Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

With the 20th Asian Games to be held from September 19 to October 4 this year, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) will set up the “Asian Games Focal Site” at designated sports centres across the 18 districts to broadcast Asian Games competitions. Members of the public are welcome to watch the competitions at the focal sites, cheer for the athletes of the country and Hong Kong, China. The focal sites will open on September 19 from 5pm to 8pm and thereafter daily from 8am to 9pm up to October 4. Details are available on the dedicated website (www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/agfs/index.html). Any adjustments to the opening hours of the focal sites will be announced on the dedicated website.

On September 19 (2 pm), the Asian Games opening day, the LCSD will hold the “Sports Fun For All cum Asian Games Focal Site Launching Ceremony” at Hong Kong Park Sports Centre to commence the Asian Games Focal Sites as well as the “Sports Fun For All” sports days. The “Sports Fun For All” sports days will be held from September to December at the LCSD’s six designated sports centres. With volleyball as the focus, the sports day on September 19 will feature “three major ball games”, covering volleyball, football and basketball skill demonstrations, sharing sessions by renowned athletes Sun Yue, Sze Hang-yu, and Lee Ho-ching. Other appeals include fitness exercises performances, elite friendly matches, fitness activities, DIY workshops, and interactive games. Members of the public are welcome to join the ceremony and sports day. For details, please visit the dedicated website (www.lcsd.gov.hk/en/tsd/2026/index.html).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Action Committee Against Narcotics (ACAN) convened a meeting chaired by the Chairman of ACAN, Dr Donald Li, today (September 15). Members noted the figures of the Central Registry of Drug Abuse (CRDA) and other drug-related figures for the first half of 2026 at the meeting. ACAN noticed that the total number of reported drug abusers in the first half of 2026 was lower than that of 2025.
 
     Figures from the CRDA revealed that the total number of reported drug abusers in the first half of 2026 decreased by 9 per cent (from 2 955 to 2 688) when compared with that of 2025. The most common reported type of drug abused in the first half of 2026 was heroin, followed by methamphetamine (commonly known as “Ice”) and cocaine.
 
     The number of reported young drug abusers aged under 21 in the first half of 2026 decreased from 458 to 404 when compared with that of 2026. In this age group, etomidate continues to be the most common type of drugs abused, followed by cannabis and cocaine.
 
     Dr Li, said, “Prevention programmes for communities, schools and families can ensure that the younger generation grow up healthy and remain free from the influence of drugs throughout their lives. ACAN supports the Government’s latest strategy to advance preventive education and reach out to children on anti-drug awareness. ACAN will closely monitor the situation in the remaining quarters of 2026 and continue its anti-drug efforts.”
 
     A spokesperson for the Narcotics Division (ND) of the Security Bureau said, “The ND has launched a range of community engagement activities targeting kindergarten and primary school students as well as young parents starting this year. Unlike a conventional deterrence approach that explains the severe consequence of abusing dangerous drugs, the relevant community engagement activities help children learn anti-drug knowledge in a relaxed and fun atmosphere.
 
     “In the lead-up to World Drug Day on June 26, the ND organised a two-day pop-up anti-drug game booth on June 26 and 27 at a shopping mall in San Po Kong to promote anti-drug knowledge and the importance of developing healthy lifestyle habits to the public through simple games, attracting nearly 3 000 participants. In addition, the ND publicised a rehabilitee couple interview video ‘Making it through to a new life: Walking the Road to Recovery Together’ on World Drug Day, generating a viewership of over 512 000 across different social media platforms. A 30-minute TV infotainment programme ‘Listen to Me: Let’s Stand Firm. Knock Drugs Out!’ was also aired on June 27, focusing on the Government’s targeted efforts to combat etomidate. The infotainment successfully reached a viewership of nearly 1 million.
 
     “As for the thematic booth called ‘Anti-drug Ambassadors Express’ set up during the Hong Kong Book Fair this July, it attracted nearly 17 000 visitors. Led by the anti-drug ambassadors Agent Don’t and Agent Hope, the booth invited families to complete a series of interactive anti-drug missions – including a ‘Drug-taking Facial Filter’ which simulates the physical toll of drug abuse, and edutainment games. The public response has been enthusiastic, fully demonstrating that parent-child interactive games are effective in nurturing positive values and establishing a drug-free lifestyle for children from an early age.”
 
     According to statistical figures from law enforcement agencies, the number of persons arrested for drug offences in the first half of 2026 decreased by 10 per cent (from 1 938 to 1 749) when compared with that of 2025. The number of young arrestees aged under 21 also decreased by 3 per cent (from 307 to 298). Etomidate, cocaine and cannabis were the main drugs involved in these arrests.
 
     According to court cases concluded in the same period, the conviction rate of persons being prosecuted for drug offences was as high as 87 per cent. As for young offenders aged under 21 who were sentenced to imprisonment for drug trafficking, more than half of them were sentenced to over five years in prison, with the longest imprisonment being 28 years.
 
     The statistical figures of the CRDA for the first half of 2026 are available on the website of the ND (www.nd.gov.hk/en/crda_main_charts_and_tables.html). The ND’s website (www.nd.gov.hk) contains detailed information about drugs, including frequently asked questions about etomidate, cocaine and cannabis, for the public’s reference. The public can also visit the ND’s social media accounts (narcotics.divisionhk) on Facebook and Instagram for more information.
 
     If members of the public encounter any drug problems, they can send messages to 98 186 186 on instant messaging applications WhatsApp and WeChat, or call the 24-hour hotline 186 186 to seek information or assistance from professional social workers. The Police also operates a 24-hour etomidate reporting hotline (number: 6629 2966). Members of the public can also file reports via instant messaging applications WhatsApp (number: 6629 2966) or WeChat (account: eto-report).

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     Following is the speech by the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs Ingrid Yeung, at the opening ceremony of the Government Career Fair 2026 at City University of Hong Kong (CityU) today (September 15):
 
Professor Chan (Vice-President (Community Engagement) of CityU, Professor Chan Chi-hou), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good morning. It is always a pleasure to come to the lively campus of CityU. May I first express my warmest congratulations to CityU for its stellar accomplishment in advancing to the ranking of 52nd in the latest 2027 QS (Quacquarelli Symonds) World University Rankings. To make it to the top tier of global universities is no mean achievement. Well done CityU and all of you students and staff. Together you have made it and should rightfully be proud of yourself.
 
     With the excellent nurturing of the university, those of you who are nearing the completion of your academic studies may be wondering what path you can turn into. Graduation is truly one of the most critical turning points in one’s life. It is not just about finding a job. It is the beginning of a journey to discover a vocation – a mission that resonates with your ambition and values.
 
     The civil service is the backbone of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government. Every major policy that drives our city’s economic vitality, every infrastructure project that connects our communities, and every public service that improves daily life is planned and executed by our dedicated civil servants. Whether it is accelerating smart city innovation, advancing green technology, revitalising our tourism landscape, or expanding education opportunities, civil servants are at the direct helm of positive change. When you work for the Government, your daily work directly contributes to the long-term well-being of your fellow citizens and to the prosperity of Hong Kong.
 
     Having devoted decades to public service, I can share with you candidly that I have never regretted this decision, not for a second. A civil service career is unlike any other. While it enables a decent standard of living, the true reward comes from knowing that your daily work could bring tangible improvements to the lives of our citizens and direct positive changes in society.
 
     Every time I meet with university students, I am deeply impressed by their passion, creativity and drive – the very qualities that are vital to the advancement and continued development of Hong Kong. It is precisely for this reason that we spare no effort in attracting aspiring young people to join the civil service. To provide the younger generation with more opportunities and earlier career clarity, we started to recruit penultimate year university students since 2023. By making a conditional offer to outstanding students in their penultimate year of study, we provide a guarantee of a rewarding career in the civil service after graduation and a clear path of career advancement.
 
     Furthermore, joining the Government opens doors to extensive leadership development. We invest heavily in our workforce through continuous training at the Civil Service College, national studies programmes, and mid-career back-to-campus learning opportunities. We also field outstanding young officers to join exchange programmes with Mainland cities to broaden their horizon, and offer numerous opportunities for them to gain international exposure through overseas postings to Hong Kong’s overseas economic and trade offices, and secondment to international organisations as well. You will also have noticed from the media that we send young civil servants to participate in the United Nations Junior Professional Officer Programme at the recommendation of the Central People’s Government’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Just last week we announced that a third batch of 16 young civil servants would depart Hong Kong for United Nations organisations around the world in the coming few months. This experience of becoming an international civil servant is unique and is not available to any other person outside the Government.
 
     Today, we have gathered representatives from more than 30 government departments and over 50 civil service grades in this career fair. I encourage you to take full advantage of this opportunity to visit our exhibition booths, interact with our serving officers, ask questions, attend career talks, and explore how you can unleash your potential in the civil service.
 
     We have also just launched the Joint Recruitment Exercise for six civil service grades, namely Administrative Officer, Executive Officer, Information Officer, Trade Officer, Management Services Officer, and Transport Officer, and we look forward to receiving your applications. Here is your chance to embark on a career journey with us where you can gain rich professional exposure, achieve lasting personal fulfillment, and directly impact the future of our city.
 
     Before I close, I have to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Professor Chan and his team for their unwavering support in making this event possible. Thank you, and congratulations again for your great academic achievements and I wish you continued success in the years to come.
 
     I wish you all a fruitful day ahead as you take these key steps toward unlocking a career you love – one marked by continuous growth, impactful service, and lasting fulfillment. Thank you.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Attention TV/radio announcers:

Please broadcast the following as soon as possible:

     Here is an item of interest to swimmers.

     The Leisure and Cultural Services Department announced today (September 15) that the Environmental Protection Department has classified the water quality at Trio Beach in Sai Kung District as Grade 4, which means that the beach is not suitable for swimming. The red flag has been hoisted. Beachgoers are advised not to swim at the beach until further notice.

Source: Government of Singapore

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

President Lai meets delegation led by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour and Trade Paulson Panapa of Tuvalu
On the morning of September 15, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Labour and Trade Paulson Panapa of Tuvalu. In remarks, President Lai noted that Taiwan and Tuvalu will soon mark the 47th anniversary of their diplomatic ties, and that over the years the two countries have supported one another and walked side by side, like brothers. The president thanked Tuvalu for its longstanding support of Taiwan’s international participation and expressed hope that the two countries will continue to deepen cooperation across all domains and jointly respond to such global challenges as climate change and authoritarian expansion, so as to share in the fruits of development and together forge a prosperous future. A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
To begin, I warmly welcome Minister Panapa back to Taiwan. This visit marks Minister Panapa’s first time leading an official delegation here since taking office, symbolizing our nations’ strong and friendly diplomatic partnership and demonstrating the government of Tuvalu’s high regard and staunch support for our diplomatic ties. I sincerely welcome our esteemed guests and look forward to the ties between our nations growing ever stronger.
This Saturday will mark the 47th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Taiwan and Tuvalu. For decades, our nations have supported one another in the international arena and walked side by side in undertaking all manner of cooperation. Taiwan and Tuvalu are more than good friends; we are like brothers. Over the years, we have worked together to promote projects involving digital transformation, power grid resilience, and climate adaptation. These initiatives have all achieved fruitful results, and we will continue to deepen cooperation. At present, Taiwan is implementing pioneer projects on outer islands like Vaitupu focusing on milkfish aquaculture, increased production of fruits and vegetables, and balanced nutrition and diet. Through our collaboration, we aspire to advance balanced development across Tuvalu’s outer islands and create a better living environment for the next generation.
We also look forward to Taiwan and Tuvalu jointly engaging in more international affairs so as to make greater contributions to the world. I would like to take this opportunity to especially thank the government of Tuvalu for consistently speaking up for Taiwan at international venues and supporting our international participation. During this year’s World Health Assembly and the Pacific Islands Forum, Tuvalu once again took concrete action to back Taiwan. Taiwan will always hold these gestures of sincere friendship close to its heart.  
The United Nations General Assembly and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Conference of the Parties (COP31) will be held one after the other in the near future. We look forward to Tuvalu’s continued staunch support for Taiwan’s international participation. We also hope that, under the framework of the Kaitasi Treaty, our countries will continue to promote cooperation and exchanges in all domains and jointly respond to such global challenges as climate change and authoritarian expansion.
In closing, I congratulate our good friend Minister Panapa on his appointment as foreign minister and once again welcome him and his delegation to Taiwan. I have every confidence that, through our joint efforts, Taiwan and Tuvalu will share in the fruits of development and together forge a prosperous future. 
Minister Panapa then delivered remarks, first expressing his sincere appreciation to the government and people of Taiwan for providing extensive support to Tuvalu over the past 46 years. He also thanked the government of Taiwan for inviting his delegation, and President Lai for taking the time to meet with them. Minister Panapa said that his relationship with Taiwan began 25 years ago, when he first visited as a young official to attend a national development course at Fu Hsing Kang College. During that visit, he said, he encountered not only a society characterized by innovation and discipline, but also a people whose warmth and hospitality reminded him of home, an experience that shaped his understanding of the principles underlying a strong and lasting partnership. He has returned to Taiwan on numerous occasions since, he noted, but this visit, his first official visit as minister of foreign affairs, labour and trade, holds particular significance, as it provides an opportunity to reflect on the progress our two countries have made together and to reaffirm the enduring strength of our friendship.
Minister Panapa said that Tuvalu and Taiwan are united by the common values of democracy, respect for human rights, and the rule of law. These principles guide both nations and give meaning to our cooperation, he said, and they are further strengthened by the spirit of Kaitasi, the understanding that we are a family standing together in solidarity. In a world where democratic voices are increasingly tested, he said, the partnership between Tuvalu and Taiwan stands as a reminder that small nations can lead with principle and courage.
Minister Panapa noted that the partnership between the two countries is very visible in the lives of Tuvaluan families. He added that Taiwan’s support has helped Tuvalu build resilience against climate change, improve health and education, and expand digital connectivity. He emphasized that the agreements signed this year, covering the milkfish project and clean energy initiatives, are more than just programs; they are practical expressions of friendship and trust. Looking ahead, he said, Tuvalu is committed to deepening this cooperation. Together the two countries can strengthen renewable energy, build climate-resilient infrastructure, expand opportunities for education and labor mobility, and advance sustainable development, efforts that will ensure the partnership continues to deliver tangible benefits for our peoples. He expressed hope that together we can build a future in which our vaka, our shared canoe, is powered by clean energy, strengthened by resilient infrastructure, and guided by opportunities for our young people.
Minister Panapa emphasized that Taiwan’s leadership in health, digital innovation, and disaster response enriches the global community, and that it is only right that such expertise has a seat at the table. He said that Tuvalu will continue to speak with a clear voice in support of Taiwan’s rightful place in the international community. Pointing out that Tuvalu and Taiwan share a friendship built on trust, respect, and family, he expressed hope that as the two countries walk forward together, our partnership will continue to be a beacon of peace and resilience, not only for our peoples, but for the wider Blue Pacific and the world.
 

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

According to the statistics, from January to August 2026, 1,578 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total approved amount of US$ 16,181,020,000 were recorded. This represents a 10.12% increase in the number of cases, and a 90.93% increase in the FDI amount compared with the same period in 2025.

Regarding inward investment from Mainland China, 15 cases with a total approved amount of US$8,337,000 were recorded from January to August 2026. This reflects a 7.14% increase in the number of cases and a 91.79% decrease in the investment amount compared with the same period in 2025.

In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 458 projects were registered from January to August 2026, with a total amount of US$ 62,389,879,000. This represents a 19.93% decrease in the number of cases, but a 98.37% increase in the investment amount, compared with the same period in 2025.

As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 161 applications were approved from January to August 2026, marking a 5.92% increase compared with the same period in 2025. The approved investment amount totaled US$ 660,358,000, representing a 21.68% decline compared with the same period in 2025.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The newly installed lifts are not functioning effectively at the new Clinical Block of Queen Mary Hospital. Chief Executive John Lee said the problems need to be rectified very quickly, the Development Bureau has given him a preliminary briefing and he has asked the Bureau to thoroughly investigate the matter and report within a month.

Speaking before the Executive Council meeting, Mr Lee stressed that the Government need to identify where and whether the system has any inadequacies and rectify them.

“We will pursue accountability, including contractors, subcontractors, engineering personnel and professionals. And if there are government personnel involved, we will pursue their accountability as well.” 

He said medical services are very important and the new clinical block must be opened for service as soon as possible.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Chief Executive John Lee said that Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan will feature a blue cover to symbolise openness, progress, and stability, while his Policy Address will retain its signature green cover to represent continuity, vitality and hope.

Speaking to the media ahead of an Executive Council meeting today, Mr Lee revealed that both key documents will be unveiled simultaneously at the Legislative Council tomorrow.

“The Five-Year Plan is not a planned economy. It is a plan which tells us where the strategic directions are, where we are heading, and what the priority areas are,” Mr Lee said.

“It is a blueprint for us to implement in five years’ time, so when we, each year, roll out policies, then we also have to ascertain priorities, so that at the end of five years we will reach certain goals.”

He added that by reading both documents, people can see the indicators in the blueprint and how the Policy Address will roll out policies to implement the plan.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in New York (New York ETO) strengthened economic, academic and cultural ties and promoted talent admission schemes in Atlanta through hosting high-level meetings, sharing sessions in universities and participating in a dragon boat festival.

     The Director of New York ETO, Ms Maisie Ho, conducted a visit to Atlanta from September 10 to 12 (Atlanta time). During the visit, Ms Ho met with Managing Director of the Georgia Department of Economic Development Ms Stella Xu on September 10. Ms Ho provided an update on the latest developments in Hong Kong and exchanged views on matters of mutual interest, including opportunities to strengthen co-operation in trade, investment and innovation. On September 11, Ms Ho met with the Executive Director of Atlanta’s Mayor Office of International and Immigrant Affairs, Ms Paulina Guzman. Later in the afternoon, she also met with Gainesville Mayor, Mr Zack Thompson, and Tourism Director, Ms Robyn Lynch. Ms Ho expressed her appreciation for the two cities’ continued support and valued partnership.

     During her visit, Ms Ho met separately with senior representatives of Georgia’s leading academic institutions, namely Emory University, Georgia State University and the Georgia Institute of Technology (Georgia Tech). The meetings explored opportunities to deepen academic and research collaboration, and expand student exchanges. Ms Ho also met with students at sharing sessions at Emory and Georgia Tech to introduce Hong Kong as a dynamic global business and financial hub. She highlighted the city’s international career opportunities and extensive professional networks. She also outlined Hong Kong’s various talent admission schemes and career pathways available to graduates, researchers and young professionals. Recent graduates from both institutions also took part in the sessions to share first-hand experiences and practical insights on establishing their professional careers in Hong Kong.

     Ms Ho concluded her visit on September 12. She officiated at the opening ceremony of the 2026 Atlanta Hong Kong Dragon Boat Festival at Lake Lanier Olympic Park. This year’s festival attracted 60 teams and a total of 1 500 paddlers to participate in the races. It also introduced a new All-Cancer Paddler Division, welcoming survivors of all cancer types to compete together in a supportive and empowering environment. In addition, the festival also expanded its cultural and educational programming, celebrating Hong Kong’s rich cultural heritage while fostering unity, understanding and community.