Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     ​Following is a question by the Hon Tang Ka-piu and a written reply by the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun, in the Legislative Council today (January 21):

Question:
 
     It is learnt that there has been continued concern in Hong Kong society about families of elderly doubletons featuring “the elderly taking care of the elderly” as well as families with “persons with disabilities taking care of elderly persons” and families with “elderly persons taking care of persons with disabilities”. The Chief Executive mentioned in the 2025 Policy Address that an intelligent accident detection system (detection system) would be installed for 300 high-risk households to detect dangerous situations involving high-risk elderly persons in a timely manner. In addition, it has been reported that some organisations have collaborated with enterprises in the community to install gerontechnology products for elderly households. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council: 
(2) of the number of households currently applying for the Housing Department’s Grant for Emergency Alarm System (EAS Grant), with a breakdown by the number of elderly tenants in the relevant units, their districts of residence and age groups (each covering five years);
 
(3) given that in the reply to a question raised by a Member of this Council on the Estimates of Expenditure for the financial year 2025-2026, the Government indicated that the number of recipients of the Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme receiving the EAS Grant had gradually decreased from the 2020-2021 financial year to the 2024-2025 financial year, whether the Government has studied the reasons for the decrease in the number of recipients;
 
(4) whether it has conducted performance assessments of organisations currently providing EAS (commonly known as “ping on bell”) service; if so, of the standard of service provided by various organisations; if not, whether the Government will consider conducting such assessments of those organisations;
 
(5) of the number of households that have installed the Door Sensor Installation for Elderly Households (the sensor system) to date, with a breakdown by the number of elderly tenants in the relevant units and their districts of residence;
 
(6) whether the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HA) may receive the alerts issued by the sensor system simultaneously; if so, of the number of alerts issued by the sensor system to date, with a breakdown by the reasons for issuing alerts; if not, whether the Government will consider allowing HA to receive the relevant alerts simultaneously in the future;
 
(7) whether it has compiled statistics on the number of cases where elderly persons were found dead at home in the past five years, with a tabulated breakdown by their districts of residence, whether “ping on bell” was installed and the level of impairment under the Standardized Care Need Assessment Mechanism for Elderly Services; and
 
(8) apart from the detection system and the sensor system, whether the Government has considered further providing other practical gerontechnology products for elderly persons directly for free; if so, whether it has estimated the additional funding required; if not, the reasons for that?
 
Reply:
 
President, 
     The LWB hopes to achieve in this pilot scheme, through the application of technology, immediate detection, timely intervention, and prompt assistance whenever home accidents befall carers and/or their care recipients. The LWB is actively undertaking preparatory work and expects to announce the detailed arrangements in the first quarter of 2026 at the earliest, followed by installation of systems for relevant households. We aim to complete such installation for no fewer than 300 households by or before the third quarter of 2026.
      
     In addition, the Government set up the $1 billion Innovation and Technology Fund for Application in Elderly and Rehabilitation Care (the Fund) in December 2018 to subsidise eligible elderly and rehabilitation service units to procure, rent or trial technology products, so as to improve the quality of life of service users and reduce the burden and pressure of care staff and carers. In 2024-25, the Government injected additional $1 billion into the Fund and expanded its scope to cover technology products suitable for household use. As at December 2025, the Fund had allocated a total of about $910 million, subsidising about 2 100 elderly and rehabilitation service units to procure or rent over 27 000 technology products.
      
     The Social Welfare Department (SWD) expanded the scope of the Community Care Service Voucher Scheme for the Elderly in September 2023 to cover rental of assistive technology products, thus further catalysing the use of gerontechnology in community care services for elderly persons.
      
     As for the public rental housing (PRH) estates, apart from the Internet of Things (IoT) Door Sensor Installation for Elderly Households (the Scheme), the HD is actively exploring the use of new technologies in promoting elderly-friendly living. For instance, the HD has piloted the installation of smart fall-detection systems in some accessible toilets of some PRH estates to detect incidents such as falls, fainting, prolonged inactivity, etc. The HKHA has also collaborated with the Hong Kong Police Force to promote the Project PINPOINT which encourages the use of location devices for high-risk elderly individuals so as to prevent the elderly from missing and alleviating the stress of their carers and families. The HD will continue exploring the feasibility of implementing other gerontechnologies with other government departments and social welfare organisations with a view to benefiting more elderly residents. The HKHA and the HKHS will also continue looking into the application of more smart solutions in their rental estates, such as exploring the use of robots to assist in carrying heavy items to strengthen support for elderly residents.
     
(2) to (4) The HKHA provides eligible elderly households who do not receive Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) with subsidies to install Emergency Alarm Systems (EAS) (also known as “Safety Bell”), so that the elderly in need are able to seek prompt assistance in case of emergency. The HKHA has extended the scope of the EAS subsidy to cover not only traditional EAS but also mobile EAS, such as mobile phones and watches equipped with EAS as well as products with fall detection function. Elderly households may purchase the said devices on their own. Successful applicants will be given a one-off subsidy of not more than $2,500 to cover the actual expenses. As at end November 2025, the HKHA had approved over 26 000 applications. The HKHA does not keep the breakdown of the age profile or the districts of the applicants.      
     From 2020-21 to 2024-25, the number of CSSA recipients receiving the grant for EAS dropped from 32 745 to 25 543, alongside the decrease in the number of CSSA elderly cases from 128 863 to 110 846. The CSSA recipients decide on whether to apply for the grant for EAS based on their individual circumstances with varying reasons. Staff at Social Security Field Units of SWD will provide eligible CSSA recipients with information on the relevant grant and facilitate their applications. Apart from the grant provided under CSSA, various organisations in society also offer CSSA recipients similar EAS assistance.
      
     The SWD has not designated any service providers with regards the grant for EAS provided under the CSSA Scheme. CSSA recipients in need are free to purchase suitable EAS according to their needs. Separately, under the District Services and Community Care Teams – Pilot Scheme on Supporting Elderly and Carers, the Government subsidises eligible elderly persons and persons with disabilities referred by the Care Teams to install and use the emergency alarm services. Such services are provided by the designated service providers engaged by the SWD through established procurement procedures. The SWD monitors the provision of the services in accordance with the service contracts, as well as reviews and enhances the services as appropriate. 
     Subject to residents’ participation and the availability of resources, the HD will identify suitable estates for expansion of the Pilot Scheme along with simultaneous receipt of door-opening/closing notifications. The HD will actively explore the feasibility of implementing other similar schemes in collaboration with other government departments and social welfare organisations, with a view to benefiting more elderly households in other PRH estates. 
      
     In the past 5 years (i.e. from 2021 to November 2025), the number of natural death cases recorded in PRH units under the HD is set out in the table below. HD does not maintain statistical breakdowns by age, district, or whether the concerned individuals had EAS installed.
     

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is the keynote speech by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, at the Thought Leadership Conference Series: The Future of Hong Kong Economy organised by the University of Hong Kong (HKU) Business School today (January 21):

Professor Wong (the Provost and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of HKU and Director of the Hong Kong Institute of Economics and Business Strategy, Professor Richard Wong), Professor Cai (the Dean and Chair of Economics of the HKU Business School, Professor Cai Hongbin), Professor Mokyr (the recipient of the 2025 Nobel Prize in Economic Sciences, Professor Joel Mokyr), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

     Good morning. I am most pleased to address such a distinguished audience today at the conference on The Future of Hong Kong Economy 2026. 

     The year 2026 unfolds against a global backdrop of complexity and uncertainty. Issues like geopolitical tensions, supply chain shifts and tariff disputes are reshaping the flow of capital and the operation of businesses. Yet history shows that Hong Kong’s prosperity has always been fuelled by embracing changes, and by turning challenges into opportunities.

     This leads me to the theme today – how Hong Kong can continue to serve as a trusted platform for business growth in the region and beyond. Please allow me to structure my remarks around three “C”s: Certainty, Capability, and Connectivity.

Certainty – rule of law as economic bedrock

     The first and most fundamental “C” is Certainty.

     For businesses to thrive and economies to flourish, we need above all a predictable environment: certainty in contracts, in dispute resolution and in the enforcement of rights and obligations. In short, certainty is underpinned by the rule of law.

     Hong Kong’s success as an international financial, trading, and legal services centre is inseparable from its solid rule-of-law foundation. Our common law system, constitutionally guaranteed under the Basic Law, has been operating with integrity for over 180 years here. Judicial independence, equality before the law, and respect for contractual freedom are core values that we all treasure.

     In an era when businesses must navigate multiple jurisdictions and political risks, Hong Kong offers something unique: a stable, bilingual, and internationally trusted legal environment. As the only common law jurisdiction within China, and the only one operating fully in both Chinese and English, Hong Kong provides unparalleled credibility and convenience for cross-border transactions.

     Under the Basic Law, free flow of capital is guaranteed. Investments and properties in Hong Kong are protected by a robust regulatory regime administered by bodies including the Securities and Futures Commission and the Independent Commission Against Corruption. 

     The jurisprudence of the Hong Kong courts commands high respect in other common law jurisdictions. In a recent judgement, the Judicial Committee of the Privy Council sitting in London referred to and discussed no fewer than six Hong Kong decisions from the past few years when determining insolvency issues raised in an appeal before it. This credibility is reflected in our consistent global standing – Hong Kong ranks among the top jurisdictions globally for business legislation and dispute resolution, making us the world’s second-most preferred seat for arbitration and number one in the Asia-Pacific region.

     Legal certainty is also a strategic enabler that allows businesses to plan long term, deploy capital with confidence, and innovate without fear. This foundation makes Hong Kong the ideal international legal hub for proactive collaboration in an era where “safe passage” for capital is more critical than ever.

Capability – professional services powering economic growth

     Building on certainty comes the second “C”: Capability.

     Hong Kong’s professional services ecosystem – spanning across legal, finance, accounting, tax, risk management, and dispute resolution – is one of our most powerful strengths. Their quality services are integral to value creation – by empowering businesses to manage risks effectively, tackling compliance issues skilfully, structuring transactions securely, and resolving disputes efficiently.

     Our legal profession is international in outlook and local in insight. Our financial and accounting professionals operate to global standards while understanding regional realities. Together, they provide end-to-end support across the entire business lifecycle – from market entry and project financing, to management of an intellectual property rights portfolio, regulatory compliance, restructuring, and cross-border dispute resolution.

     In a world of tariff disputes, sanctions, and regulatory divergence, companies increasingly rely on professional services to navigate complexity. Whether expanding into ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations), the Middle East, Africa, or other markets, businesses require bespoke solutions – solutions that are legally sound, commercially viable, and culturally informed.

     This is precisely where Hong Kong excels. We are home to a deep pool of professionals, recently ranked first in Asia and fourth globally under the IMD (International Institute for Management Development) World Talent Ranking. 

     Our professionals speak the universal language of business, with clear understanding of the nuances of different legal systems, market practices, and risk profiles. We have over 13 000 local lawyers and over 1 500 foreign lawyers from over 30 jurisdictions, including some 500 from the Chinese Mainland as well as more than 80 foreign law firms. Furthermore, we have a unique asset – over 600 lawyers with dual qualifications to practice in both Hong Kong and the Mainland cities of the Greater Bay Area.

     In my view, an enterprise expanding globally is like a gentleman visiting a tailor shop for an impeccable suit. An off-the-rack solution simply does not work. What businesses need, and Hong Kong can offer, is a bespoke experience – professional services that cater to the client’s needs and execute with precision to ensure a perfect fit for every occasion.

Connectivity – GoGlobal and Hong Kong’s strategic role

     This brings me to the third “C”: Connectivity.

     Hong Kong has long been described as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”. It highlights Hong Kong’s crucial role under the “one country, two systems” in connecting the Chinese Mainland with the rest of the world.

     In recent years, the Government has taken proactive steps to strengthen this role by supporting enterprises, particularly Mainland enterprises, to use Hong Kong as a launch pad for global expansion.

     Under the Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address, I have been tasked to promote our legal services and co-ordinate with other professional sectors to meet the going global needs of Mainland enterprises.

     To this end, we launched the Hong Kong Professional Services GoGlobal Platform last December. It serves two major functions:

(1) Information integration: We make information on professional services providers and their capability easily accessible to enterprises. At the launch ceremony of the Platform, we published a collection of over 50 success stories covering a wide range of sectors and extensive markets including Asia, Middle East and Africa.

(2) Needs matching: We enhance co-ordination to meet the specific needs of enterprises. For instance, I recently led a cross-professional delegation to Shenzhen for a direct exchange between our experts and Mainland enterprises. This initiative was well-received.

     Earlier this month, we also established the Expert Committee on Professional Services for Going Global, comprising experts from relevant fields, to advise me on our strategy to promote Hong Kong as the premier two-way platform for attracting investment and going global. 

Looking ahead

     Ladies and gentlemen, as we consider Hong Kong’s economic outlook in 2026, we should neither be complacent nor pessimistic. The challenges are real. But so are our strengths.

     The certainty under our rule of law infrastructure instils trust. The capability of our professional services delivers solutions. The connectivity through our GoGlobal initiatives provides opportunities.

     The relationship between law and the economy is practical, dynamic, and deeply intertwined. A resilient economy requires a credible legal system. A modern legal system must serve real economic needs. In Hong Kong, these two have grown together – and they will continue to do so.

     With continued collaboration among the Government, businesses, and the professional community, I am sure that Hong Kong will not only navigate the present uncertainties, but emerge stronger, more relevant, and more connected to the world.

     On that note, I wish you all a fruitful conference today and continued success in your endeavours. Thank you very much.     

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     ​Following is a question by the Hon Kenneth Fok and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (January 21):
 
Question:
 
     There are views that ensuring a stable supply of major cultural and sports (C&S) facilities is an important foundation for supporting the industrialisation of the cultural sector. It is reported that Hong Kong hosted over 210 mega events in 2024, and that more than 285 large-scale pop concert performances were held in the city between 2024 and the first half of 2025. Rough estimates suggest that these concerts attracted over 3.9 ‍million spectators, including more than 1.4 million tourists, generating approximately $3.4 billion in local spending and contributing around $1.9 ‍billion in value added to the local economy. However, utilisation rates at existing major C&S facilities have consistently exceeded 90 per cent, reflecting an insufficient supply of such facilities. Some members of the sectors consider that this situation has constrained the flexibility with which major events can be staged. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
 
(1) given that, according to the Northern Metropolis Action Agenda, the land resources in the Northern Metropolis (NM) offer new opportunities to develop world-class cultural facilities and a pluralistic cultural environment in Hong Kong, and that an iconic cultural complex and various dedicated performing venues will also be built in the San Tin Technopole and the NM, of the Government’s specific plans for such cultural and performance facility projects, including the confirmed sites for major C&S facilities, their respective sizes and scales, the anticipated years of completion and the current progress of such projects;

(2) whether the Government has considered enhancing the Revitalisation Scheme for Industrial Buildings to provide further support for the arts, cultural and creative sectors, including introducing facilitation measures to support the staging of small-scale cultural performances in industrial buildings;
 
(3) given the successful conclusion of the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games, in which Hong Kong participated for the first time as a co-host, what plans the Government has in place to consolidate the valuable experience and benefits gained from hosting sports events at Hong Kong’s major C&S facilities during the Games, with a view to promoting in-depth integration and development between Hong Kong and other Mainland cities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area over the long term, and laying the groundwork for future bids to host major international C&S events;
 
(4) of the progress made to date in implementing the 24 measures announced in the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development to enhance the ecosystem for arts, culture and creative industries; whether it has assessed the specific contribution of these measures to increasing the supply of major C&S facilities in Hong Kong; and
 
(5) given the proposal in “The Chief Executive’s 2024 Policy Address” to build Hong Kong into a centre for mega international sports events, whether the authorities will, with a view to enhancing Hong Kong’s industrial competitiveness as an international sports city, conduct a comprehensive review of the operating mechanisms of major C&S facilities, including identifying key facilities for market-oriented reform, so as to optimise resource allocation and meet the growing demand for sports, thereby providing full support for the industrialisation of Hong Kong’s C&S sectors?
 
Reply：
 
President：
      
     In consultation with the Development Bureau, the reply to the question raised by the Hon Kenneth Fok is as follows:
 
(1) and (4) The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB), the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and partner organisations have been actively taking forward the 71 measures under the four strategic directions of the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development (Blueprint), including the 24 measures under Strategic Direction 4 “Enhance the Ecosystem for the Arts, Culture and Creative Industries”. At present, the implementation of various Blueprint measures is of good progress and significant development has been achieved for many of them.
 
     On increasing the supply of large-scale culture facilities, we have implemented the reformed hiring policy for public performance venues progressively, providing spaces that better cater for arts and cultural activities of the time through repositioning the performance venues. Specific measures include refocusing the Hong Kong Coliseum to prioritise concerts; positioning the East Kowloon Cultural Centre as a signature venue for long-running performances and arts technology; according priority for Cantonese opera at the Sha Tin Town Hall Auditorium; and enhancing the LCSD’s Venue Partnership Scheme. We hope to provide more slots for different arts groups and concert organisers, and align with the new policy objectives as developing mega events (including concerts) economy and promoting the integration of culture and tourism.
      
     In addition, we have also dedicated resources in developing and enhancing culture facilities. Currently under construction and scheduled to be completed in 2026, the WestK Performing Arts Centre (WestK PAC) will provide a 1 450-seat Grand Theatre, a 600-seat Medium Theatre and a 270-seat Studio Theatre. The LCSD is also implementing multiple projects on the development of culture facilities in the Northern Metropolis in an orderly manner. Projects under construction include the Hong Kong Conservation Repository (formerly the Heritage Conservation and Resource Centre) in Tin Shui Wai and the New Territories East Cultural Centre in Fanling. The Hong Kong Conservation Repository in Tin Shui Wai is expected to come into operation in 2028. The Repository will enhance the institutional capacity and elevate the position of the LCSD in the acquisition, preservation, research, and display of artefacts, as well as serving as a platform to nurture young people and encourage cultural exchanges, thereby injecting new impetus into the development of conservation profession in Hong Kong. The New Territories East Cultural Centre in Fanling is expected to open in 2030. It will serve as a multi-purpose professional performance venue, providing an interactive platform facilitating collaborations among arts groups from Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area (GBA).
      
     Besides, we are working proactively with relevant museums in the Chinese Mainland on the preparatory works for establishing the museum showcasing the development and achievements of our country in Kwu Tung North.
      
     In the long run, the Government is exploring the establishment of a large-scale cultural complex in San Tin Technopole, which includes a major museum, a performance venue and a library, bringing together a diverse and world-class array of local and international exhibitions and performances, further consolidating Hong Kong’s position as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
      
     In the meantime, to support the development of the Northern Metropolis, the Government has reserved sites for developing various sports and recreation facilities, including sports centres, swimming pools, and facilities for fencing training and competition. These facilities will meet the sports and recreation needs of the community, support the staging of sports events, and provide training venues for local athletes. Making best use of their strategic locations in the Northern Metropolis, they can strengthen the collaboration and exchange with the GBA, thereby contributing to the sports development in Hong Kong.
      
     The Government will continue to review the order of priority of works projects under planning and update their works schedules as appropriate so as to make more effective use of public resources.
 
(2) The Government has been exploring ways to relax restrictions of different venues to open up more spaces for performances and exhibitions, such as allowing cinemas to be used for live performances. According to the prevailing laws, if a cinema is to be used for live performances, its operator must apply for and obtain from the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD) a one-off special permission prior to the live performances. Depending on whether temporary structures need to be erected, the approval process takes at least 18 or 42 working days. To further streamlining the application procedures, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency had convened a meeting in July 2025 rounding up the relevant Government departments (including the FEHD, the Fire Services Department and the Buildings Department) and the Hong Kong Theatres Association to identify room for streamlining. The FEHD has been actively working with the relevant departments to draw up a standard application form to facilitate the submission of application by operators.
 
     In respect of the industrial buildings (IBs), the Revitalisation Scheme for IBs reactivated by the Government in 2018 comprises two aspects of redevelopment and wholesale conversation. For redevelopment of IBs constructed before 1987, subject to technical feasibility study and approval by the Town Planning Board, the plot ratio after redevelopment may be increased by up to 20 per cent. As regards to wholesale conversation of IBs aged 15 years or above in “Commercial” or “Industrial” zones, waiver fees may be exempted, and if the IB was constructed in or after 1987, 10 per cent of the converted floor space must be used for purposes designated by the Government including arts and cultural or creative industries. In respect of IBs with fragmented ownership and no redevelopment or conversation plans, the prevailing policy allows owner of individual IB units to use the units, without having to apply for a short-term waiver from the Lands Department (LandsD) and pay waiver fees, for five specified uses (Note 1), which include “Art Studio” (e.g. rehearsal space for art performances). However, considering that the other units in the concerned IB may still be used for industrial purposes and in view of public safety, the uses do not include any uses or activities that directly provide services or goods to attract public visits (including public performance). The Development Bureau is conducting a new round of study on industrial stock with the Planning Department and the LandsD, and will put forward recommendations this year, including the way forward for the Revitalisation Scheme for IBs.
      
     The Government will continue to explore ways to relax restrictions of different venues to open up more venue spaces.
 
(3) Hong Kong co-hosted the 15th National Games (NG), and the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NGDSO) with Guangdong and Macao for the first time, making full use of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) and other existing sports facilities, and showcasing how cities in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao leverage their advantages in the GBA. It also demonstrated the capabilities of Hong Kong in hosting major sports events. The experience from co-hosting the NG and the NGDSO not only enhanced Hong Kong’s ability to organise mega events, but also deepened sports exchanges among Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao and promoted the integrated development of GBA.
 
     During the NG, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government, the Macao SAR Government and the People’s Government of Guangdong Province signed the agreement with the General Administration of Sport of China on the strengthening of sports co-operation and promotion of integrated development (the Four-Party Agreement). The Four-Party Agreement aims to bolster sports exchanges and the integrated development of Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao GBA, including further collaboration in areas such as consolidation of sports resources and joint hosting of sports competitions. Under the strategic framework of the Four-Party Agreement, there will be more frequent exchanges between government departments and sports associations of the three places, laying a solid foundation for future co-operation between Hong Kong and GBA to co-host major events.
 
(5) The Government has all along attached great importance to sports development and is committed to optimising the operation mechanism of relevant facilities to ensure effective resource allocation, meet the demand for sports and promote the development of the sports industry.
 
     With the commissioning of KTSP and the successful conclusion of the NG and the NGDSO, Hong Kong’s experience in planning large-scale sports infrastructure and organising international-level competitions has been enhanced. The Government will make best use of KTSP and other sports infrastructures to attract more major international sports events to be held in Hong Kong, driving economic benefits from “sports + mega events” development, reinforcing Hong Kong’s status as the centre for major international sports events and contributing to the development of sports as an industry.
      
     Moreover, “The Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address” announced that market-based business models will be introduced into designated facilities of the LCSD to provide more diverse value-added activities. Feasibility of engaging the market to enhance the operations of the Lei Yue Mun Park holiday camp and selected beaches will also be explored to promote the development of recreational, leisure and aquatic hotspots. The LCSD has designated eight leisure and cultural facilities under their management, including the Hong Kong Museum of Art, the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, the Chater Garden, the Kai Tak Station Square, for introducing commercial elements and flexibly providing more diverse value-added activities to enhance their attractiveness in support of the development of Hong Kong’s cultural and sports industries.
 
Note 1: Other uses are “Office (Design and Media Production)”, “Office (Audio-visual Recording Studio)”, “Office (used by “specific creative industries” including design and media production companies, printing and publishing, film companies and industry organisations related to the film industry)” and “Research, Design and Development Centre”.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by the Hon Tang Fei and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (January 21):

Question:     
(1) whether it has plans to commission experts, scholars or higher education institutions to conduct scientific, in-depth research tailored for Hong Kong’s unique social environment, so as to assess the specific impact of social media on the emotional health, personality development and academic performance of local children and adolescents; if so, of the details and timetable; if not, the reasons for that, and whether consideration will be given to establishing dedicated funding to support such academic research;

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by the Hon Yiu Ming and a reply by the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Ms Mable Chan, in the Legislative Council today (January 21):

Question:

     The Government has advised that it will adopt the principles of “infrastructure-led” and “capacity creating” to take forward the MTR Northern Link (NOL) Main Line and Spur Line projects, with the target of commissioning the projects in or before 2034. However, there are views that as the relevant railway infrastructures are still under construction, the completion and intake of residents for public and private housing developments one after another in New Territories North (NTN) in recent years may impose pressure on the traffic in the district. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

(1) whether it has compiled statistics for the past three years on and estimated for the coming three years the population growth brought by the newly completed public and private housing developments in NTN, as well as formulated targeted short to medium term traffic contingency plans based on such data in order to meet the cross-district travel needs of the residents in the district;

(2) as it has been reported that the commissioning of Kwu Tung Station connecting NOL is expected to be advanced to 2027, whether the Government has plans to advance the commissioning of other stations along NOL in a strategic and phased manner so as to cope with the additional transport demand in the district; and

(3) in the light of the growing population in NTN, whether the Government will discuss with MTR Corporation Limited the further adjustment of the train frequency of the MTR East Rail Line, the deployment of more trains, or the introduction of passenger flow management measures so as to cope with the future increasing patronage; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?

Reply:
 
President,

     The Government has a set of holistic transport strategies and planning principles to address the needs of the travelling public and socio-economic development through improving transportation infrastructure, enhancing public transport services and optimising road resources. In planning public transport services for individual districts, the Government takes into account a range of factors, including local development, demographic changes, transport infrastructure planning, traffic conditions and the carrying capacity and service positioning of different public transport modes. In view of the anticipated population growth in the New Territories North (NTN) (including Fanling, Sheung Shui, Kwu Tung and San Tin), the Government will make advance planning of public transport services as appropriate to meet the travelling needs of the public. 

     The reply to various parts of the question raised by the Hon Yiu Ming is as follows:

(1) Over the past three years, the newly completed housing development projects in the NTN primarily included Ching Tao Court and Choi Shek Estate in Sheung Shui, leading to a population increase of about 9 400. The Transport Department (TD) has already made several arrangements in advance under the annual route planning programmes of the franchised bus operators. The arrangements include introducing bus service between Ching Tao Court and Sheung Shui Station in September 2024 as well as launching a green minibus route between Choi Shek Estate and Shek Wu Hui in December last year. 

     In the next few years, the population intake of the two housing development projects in Fanling North and Kwu Tung North New Development Areas (NDAs) will commence in two phases, with the first phase from mid-2026 to 2027 accommodating an additional population of approximately 55 000 and the second phase from 2030 to 2032 accommodating about 170 000. We have formulated various measures to address the travelling needs of residents, including advance planning of short-to-medium term road works for the two NDAs based on the “infrastructure-led” and “capacity creating” principle. The works include the commissioning of the Fanling Bypass Eastern Section within this year, which will connect the Fanling North NDA directly to the Fanling Highway, thereby alleviating the traffic situation in Sheung Shui and Fanling town centres. In addition, the Government will complete several road improvement works progressively by 2031, including the construction of Po Shek Wu Road Flyover and Fanling Bypass Western Section, as well as the widening of the section of the Fanling Highway between Kwu Tung and Sheung Shui, to tie in with the intake progress of the second phase of the two NDAs concerned. 

     In terms of public transport services, the TD has planned to introduce a total of six new franchised bus routes in light of the first phase of intake of the two NDAs concerned. These routes will connect Kwu Tung North and Fanling North to Sheung Shui or Fanling Station as well as key community facilities within the district (such as North District Hospital). They will also include inter-district services to and from Kowloon East, Kowloon West, Tsuen Wan District and Yuen Long District. Bus routes to and from urban areas will pass through bus-bus interchanges at major tunnels to facilitate the public and residents to transfer for other districts. Relevant roads and public transport interchanges within the new development areas will also be ready by then. The TD has already briefed the North District Council on the relevant arrangements around the end of last year. 

(2) and (3) On railway infrastructure development, the Government is pressing ahead with the Northern Link (NOL) Project, which is an important piece of transport infrastructure supporting the Northern Metropolis development and facilitating Hong Kong’s better integration into national development. The Project comprises Kwu Tung Station on the East Rail Line (EAL), the NOL Main Line connecting the EAL and the Tuen Ma Line, as well as the NOL Spur Line connecting San Tin Station and the new Huanggang Port in Shenzhen. The construction of Kwu Tung Station on EAL has already commenced in 2023. Progress has been satisfactory thus far and the station is expected to come into operation in 2027 as scheduled, which would match the timing of major population intake of the Kwu Tung North NDA. Last year, the Government executed the Project Agreement for Part 1 of the NOL Project with the MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) to implement the NOL Spur Line in combination with the Main Line through an innovative mindset, substantially bringing forward the timetable of the Spur Line by two years than what was originally envisaged and achieving simultaneous commissioning with the Main Line by 2034 or earlier.

     At present, we are taking forward the NOL Main Line and Spur Line on the basis of simultaneous commissioning across both lines. This mega railway project is currently in full swing. As the project progresses, we together with MTRCL would examine the feasibility of commissioning by phases. Relevant considerations include overall technical feasibility, interface with other works in the new development areas along the railway alignment, the development pace of projects along the railway alignment, and whether testing and commissioning by phases would affect the commissioning date of the remaining railway sections. We would continue to work with MTRCL towards reducing construction time, and endeavour to commission the NOL Project at an early juncture.

     In summary, the Transport and Logistics Bureau and the TD will continue to monitor the population growth and passenger demand in the NTN as well as the operation of relevant public transport services to enhance services at suitable juncture to meet residents’ needs. Meanwhile, we will continue to work with relevant government departments responsible for planning and development to formulate appropriate traffic and public transport service arrangements in advance. 

     Thank you, President.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Jockey Club Nature Conservation Centre Opening Ceremony today (January 21):

Andrew (Chairperson, Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden (KFBG), Mr Andrew McAulay), Lester (Deputy Chairman, Hong Kong Jockey Club, Mr Lester Huang), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, 

     Good afternoon. It is a joy to be here with you for the opening of the Jockey Club Nature Conservation Centre – and to launch Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden’s milestone 70th anniversary year.

     As Andrew noted, this new Centre was made possible by the Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust. This support is not only deeply appreciated – it is especially fitting, with the Year of the Horse arriving in just a few weeks.

     For 70 years, KFBG has continually evolved to support the government and the people of Hong Kong.

     Today, KFBG continues to broaden its mission. It builds on decades of hands-on scientific and practical nature restoration, and advises NGOs (non-governmental organisations), institutions, corporations and, of course, the Hong Kong Government.

     The Government is deeply committed to protecting Hong Kong’s biodiversity and environment. Last month, we published our updated Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan, which reflects both global goals and our country’s national strategy for conservation.

     The Plan outlines how Hong Kong will protect nature and support sustainable development over the next decade.

     I am pleased to say that KFBG played a significant role in this updated plan.

     And I should add – KFBG’s forest restoration programme recently became the first in the world to receive a premium-tier certification from the Global Biodiversity Standard, underlining its global leadership in ecological restoration.

     KFBG’s expertise also supports Hong Kong’s Northern Metropolis Development Strategy, as we move toward better integration of urban and rural areas, and balance development and conservation.

     The new Conservation Centre is home to more than 100 scientists and other professionals, ensuring that KFBG’s important work in nature conservation, sustainable living and holistic education continues to grow, and also supporting the Government, our people and the rich natural environment we are so blessed with.

     That includes more than 580 bird species, which represents one-third of our country’s total, and some 6 000 marine species, around one quarter of our country’s recorded total. 

     Hong Kong is also home to wonderful landscapes, like the UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Global Geopark and many other conservation areas.

     In 2024, we established three major nature conservation parks. And upon the completion of the Wetland Conservation Park in the Northern Metropolis, which will be five times larger than the Hong Kong Wetland Park, we will have a vital new hub for wetland conservation.

     Nature conservation and biodiversity require constant care and collaboration. I look forward to continuing our co-operation with KFBG, the Jockey Club, scholars, researchers, environmentalists and the general public – to keep nature at the heart of Hong Kong’s future. 

     I wish Kadoorie Farm and Botanic Garden another 70 rewarding years of nature conservation and education. And I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year, full of the good fortune that our precious environment gives us. Thank you.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Centre for Food Safety (CFS) of the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department today (January 21) announced the test results of a recently completed seasonal food surveillance project on Lunar New Year (LNY) food (first phase). The test results of around 770 samples collected were satisfactory, except for two prepackaged rice cake samples found with sodium contents inconsistent with the declared values on their nutrition labels, which were announced earlier.

     A spokesman for the CFS said, “The LNY is coming soon, and the CFS is conducting this seasonal food surveillance project in two phases. During the first phase of the project, different types of LNY food – including steamed puddings (e.g. turnip puddings and festive cakes), fried dumplings (e.g. sesame balls and crispy triangles), candies, glutinous rice balls, nuts, melon seeds, vegetarian dishes and dried aquatic products – were collected from different retailers (including online retailers) for chemical and microbiological tests as well as nutrition content analysis.”

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Following is a question by the Hon Chan Hok-fung and a written reply by the Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, in the Legislative Council today (January 21):

Question: