Month: November 2025

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government announced that Tai Po District Office has opened an additional temporary shelter today for people in need in the wake of the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po.

The newly added temporary shelter is located at the “Children & Youth Services Jockey Club Tai Po Integrated Children & Youth Services Centre Unit” at Kwong Yan House, Kwong Fuk Estate.

So far, more than 500 residents are staying at temporary shelters that have opened in the district owing to the blaze.

Additionally, interdepartmental help desks have been set up at Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital (hotline: 2689 2926/2658 4040), Prince of Wales Hospital (hotline: 3505 1555), and North District Hospital (hotline: 2683 7567).

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Immigration Department today announced that residents affected by the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po may visit any Registration of Persons Office during office hours for the replacement of their Hong Kong identity card without an appointment.

Affected residents who need to replace their Hong Kong Special Administrative Region travel documents may visit Immigration Headquarters or any Immigration Branch Office during office hours without an appointment.

Send an email or call 2824 6111 for enquiries.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Police today arrested three men in-charge of a construction company, for manslaughter in relation the No. 5 alarm fire in Tai Po yesterday.

At about 2.50pm yesterday, Police received reports saying that a fire broke out at a housing estate on Tai Po Road – Yuen Chau Tsai. The fire on some scaffolding spread rapidly to other blocks in the estate and resulted in multiple deaths and injuries.

Upon initial investigation, it was suspected that the protective nets, tarpaulins and plastic sheets used for the maintenance works may not have been up to fire safety standards. Foam boards were also found installed to the windows of the buildings.

The three men, aged 52 to 68, were arrested in Ngau Tau Kok, Tai Po and Wong Tai Sin today. They are being detained for further enquiries. The New Territories North Regional Crime Unit is carrying out an investigation.

Anyone who witnessed the incident or has any information to offer is urged to call the investigating officers at 5566 0087.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Social Welfare Department said today it is making all-out efforts to allocate and deploy manpower and resources to provide appropriate support to Tai Po residents.

The department expressed deep sorrow and sadness over the No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po yesterday.

It has deployed social workers, clinical psychologists and professional support teams to all temporary shelters and interdepartmental help desks at hospitals to provide assistance based on the welfare needs of affected residents.

Public hospitals’ medical social workers are also providing emotional support to the injured and their relatives.

Residents in need are urged to seek assistance from social workers or professionals at the temporary shelters.

Due to the fire and its disruption to traffic in the district, multiple secondary schools and primary schools in Tai Po suspended classes today. The department has requested that all integrated children and youth services centres and youth centres in Tai Po remain open for the whole day to provide care services to parents who are unable to take care of their children.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

President Lai holds press conference on national security action plans to safeguard democratic Taiwan
On the morning of November 26, President Lai Ching-te convened a high-level national security meeting regarding action plans to safeguard democratic Taiwan. Following the meeting, the president held a press conference to address intensifying threats from China against Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific region, introducing two major action plans: to uphold national sovereignty with a comprehensive democratic defense, and to bolster defense capabilities while developing a robust, full-spectrum defense industry.
President Lai stated that the national security team and executive agencies will take action to demonstrate to the world Taiwan’s firm resolve and will to safeguard the nation and maintain the status quo. He said that the government aims to build defense capabilities, economic strength, and democratic defense mechanisms sufficient for Taiwan to protect itself, comprehensively responding to urgent national security threats and sparing no effort to safeguard democratic Taiwan.
The president emphasized that democracy is not a provocation, and Taiwan’s existence is no excuse for aggressors to disrupt the status quo. Safeguarding democratic Taiwan, he said, is the shared responsibility of the government, ruling and opposition parties, and all the people of Taiwan. He expressed hope that all citizens will unite to safeguard the nation and the freedom of Taiwan’s people.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
Earlier today, I convened a high-level national security meeting to hear a briefing from our team regarding the current national security situation.
The Beijing authorities have recently been comprehensively advancing attempts to turn democratic Taiwan into “Taiwan, China.” This has already posed a severe threat to our national security and Taiwan’s freedom and democracy. After thorough discussion, we have formulated a concrete strategic response: two national security action plans to safeguard democratic Taiwan, which I will now present.
As the international community has noted, China’s threats against Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific region are intensifying. Recently, hybrid threats, including various types of military provocations, maritime gray-zone tactics, and disinformation and cognitive operations, have occurred continuously in and around Japan, the Philippines, and the Taiwan Strait, causing deep unease and disturbance for all parties in the region, including Taiwan.
Furthermore, the Beijing authorities have set the goal of completing military preparations to attempt unification with Taiwan by force by 2027, and are accelerating preparations for an attempted invasion. They continue to ramp up military exercises and gray-zone aggression around Taiwan with the ambition to annex Taiwan by militarily forcing unification or surrender.
Aside from its use of military force, China is also escalating legal, psychological, and public opinion warfare in its effort to erase Taiwan’s sovereignty from the world stage. By opposing independence, urging for unification, and engaging in transnational repression, it is attempting to encroach upon the jurisdiction of the Republic of China government and create a false impression of their substantive “governance” over Taiwan.
China is expanding its united front infiltration and division tactics within Taiwan, with the aim of obscuring the national identity of our citizens and weakening our unity, all to forcibly impose their goals of “one country, two systems” and “governance by ‘patriots’” in Taiwan.
The purpose of these actions is to take a free and prosperous Taiwan, a Taiwan that shines on the world stage, a democratic Taiwan, and lock it in an authoritarian cage under the label “Taiwan, China.” This would allow them to achieve their ambition of annexing Taiwan and dominating the Indo-Pacific region.
To address this situation, which is more severe than ever, our national security team has formulated two major action plans to fully address urgent national security threats and safeguard democratic Taiwan.
The first of these is to uphold national sovereignty with a comprehensive democratic defense.
I want to reiterate that democratic Taiwan is a sovereign, independent nation; that among people here and in the international community, some call this land the Republic of China, some call it Taiwan, and some, the Republic of China Taiwan; that the Republic of China and the People’s Republic of China are not subordinate to each other; that Taiwan resists annexation or encroachment upon its sovereignty; and that the future of the Republic of China Taiwan must be decided by the 23 million people of Taiwan. This is the status quo that we must uphold.
Therefore, we firmly oppose China’s distortion of United Nations General Assembly Resolution 2758 and its manipulation of historical World War II documents to falsify historical facts and falsely claim that Taiwan is part of the People’s Republic of China. We remain highly vigilant to the reality that while accelerating preparations to attempt unification with Taiwan by military force, China is also intensifying its push – internationally, across the strait, and in various fields – for an ostensibly “peaceful” unification that is in reality a forced unification, with the goal of bringing Taiwan under the jurisdiction of China.
When it comes to national security, there is no room for compromise. National sovereignty and the core values of freedom and democracy are the foundation of Taiwan’s establishment. This struggle is not about ideology, and even less is it about unification versus independence. Rather, it is about defending democratic Taiwan and refusing to submit and become “Taiwan, China.” This is the shared position of the Taiwanese people.
To uphold our sovereignty and build a strong democratic defense, we will take the following concrete actions:
First, our national security team will work with the relevant agencies to establish a permanent task force to formulate action plans centered around democratic Taiwan versus “Taiwan, China.” Through strategic international and domestic communication, historical narrative, and counter-lawfare, these plans will help link Taiwan society and friends and allies to show the world that democratic Taiwan has the determination and will to defend itself and resolutely maintain the status quo. They will also comprehensively counter Beijing’s hegemonic actions that attempt to eliminate the sovereignty of the Republic of China and take away the freedom of Taiwan’s people, all of which disrupt the status quo.
Second, facts and truth are the foundation upon which democratic countries build social trust and strengthen national identity. The Executive Yuan will assess China’s intervention, interference, and possible impact during major acts of governance and elections. By revealing the facts and ensuring the circulation of correct information, we will enhance the understanding and awareness of all sectors of society regarding Beijing’s interference in our internal affairs and its promotion of forced unification, strengthen our national identity, and achieve internal unity in facing external forces.
Third, the 17 major strategies to counter China’s united front infiltration and national security threats that were released and implemented in March this year have already yielded initial results. The government will continue to implement those strategies and accelerate the promotion of legislation for 10 national security laws and related administrative measures to strengthen our protection of national security.
Fourth, the Executive Yuan, along with the National Security Council (NSC), will take concrete measures and effective countermeasures against China’s transnational repression of Taiwan’s people, including: establishing a reporting, liaison, and protection system for victims; strengthening strategic communication with friendly and allied countries and international organizations to enhance transnational cooperation to protect potential victims; and improving the legal system and severely punishing local collaborators who assist China in carrying out transnational suppression, harming our nation and its citizens.
Fifth, opinion polls show that the people of Taiwan have always overwhelmingly opposed China’s “one country, two systems” model for Taiwan. Through government policy declarations, Legislative Yuan resolutions, and collective action by political parties and civil society groups, it should be established that for Taiwan society, the “one country, two systems” model crosses a red line. On that basis, institutional norms should be established for exchanges and political dialogue between domestic political parties, legal entities, or civil society organizations and China, while using the principles of democratic governance and transparency to prevent China from exploiting Taiwan’s internal conflicts to promote forced unification.
Next is an explanation of the second action plan: bolstering defense capabilities while developing a robust, full-spectrum defense industry. Peace is won through strength, and investing in national defense is investing in security, and investing in peace. Faced with China’s ever-increasing military threats and hegemonic ambitions toward the region and Taiwan, democratic countries in the Indo-Pacific region such as Japan, Korea, the Philippines, and even Australia are gradually forming a consensus on island chain defense and responsibility sharing, making more national defense investments, and strengthening their response to China’s threats.
As the most important and critical link in the first island chain of defense, Taiwan must not become a gap in regional security. Taiwan must show determination, and take on greater responsibility for self-defense by enhancing national defense more quickly, dealing with threats through indigenous defense and joint deterrence. Three major strategies – denial, resilience, and the adoption of smart technologies – will be used to achieve the following three phased goals:
The first goal is to achieve a high level of combat readiness for our armed forces’ joint combat units by 2027 to effectively deter threats from China. The second goal is to further build highly resilient and comprehensive deterrent defense capabilities by 2033. Our ultimate goal is to build national defense capabilities that can defend democratic Taiwan indefinitely.
For this, we will take the following concrete actions:
First, in response to development trends in global defense, Taiwan will systematically increase defense spending. Defense spending, as it is defined by NATO, will exceed 3 percent of GDP next year, and will reach 5 percent of GDP by 2030, demonstrating our determination to defend the nation.
Second, to build key combat capabilities for future warfare scenarios, the Ministry of National Defense (MND) has completed the planning and budgeting for a special act on procurement for enhancing defense, resilience, and asymmetric capabilities. Over the next eight years (2026-2033), we plan to invest NT$1.25 trillion to develop an advanced defense system including three major features: the T-Dome, a multi-layered air defense system with high-level detection and effective interception; the introduction of advanced technologies and AI to form a resilient defense system that enables efficient decision-making and precision strikes; and enhanced indigenous defense capabilities, expanding the defense industry for economic and security benefits.
Third, the Executive Yuan will complete their review of the draft act and submit it to the Legislative Yuan. It will also instruct the Ministry of Finance and the Directorate-General of Budget, Accounting and Statistics to properly manage funding sources and finances to avoid crowding out other budget items.
Fourth, in view of the successful integration and rapid iteration of new technologies, the MND will comprehensively optimize and strengthen equipment procurement mechanisms, accelerate acquisition and military development timelines, and ensure anti-corruption measures are in place to prevent delays.
Fifth, while introducing advanced equipment and continuously developing asymmetric capabilities and defense resilience, the MND will to its utmost to implement comprehensive and timely reforms to optimize military force structure and develop new training methods, tactics, and logistical support.
Increasing defense spending not only enhances military capabilities and national security, but also strengthens defense industry development and boosts national income. In addition to foreign procurement, this special budget will allocate a significant portion to domestic construction projects, commercial purchasing, and commissioned production, creating substantial economic output and employment opportunities.
With Taiwan’s strong capabilities in high tech and manufacturing, including an integrated ecosystem of semiconductors, ICT, and AI, as well as precision machinery and related foundational industries, the country can play a significant role in the global advanced defense and military industry. This can also drive the transformation and upgrading of domestic industries and the economy, enabling more engineers and technology professionals to help strengthen national defense, fulfilling our goal of building a strong nation with prosperous citizens.
Sixth, the government will promptly formulate an action plan for defense and military industry development. On this basis, we will develop a comprehensive strategy to further advance Taiwan’s industry and economy.
Seventh, to support cooperation with friends and allies and build non-red supply chains, we will strengthen measures on the protection of high tech to fully safeguard and utilize advanced technologies.
Eighth, the NSC, together with the MND and relevant agencies, will strengthen public communication, build consensus, and secure the support and recognition of our people, guided by the principle of investing in defense, peace, and Taiwan’s economic future.
My fellow citizens, China has many scenarios for annexing Taiwan, but the greatest threat of all is not their military force, but our giving in. Under China’s united front offensive, some individuals regard upholding democracy and enjoying freedom as a provocation to China, mistakenly believing that if the people of Taiwan are willing to give up some freedoms or sacrifice some sovereignty, and humbly accept the transformation of democratic Taiwan into “Taiwan, China,” it could somehow secure “peace.”
History, however, has shown that compromising with aggressors only leads to endless war and oppression. In 1938, many in Europe believed that if Czechoslovakia ceded some territory to the fascists, it could secure a generation of peace. Instead, it triggered the full outbreak of World War II, bringing untold suffering and tragedy. In 1951, the people of Tibet thought that by signing the Seventeen Point Agreement with Beijing, they could preserve their culture and way of life. Instead, their snowy nation became a red plateau under communist control.
Democracy is not a provocation, and Taiwan’s existence is no excuse for aggressors to disrupt the status quo.
As a democratic country, our ruling and opposition parties may hold differing views, but we sincerely hope that in safeguarding democracy and freedom of the Republic of China Taiwan and ensuring national sovereignty, we can oppose any actions that disrupt the status quo of peace and stability in the region. Protecting democratic Taiwan and preventing Taiwan from being forcibly annexed or reduced to “Taiwan, China” must be the shared responsibility of the government, ruling and opposition parties, and all the people of Taiwan. We must all unite to safeguard our nation and the freedom of Taiwan’s people.
Our national security team and administrative agencies will now take action to build defense capabilities, economic strength, and democratic defense mechanisms sufficient for Taiwan to protect itself – laying an unshakable foundation to secure Taiwan’s safety and national sovereignty.
For Taiwan, for the Republic of China, let us all take action together! Thank you.
May Taiwan be blessed! Let’s keep going, Taiwan!

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Financial Secretary Paul Chan, who is visiting Milan, Italy, will shorten his European trip and return to Hong Kong earlier than scheduled in light of the No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court, Tai Po.

Mr Chan arrived in Milan yesterday evening after concluding a visit to London, the UK. He was originally scheduled to attend the “Think Business, Think Hong Kong” symposium and a “Hong Kong Dinner” organised by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) today.

The finance chief was due to depart Milan for Hong Kong tomorrow, but will now leave today after attending the HKTDC symposium. He is expected to arrive in Hong Kong tomorrow morning.

In London yesterday, Mr Chan met UK-based fund managers and senior executives of financial institutions participating in the “London Tech Week: AI in Finance” event. He also attended a Hong Kong Association lunch, at which he gave a speech outlining how Hong Kong is leveraging innovation and technology to drive economic transformation.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

In view of the No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po that had caused multiple casualties, the Chief Executive convened an interdepartmental urgent meeting yesterday afternoon. The Government’s Emergency Monitoring & Support Centre was then activated, with officers from relevant departments closely monitoring the situation, co-ordinating efforts to strive to alleviate the impact of the fire.

The Government said its top priority is to extinguish the fire and rescue trapped residents; the second is to treat the injured; the third is to provide post‑incident support, offer assistance to the families of the deceased, the injured and affected residents; and the fourth is to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

Firefighting, police work

The Fire Services Department (FSD) received reports at 2.51pm yesterday that a fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court. Its staff arrived speedily at 2.56pm and discovered that the scaffolds outside the building had caught fire, and that the blaze had spread to the interior and other buildings. Firefighting and rescue operations began immediately. The fire was upgraded several times and reached the No. 5 alarm at 6.22pm.

Eleven jets and eight turntable ladders have been deployed for water spraying, and 26 search and rescue teams are handling assistance calls at scene. During the operation, the FSD dispatched over 200 fire appliances and about 100 ambulances, and mobilised over 1,200 fire and ambulance personnel.

Separately, police officers set up a command post upon arrival and mobilised over 1,000 staff to co-ordinate residents’ evacuation, rescue operations and emergency support.

In addition to directing traffic at the scene and surrounding areas, Police also implemented road closures, traffic control measures and diversions to facilitate rescue operations.

Moreover, the force has set up a casualty enquiry hotline. If members of the public suspect that their relatives or friends have gone missing in relation to the fire, they can call 1878 999 for assistance.

During the operation, the Auxiliary Medical Service has deployed six ambulances and 33 staff to provide on-site treatment and transport the injured to hospitals.

Medical care

Upon the FSD’s notification about the blaze, the Hospital Authority immediately activated the Major Incident Control Centre to co-ordinate contingency measures, with the accident and emergency departments of nine public hospitals having been alerted to standby to receive casualties. Among them, Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital and North District Hospital mobilised their full resources for rescue efforts.

Meanwhile, North District Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital also sent staff to the incident site to help triage and provide initial treatment to patients.

The burn centres of Queen Mary Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital, as well as Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital’s hyperbaric oxygen therapy centre, were prepared for the incident to receive patients anytime.

Evacuation needs

In response to the evacuation needs involving Kwong Fuk Estate, staff members of the Housing Department and the management company concerned have provided assistance to residents. The Housing Bureau and the Housing Department have also been maintaining close contact with the Home Affairs Department and the Social Welfare Department to provide full assistance to the affected residents, including arranging those at Wang Fuk Court and Kwong Fuk Estate in need to move to transitional housing, interim housing or transit centres.

The Tai Po District Office (TPDO) has opened multiple temporary shelters for residents in need. As at 9.30pm yesterday, about 900 people were using the shelters.

The TPDO has deployed all 19 District Services & Community Care Teams across the district to provide support, while the Sha Tin District Office (STDO) nearby and its care teams have provided cross-district support. Care teams in other districts will also be mobilised to provide appropriate support.

The TPDO, STDO and North District Office have set up interdepartmental help desks at Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital and North District Hospital to provide assistance and handle public enquiries.

Welfare, emotional support

Additionally, the TPDO will provide assistance to families of the deceased and injured in their applications for the Emergency Relief Fund or the Special Aid Fund, as well as liaise with various assistance funds operated by other charitable organisations.

The Social Welfare Department has deployed social work officers and supporting staff to the help desks and shelters to offer help to the residents. Besides, the Civil Aid Service mobilised over 100 people to assist with the operation of the temporary shelters.

Medical social workers will provide emotional support to the injured and their families.

Through liaison by the TPDO, the Hong Kong Red Cross deployed staff to the temporary shelters to provide emotional support and medical assistance.

The Health Bureau has also arranged for the “18111 – Mental Health Support Hotline” to step up its manpower to handle calls. Moreover, support information on coping with stress or negative emotions has also been posted to the “Shall We Talk” social media channels.

Building safety

Last month, the Buildings Department (BD) issued a circular letter to all registered building professionals and registered contractors, urging them to inspect and ascertain that the protective net and the like used in their construction projects are in compliance with the recognised standards in terms of fire-retardant capability.

Wang Fuk Court is a sold property under the Home Ownership Scheme (HOS). The works are carried out by Prestige Construction & Engineering, a registered contractor hired by the Incorporated Owners of the HOS court. The Housing Bureau’s Independent Checking Unit (ICU) exercises building control over the works in accordance with the Buildings Ordinance.

The ICU will conduct an investigation into the fire. If violations of the Buildings Ordinance are found, the case will be referred to the BD for handling, including prosecution or disciplinary proceedings.

In response to the fire, the BD and the ICU will carry out special operations targeting ongoing construction projects. Registered building professionals and registered contractors will be required to review records or test certificates relating to the fire-retardant properties of the protective nets and the like used in scaffolds, and submit reports.

As at midnight, the Tai Po fire has resulted in 36 deaths and 36 injuries, including one fireman among the deceased.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Jointly organised by the Hong Kong Fashion Council, Women’s Wear Daily (WWD), and Sourcing Journal (SJ), the WWD x SJ Global Fashion & Business Conference and the WWD Fashion Loves Culture Gala were held today (November 26). As one of the flagship programmes of the second edition of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest, spearheaded and funded by the Government, the events attracted fashion and design industry from all over the world to participate, demonstrating Hong Kong’s strength as an Asian fashion design hub.

The conference, themed “Global Creativity and the Fashion Imagination”, brought together international and local fashion industry leaders to explore topics such as cross-cultural creativity, heritage and innovation, fashion narratives, and the global supply chain. It fosters exchange and collaboration within the international industry community and highlights Hong Kong’s unique advantage as a bridge between the Chinese Mainland and the international market. With the theme “Fashion Loves Culture”, the Gala further highlighted Hong Kong’s dynamism and potential as a global business hub and a capital of new fashion design.

Speaking at the conference this morning, the Under Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Mr Raistlin Lau, said that this conference gathered visionary minds to dive into inspiring topics at the forefront of fashion. At the same time, it convened fashion leaders from around the globe for insightful dialogues on the industry’s future, reflecting Hong Kong’s unique position as a gateway between the Chinese Mainland, Asia and the world.

The second edition of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest is presented by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, spearheaded and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau. For details of the WWD x SJ Global Fashion & Business Conference and the WWD Fashion Loves Culture Gala, please refer to the official social media channels. For more information about the Hong Kong Fashion Fest, please visit: www.hongkongfashionfest.com.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

A Government spokesman said today (November 27) that, in view of the No. 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po that had caused multiple casualties, the Chief Executive convened an interdepartmental urgent meeting yesterday afternoon (November 26). The Government’s Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre was activated immediately and officers from relevant departments closely monitored the situation in real time, co-ordinating efforts to strive to alleviate the impact of the fire.

Various government departments and units are making every effort on multiple fronts: the top priority is extinguishing the fire and rescuing trapped residents; the second is treating the injured; the third is providing post‑incident support, offering assistance to the families of the deceased, the injured, and affected residents; and the fourth is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the fire.

The Fire Services Department (FSD) received reports at 2.51pm yesterday that a fire broke out at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. Fire services personnel arrived speedily at 2.56pm and discovered that the scaffolds outside the building had caught fire, and that the fire had spread to the interior and other buildings. Firefighting and rescue operations began immediately. The fire was upgraded several times and reached No. 5 alarm at 6.22pm yesterday.

Currently 11 jets and eight turntable ladders are deployed at the scene for water spraying, and 26 search and rescue teams are handling assistance calls at scene. During the operation, the FSD has dispatched over 200 fire appliances and about 100 ambulances, and mobilised over 1 200 fire and ambulance personnel.

Police officers immediately set up a command post upon arrival and mobilised over 1 000 personnel to co-ordinate residents’ evacuation, rescue operations and emergency support.

Police officers also directed traffic at the scene and surrounding areas, implementing road closures, traffic control measures and diversions to facilitate rescue operations. Police will adjust road closure areas and special traffic arrangements as necessary taking into account rescue operations. Motorists are urged to exercise patience and follow instructions from officers at scene.

Moreover, a casualty enquiry hotline has been set up by the Police. If members of the public suspect their relatives or friends are missing in relation to the fire incident, please call the Police hotline on 1878 999.

During the operation, the Auxiliary Medical Service has deployed six ambulances and 33 personnel to provide on-site treatment and transport the injured to hospitals.

Upon notification by the FSD about the incident, the Hospital Authority immediately activated the Major Incident Control Centre to co-ordinate contingency measures, with the accident and emergency departments of nine public hospitals (including Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital, North District Hospital, Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kwong Wah Hospital, Pok Oi Hospital, Princess Margaret Hospital, Queen Mary Hospital and United Christian Hospital) having been alerted to standby to receive the casualties. Among them, the three acute hospitals in the New Territories East Cluster (i.e. Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital and North District Hospital) in the New Territories East Cluster along with their accident and emergency departments and other departments such as intensive care units and burn units, mobilised their full resources for rescue efforts.
 
Meanwhile, North District Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital also dispatched personnel to the incident site to help triage and provide initial treatment to patients. As the incident involved a number of patients, the burn centres of Queen Mary Hospital and Prince of Wales Hospital, as well as the hyperbaric oxygen therapy centre of Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, were prepared for the incident to receive patients anytime.      

In response to need for evacuation involving residents of Kwong Fuk Estate, staff members of the Housing Department and the management company concerned have provided assistance to residents on-site. The Housing Bureau and the Housing Department have also been maintaining close contact with the Home Affairs Department and the Social Welfare Department to provide full assistance to the affected residents, including arranging the residents of Wang Fuk Court and Kwong Fuk Estate in need to reside in transitional housing, interim housing or transit centres.

The Tai Po District Office (TPDO) has opened eight temporary shelters for residents in need and has arranged shuttle bus services for residents. As at 9.30pm yesterday, about 900 persons are using the shelters. The TPDO will continue to closely monitor the situation and open more shelters as necessary. 

The TPDO has deployed all 19 Care Teams across the district to provide support, while the Sha Tin District Office (STDO) nearby and its Care Teams have also provided cross-district support. Care Teams in other districts will also be mobilised to provide appropriate support. The TPDO, STDO and North District Office have also set up interdepartmental help desks at Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital, Prince of Wales Hospital and North District Hospital to provide assistance and handle public enquiries. The TPDO will provide assistance to families of the deceased and injured in their applications for the Emergency Relief Fund or the Special Aid Fund, as well as liaise with various assistance funds operated by other charitable organisations.

The Social Welfare Department has deployed social work officers and supporting staff to the help desks and shelters for provision of assistance to the residents. Besides, the Civil Aid Service also mobilised over 100 personnel to assist with the operation of the temporary shelters. In addition, medical social workers are also providing emotional support to the injured persons and their families. Through liaison by the TPDO, the Hong Kong Red Cross deployed personnel to the temporary shelters to provide emotional support and medical assistance to people in need. The Health Bureau has also arranged for the “18111 – Mental Health Support Hotline” to step up its manpower to handle calls from people with needs for emotional support in relation to the fire. Moreover, support information on coping with stress or negative emotions has also been posted to “Shall We Talk” social media channels.

The Buildings Department (BD) has long been implementing strict requirements on the use of fire retardant protective nets, screens, tarpaulins, plastic sheeting and the like for scaffolds to prevent the spread of fire should a fire occur. Last month, the BD issued a circular letter to all registered building professionals and registered contractors, urging them to inspect and ascertain that the protective net and the like used in their construction projects are in compliance with the recognised standards in terms of fire retardant capability. 

Wang Fuk Court is a sold property under the Home Ownership Scheme (HOS). The works are carried out by Prestige Construction & Engineering Company, Limited, a registered contractor hired by the Incorporated Owners of the HOS court. The Independent Checking Unit of the Housing Bureau (ICU) exercises building control over the works in accordance with the Buildings Ordinance. Regarding the fire incident, the ICU will conduct an investigation. If any violations of the requirements of the Buildings Ordinance are found, the case will be referred to the BD for handling in accordance with the ordinance, including prosecution or disciplinary proceedings.

In response to the fire incident, the BD and the ICU will also carry out special operations targeting ongoing construction projects. Registered building professionals and registered contractors will be required to review relevant records or test certificates relating to fire retardant properties of the protective nets and the like used in scaffolds, and submit their reports to the relevant departments.

As at midnight, the fire has resulted in 36 deaths and 36 injuries, including one fireman among the deceased. The FSD is making every effort to extinguish the fire, which is gradually under control. Staff from various government departments will continue to fulfil their duties diligently, fully engaging in response and relief work, as well as providing appropriate support to citizens in need.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     Following is the speech by the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, at the Hong Kong Association Luncheon in the United Kingdom today (November 26, London time):

Adrian (Chairman, Hong Kong Association, Mr Adrian Cartwright), Members of the Hong Kong Association, ladies and gentlemen, Friends of Hong Kong all,

     Good afternoon.

     Thank you for inviting me to once again to this welcome lunch.

     As English writer Douglas Adams once said, “When people you greatly admire appear to be thinking deep thoughts, they probably are thinking about lunch.” Now that we are together, again, over lunch, let’s move on to deeper thoughts.

     Starting with dinner. I trust you had a splendid evening at the Hong Kong Dinner last night  ̶  good company, good conversation and just enough wine to encourage networking, but not enough to cloud your memory of it.

     This afternoon, I would like to speak about a subject central to Hong Kong’s future: how we are reinventing Hong Kong and securing long-term economic growth through innovation and technology.

Innovation as an Economic Driver

     In Hong Kong, I&T is fast emerging as a cornerstone of our economic transformation. Over the past several years, we have invested more than £20 billion in I&T, underpinned by a comprehensive strategy that supports the entire innovation value chain.

     It helps that we are blessed with considerable strengths in basic research. Hong Kong is home to five universities ranked among the global top 100. Three are among the world’s top 20 in artificial intelligence and data science, while both our medical schools rank in the top 25 globally.

     We know that research without commercialisation is a bit like inventing the lightbulb and forgetting to sell electricity. That is why we are focused on translating knowledge into usable, scalable innovation.

     To that end, we are attracting strategic enterprises to Hong Kong  ̶  companies that bring capital, as well as jobs, international networks, and ambition. We’ve introduced a broad range of funding schemes to boost collaboration between academia, research institutions and industry. Because innovation thrives best when silos are dismantled and partnerships built.

     At last count, Hong Kong was home to nearly 4 700 start-ups, up a remarkable 40 per cent over the past five years. Hong Kong Science Park and Cyberport, our innovation flagships, continue to support start-ups and scale-ups, providing everything from incubation and funding to professional consultancy and market development. I should note that 28 per cent of our start-up founders are non-locals, with the UK our largest source of foreign founders.

Strategic Industries

     We are prioritising four strategic industries: artificial intelligence, biotechnology, fintech, and new energy and new materials. For the next few moments, allow me to elaborate on the first two: AI and biotech, where we are making tremendous strides.

Artificial Intelligence

     AI is no longer the future. It’s here now, transforming industries and ways of life at an unprecedented scale and pace. In Hong Kong, we are taking a dual-pronged strategy. First, by nurturing AI as a core industry; and second, by embedding AI technology into traditional sectors to improve productivity, efficiency, and competitiveness. We call this approach “AI+”.

     Our progress is built on six pillars: computing power, algorithms, data access, application development, capital investment, and talent cultivation.

     And there’s more. Including the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, or Loop Area. There, Mainland and international data will converge, opening up unprecedented opportunities for data-driven innovation, including AI.

     Then there’s the Greater Bay Area, which gives Hong Kong a geographic and strategic edge. It is the only region in the world where mechatronics and AI technologies coexist at scale. For companies looking to move from algorithm to application to deployment, the Greater Bay Area is the ideal testing ground. There, prototypes can be refined, validated, and scaled within a sophisticated supply chain.

     Hong Kong is also fast becoming a magnet for global AI talent. As Jensen Huang, CEO of Nvidia, pointed out, roughly half the world’s top AI researchers are ethnic Chinese. A good many of them are choosing Hong Kong as their base – for academic research, for commercial ventures, and for partnerships across Asia.

Biotechnology

     Turning to biotech, we are now developing a primary evaluation mechanism for drug approvals. This will allow Hong Kong to independently assess and approve medical products and devices. And that, ladies and gentlemen, is a game-changer.

     It will strengthen Hong Kong’s role as a regional centre for medical research and clinical development. To support this transition, we are establishing the Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation, and we have joined the International Council for Harmonisation as an observer. We are also investing in the infrastructure, systems and talent necessary to support the new regulatory regime. The plan is to begin phased implementation in 2026, with full rollout by 2030.

     And Hong Kong and Shenzhen have established cross-boundary clinical trial institutions in the Loop Area. These support studies complying with the standards and requirements of both jurisdictions.

     Already, major players like AstraZeneca and GSK have chosen Hong Kong as a base for R&D, while exploring opportunities in the Loop Area. For UK pharmaceutical firms and biotech ventures, this is a golden opportunity to gain direct access to Hong Kong, and to the vast Greater Bay Area, with its consumer population of some 87 million.

     We are also investing in the next generation of medical innovators. The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology is establishing Hong Kong’s third medical school, which will admit its first cohort in 2028/29. This will boost our supply of clinician-scientists. I’m confident, too, that it will attract top international faculty and students, deepening our role as a centre for medical education and translational research. The medical school will eventually relocate to the Northern Metropolis, alongside the area’s innovation clusters.

Capital for Innovation

     For that, and more, we need capital. Hong Kong’s capital markets have undergone substantial reforms to enable easier listing for biotech, deep-tech, and innovation-driven companies. These reforms are already making a difference, allowing high-potential firms to raise growth capital from global investors.

     We’ve updated our listing rules to make it easier for biotech, hard-tech, and other strategic companies to go public in Hong Kong. Our goal is simple: to mobilise market funds that support their development.

     Beyond the public markets, Hong Kong boasts a dynamic private capital sector. Our private equity funds manage about US$230 billion in assets, second only to the Mainland in Asia.

     And, through the Hong Kong Investment Corporation, we are strategically investing in high-potential, high-risk and high-return ventures, particularly in hard tech. The Investment Corporation has, to date, invested in more than 150 projects, taking in over six dollars of private investment for every public dollar invested.

     The Corporation is also working closely with international partners to support commercialisation and global expansion. I invite British firms to explore co-investment opportunities, joint ventures, and technology partnerships through the Corporation. Innovation, after all, respects no borders; nor should investment strategies.

Northern Metropolis: Infrastructure for Innovation

     More than home to Hong Kong’s third medical school, the Northern Metropolis will rise as Hong Kong’s new economic engine and innovation and technology centre. We are fast-tracking its development through dedicated legislation and flexible land development initiatives.

     Three key anchors within the Northern Metropolis will, I believe, be of particular interest to British businesses and institutions.

     First is the Loop Area, which I’ve already mentioned. The zone is being designed to enable seamless collaboration between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. That includes cross-boundary clinical trials and data flow from the Mainland to Hong Kong.

     Then there’s the San Tin Technopole, which spans 210 hectares and is dedicated to high-end I&T development. Its outline plan has just been released. When fully realised, the Technopole is expected to contribute £25 billion annually to our GDP, generating 300 000 high-quality jobs.

     And third, the Northern Metropolis’ University Town, which will cover some 90 hectares. University Town will attract top-tier local and international universities, encouraging collaboration between academia and industry, creating an environment where students, researchers and entrepreneurs work side by side, bridging theory and practice, classroom and commerce. And it will be where we advance the deep and integrated development of technology, education and talent.

     The Northern Metropolis is a project of scale, ambition, and purpose. We are building it to integrate technology, sustainability, and cross-boundary connectivity. And I would like to build it with you, with partners who share our vision, and our prodigious appetite for doing big things exceedingly well.

     I invite British construction, architecture, and engineering firms to take part in bringing to bright life this next-generation innovation corridor. And I also welcome UK universities, research institutions, and education partners to explore opportunities within University Town – and throughout this unprecedented innovation-driven development.

     Ladies and gentlemen, the opportunities Hong Kong presents are as diverse as they are substantial. For UK firms, businesses and academic institutions, this is your moment to engage. Whether in AI, biotech, advanced manufacturing, or other new tech areas, Hong Kong is where world-class ideas are inspired, funded and commercialised – across Asia and beyond.

     I look forward to welcoming you to Hong Kong, whether for business, pleasure or simply a well-earned break from the English weather.

     My thanks, once again, to the Hong Kong Association – to you all – for giving me this welcome opportunity to speak to you again. Over lunch.

     I’m now ready to take your questions.

     Thank you.