Month: September 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Education Bureau (EDB) held an award presentation ceremony for the Hong Kong Secondary Student Space Station Popular Science Payload and Science Experiment Design Challenge at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) today (September 21) to commend the outstanding student teams for their excellent performances and to recognise their efforts and achievements in designing space science experiments.

Speaking at the event, the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai, said that in response to the national strategy of “invigorating the country through science and education”, the EDB is vigorously promoting innovation and technology (I&T) education in primary and secondary schools. This academic year sees the introduction of a new science subject in primary schools alongside the previously announced updated junior secondary science curriculum, achieving a “Nine-Year Integrated” foundational science education. The curriculum incorporates aerospace and I&T elements to help students understand the nation’s latest I&T advancements, enhance scientific literacy, and cultivate affection for and sense of belonging to the country.

He commended the participating students for demonstrating the integration of mathematical and technological knowledge alongside innovative thinking acquired through schools and training lessons during the challenge, resulting in highly creative space experiment proposals. He noted that the four Special Gold Award-winning proposals are currently undergoing optimisation under the professional guidance of the expert teams. These proposals have a chance to be recommended as part of the “Space Station Hong Kong Popular Science Satellite” national aerospace mission in the future, operated by payload specialists on the space station. Dr Sze expressed gratitude to school principals, teachers and parents for their dedicated guidance, as well as to different Mainland tertiary institutions and organisations for their support of the challenge. He encouraged the students to maintain their passion for science and contribute to the future technological innovation and aerospace industry of the country.

     The Deputy Chief Engineer of the Technology and Engineering Center for Space Utilization of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS-TECSU), Dr Zhong Hongen, said that aerospace science education serves not only to disseminate knowledge, but also as a vital means of inspiring young people’s passion for science and fostering a sense of national pride. He hopes that this science popularisation activity will ignite the dreams of Hong Kong’s young generation to explore the universe. Dr Zhong also delivered a keynote speech on the latest developments in the Chinese Mainland’s aerospace industry and the significant importance of space science research, immensely benefiting the teachers and students in attendance.

The Vice-President for Research and Development of the HKUST, Professor Tim Cheng, said that the challenge has provided an invaluable platform for young talent to showcase their innovative thinking and practical capabilities.

The challenge was jointly organised for the first time by the EDB, the CAS-TECSU and the HKUST, with the Department of Educational, Scientific and Technological Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region serving as a supporting organisation. The Beijing-Hong Kong Academic Exchange Centre, the Hong Kong Federation of Education Workers, and the Education Convergence are partner organisations. The challenge was launched in February this year and received an overwhelming response, attracting approximately 750 students from 100 secondary schools.

Following the award presentation, the guests, teachers, and students joined an exhibition at the venue, which showcased the learning outcomes and experiment proposals of the 16 Gold Award-winning teams. The exhibition facilitated peer exchange and learning among the participating students, sparking their interest in aerospace technology and promoting the development of science education in Hong Kong.

For information of the award winners and the challenge, please visit the webpage (spacepayload.hkust.edu.hk).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Transport Department today (September 21) reminded members of the public that the 62nd round of computer ballot registration for submitting applications for Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles (the scheme) will be open from 10am tomorrow (September 22) to 11.59pm on September 25, and the ballot result will be announced on September 26.
 
Eligible applicants for the scheme can register for computer balloting through the designated website (www.hzmbqfs.gov.hk). Successful balloting applicants are required to submit applications for the scheme within the designated application period.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     With the support of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Jakarta (HKETO Jakarta), the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) and the Film Development Fund, the Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation – Kuala Lumpur opened today (September 20), bringing a curated selection of Hong Kong cinema to Malaysian audiences.

     The Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation – Kuala Lumpur, organised by the Asian Film Awards Academy, presents six Hong Kong films in different genres of drama, documentary and action, showcasing the creativity and diversity of Hong Kong’s film culture.

     Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Director-General of HKETO Jakarta, Miss Libera Cheng, said that under the National 14th Five-Year Plan, Hong Kong is fulfilling its role as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, leveraging film to strengthen people-to-people connections between Hong Kong, ASEAN, and the world.

     Miss Cheng said, “The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government is committed to the development of the film industry and continues to support the sector in areas such as subsidising production, nurturing talent and expanding markets. Over the past three years, films funded by the CCIDA through the Film Development Fund have accounted for nearly 30 per cent of Hong Kong films box office receipts. The Chief Executive has also just announced in his 2025 Policy Address that the CCIDA will enhance publicity, exchanges and business matching overseas and in the Mainland to support Hong Kong’s film development.”

     A number of stellar Hong Kong film talents have travelled to Kuala Lumpur to attend the gala, including actor Aaron Kwok and director James Hung from the opening film “My First of May”, director Robin Lee from “Four Trails”, actor Locker Lam and action choreographer MJ Chan from “Fight for Tomorrow”, and actor/action choreographer Ken Law from “Good Game”. They will also participate in seminars and post-screening sharing sessions to meet and interact with industry players and film enthusiasts.

     As part of the film event, an exhibition titled “Weaving Dreams: Artistry in Film” is being held at Aurum Theatre, The Exchange TRX in Kuala Lumpur until October 2, with free admission. The exhibition offers audiences an additional window into the artistry behind the featured works. 

     More details of the Hong Kong Film Gala Presentation are available at www.afa-academy.com.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Senior Police Call (SPC) of the Hong Kong Police Force (HKPF) hosted the “SPC Share the Love 2025” kick-off ceremony cum carnival today (September 20), launching year-long visits which distribute blessing bags and spread care to the elderly and those in need.

     The Commissioner of Police, Mr Chow Yat-ming, speaking at the kick-off ceremony, stated that SPC Home Visit Captains and SPC members, along with officers from various police districts, visit the elderly to disseminate messages about crime prevention, anti-scam and road safety, assist them in mastering the use of tech tools, and distribute blessing bags that meet the practical needs of the elderly.

     Mr Chow expressed his gratitude to the SPC Central Advisory Board (CAB) members, SPC Honorary Presidents and SPC members from respective police districts for their support that has contributed to the success of “SPC Share the Love”. He stated that the HKPF will continue to actively support the Government’s elderly care policies and organise diverse activities and training programmes to encourage the elderly to participate actively in community affairs and unleash their full potential.

     This year’s home visits will be conducted from now until August next year. A total of 10 000 blessing bags, containing food, daily necessities and the HKPF’s promotional leaflets, will be distributed by 22 police districts to those in need in the community.

     Other officiating guests of the ceremony included the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Yip Wan-lung, the Regional Commander of Marine cum the Chairperson of SPC CAB, Mr Ng Cheuk-hang; the Chief Superintendent of Public Relations Wing cum the Vice-Chairperson of SPC CAB, Mr Leung Chung-man; and representatives of SPC CAB, Dr Dominic Chu, Mr Jerome Leung, Dr Malcolm Lam and Mr Wilfred Ng. Several members of SPC CAB were also present to show their support.

     After the ceremony, Mr Chow and Mr Yip visited the elderly at the Mong Kok Kai Fong Association Limited Chan Hing Social Service Centre and distributed blessing bags to them.

     The carnival today featured various game booths promoting important messages such as national security, road safety, home safety, crime prevention and anti-scam. There were also handicraft workshops and snack stalls, as well as on-the-spot training offered to guide the elderly in using practical mobile applications. In addition to about 220 SPC Home Visit Captains and SPC members, around 250 seniors also joined the carnival.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Attention TV/Radio Announcers:

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

Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (September 20) that the lifesaving services at Hap Mun Bay Beach and Trio Beach in Sai Kung District have been resumed. The lifesaving services at the two beaches were suspended earlier on as lifeguards were unable to go to the beaches by ferries due to rough sea condition.

However, due to big waves, the red flag at the two beaches remain hoisted. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK) announced today (September 22) that Asia Partners IFBD Limited (Asia Partners), the operation arm of global sports investment firm Svenska Capital, has chosen Hong Kong as its strategic gateway to drive expansion of its sports intellectual property (IP) across Asia.
 
     Asia Partners is the sole IP owner of CR7® LIFE Museum in Asia and CR7® LIFE Merchandise and stores worldwide, and will launch several iconic initiatives that will redefine sports engagement in Hong Kong. Following the successful opening of the CR7® LIFE Museum in July this year at K11 Musea; the first-ever CR7® LIFE Official Store has opened on September 19 in Times Square, Causeway Bay, followed by regional expansion throughout Asia.
 
     Organised by Asia Partners, World Football Summit (WFS) Hong Kong 2025 debuted in Hong Kong on September 3 and 4, bringing together the most influential figures in global football. With over 3 500 attendees and over 80 top-level speakers, the WFS aims to help shape the future of football in Asia.

     Associate Director-General of Investment Promotion at InvestHK Mr Arnold Lau said, “We are thrilled to see Asia Partners using Hong Kong as the ideal hub to launch various innovative sports IP initiatives, which is a testament to Hong Kong’s unique position as a global hub for innovation, sports and cultural exchanges. The company’s ambitious plans perfectly align with Hong Kong’s strengths as an international business centre with world-class infrastructure and deep connections across Asia.
 
     “Hong Kong stands out as the ultimate strategic gateway for expanding premium sports IP into Asia. Its unique position as a global city with a sophisticated audience, world-class infrastructure and unparalleled regional influence, particularly in Greater China and Southeast Asia, makes it the ideal launch pad for our vision. By establishing a footprint in Hong Kong, we’re not just expanding our business, we’re unlocking a world of possibilities in consumer engagement and creating a new blueprint for how sports and entertainment can elevate the cultural and economic profile of a city,” the Chairman of Asia Partners, Mr Filipe Gonçalves, stated.
 
     “The launch of CR7® LIFE Official Store and the hosting of World Football Summit in Hong Kong are just the beginning. Soon, we will officially unveil two of the largest football IP events in the global sports industry, cementing Hong Kong’s position as the world city of football,” he added.
 
     Asia Partners is positioned as a premier regional platform to scale international sports IP across Asia through three integrated verticals: branded experiences, premium retail and knowledge leadership. Its vision is to establish Hong Kong as the leading hub for sports IP innovation in Asia. This subsidiary aims to not only expand the reach of global sports IP but also to redefine how sports engage with audiences, cities and economies. For more details about Asia Partners IFBD Limited, visit www.linkedin.com/company/asiapartnershongkong/.
 
     For a copy of the photos, please visit: www.flickr.com/photos/investhk/albums/72177720329139538/.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, met with the Secretary of the Party Leadership Group and Prosecutor General of the Supreme People’s Procuratorate, Mr Ying Yong, at Government House today (September 22) to exchange views on issues of mutual concern. The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, also attended the meeting.
 
     Mr Lee welcomed Mr Ying and his delegation to Hong Kong to attend the 15th China-ASEAN Prosecutors-General Conference. He expressed gratitude to the Central Government and the Supreme People’s Procuratorate for supporting Hong Kong in organising this high-level conference for the first time, which further consolidates Hong Kong’s role as a regional hub for legal exchanges and fully demonstrates the unique position and advantages of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) under the “one country, two systems” principle, having the strong support of the country while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world.
 
     Mr Lee noted that the theme of this year’s conference is “Combatting Money Laundering and Corruption, and Recovering Assets in the Technological Age”. As an international financial, shipping, and trade centre, Hong Kong is the only common law jurisdiction within the country, with its legal system aligned with most major financial centres around the world. While maintaining a highly open international market, Hong Kong attaches great importance to safeguarding the integrity of its financial system and has consistently adhered to international standards in its anti-money laundering systems and measures. The Department of Justice has also established a dedicated sub-division to handle technology crimes and digital evidence, proactively addressing the challenges brought by technological advancements.
 
     Mr Lee said that Hong Kong has been integrating into the overall national development. The Department of Justice is committed to promoting “soft connectivity” between local prosecutors and representatives of procuratorates across the Mainland, deepening co-operation in areas such as mutual legal assistance in criminal matters, training of prosecutorial personnel, and expert exchanges, to effectively combat cross-border crimes. The HKSAR Government will continue to deepen co-operation with the Mainland in prosecution, contributing to the country’s construction of the rule of law.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, will depart for Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, tomorrow morning (September 23).
 
     Mr Yau will attend the ninth Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Economic Ministers – Hong Kong, China (HKC) Consultation meeting to discuss with the participating economic ministers of ASEAN member states (AMS) the implementation of the ASEAN-HKC Free Trade Agreement and the ASEAN-HKC Investment Agreement, and exchange views on other issues such as the future direction of ASEAN-HKC economic co-operation. On the sidelines of the meeting, he will hold bilateral meetings with economic ministers of the AMS to exchange views on issues of mutual interest.
 
     During his stay in Kuala Lumpur, Mr Yau will also meet with representatives of the business sector to promote Hong Kong’s advantages and business opportunities, and visit enterprises to learn about their development, particularly e-commerce.
 
     Mr Yau will return to Hong Kong on September 27. 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.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Census and Statistics Department (C&SD) released today (September 22) the Consumer Price Index (CPI) figures for August 2025. According to the Composite CPI, overall consumer prices rose by 1.1% in August 2025 over the same month a year earlier, slightly larger than the corresponding increase (1.0%) in July 2025. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the year-on-year rate of increase in the Composite CPI (i.e. the underlying inflation rate) in August 2025 was 1.1%, also slightly larger than that in July 2025 (1.0%).

On a seasonally adjusted basis, the average monthly rate of increase in the Composite CPI for the 3-month period ending August 2025 was 0.3%, and that for the 3-month period ending July 2025 was 0.2%. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the corresponding rates of increase were 0.2% and 0.1%.

Analysed by sub-index, the year-on-year rates of increase in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 1.5%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively in August 2025, as compared to 1.5%, 0.9% and 0.6% respectively in July 2025. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the year-on-year rates of increase in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 1.4%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively in August 2025, as compared to 1.4%, 0.9% and 0.6% respectively in July 2025.

On a seasonally adjusted basis, for the 3-month period ending August 2025, the average monthly rates of change in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 0.4%, 0.3% and 0.3% respectively. The corresponding rates of change for the 3-month period ending July 2025 were 0.4%, 0.2% and 0.1% respectively. Netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures, the average monthly rates of change in the seasonally adjusted CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) for the 3-month period ending August 2025 were all 0.2%, and the corresponding rates of change for the 3-month period ending July 2025 were 0.1%, 0.1% and 0.0% respectively.

Amongst the various components of the Composite CPI, year-on-year increases in prices were recorded in August 2025 for transport (2.5%), alcoholic drinks and tobacco (1.8%), housing (1.7%), miscellaneous services (1.5%), meals out and takeaway food (1.3%), electricity, gas and water (0.6%), and miscellaneous goods (0.1%).

On the other hand, year-on-year decreases in the components of the Composite CPI were recorded in August 2025 for durable goods (-3.1%), clothing and footwear (-2.8%), and basic food (-0.1%).

Taking the first 8 months of 2025 together, the Composite CPI rose by 1.5% over a year earlier. The respective increases in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 2.1%, 1.4% and 1.1% respectively. The corresponding increases after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures were 1.1%, 1.5%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively.

For the 3 months ending August 2025, the Composite CPI rose by 1.2% over a year earlier, while the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) rose by 1.6%, 1.1% and 0.8% respectively. The corresponding increases after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures were 1.0%, 1.4%, 0.9% and 0.8% respectively.

For the 12 months ending August 2025, the Composite CPI was on average 1.5% higher than that in the preceding 12-month period. The respective increases in the CPI(A), CPI(B) and CPI(C) were 2.0%, 1.4% and 1.2% respectively. The corresponding increases after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures were 1.1%, 1.4%, 1.0% and 0.9% respectively.

Commentary

A Government spokesman said that consumer price inflation stayed modest in August. The underlying Composite CPI increased by 1.1% over a year earlier, edging up from 1.0% in the preceding month. Price pressures on various major components remained generally contained.

Looking ahead, pressures from domestic costs and external prices should stay broadly in check. Overall inflation should remain modest in the near term.

Further information

The CPIs and year-on-year rates of change at section level for August 2025 are shown in Table 1. The time series on the year-on-year rates of change in the CPIs before and after netting out the effects of all Government’s one-off relief measures are shown in Table 2. For discerning the latest trend in consumer prices, it is also useful to look at the changes in the seasonally adjusted CPIs. The time series on the average monthly rates of change during the latest 3 months for the seasonally adjusted CPIs are shown in Table 3. The rates of change in the original and the seasonally adjusted Composite CPI and the underlying inflation rate are presented graphically in Chart 1.

More detailed statistics are given in the “Monthly Report on the Consumer Price Index”. Users can browse and download this publication at the website of the C&SD (www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/EIndexbySubject.html?pcode=B1060001&scode=270).

For enquiries about the CPIs, please contact the Consumer Price Index Section of the C&SD (Tel: 3903 7374 or email: cpi@censtatd.gov.hk).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The steering committee on handling extreme weather, led by the Chief Secretary for Administration, released the following information today (September 22) in response to the latest assessment and forecast on Super Typhoon Ragasa by the Hong Kong Observatory.

According to the current forecast by the Observatory, the local weather is expected to deteriorate rapidly later tomorrow (September 23). The Observatory will consider issuing the Gale or Storm Signal No. 8 between 1pm and 4pm tomorrow. The weather will be persistently adverse on Wednesday (September 24). Gale to storm force winds will prevail locally, and winds may reach hurricane force offshore and on high ground. There will be frequent heavy squally showers and thunderstorms. Under the influence of significant storm surge, the sea level over coastal areas by then may be similar to that during Hato in 2017 and Mangkhut in 2018. Members of the public are advised to prepare immediately for high winds and flooding.

Considering the aforementioned forecast by the Observatory, to ensure students’ safety and to avoid students leaving the school when the weather may rapidly deteriorate, the Education Bureau (EDB) announces that classes in all schools, including secondary schools, primary schools, special schools, kindergartens, kindergarten-cum-child care centres and evening schools, will be suspended tomorrow and the following day (September 24). During the class suspension period, schools will not accept paper applications for discretionary places under the Primary One Admission (POA) 2026. The deadline for submitting paper applications has been extended to September 30 (Tuesday). Parents may also choose to submit e-applications via the POA e-Platform (epoa.edb.gov.hk) on or before September 26 (Friday). Details are available on the EDB’s website.

In view of the forecast by the Observatory that the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 3 will be issued tonight, the Social Welfare Department (SWD) advises members of the public not to take their children or family members to units providing child care centre services, services under the Neighbourhood Support Child Care Project, and after-school care programmes for pre-primary or primary school children, elderly services centres, day pre-school rehabilitation service units or day rehabilitation units including sheltered workshops, integrated vocational rehabilitation services centres, integrated vocational training centres and day activity centres. These centres and services units will, however, remain open during their normal operating hours to serve those whose families cannot provide alternative care for them. Members of the public who have the need for the services mentioned may contact the centres or services units concerned in advance. When the Tropical Cyclone Warning Signal No. 8 or above is hoisted, the aforementioned day child care services units, centres providing after-school care programmes, day rehabilitation units, elderly day services centres and SWD welfare services units will not open.

District Offices have initiated relevant response measures. In view of the possible threats that Ragasa may pose to Hong Kong, District Offices will advance the opening of temporary shelters at 8am tomorrow for people in need. District Offices will closely monitor the situation, and if necessary, individual temporary shelters will commence operation earlier today. The Home Affairs Department has also activated a round-the-clock hotline (2572 8427) at noon today for public enquiries on the relevant information and will continue to release information on the operation of temporary shelters through different channels.

In addition, District Offices have co-ordinated with relevant departments and organisations to enhance preparedness, setting up sandbags and water-stop boards, among others. District Council members, members of “the three committees” and Care Teams are mobilised to disseminate the latest weather information to residents in flood-prone areas, reminding them to make necessary preparations. Residents in flood-prone areas are advised to stay away from their homes or stay at temporary shelters.

The Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre (EMSC) under the Security Bureau was fully activated at 10.30am today, more than 24 hours earlier than normal, in order to achieve the objective of “early planning and early intervention”. Utilising the Common Operational Picture, directorate officers of relevant departments at the EMSC conduct real-time citywide monitoring and integrate updates from various departments to swiftly assess risks and formulate response plans and measures. 

Various emergency response teams, including the Fire Services Department, the Hong Kong Police Force, the Civil Aid Service and the Auxiliary Medical Service, are on standby and have completed all necessary preparatory work. Sufficient manpower has been deployed to handle possible emergencies during heavy rainstorms and high winds, and to provide assistance to those in need.

The Government will closely monitor the situation in the city to assess whether to initiate the Government-wide Mobilisation mechanism after the typhoon for providing emergency support. The Civil Service Bureau has reminded all 77 bureaux and departments (B/Ds) to remain highly vigilant and stand ready to form quick response units at any time to provide support. Each B/D has also drawn up their lists of designated personnel for mobilisation and made duty rotation arrangements in advance.

It is expected that Ragasa may pose serious threats to Hong Kong, Members of the public should be well prepared for the continued severe weather conditions over the next two days, including implementing emergency, wind and flooding prevention measures, with a view to reducing the risk of property damage and casualties. The Government also reminds residents in flood-prone areas and those who are staying in temporary structures, such as rooftop houses and squatter huts near slopes, to stay away from their homes or stay at temporary shelters. It also recommends that vehicles parked outdoors be parked indoors.

Under the cross-departmental co-ordination by the steering committee, various government departments have completed all necessary preparatory work and response plans, served with their dedication to duty, and combined efforts to safeguard the lives and property of the public as well as public safety, with a view to minimising the threats and impact of the storm. The public is urged to stay alert and continue to pay attention to the latest news released by the Government.