundation for Hong Kong to develop into an international medical innovation hub.
    Issued at HKT 18:50

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ20: Borrowing on the part of foreign domestic helpers

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ20: Borrowing on the part of foreign domestic helpers 
    Question:
     
         The Government has indicated that the borrowing problems of foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) not only affect their own financial well-being, but also bring much trouble to their employers. It has been reported that in recent years, there have been instances where employers or former employers of FDHs are harassed by money lenders or financial intermediaries as FDHs default on loans. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the annual number of cases received by the Companies Registry from FDH employers, in 2024 and this year to date, in which harassment was allegedly inflicted on them by licensed money lenders during debt recovery from their FDHs;
     
    (2) given that in reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on November 27 last year, the Government indicated that it was formulating specific measures for public consultation along such directions as reviewing the existing regulations on money lenders and enhancing publicity and education, and it planned to commence such consultation in the first half of this year, of the progress of the public consultation on such new measures and the actual implementation timetable;
     
    (3) as the revised Code of Practice for Employment Agencies (CoP) promulgated by the Labour Department (LD) in May last year requires employment agencies to, when making an application for a licence and renewal of a licence, inform the LD of whether they are associated with any financial institution, of the number of employment agencies that have made such declarations to LD since the revision of CoP;
     
    (4) given that in reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on January 8 this year, the Government indicated that only about 90 licensed money lenders had joined or were in the process of joining “Credit Data Smart” (CDS), a Credit Reference Platform, how the authorities plan to encourage the remaining licensed money lenders to join CDS so that the affordability of borrowers (including FDHs) for unsecured personal loans can be more accurately assessed by the industry; and
     
    (5) as it is learnt that some FDHs have successfully applied for loans using their former employers’ addresses despite the completion of their agreements, whether the authorities have plans to address this issue, such as requiring financial institutions to verify with the authorities whether the FDH has an employment relationship with the employer declared by him or her before approving the loan?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
         The Government is very concerned about the borrowing issue of foreign domestic helpers (FDHs) and will strictly regulate licensed money lenders (money lenders) and step up publicity and education etc, to better protect the interests of FDHs and their employers. In consultation with the Labour and Welfare Bureau, Companies Registry (CR) and the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA), the reply to various parts of the question is as follows:
     
    (1) In 2024 and 2025 (as at April), the CR received 11 and four complaints respectively on the alleged harassment of employers of FDHs by licensed money lenders due to debt collection in relation to the FDHs. The CR referred the cases concerned to the Police for handling.
     
    (2) The Government has been closely monitoring the market situation in the money lending sector to continuously review and enhance the prevailing regulatory measures. In 2021, we enhanced the licensing conditions of money lenders, including requiring money lenders, before entering into a loan agreement for an unsecured personal loan, to undertake an assessment of the borrower’s repayment ability and have due regard to the assessment outcome, and requiring money lenders to immediately cease to use a referee’s information after they are informed or aware that the written consent was in fact not signed by the referee. In 2022, we lowered the statutory interest rate cap and the threshold of extortionate rate from 60 per cent to 48 per cent and from 48 per cent to 36 per cent respectively.
     
         To step up efforts in addressing the issue of excessive borrowing, we will commence a public consultation this June on enhancing regulation of unsecured personal loans and strengthen protection for loan referees etc, and will consult the Legislative Council Panel on Financial Affairs in July. After the consultation period, we will collate and summarise the views to be received to finalise relevant measures and formulate relevant legislative proposals.
     
    (3) To enhance the protection for job seekers and employers, the Labour Department (LD) promulgated the revised Code of Practice (CoP) for Employment Agencies on May 9, 2024. The revised CoP requires employment agencies (EAs) to declare, when applying for a licence or licence renewal, whether they operate any financial institution on the same premises as EAs, and whether the EA licensee or the person intending to be the licensee is at the same time the responsible person of any financial institution.
     
         As at April 2025, the LD received and processed declarations from 3 362 EAs during applications for a licence or licence renewal in accordance with the aforementioned requirement. Among the 3 362 EAs, 41 EAs declared affiliations with financial institutions.
     
    (4) To encourage more money lenders to join the Credit Data Smart (CDS), the Government and the HKMA have been working closely with the Hong Kong Association of Banks, the Hong Kong Association of Restricted Licence Banks and Deposit-taking Companies, and the Hong Kong S.A.R. Licensed Money Lenders Association Limited to research into and provide different solutions, as well as to organise briefing sessions on the CDS and proactively invite money lenders that have not joined the CDS to meetings.
     
         Furthermore, under the strong support and promotion of the HKMA, the platform operator (i.e. Hong Kong Interbank Clearing Limited) has developed an interface, namely the “Common Module”, which provides an effective, lower-cost, and more convenient way for money lenders to connect to the CDS, saving the need to establish their own application programming interfaces (API).
     
         The Government and the HKMA will continue to co-operate with the industry to develop enhancement measures to assist more money lenders in joining the CDS, so as to build a more comprehensive database.
     
    (5) To address situation of employers or former employers being harassed due to borrowing of their FDHs, the licensing conditions of the current money lenders licence have clearly set out the relevant regulatory requirements. According to licensing condition 10 of the money lenders licence, a money lender and his debt collector shall only recover debts from the person who is in law indebted to him. A money lender and his debt collector shall not, while trying to locate the whereabouts of debtors, harass anyone, adopt unlawful or improper debt collection practices. Therefore, if a FDH employer or former employer discovers that his/her residential address is used improperly and feels harassed, he/she may lodge a complaint with the money lender concerned and request immediate cessation of his improper debt collection behaviours.
     
         Money lenders should strictly comply with the licensing conditions in carrying on their business. Any breach of the licensing conditions during the course of business is an offence under the Money Lenders Ordinance. Upon conviction, offenders are subject to a maximum fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for two years. If the Registrar of Money Lenders (Registrar) and the Police consider that a money lender has ceased to be a fit and proper person to carry on business as such, they may apply to the Licensing Court for revocation of his licence or refusal of his licence renewal application. Therefore, if there is any complaint against a money lender for improperly harassing a FDH employer or former employer, the complaint may serve as a ground for the Registrar or the Police to apply to the Licensing Court for revocation of his licence, or make an objection against his licence renewal application.
     
         In addition, we will step up promotional and educational efforts targeting the FDH community, reminding FDHs that they could not provide their employers’ or former employers’ addresses as the borrower’s contact address without seeking their prior consent. We will also strengthen co-operation with the LD and non-governmental organisations to ensure that the relevant messages are effectively conveyed.
    Issued at HKT 16:21

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: Special traffic and transport arrangements in Southern District and Tai Po during Tuen Ng Festival holidays

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    The Transport Department (TD) today (May 28) reminded members of the public that the following special traffic and transport arrangements will be implemented in Southern District and Tai Po during the Tuen Ng Festival holidays (May 30 to 31) to facilitate the holding of dragon boat races.

    Southern District 
    (i) Road closures 
    B. Public transport arrangements 
    (i) Road closures
     
         Dai King Street, Dai Hei Street and the section of Dai Kwai Street south of Dai Cheong Street will be temporarily closed to all vehicular traffic, except for taxis, emergency vehicles and those vehicles authorised by the police officers on site, from 6pm on May 30 to 5pm on May 31.
     
    B. Public transport arrangements
     
    (i) Bus route diversion and suspension of bus stops 
         For details of the special traffic and public transport arrangements, members of the public may visit the TD’s website (www.td.gov.hk 
         Due to road closures, the TD anticipates that traffic in the areas concerned will become significantly congested. Motorists are advised to avoid driving to the above areas affected by the road closures. In case of traffic congestion, motorists should exercise patience and drive with care, and follow the instructions of the Police on site.
     
         The TD appeals to members of the public to make use of public transport services as far as possible to avoid traffic congestion and unnecessary delay. The TD and the Police will closely monitor the traffic situation and implement appropriate measures when necessary. The Police may adjust the traffic arrangements, subject to the prevailing crowd and traffic conditions in the areas. The public should pay attention to the latest traffic news through radio, television or “HKeMobility”.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCED to attend Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    SCED to attend Asia-Pacific Telecommunity Ministerial Meeting in Tokyo 
    During the two-day (May 30 and 31) meeting, Mr Yau and participating ministers will attend discussion sessions on various topics related to information and communications technology development, including sustainable digital infrastructure and accessibility, inclusive digital innovation and growth, secure and trusted digital environment, and empowering the Asia-Pacific industry’s role in digital transformation. The Ministerial Meeting will adopt a joint statement at the end of the meeting to further foster regional collaboration.
     
    The APT is an intergovernmental organisation with the aim of promoting information and communication technology development in the Asia-Pacific region. The APT now has 38 members, four associate members and 140 affiliate members from private companies and academia.
    　
    During his stay in Tokyo, Mr Yau will also meet with government officials of Japan and business leaders to promote Hong Kong’s business advantages and opportunities.
     
    Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong on the evening of May 31. The Under Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, will be the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development during Mr Yau’s absence.
    Issued at HKT 16:00

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ13: Public housing estates with supply of centralised liquefied petroleum gas

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ13: Public housing estates with supply of centralised liquefied petroleum gas 
    Question:

         It is learnt that there are 15 public housing estates (PHEs) under the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) that are installed with centralised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply. The previous arrangements for renewal of LPG suppliers were such that existing suppliers with satisfactory performance would be eligible for renewal. Subsequently, with reference to the experience in private housing developments, and taking into account public views and the Competition Commission’s recommendations, the HA decided in August 2017 that tenders should be invited for awarding new contracts for the supply of centralised LPG to PHEs upon expiry of the existing contracts. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: 

    PHE(2) whether it has compiled statistics on the total annual supply of domestic piped LPG to the PHEs and shared HOS estates mentioned in (1) over the past five years, as well as the annual average price of LPG in such PHEs and HOS estates; of the comparison between such average LPG prices and the corresponding town gas prices during the same period; and

    (3) whether the owners’ committees or residents of the PHEs mentioned in (1) have requested the HA to replace the gas supply system (e.g. ‍natural gas)? 
         Our reply to the question raised by the Hon Chan Hok-fung is as follows:
     
    (1) At present, 15 public rental housing (PRH) estates under the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) are equipped with centralised liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) supply systems. According to the past policy, prior to 2017, on the premise of ensuring that residents of the estates could enjoy safe and stable centralised LPG supply services, the HA would renew the contract with the existing supplier upon expiry of the contract if the supplier’s performance had been satisfactory during the contract period. In the light of public views and the Competition Commission’s advice of 2016, the Commercial Properties Committee of the HA approved in 2017 that new contracts would be awarded by tender instead for centralised LPG supply upon expiry of the existing contracts. Accordingly, the HA arranged bundled tendering for the LPG supply contracts for two PRH estates (i.e. Wah Fu (II) Estate and Nga Ning Court) as a trial in 2018. The new contracts were successfully awarded and the handover work was completed smoothly. Since 2019, the new supplier has commenced the supply of LPG for the two estates for a contract term of 10 years. 

    PRH estatesHong Kong IslandHong Kong LimitedCheung ChauHong Kong LimitedTai PoTai PoHong Kong LimitedTuen MunHong Kong LimitedTuen MunHong Kong LimitedNorth DistrictHong Kong LimitedTuen MunHong Kong LimitedTuen MunHong Kong LimitedLantau IslandHong Kong LimitedKowloonPeng ChauLantau IslandTuen MunHong Kong LimitedYuen Long(2) and (3) As for the amount of supply of domestic centralised LPG to the PRH estates and HOS estates with shared LPG storage tanks, the concerned LPG suppliers indicated that the relevant information was commercially confidential and therefore could not be disclosed. Moreover, the LPG consumption varies depending on a number of factors such as the number of occupants in the household, seasons, the living style of the residents and the efficiency of the gas appliances. The estimated average LPG consumption for a 3-person household is around seven cubic metre per month.
     
         To protect the interests of the centralised LPG consumers in the PRH estates and HOS estates with shared LPG storage tanks, the HA has stipulated in the centralised LPG supply contracts that the LPG prices charged by the suppliers shall not be higher than the market rate. For the benefit of residents, the HA will also require in the tender documents for LPG supply that LPG suppliers must provide free annual inspection of gas appliances and waive the minimum charge and the monthly fee for the maintenance service plan provided to domestic tenants/occupiers using the LPG supply service. We have meetings with LPG suppliers every six months and will review the relevant LPG prices by making reference to the domestic centralised LPG prices published by local LPG suppliers to ensure compliance with the relevant requirements. In April 2025, the latest average price of domestic centralised LPG published by LPG suppliers in April 2025 was $47.34 per cubic metre.
     
         As for the town gas price for household customers for the same period, with effect from August 1, 2024, the charge ranges from 27.60 cents to 28.55 cents per megajoule, plus a fuel cost adjustment. In addition, the minimum basic charge for each household customer is $20 and the monthly maintenance charge is $10. Town gas is charged based on the energy unit of megajoule, while LPG is generally charged per cubic metre for consumption. As the unit of measurements, basis of calculation and charging scheme of these two gas types are different; the heat efficiency of LPG and town gas appliances are different; and these two gas types vary in aspects such as calorific value, it is not possible to make a direct comparison of their prices.

         So far, there is no request for the replacement of LPG supply systems from the tenants of PRH estates or IO’s committees of the HOS estates.
    Issued at HKT 12:25

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ19: Traffic incidents involving animals

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ19: Traffic incidents involving animals 
    Question:
     
         Under the Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374), the driver of a vehicle shall stop if an accident involving that vehicle occurs whereby damage is caused to animals not in the vehicle, and the Government included cats and dogs in the definition of “animal” under the Ordinance in 2021. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) of the following information in respect of traffic accidents involving vehicles hitting animals in each of the past five years: (i) the number of animals being hit (set out in the table below a breakdown by the type of animals (i.e. (a) horses, (b) cattle, (c) ass, (d) mules, (e) ‍sheep, (f) pigs, (g) goats, (h) cats and (i) dogs)), (ii) the number of reports received by the Government on such accidents, and (iii) ‍among these accidents, the number and percentage of cases involving hit-and-run drivers, (iv) the number of such accidents investigated by the Government under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), and (v) among them, the number of prosecutions instituted;
     

    Year(2) of the current handling procedures adopted by the government departments concerned upon receipt of cases of animals being hit by vehicles; the number of such cases in which animal carcasses were handled directly by the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department in each of the past five years, and their percentage in the total number of cases involving animals being hit by vehicles;
     
    (3) as there are views that the deterrent effect of the existing legislation on accidents involving vehicles hitting animals is inadequate, whether the authorities will introduce fixed penalty or incorporate a demerit point system; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
     
    (4) whether the Government will allocate additional resources to assist in rescuing animals hit and injured by vehicles; and
     
    (5) whether the Government will review the legislation to include more local wild animals (including but not limited to monkeys and wild pigs) in the definition of “animal” under Cap. 374; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
     
    Reply:
     
    President,
     
    The Road Traffic Ordinance (Cap. 374) (the Ordinance) provides that the driver of a vehicle shall stop if an accident involving that vehicle occurs whereby damage is caused to specified animals not in the vehicle. Drivers are also required to provide particulars, including name and address, to any police officer or any person having reasonable grounds for requiring the information. Otherwise, the driver must report the accident to the Police as soon as possible and in any case no later than 24 hours after the accident. The Government amended the definition of specified animals under the Ordinance on November 7, 2021 to include cats and dogs. Currently, specified animals include horse, cattle, ass, mule, sheep, pig, goat, cat and dog.
     
    Having consulted the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF), the reply to the question from the Hon Chan Hak-kan is as follows:
     
    (1) In the past five years, the HKPF has received a total of 933 reports of vehicle hitting the specified animals (details set out at the Table below), 147 of them involved driver failing to stop after hitting the animals. The HKPF does not maintain breakdown of statistics by the type of animals, cases investigated under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), and the prosecution number.
     

    Year(as at April 30) 
    For the drivers involved, if such person did not stop after the accident, or provide particulars to police officers or report to the Police in accordance with the requirements of the Ordinance, the HKPF will investigate and follow up according to the established mechanism; and will instigate prosecution if there is sufficient evidence.
     
    As regards the disposal of animal carcasses, upon receipt of referrals from departments or reports from the public, the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) will arrange for contractors to collect animal carcasses at the scene and deliver them to the landfills of the Environmental Protection Department for disposal. The FEHD does not maintain a breakdown of animal carcasses collected in traffic accidents.
     
    (3) Under the Ordinance, a driver failing to stop upon a relevant accident is liable to a fine at level 3 ($10,000) and imprisonment for 12 months, whereas failing to provide particulars and report to the Police according to the requirements of the Ordinance is liable to a fine at level 4 ($25,000) and imprisonment for six months. In general, enforcement by fixed penalty notices is targeted at cases which are simple, straightforward, clear-cut and capable of being easily established, but whether a driver has complied with the Ordinance requires further investigation of the Police, hence it is more appropriate to prosecute by issuing summonses. As regards demerit point system, considering the existing penalties have a certain deterrent effect, we do not intend to include the above offences in demerit point system at this stage, but will timely review them as necessary.
     
    (5) The Ordinance requires drivers to stop if they hit a specified animal, with the intent of facilitating livestock owners to seek compensation from the drivers concerned for the loss incurred. The Government’s inclusion of cats and dogs as specified animals under the Ordinance in 2021 aimed to enable cats and dogs injured in traffic accidents to receive timely treatment. As regards whether other wild animals will be included, making reference to the legislation in some overseas jurisdictions, similar stopping and reporting requirements generally only cover animals that are commonly kept by people but not wild animals. In fact, a number of stakeholders raised at the public consultation for amending the Ordinance in 2021 that if monkeys and wild pigs are to be included as specified animals, the drivers may suddenly stop their vehicles and lead to road traffic safety problems. The Government will closely monitor the implementation of the Ordinance and strive to strike a balance between safeguarding animal welfare and the safety of road users, and will timely review whether there is room to further enhance the Ordinance.
    Issued at HKT 11:45

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ21: Arts and cultural activities and mega events

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ21: Arts and cultural activities and mega events 

     (by event date)($)  (the fair)
     
    829 633
    (other side programmes)   ** Actual grant amount to be finalised upon the submission of audited report by the grantee after the event

    ​The six events attracted a total attendance of around 1.5 million and were well received, allowing a large number of public and tourists to understand and learn the profound traditional Chinese culture through the events.
    Issued at HKT 11:36

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ11: Provision and planning of car parking space

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    Following is a question by the Hon Vincent Cheng and a written reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (May 28):

    Question:
    Reply:(2) The car parks at West Kowloon Government Offices and Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, managed by the GPA, provide 50 and 263 PC parking spaces respectively and operate under commercial principles by contractors. At Cheung Sha Wan Government Offices, some parking spaces are available for public use throughout the day, while others are open only during non-office hours due to departmental needs. The car park at West Kowloon Government Offices is open to the public during non-office hours.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ1: Protection for food delivery workers of digital platforms

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

    LCQ1: Protection for food delivery workers of digital platforms 
    Question:
     
         There are views that food delivery workers on Hong Kong’s digital platforms (platforms) are not covered by various forms of labour protection. This situation lags behind that in both the Mainland and the West. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
     
    (1) as the Government indicated in November last year that it would propose a direction to strengthen the protection of platform workers, which “may include proposals that can only be implemented by legislation”, of the scope of the protection and legislative details being considered by the authorities, and when the legislative proposals are expected to be introduced into this Council;
     
    (2) given that the Supreme People’s Court issued guiding cases last year, pointing out that the key to determining whether there is a labour relationship between enterprises and workers is to establish whether there are “facts surrounding the employment”, which constitute dominant labour management, whether the authorities have drawn reference from such cases to formulate the relevant safeguarding direction; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
     
    (3) as it has been reported that some Mainland enterprises have paid the “five insurances and one housing fund” for platform delivery workers so that they are protected by law in the event of old age, illness, work-‍related injury, unemployment, maternity and so on, whether the authorities have encouraged Hong Kong platform enterprises to follow suit, such as making Mandatory Provident Fund contributions for platform delivery workers?
     
    Reply:

    President,
     
         The Government is concerned about the protection for digital platform workers (platform workers) and has established a Liaison Group comprising representatives from the Government, platform companies, and labour organisations to explore suitable proposals to enhance the protection for platform workers. In response to the Member’s question, the reply is provided below:
     
    (1) The Labour Department (LD) completed statistical surveys and conducted consultations last year, including the Thematic Household Survey, an opinion survey for platform workers, as well as focus group meetings to collect data on the working conditions of platform workers and their views on protection matters. The results of the above surveys revealed that platform workers were most concerned about work injury compensation. In addition, the LD organised a retreat in November last year to facilitate representatives from the Government, platform companies, labour sector, academics and the insurance industry to express and exchange views on how to protect platform workers, including issues of work injury compensation.
     
         Having regard to the data and views collected from the above surveys and through various channels, the Government will introduce a proposal for further enhancing the rights and benefits of platform workers within this year, and will consider reinforcing the protection for platform workers through legislative means. In collaboration with platform companies and other stakeholders through the Liaison Group, the Government will continue to take forward the work on protection for platform workers. 
         In Hong Kong, the court has also established a series of factors to distinguish whether an individual is classified as a self-employed person, an independent contractor or an employee. Relevant factors include whether the purported employer exercises control over the purported self-employed person’s work; and whether the purported self-employed individual can hire helpers to assist with the work, whether he provides his own equipment or tools, and whether he bears the financial risk over his/her business. If in essence there exists an employer-employee relationship, even if an employer claims that an employee is a self-employed person or a contractor, the employer must fulfill the responsibilities under labour legislation in respect of that employee, including bearing the criminal liability for violating provisions of employment rights.
     
         We will continue to monitor the policies and measures in the Mainland and other places on the protection for platform workers, and contemplate how to formulate appropriate policies to strengthen the protection for platform workers with regard to the local circumstances. 
         In accordance with the Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Ordinance, employees and self-employed persons aged 18 to 64 (save for exempt persons) are required to join the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) Scheme. If a platform worker is an employee as defined in the Employment Ordinance, the platform company as the employer is obliged to enrol these employees in an MPF scheme and arrange employer and employee mandatory contributions. If a platform worker is a self-employed person, he is required to arrange his own enrolment in an MPF scheme and make mandatory contributions.
     
         The Government will continue to encourage platform companies to adopt suitable measures to improve the welfare of platform workers through the Liaison Group.
    Issued at HKT 11:20

    NNNN

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Public benefits received by residents of public housing estates

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         Following is a question by Dr the Hon Ngan Man-yu and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (May 28):

    Question: 
         The WFSFAA reviews and streamlines the application and vetting procedures of the WFA Scheme and the School Textbook Assistance Scheme (STAS) from time to time. With respect to the WFA Scheme, the WFSFAA provides households which got approved WFA previously with application forms prefilled with basic household information, and requires less documentary proof in their subsequent applications. The WFSFAA provides reference materials for applicants such as guidance notes, checklist of documents required for the application and sample application forms. The WFSFAA sets up mobile information booths at various locations (including PHEs), and provides service counters (Note 2) and a 24-hour telephone enquiry hotline to answer public enquiries and offer assistance in filling out application forms.
     
         In addition, the WFSFAA adopts a household-based application form to facilitate the submission of a consolidated application by families concerned for all eligible children attending primary or secondary schools or kindergartens / child care centres for applicable student financial assistance (including the STAS). Apart from providing enquiry hotlines and counter services, the WFSFAA also maintains close contact with schools with a view to offering assistance to applicants in need. 
         Since the introduction of the WFA Scheme in April 2018, the Government has reviewed the WFA Scheme at various times and implemented a number of enhancement measures, including relaxing the eligibility criteria by extending the Scheme to singleton households and allowing household members to aggregate their working hours to apply for WFA. In addition, the Government has increased the rates of allowance under the WFA Scheme thrice to further alleviate the burden of grassroots working families (including those living in PHEs). 
         The Government has launched the Strive and Rise Programme since 2022 which focuses on lifting secondary school students from underprivileged families (including those in PHEs) out of intergenerational poverty. Through tripartite collaboration of the Government, the business sector and the community, the Scheme broadens student participants’ horizons, reinforce their self-confidence, develop a positive life attitude, set goals for their future and strive for upward mobility. 
    Note 2: The service counters are located at the HA customer service centre in Lok Fu and the WFSFAA office in Kwun Tong.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –