NUS HOSTS REGIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL DELEGATION FOR EU-FUNDED AGRI-TOURISM PROJECT – (Oct 10th, 2025)

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[PRESS RELEASE Apia, Samoa] – The National University of Samoa welcomes a visiting delegation from Slovakia, Italy, Vanuatu and Fiji today as part of an ongoing EU funded research project on Agritourism Research Project. The AGRI-TOUR (Agritourism) Project aims to strengthen the capacity of EU-Pacific Higher Education Institutions (HEIs) to promote the application of Green Deal Principles across the Pacific Island region. It seeks to enhance HEI curricula by fostering stronger synergies between agriculture and tourism, and by encouraging the adoption of agritourism practices throughout the Pacific.

The AGRI-TOUR partnerships comprises eight core partners and four newcomers, The eight core partners are, SUA – Slovenská Poľnohospodárska Univerzita v Nitre (Slovakia), UNISG – Università degli Studi di Scienze Gastronomiche (Italy), IVI – Igor Vitale International SRL (Italy), NUS – National University of Samoa (Samoa), USP – University of the South Pacific (Fiji), NUV – National University of Vanuatu (Vanuatu), FNU – Fiji National University (Fiji) and NEW EDU NO (Slovakia)

Vice Chancellor & President Afioga Professor Tuifuisa’a Patila Amosa and members of the NUS management team met with the group to discuss ongoing project activities and opportunities for collaboration under the Agritourism agenda. In her remarks, Professor Tuifuisa’a highlighted that the project aligns closely with NUS’s institutional pillar of community and stakeholder engagement, one of the university’s key strategic goals.

At the National University of Samoa, the AGRI-TOUR Project is coordinated by the Faculty of Science (FOS) in collaboration with the Faculty of Business and Entrepreneurship (FOBE). Over its three-year duration, concluding in 2027, the AGRI-TOUR Project will deliver the following core outcomes:

1. EU-Pacific Alliance HEI International Offices Task Force.

2. Joint Research Initiative.

3. Multidisciplinary Massive Open Online Course (MOOC)

4. Internship Protocol.

The visit marks an important step in reinforcing NUS’s engagement in global research and aligns competently with its vision to advance in research and to contribute to Samoa and the Pacific’s development through evidence-based research.

END

The National University of Samoa

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PRIME MINISTER HON. LAAULIALEMALIETOA MEETS DEPUTY FOREIGN MINISTER HASKEL OF ISRAEL.

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SAMOA CONSULTAE GENERAL AUCKLAND. 23rd October 2025.

[PRESS RELEASE]- Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt hosted the Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Israel Hon Sharren Miriam Haskel for bilateral discussions over dinner in the Samoa Consulate General in Mangere Auckland, Thursday night 23 October.

The visit to the Pacific by the Deputy Foreign Minister was to acknowledge and personally thank the ‘friends of Israel’ in the Pacific region for their support during these challenging times with the continuing situation in Gaza.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa reaffirmed the shared values between the two countries of faith, culture, traditions and history which Israeli people remain committed to preserving.

Deputy Minister Haskell acknowledged with appreciation Samoa’s friendship and support of the Samoan people, and that the shared respect for the land of Israel forms a special bond between the two countries. The declaration of support for Israel remains firm and that Samoa is looking at potential representation in Israel.

The visa waiver between the two countries was highlighted as well as the opportunities for capacity building in Israel in the fields of agricultural research, innovation such as its drip irrigation system and advanced technological tools for greater agricultural production.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa raised potential areas for Israeli assistance in tackling illicit drug trafficking and ways to address border security concerns.

As a gesture of goodwill, Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa was invited to visit Israel in the not too distant future; likewise Deputy Foreign Minister Haskel was invited to attend the next Independence celebrations for Samoa.

MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS & TRADE -[Photos Contributed]

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PRIME MINISTER LAAULIALEMALIETOA MEETS NZ MINISTER OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS RT HON VAOVASAMANAIA

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Meeting between the Prime Minister Hon Laaulialemalietoa Leuatea Polataivao Fosi Schmidt and NZ Minister of Foreign Affairs Rt Hon Vaovasamanaia Winston Peters.

19 October 2025 – Samoa Consulate General Mangere Auckland

[Press Release]-The bilateral meeting was requested by Rt Hon Winston Peters and organized by the Samoa High Commission in Wellington to utilize the opportunity of meeting with the Prime Minister Hon Laaulialemalietoa while in New Zealand.

The meeting focused on priority issues raised by Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa pertaining to the wellbeing of Samoan people in Samoa as well as the diaspora under the aegis of the Treaty of Friendship.

Emphasis was placed on the importance of the District Development Program to provide meaningful opportunities for the Samoan people to ensure ownership and determination of their sustainable development pathways.

Discussions pointed to ways to facilitate travel by way of easier and least cost visa processing for short term visitations, the vision for sustainable worker schemes and scope for benefits for Samoans now eligible for NZ citizenship.

Prime Minister Laaulialemalietoa also requested the help of NZ through ways to curb drug trafficking at the borders and at entry points into the country, as well as enhanced capacity building for border control authorities.

A request was also raised to look at ways by which visiting medical experts schemes can provide treatment in country thus cutting down on costs for overseas medical treatment.

Acknowledgement was also made of the compensation funds provided for the Safata district as a result of the Manawanui sinking.

In response Rt Hon Winston Peters acknowledged the challenges faced by Samoa and indicated his further review of existing practices and identify areas where NZ can further assist bilaterally or through regional programs.

The meeting was attended by senior advisers to Minister Peters Mr Michael Appleton and Mr Jon Johansson and Consul General Auckland Afemata Palusalue Lemalu and Vice Consul Dorothy Ah Ching.

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BBC MEDIA ACTION DONATES EQUIPMENT TO EMPOWER MEDIA & JOURNALISM STUDENTS AT NATIONAL UNIVERSITY OF SAMOA

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[PRESS RELEASE, 23 October 2025] – We are delighted to share that the Department of Media and Communication, under the Faculty of Arts at the National University of Samoa (NUS), has received a generous donation of professional media equipment from BBC Media Action on the 17th July 2025. This vital contribution is set to significantly enhance the learning environment for students enrolled in the Media and Journalism program, providing them with access to essential tools that will bolster their educational experience and better prepare them for real-world media careers.

The donation package includes a variety of industry-standard items such as professional-grade video cameras, spare batteries, camera lights, memory cards, high-quality headphones, sturdy tripods, and cable reels. These resources are critical for hands-on training and will be integrated into both classroom lessons and fieldwork assignments. The practical exposure student’s gain by working with this equipment will allow them to translate theoretical knowledge into real-world media production skills.

With these new tools at their disposal, students will be able to:

• Produce high-quality video and audio content, elevating the standards of their coursework and projects.

• Engage in immersive field reporting, capturing stories from diverse communities and issues across Samoa.

• Develop multimedia storytelling skills that combine visuals, sound, and narrative, essential for modern journalism.

• Familiarize themselves with professional workflows and technical requirements that mirror those used in leading media organizations worldwide.

Saui’a Dr. Louise Matai’a Milo, Dean of the Faculty of Arts, expressed heartfelt gratitude for the donation: “This contribution addresses a long-standing need within our Faculty. Many of our students have faced challenges in accessing appropriate equipment for their assignments and practical learning. Thanks to BBC Media Action, we can now provide a more comprehensive, hands-on education that equips our students with the skills and confidence to thrive in a competitive media landscape.”

The students have also voiced their enthusiasm and appreciation for the enhanced resources: “It’s exciting to finally have access to the type of equipment we’ve only studied in theory,” said Tiitii Afia Tiitii, a third-year Journalism major. “Having professional cameras and other gear will transform how we approach our assignments and prepare us more effectively for careers in media.”

The Media and Journalism Programme lecturer, Yumi Talaave also expressed her appreciation for the donation given to the Faculty.

“We are incredibly grateful to BBC Media Action for their generous donation of professional media equipment to our Department of Media and Communication. This support is invaluable in enhancing the practical learning opportunities available to our students. Access to industry-standard tools is essential for preparing our future journalists to meet the demands of a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Thanks to BBC Media Action, our students can now gain hands-on experience with equipment that reflects what they will encounter in the field, giving them a competitive edge as they transition into their careers. This partnership not only strengthens our academic program but also reinforces our shared commitment to building a vibrant, skilled media community in Samoa.

On behalf of the faculty and students, I extend our heartfelt thanks for this impactful contribution and look forward to continuing collaboration in the future.”

This donation aligns with BBC Media Action’s ongoing global commitment to fostering media development, education, and capacity building. By investing in future media professionals, they help ensure that the next generation of journalists and communicators are not only knowledgeable but also proficient in using the tools and techniques necessary for impactful storytelling and responsible journalism.

The Faculty of Arts extends its sincere thanks to BBC Media Action for this generous support. The partnership exemplifies the power of collaboration in strengthening media education and empowering students to contribute meaningfully to the development of media in Samoa and beyond. Both institutions look forward to continued engagement aimed at nurturing talent and innovation in the field of media and communication.

END.

ThThe National University of Samoa

2025 WORLD STATISTICS DAY CELEBRATIONS AND LAUNCH OF THE POVERTY REPORTS [20th October 2025]

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KEYNOTE by the Hon. Minister of Statistics, Moefaauouo Julius Ah Kui Tafunai

Lau susuga Reverend Ma’auga Motu,

Afioga, Honorable Deputy Prime Minister(s),

Afioga Honorable Ministers of Cabinet,

Associate Ministers,

Members of the Diplomatic Core,

Heads of Government Ministers and Corporations,

Members of the Business Community,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

TALOFA LAVA, FAAMALO LE SOIFUA.

It is my great pleasure to give the keynote address for this very important occasion, to commemorate and celebrate the 2025 World Statistics Day.

As we are all well aware, statistical information as a public good has been and will always be key to any successful development of policy and planning across all aspects of governance. Its significant role in providing evidence-based decision making, on all levels of development cannot be understated.

Today’s occasion marks the fourth celebration of the World Statistics Day, since the first event on the 20th October 2010. The theme for today is “Driving change with quality statistics for everyone”. It highlights the vital role of quality and trusted data and statistics in navigating today’s complex environment. High-quality statistics empower citizens, policymakers, business and the community to make informed decisions, and shining light on challenges that might otherwise remain unseen, while supporting the Government’s mission to leave no one behind.

In today’s world, high-quality statistics are more important than ever before. Statistics are more than numbers – they are the foundation for informed decisions, effective policy, and sustainable development. Therefore, quality data and statistics must be accessible to everyone, and not just experts, Government and institutions. It is our belief that when quality and reliable data reach communities in every segment of the society, they empower informed decisions at all levels.

Today’s program showcase how statistical systems are developing to meet today’s challenges. We have different stalls outside showcasing different types of statistics by domain. A display of new digital system and infrastructures that fosters and facilitates the collection, compilation, analysis and dissemination of statistics, including the development of our Samoa National Identification. Furthermore, today’s event is also intended to foster strong collaboration amongst stakeholders and inspire the next generation of statistics and data professionals.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Statistics has been one of the Samoan government’s priorities over many years, and will continue to do so in the future. The Government, in partnership with development partners and international agencies, invested a great deal in the development of statistics, and has been part of its reform program agenda for the past years. As a result, Samoa has made significant progress over the years and performs comparatively well in terms of the production and dissemination of social, economic, monetary, environment and sector statistics. Samoa is considered one of the leaders in the Asia-Pacific Region in promoting and developing statistical capacity, adopting new methods, compliance with international standards, all while keeping developments within the Samoan context.

This is evident in Samoa’s compliance to the Enhanced General Data Dissemination Standard, a data quality assessment framework monitored by the International Monetary Fund and other international agencies, and the successful completion of Samoa’s 3rd Voluntary National Review report for the SDG 2030, marking a few important milestones in its journey of development.

On the domestic front, statistics have been made available on a timely basis, on various platforms including social media, and on different subject matters ranging from social, economic, monetary, environment as well as sector statistics. These have been key in the development of policies and plans, as well as monitoring progress made on development projects at the national and sector levels.

However, in any phase of development, there are always challenges that tend to hamper progress, and Samoa is not immune to these. The travel and SOE restrictions during the COVID-19 pandemic imposed significant challenges on socio-economic developments in our country, with the economic hardships of that time underscoring a greater need for social protection.

As a result, there was huge pressure on statistical methods and procedures, the statistics and ICT infrastructures, and subsequently, the institutional arrangements and organizational structure in which the Bureau and the statistical system operate. This was on top of the increasing demand on indicators and the greater need for more dis-aggregated statistics imposed by the Sustainable Development Goals 2030, as well as the increased importance of the need for good governance, transparency and accountability.

All these challenges underpin the drive to improve relevance, data quality, reliability and timeliness of statistics for decision making. The challenge was enormous and have exceeded the production capacity of the statistical system.

Therefore, as we celebrate the many achievements we made over the years in statistics development, today, let us also be reminded that uncertainties and risks remain to be in the horizon. In that regard, we should be alert and cooperate in building a statistical system that provides quality and trusted statistics, to inform policy and decision making for the benefit of all citizens of Samoa.

As Minister for Statistics, I would like to acknowledge the continuous support from all our donor partners, who have actively been part of the statistical developments in one way or another. We look forward to working with you all in the future, in developing a stronger and more resilient statistical system, that provides trusted and valued statistics as foundation for evidence policy and decision making for the benefit of Samoa.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me congratulate you all for your many roles and contributions to statistics development in Samoa. I also extend a word of thanks to the Statistics Advisory Board for their guidance and support in this very important work.

Last but not least, I acknowledge with great appreciation the staff and management of the Bureau of Statistics for their commitment and dedication in the coordination of the statistical system, as well as leading the statistics production and dissemination in Samoa. You have set the data standards in our region and may you all continue to rise above any challenges that may come your way. May God guide and strengthen your passion and commitment in developing resilient statistical systems as part of Samoa’s economic journey.

Finally, let me re-emphasize the importance of the theme for today’s World Statistics Day that is “Driving change with quality statistics for everyone”. I encourage everyone to be part of the change in the development of our economy and society, through quality and trusted data as the foundation of effective decision and policy making. With that I extend to you all a “Happy World Statistics Day”.

Soifua ma ia manuia.

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PARTNERSHIP TO STRENGTHEN SAMOA’S COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABLE TUNA FISHERIES AND OCEAN PROTECTION

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PRESS RELEASE, October 16th, 2025] – Conservation International (CI) signed a 5-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Apia Export Fish Packers Ltd. and the Tautai Samoa Association to advance Pacific Tuna Jurisdictional Initiatives in Samoa while simultaneously supporting the Samoa Ocean Strategy 2030.

The signing, which was held at the CI-Samoa Office, marked a milestone collaboration between CI and the private sector, an exciting step towards advancing sustainable tuna fisheries management in Samoa aimed at achieving 100% management and 30% protection of the country’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) by 2030.

Under this MoU, the partners will work together to strengthen environmental, social, and economic performance across Samoa’s offshore tuna fisheries—particularly the South Pacific albacore fishery—through the implementation of science-based tools, policy alignment, and market-driven improvements.

The partnership will also focus on enhancing collaboration between government, industry, and civil society to support sustainable ocean management, as well as promote the use of diagnostic tools to improve fishery performance, explore market opportunities and certification pathways that recognize responsible fishing practices and add value to Samoa’s tuna products while supporting human rights and ensuring decent work conditions in Samoa’s fishing sector in line with international standards informed by the local context.

This MoU has opened a new pathway for relevant partners to collaborate and work towards a shared vision of sustainably managing Samoa’s tuna fisheries and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). It reinforces collective efforts toward maintaining well-managed, climate-resilient tuna stocks, ensuring environmental sustainability and social responsibility across Samoa’s fishing sector, and driving innovation that enhances value creation and livelihood opportunities for communities that depend on these resources.

The Jurisdictional Approach (JA) for Pacific Tuna Project is being implemented in Samoa, Fiji, Palau, and New Caledonia and aims to strengthen tuna governance and sustainability through integrated policy and market approaches that benefit both people and nature.

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Conservation International Pacific Islands

200 SAMOAN WOMEN TO RECEIVE FREE DRIVING AND EV AWARENESS TRAINING

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[PRESS RELEASE 15 October 2025 Apia, Samoa] – The Women’s Driving License Programme was officially launched on Friday, 10 October, offering free driving lessons to 200 women across Samoa, together with an Electric Vehicle (EV) awareness course.

The launch event, held at the Land Transport Authority (LTA) premises in Vaitele, brought together training participants, officials from LTA and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), and the Ambassador of Japan. Participants from Savai’i joined the event virtually.

Implemented by LTA, in partnership with UNDP, the Women’s Driving License Programme is part of the Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport (CAP-IT) project, funded by the Government of Japan. The project supports Samoa’s efforts to decarbonize its transport sector – a critical step as the Pacific faces the intensifying impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and increasingly severe cyclones, floods, and droughts.

Although Samoa contributes only a fraction to global greenhouse gas emissions, it continues to lead by example, demonstrating that climate ambition must be shared globally. Reducing dependence on imported fossil fuels not only cuts emissions but also strengthens Samoa’s energy security and economic resilience against volatile oil prices. Transport remains the country’s largest emitting sector, and the shift towards electric mobility offers a clear path toward a cleaner, more sustainable future.

Beyond its environmental goals, the CAP-IT project has also shed light on a persistent gender gap in driving license ownership. Over the past two decades, only one in four driving licenses issued in Samoa have gone to women – a disparity with important social and economic implications. Mobility means more than just movement; it represents freedom, opportunity, and empowerment. When women are unable to drive, they face additional barriers to leave their home and access employment, education, and essential services. This programme aims to reduce that gender gap, while also improving road safety by providing formal driving instruction and certification to women who may be driving unlicensed.

“Transport is not just about infrastructure – it’s about access, opportunity, and equity. When women are equipped to drive, they gain mobility, independence, and a stronger voice in their communities. That’s why LTA is pleased to be co-implementing this programme alongside UNDP, with funding from the Government of Japan. This initiative also supports our broader goals: advancing green transport solutions, including electric vehicle training; promoting fair geographic representation across Upolu and Savaii; and fostering long-term inclusion in the transport sector,” said Sagauga Leilani Galuvao, Chief Executive Officer, LTA.

A recent CAP-IT survey revealed that up to 60% of Samoans expressed interest in purchasing an EV within the next year, with interest higher among men. However, women play an equally essential role in driving this transition. Women are not passive beneficiaries, they play a key role in managing household decisions and can champion clean energy practices within families, communities, and workplaces. To support this, an Electric Vehicle Awareness Course has been integrated into LTA’s driving training. Participants will learn about EV technology, its environmental and health benefits, and its long-term cost advantages, while addressing common misconceptions about performance and safety.

“We aim to help bridge the gender gap while teaching about new forms of transport. As technologies like electric vehicles gain momentum across the islands, it is crucial that everyone – women and men alike – understands the opportunities they bring,” said Paolo Dalla Stella, Deputy Resident Representative, UNDP.

The launch of this programme showed high interest among Samoan women, with over 500 applications received in less than a week. To ensure fairness, participants were selected through a public draw for Upolu applicants, where applications exceeded available slots.

This milestone marks another step toward building a more sustainable and inclusive transport future for Samoa.

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UNDP in Samoa, Cook Islands, Tokelau & Niue

Land Transport Authority – Samoa

FSD’s special operations deployment for hill fires during Chung Yeung Festival (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Fire Services Department (FSD) today (October 27) announced the special operations deployment for hill fires during the Chung Yeung Festival. It also urged members of the public to avoid leaving ignition sources when paying tribute to ancestors at graveyards or visiting the countryside to prevent hill fires.

The FSD is fully prepared and launched the special operations deployment, including setting up a High Command in the past weekend to strengthen co-ordination and the capability to respond to hill fires among operational units. Additionally, through flexible allocation of internal resources, extra frontline staff and fire services appliances were deployed to handle emergencies.

The FSD identified eight hill fire hotspots in North District in the New Territories after assessment. Over 200 additional frontline staff from the FSD and the Civil Aid Service were deployed to form patrol teams to patrol these hotspots. The teams served to remind the public to be cautious with fire, and to quickly extinguish initial fires to prevent the spread of hill fires where feasible.

Meanwhile, the FSD actively collaborated with the community on fire prevention publicity. With the strengthened ties with the District Fire Safety Committees through the FSD Community Collaboration Network, and in collaboration with the FSD Community Emergency Responder Honorary Presidents’ Association and FSD Community Emergency Responders, the department disseminated fire safety messages to the public at various graveyards and rural areas over the past weekend.

In terms of technology application, apart from using drones equipped with loudspeakers to broadcast fire prevention messages at graveyards, the FSD also utilised two low-altitude economy Regulatory Sandbox projects for the first time. The department deployed a 30-kilogram payload capacity drone to transport fire-fighting equipment such as flexible backpack pumps and fire beaters to enhance operational efficiency. Additionally, drones and automated drone docks were deployed to conduct regular autonomic patrols in the countryside to achieve early fire detection by leveraging AI technology. The equipment enabled rescuers to appraise the onsite situation more promptly and make deployments accordingly.

As data revealed that most hill fires are caused by human negligence, preventing hill fires relies on the collaborative efforts of various parties. The FSD reminds the public not to leave any ignition sources or to burn weeds in order to prevent hill fires.

Hong Kong Customs detects two dangerous drugs cases and seizes suspected cannabis buds at airport (with photos)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs detected two drug trafficking cases involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport yesterday (October 25) and today (October 26) and seized a total of about 30.5 kilograms of suspected cannabis buds with a total estimated market value of about $6.1 million. Three persons suspected to be connected with the cases were arrested.

In the first case, two male passengers, aged 45 and 37, arrived in Hong Kong from Hangzhou and Bangkok, Thailand, respectively yesterday. During customs clearance, Customs officers found a batch of suspected cannabis buds, weighing about 3kg with an estimated market value of about $600,000 concealed in vacuum-sealed bags inside the carry-on suitcase of the 45-year-old male passenger. The two persons were subsequently arrested.

In the second case, a 62-year-old male passenger arrived in Hong Kong from Vancouver, Canada, today. During customs clearance, Customs officers found about 27.5kg of suspected cannabis buds with an estimated market value of about $5.5 million, in his check-in suitcases. He was subsequently arrested.

The two arrested men in the first case have been jointly charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug, and they will appear at the West Kowloon Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (October 27). For the second case, an investigation is still ongoing.

Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.

Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.

Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.

Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).

     

CS attends “Election into Community” Roving Interactive Exhibition@The Westwood event

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, together with the Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, and the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, today (October 26) attended the “Election into Community” Roving Interactive Exhibition@The Westwood event, where they joined members of the public to know more about the election and experience the election atmosphere in an interactive way.

     Speaking at the event, Mr Chan said, “The 2025 Legislative Council General Election (LCGE) will be held on December 7. The nomination period just started on October 24 and will run for two weeks until November 6. I encourage outstanding individuals with affection for the country and Hong Kong, proven capabilities, a sense of responsibility and a passion to serve the public to stand for the election.”

     He also called on all voters to fulfil their civic responsibility by casting their votes on the polling day for Hong Kong – our home to elect their preferred representatives as Legislative Council members to make concerted efforts for the good governance, progress and prosperity of Hong Kong, where people can live and work in contentment.

     The Constitutional and Mainland Affairs Bureau (CMAB) is actively promoting the 2025 LCGE and debuting the “Election into Community” Roving Interactive Exhibition series this weekend. The first stop of the series was held in The Westwood for two consecutive days (October 25 and 26). Interactive games, an exhibition panel area and a self-service photo booth are set up at the event to deepen public understanding of electoral information. Life-sized mascots of the Ballot Box Family are also on site to interact with the public. 

     The CMAB has earlier rolled out on its election-themed Facebook page the “Let’s find the Ballot Box Family AR mailboxes” activity (www.facebook.com/share/1BdqkmFtrn). Members of the public may redeem a souvenir at the event venues of the “Election into Community” series by posting a photo of mailboxes installed across the territory as a comment at the post.

     “Election into Community” will be held at shopping malls in various districts with opening hours from 11am to 7pm. Admission is free. Details are as follows:
 

Date  Venue
November 1 to 2  Lei Yue Mun Plaza
November 8 to 9  tmtplaza 
November 12 to 13  Cheung Fat Plaza
November 29 to 30  Oi Tung Shopping Centre
December 5 to 6 Plaza Hollywood