Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
CE meets Secretary of CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee (with photo)
Mr Lee welcomed Mr Jin and his delegation to Hong Kong. He said that Hong Kong and Shenzhen have long maintained close ties in areas such as economic and trade and people-to-people exchanges. Under the Hong Kong/Shenzhen co-operation mechanism, the two places have established various task forces to continuously enhance collaboration in different key areas. The Memorandum of Understanding and agreements signed today cover a number of areas, including finance, innovation and technology (I&T) and support services for enterprises going global, further advancing broader, deeper and higher-level co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen. The two places will continue to work together to inject stronger impetus into the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
Mr Lee said that, under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of connecting the Mainland and the world. Hong Kong will continue to leverage its strengths as an international financial centre and its roles as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”. Through the Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global, Hong Kong will continue to serve Mainland enterprises, including those in Shenzhen, in expanding into international markets. China is the host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in 2026, and the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting will be held in Shenzhen. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government will spare no effort in ensuring the success of the APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting to be held in Hong Kong, further deepen international exchanges and co-operation, and better integrate into and serve the overall national development.
Mr Lee said that Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan, to be announced soon, will set out a blueprint for Hong Kong’s future development and enable the city to seize the enormous opportunities brought by the National 15th Five-Year Plan. Hong Kong is pressing ahead at full speed with the development of the Northern Metropolis. According to the Global Innovation Index 2026, the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou innovation cluster again ranked first globally, fully demonstrating the strong capabilities and broad prospects of Hong Kong and Shenzhen in I&T development. The HKSAR Government will continue to promote the collaborative development of the “one zone, two parks” concept of the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, and jointly contribute to the country’s development into a nation that is strong in science and technology. At the same time, the HKSAR Government is making every effort to prepare for the smooth commissioning of the Huanggang Port. More than 100 system tests and drills of varying scales have been conducted and port operation arrangements are being continuously optimised, with the aim of further enhancing cross-boundary clearance efficiency and the service capacity of the port, to promote more efficient synergy between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.
Issued at HKT 19:30
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Speech by SCST at opening ceremony of CAVALLUNA – Gate to the Otherworld (English only)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the opening ceremony of CAVALLUNA – Gate to the Otherworld today (September 10):
Deputy Commissioner Hua You (Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Deputy Director-General Lin Nan (Deputy Director-General of the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Mr Martin Liao (Chairman of the Hong Kong Jockey Club), Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Jockey Club), Mr Johannes Mock- O’ Hara (Chief Executive Officer of Apassionata World GmbH), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening. It is my great pleasure to join you here at the spectacular Kai Tak Arena to celebrate the opening of CAVALLUNA – Gate to the Otherworld.
This extraordinary equestrian show has already captivated millions across more than 30 cities in Europe, enchanting audiences of all ages with its seamless fusion of world-class horsemanship, theatrical storytelling, music, and dance. Tonight, we are privileged to witness its Asian debut – right here in Hong Kong – featuring 54 magnificent horses and an internationally acclaimed cast of riders and performers. We are truly honoured that the organiser has chosen our city as the first stop in Asia, and the successful staging of this large-scale production at the Kai Tak Arena once again affirms Hong Kong’s standing as a premier host of world-class events.
In addition, with the support from our Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund, we are delighted that the organiser has thoughtfully tailored the show to resonate with local audiences and visitors from the Greater Bay Area. From featuring a local singer in the performance to adding English voice-over with Chinese subtitles, these adaptations reflect a genuine commitment to cultural connection. We trust this collaboration marks a promising beginning – and we look forward to many more spectacular shows and mega events like CAVALLUNA making their way to Hong Kong, enriching the cultural tapestry of our community and our friends from around the globe.
In 2026, the Year of the Horse, this production carries profound symbolism. In Chinese culture, the horse embodies strength, vitality, and perseverance – values that echo the spirit of our city. Under the steadfast framework of “one country, two systems”, Hong Kong will continue to harness its unique advantages to foster international connectivity, while deepening the world’s appreciation of Chinese culture and heritage.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organiser, the Hong Kong Jockey Club, and all collaborating organisations for their invaluable sponsorship and unwavering support. My sincere thanks also go to every artist and team member who has worked tirelessly to bring CAVALLUNA to our shores.
May the production enjoy every success during its run in Hong Kong, and may each of you have a truly memorable and enchanting evening. Thank you.
Omani bank Sohar International advances global reach with new Asia Pacific Office in Hong Kong
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Omani bank Sohar International advances global reach with new Asia Pacific Office in Hong Kong
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, highlighted that Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government warmly welcomes the opening of Sohar International’s representative office – the first presence of an Omani bank in Hong Kong, and Sohar International’s first office in Asia. Its arrival affirms confidence in Hong Kong as an international financial centre and a gateway connecting the Middle East, the Chinese Mainland and Asia. Oman’s strategic position along the maritime Belt and Road, combined with Hong Kong’s strengths in capital markets, asset and wealth management, banking, professional services and offshore Renminbi business, can facilitate trade, investment and project financing. Hong Kong-Oman collaboration is already taking good shape, including the Oman Investment Authority’s plan to participate in Hong Kong’s vibrant startup ecosystem by investing up to HK$250 million as a partner to the Innovation and Technology Venture Fund. Under the “one country, two systems” framework, Hong Kong serves as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”. HKSAR Government looks forward to deepening financial links with Sohar International, helping businesses find the right opportunities in the Gulf and across Asia, and turning new connections into lasting, mutually beneficial partnerships.
Guests of honour attending the opening ceremony included the Ambassador-at-Large at the Foreign Ministry of Oman, Mr Abdulaziz Abdullah Al Hinai; the Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Investment Promotion, Ms Ibtisam Ahmed Said Al Farooji; the Deputy President of the Oman Investment Authority for Operations, Mr Muneer Ali Al-Muneeri; the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Sohar International, Mr Said Mohamed Al-Aufi; and the Chief Executive Officer of Sohar International, Mr Abdulwahid Mohamed Al Murshidi.
The Director-General of Investment Promotion, Ms Alpha Lau, said that InvestHK is proud to have facilitated Sohar International’s setup in Hong Kong, from its business delegation to Oman in May 2025 to high-level government exchanges and local regulatory alignment. Beyond enriching Hong Kong’s banking sector, Sohar International’s arrival enables businesses to reimagine what the stronger investment ties between the Middle East and Asia can achieve, capitalising on the city’s strengths in fundraising, risk management, and professional services. Sohar International will also serve as a key partner for Chinese enterprises seeking to expand into Oman and the wider GCC.
Mr Abdulwahid said that Sohar International’s presence in Hong Kong is a strategic step in its international growth, offering closer access to one of the world’s most important financial and commercial centres and a stronger platform from which to engage with investors, financial institutions, businesses and strategic partners across China and Asia. The Bank’s objective is to turn this connectivity into tangible opportunities for Oman and its clients – attracting investment and capital into the Sultanate, supporting Omani businesses seeking to access Asian markets, and creating stronger channels for investment, trade, and business between Asia, Oman and the wider GCC.
On the sidelines of the 11th Belt and Road Summit in Hong Kong, Sohar International signed two strategic Memorandums of Understanding, with an Asia- and a GCC-focused alternative asset manager respectively to foster institutional ties, facilitate cross-border investment and capital flows, and unlock new opportunities linking China and Asia with Oman and the wider GCC.
Sohar International is Oman’s fastest-growing bank and the second-largest bank in the Sultanate by total assets, offering services across commercial and investment banking, wealth management, and Islamic finance. Building on its expansion into Saudi Arabia, the Bank’s presence in Hong Kong will support its goal of driving greater two-way connectivity between Oman and Asia, bringing international and Chinese investors, institutions and opportunities closer to Oman while developing stronger relationships for Omani businesses across international markets.
For more information, please visit www.sib.omIssued at HKT 20:29
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LegCo Members visit Kwu Tung North New Development Area in Northern Metropolis
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:
The President of Legislative Council (LegCo), Dr Starry Lee, as well as members of LegCo Panel on Development and other Members conducted the third visit to the Northern Metropolis (NM) today (September 10) to gain insight into the latest planning and development of the Kwu Tung North (KTN) New Development Area (NDA), the efforts to conserve the ecology of and historic buildings in NM, and the Administration’s measures to promote urban-rural integration.
Accompanied by the Secretary for Development, Ms Bernadette Linn, and the Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, Members first observed the construction sites of the public housing estate Kwu Chun Estate, several private housing projects, and the MTR Kwu Tung Station at the newly constructed Road P1 in the KTN NDA. They were also briefed by the Administration on the overall planning and development concepts of the KTN NDA, as well as the latest development progress of housing, transport infrastructure, and the Government joint-user complex and general office building in the district.
Members learnt that Kwu Chun Estate is among the first batch of public rental housing projects in the NDAs of the NM, with phase one comprising about 5 000 units that will be ready for intake in phases starting from the third quarter of this year. The Kwu Tung Station is also expected to commence service in 2027. Members exchanged views with government officials on the construction of community facilities, such as markets, shopping centres, public transport facilities and schools in the NDA, and urged the Administration to ensure that community facilities are in place when residents start to move in to meet the needs of local residents.
Members also visited the Sik Sik Yuen Lady Ho Tung Welfare Centre Eco-Learn Institute in Kwu Tung. Built in 1933, the Lady Ho Tung Welfare Centre provided medical services to local villagers until its closure in 2005. The Centre was subsequently accorded Grade II historic building status, and then revitalised into an ecological learning institute in 2023. Members toured the ecology and cultural history exhibition hall and the outdoor areas, which features facilities including an eco-pond and a Chinese medical herbs garden. Members were also briefed by the Administration on policies regarding revitalisation and conservation of historic buildings, as well as the revitalisation and conservation process of the Institute.
Accompanied by the Acting Secretary for Environment and Ecology, Miss Diane Wong, Members also visited the Long Valley Nature Park and the nearby Yin Kong Village to learn about the Government’s efforts to promote urban-rural integration and ecological conservation in the NM. Members noted that, to promote urban-rural integration in the NM, the Government proposed establishing a $200 million “NM Urban-Rural Integration Fund” as a pilot scheme to support non-governmental organisations to take forward urban-rural integration projects, as well as piloting the relaxation of planning restrictions on “Village Type Development” in Yin Kong Village, allowing houses within the village to be converted into restaurants, retail shops or guesthouses, with a view to boosting economic activities in villages and tourism development.
Members welcomed the Administration’s implementation of various measures to promote integration of villages and NDAs when planning the NDAs in the NM. They exchanged views with the representatives of the Government on how to assist villagers in retrofitting their houses for engaging in economic activities, as well as the infrastructure upgrading works, such as transport and sewerage, required to cope with the additional economic activities.
A total of 64 Members attended the visit. In addition to members of the Panel on Development, other non-members also attended.
Click here to watch the video highlight of today’s visit.
DH urges public to get vaccinated after Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programmes commences on September 17 as two cases of severe paediatric influenza infection reported
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
DH urges public to get vaccinated after Seasonal Influenza Vaccination Programmes commences on September 17 as two cases of severe paediatric influenza infection reported
Severe paediatric influenza infection cases
———————————————-
The CHP today recorded two cases of severe paediatric influenza infection, both had not received SIV during the previous season (2025/26).
The first case involves an 11-year-old boy with good past health. He developed a fever, cough and drowsiness on September 9. He was brought to the Accident and Emergency Department (AED) of Pok Oi Hospital on the same day, and was immediately transferred and admitted to the paediatric ward of Tuen Mun Hospital. As his condition deteriorated, he was admitted to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) of the hospital for further treatment. His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A (H1) virus. His clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with septic shock and encephalitis. The patient remains hospitalised at the PICU in serious condition. The CHP’s preliminary investigation revealed that his household contacts remain asymptomatic.
The second case involves a six-year-old boy with underlying illnesses. He developed a fever and myalgia on September 5, followed by runny nose, sore throat and cough on the following day. He was taken to the AED of Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH) on September 6 and 7. As his symptoms worsened, he sought medical attention at the AED of QEH again on September 8 and was admitted on the same day. With his condition further deteriorated, he was admitted to the PICU of the hospital for further treatment on September 9. His respiratory specimen tested positive for influenza A virus. His clinical diagnosis was influenza A infection complicated with severe pneumonia. The patient remains hospitalised at the PICU in serious condition. The CHP’s preliminary investigation revealed that one of his household contacts had developed mild fever recently but has now recovered.
“Since the current influenza season started in late June, a cumulative total of 19 cases of severe paediatric influenza infection have been recorded to date. Among these cases, nine patients have recovered and been discharged from hospital, five patients are in stable condition, two are in serious condition, two are in critical condition and one has passed away. Owing to widespread influenza transmission in the community in recent months, the number of infections and severe cases have substantially increased. Moreover, with increased group activities after the start of the new school year, we anticipate that influenza activity will remain at a high level in the coming weeks, whilst influenza outbreaks in schools are expected. Therefore, schools and parents must remain vigilant and take preventive measures,” said the Controller of the CHP, Dr Edwin Tsui.
Seasonal influenza activity
—————————–
According to the latest surveillance data (for the week of August 30 to September 5), the percentage of respiratory specimens testing positive for seasonal influenza viruses was 13.05 per cent and the influenza admission rate in public hospitals was 0.83 cases per 10 000 population. Both indicators showed a significant increase from the previous week. The predominant influenza viruses detected were influenza A (H1) (82 per cent), followed by influenza A (H3) (14 per cent).
There has been a significant increase in influenza-like illness (ILI) outbreaks in schools since September. As of September 9, a total of 73 outbreaks have been reported in schools since the start of the school year in September, including 21 cases in kindergartens/child care centres, 38 cases in primary schools and 14 cases in secondary schools, involving a total of 398 people. Separately, ILI outbreaks in residential care homes for the elderly (RCHEs) rose to 23, involving 134 people.
SIV Programmes
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The 2026/27 SIV Programmes, including the SIV School Outreach Programme, the Residential Care Home Vaccination Programme and the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme (VSS), will commence on September 17.
The Government has introduced a new e-consent form feature this year. Parents already registered with eHealth accounts could submit the e-consent forms for their children via the eHealth mobile app starting from August 17. To date, over 90 000 students have submitted the e-consent forms via eHealth. The DH notes that some schools have opted for consent forms in hard copies, while some other schools have yet to distribute school-specific QR codes to parents. The DH urges schools to participate in using the e-consent forms, and distribute the school-specific QR codes to parents as soon as possible, so that parents can complete the consent procedures for their children earlier. In addition, members of the public can submit their e-consent forms via the eHealth mobile app starting from September 17, and get vaccinated afterwards at a private clinic joining the VSS, enabling a paperless experience. This new measure not only facilitates the public to join the SIV Programmes but also streamlines the administrative procedures for healthcare service providers and schools.
“Data analysis shows that the rate of severe complications or death after contracting seasonal influenza was about five times higher among unvaccinated children than among vaccinated children. Similarly, the rate of severe complications among residents aged 65 years or older living in RCHEs who did not receive the SIV last year was approximately four times higher than among vaccinated residents. SIV is undoubtedly one of the most effective ways to prevent serious cases of seasonal influenza and its complications. As it takes two weeks for the body to develop sufficient antibodies after receiving SIV, I urge members of the public to get vaccinated as early as possible,” Dr Tsui added.
To prevent respiratory diseases, members of the public should maintain good personal, hand and environmental hygiene at all times. Given the current high levels of respiratory disease activity, high-risk individuals should wear surgical masks when visiting public places. The general public should also wear surgical masks when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. Those with symptoms of a respiratory infection, even if mild, should wear a surgical mask, avoid crowded areas and seek medical advice promptly. If symptomatic individuals live with high-risk or immunocompromised persons, they should also wear a surgical mask at home to minimise the risk of cross-infection. They should also ensure proper ventilation indoors and enhance the cleaning and disinfection of the household environment.
Members of the public may refer to the CHP’s COVID-19 & Flu ExpressIssued at HKT 20:32
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Cluster of Influenza A cases in TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for TWGHs Wong Tai Sin Hospital (WTSH) made the following announcement today (September 10):
Five male patients (aged 60 to 95) in a Tuberculosis and Chest Ward, three female patients (aged 82 to 94) in an infirmary ward and two staff members at WTSH were found with fever and respiratory symptoms since September 7. All patients and staff members were tested positive for influenza A. The patients concerned are being treated in isolation and are in stable condition. Two staff members are on sick leave.
The hospital has performed contact tracing investigation in accordance with the prevailing guidelines. The following enhanced infection control measures have already been adopted:
1. Thorough cleaning and disinfection of the wards concerned;
2. Enhanced hand hygiene of staff and patients; and
3. Application of stringent droplet precautions.
The hospital will continue to closely monitor the situation of the patients. The cases have been reported to the Hospital Authority Head Office and the Centre for Health Protection for necessary follow-up.
CE meets Shenzhen official
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Chief Executive John Lee met Secretary of the CPC Shenzhen Municipal Committee Jin Lei at Government House today to exchange views on deepening co-operation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen, and witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) and several agreements between the two places.
Mr Lee highlighted that Hong Kong and Shenzhen have long maintained close ties in areas such as economic, trade and people-to-people exchanges. Under the Hong Kong and Shenzhen co-operation mechanism, the two places have established various task forces to continuously enhance collaboration in different key areas.
The agreements signed today cover multiple sectors, including finance, innovation and technology (I&T) and support services for enterprises going global, further advancing broader, deeper and higher-level co-operation between the two cities. They will continue to work together to inject stronger impetus into the development of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.
He said that, under the “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of connecting the Mainland and the world. Hong Kong will continue to leverage its strengths as an international financial centre and its roles as a “super connector” and a “super value-adder”.
Through the Task Force on Supporting Mainland Enterprises in Going Global, Hong Kong will continue helping Shenzhen and other Mainland enterprises expand into international markets, he added.
China is hosting the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in 2026, and the 33rd APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting will be held in Shenzhen. The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government will spare no effort in ensuring the success of the APEC Finance Ministers’ Meeting to be held in Hong Kong, further deepening international exchanges and co-operation, while better integrating into and serving the overall national development.
Mr Lee added that Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan, which will be announced soon, will set out a blueprint for the city’s future development and enable it to seize the enormous opportunities brought by the National 15th Five-Year Plan. Hong Kong is pressing ahead at full speed with the development of the Northern Metropolis.
According to the Global Innovation Index 2026, the Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou innovation cluster ranked first globally once again, fully demonstrating the strong capabilities and broad prospects of Hong Kong and Shenzhen in I&T development.
The Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to promote the collaborative development of the “one zone, two parks” concept within the Hetao Shenzhen-Hong Kong Science and Technology Innovation Co-operation Zone, jointly contributing to the country’s development as a technology powerhouse.
At the same time, the Government is making every effort to prepare for the smooth commissioning of the Huanggang Port. More than 100 system tests and drills of varying scales have been conducted, and port operation arrangements are being continuously optimised, aiming to boost cross-boundary clearance efficiency, service capacity and cross-city synergy.
Chief Secretary Chan Kwok-ki, Deputy Financial Secretary Michael Wong, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau, Secretary for Constitutional & Mainland Affairs Janice Tse Siu-wa, Acting Secretary for Security Michael Cheuk, and Director of the Chief Executive’s Office Carol Yip also attended the meeting.
Summit helps Mainland firms go global
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The 11th Belt & Road Summit entered its second day at the Convention & Exhibition Centre, featuring a newly introduced “Go Global Chapter” and a dedicated GoGlobal Connect Zone designed to assist Mainland enterprises in expanding their international footprint.
Speaking at a thematic breakout session today, Secretary for Commerce & Economic Development Algernon Yau highlighted Hong Kong’s role as the ideal platform for Mainland businesses venturing overseas. He noted that the Government’s GoGlobal Task Force has achieved substantial progress since its establishment last October.
“We have assisted over 300 Chinese Mainland enterprises in setting up or expanding business in Hong Kong; organised more than 20 promotional events; and engaged over 5,000 representatives of Chinese Mainland enterprises,” Mr Yau said.
He added that the Northern Metropolis development will unlock new land and prospects for Mainland companies to explore global opportunities.
Business leaders attending the forum echoed these sentiments, pointing to Hong Kong’s unique strategic advantages. Based at the Science and Technology Park since 2023, 3D mapping technology firm Chief Executive Officer Chen Li shared that operating in the city has accelerated her company’s internationalisation by offering crucial expertise to navigate global market standards, including Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) frameworks.
Recalling her participation in a Chief Executive-led delegation to Central Asia in June, Ms Chen emphasised Hong Kong’s influence, credibility and ability to build direct bridges with international stakeholders.
Similarly, Ren Junfei, founder and Chief Executive Officer of a financial services company, hailed the summit as an invaluable platform for gaining market insights across Belt & Road economies, noting that direct exchanges with consulates, embassies, government agencies and businesses pave a pathway for collaboration and opportunities.
Haze Situation Update (10 September 2026)
Source: Government of Singapore
Haze Situation Update (10 September 2026)
10 Sep 2026
Air Quality Forecast
24-hour PSI: High Moderate – Low Unhealthy
Health Advisory
Healthy persons: If 24 hr PSI is Moderate, normal activities. If 24 hr PSI is Unhealthy, reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion.
Elderly, pregnant women & children: If 24 hr PSI is Moderate, normal activities. If 24 hr PSI is Unhealthy, minimise prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion.
Persons with chronic lung/heart disease: If 24 hr PSI is Moderate, normal activities. If PSI is Unhealthy, avoid prolonged or strenuous outdoor physical exertion.
Refer to the 1-hr PM2.5 for immediate activities, and the 24-hr PSI forecast to plan ahead.
Singapore, 10 September 2026 – Showers occurred over Singapore today. As at 6pm, the 1-hr PM2.5 concentration readings were 38 – 70 µg/m3, in Band 1 – 2 (Normal to Elevated), and the 24-hr PSI was 73 – 104, in the Moderate – Unhealthy range.
Update on Hotspot and Haze Situation
- Moderate to dense smoke plumes continue to be detected from fires in southern Sumatra and Kalimantan. Smoke plumes from southern Sumatra were observed to drift towards Singapore.
- Some showers are forecast mostly over northern and central Sumatra in the next few days. As dry conditions are expected to continue over Kalimantan and southern Sumatra, there is a risk of smoke haze affecting Singapore should the fires persist, under the prevailing southeasterly or southerly winds. The 24-hr PSI for Singapore is forecast to be in the High Moderate – Low Unhealthy range.
Activity Guidelines
- The health impact of haze is dependent on one’s health status, the PSI level, and the length and intensity of outdoor activity. For immediate outdoor activities, please check the 1-hr PM2.5 concentration readings and personal guide. Use the 24-hr PSI forecast and corresponding health advisories for planning next day outdoor activities.
- For updates, visit our haze microsite (www.haze.gov.sg), the NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), MSS website ( www.weather.gov.sg), mobile app (myENV) or follow us on NEA Facebook (www.facebook.com/NEASingapore). For information on the distribution of hotspots detected over the past fortnight in the region, please refer to the ASEAN Specialised Meteorological Centre (ASMC) website at http://asmc.asean.org.
Areas with lighter smoke haze are not indicated as they cannot be clearly discerned from satellite imagery.
– End –
President Lai receives credentials from new Palau Ambassador Gaafar J. Uherbelau
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
On the afternoon of September 9, President Lai Ching-te received the credentials of new Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Palau to the Republic of China (Taiwan) Gaafar J. Uherbelau. In remarks, President Lai noted that Taiwan and Palau are linked by deep Austronesian cultural roots and share the values of freedom and democracy. The president expressed gratitude to Palau for consistently speaking up for Taiwan and staunchly backing Taiwan’s participation in the international community. He also expressed hope that the two nations will continue to support each other on the international stage, deepen exchanges and cooperation in various areas, and together create a prosperous, smart, and sustainable future.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
It gives me great pleasure to receive the credentials of Ambassador Uherbelau. On behalf of all the people of Taiwan, I extend a sincere welcome to you as you assume your new post here.
Ambassador Uherbelau possesses a wealth of experience. He has served in such key positions as minister of health and human services, deputy incident commander at the Emergency Operations Center, and special advisor to the president on health, roles in which he has worked tirelessly for public health and medicine in Palau. In 2023, then-Minister of Health Uherbelau attended the Global Health and Welfare Forum in Taiwan, where he advanced health-related exchanges between our countries. Ambassador Uherbelau has long enjoyed the confidence of the government of Palau. His appointment as ambassador to Taiwan by President Surangel S. Whipps Jr. further demonstrates Palau’s high regard and expectations for our nations’ diplomatic ties.
Taiwan and Palau have maintained increasingly close interactions over the past two years and more. In 2024, I visited Palau shortly after taking office; in 2025, President Whipps led a delegation to Taiwan; this June, Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao paid a visit to Palau. At the end of last month, Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung (林佳龍) attended the Pacific Islands Forum (PIF), which was hosted by Palau. In the course of these exchanges, we have jointly witnessed the fruits of our cooperation in various areas, and our ties have continued to deepen.
In view of changes in the regional and geopolitical landscapes, I would especially like to thank the government of Palau. Whether at the PIF, the United Nations General Assembly, the World Health Assembly, or other important global meetings, you have spoken up for Taiwan and staunchly backed our participation in the international community. The Taiwanese people are deeply touched by this warm friendship.
Taiwan and Palau are linked by deep Austronesian cultural roots and share the values of freedom and democracy. I look forward to our two countries continuing to support each other on the international stage. Let us deepen our exchanges and collaboration across every domain and contribute all we can to the development of Palau, Taiwan, and the Indo-Pacific region. Together, we can create a prosperous, smart, and sustainable future.
In closing, I once again welcome Ambassador Uherbelau to Taiwan. Please convey our heartfelt wishes to President Whipps and all our good friends in Palau. I am confident that, through joint efforts, our diplomatic ties will reach even greater heights.
Ambassador Uherbelau then delivered remarks, first conveying warm greetings from President Whipps and the government and people of the Republic of Palau to President Lai. He said it is a distinct honor and privilege to present his letters of credence accrediting him as Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Republic of Palau to the Republic of China (Taiwan).
Ambassador Uherbelau recalled that in May 1984, the Taiwan International Cooperation and Development Fund dispatched its first technical mission to Palau to address challenges in food production. In many ways, he said, those dedicated professionals were among the earliest to represent the relationship between Taiwan and Palau, laying the foundation for the close partnership our two nations enjoy today. He added that 15 years later, in 1999, Palau and Taiwan established formal diplomatic relations, opening new avenues for collaboration across multiple sectors of mutual interest.
Ambassador Uherbelau noted that beyond official ties, the friendship between Palau and Taiwan is rooted in the shared cultural heritage of our peoples. As members of the broader Austronesian family, he said, Palau and Taiwan share ancestral connections that span generations and reflect a common appreciation for the ocean, the environment, community, the preservation of culture, and the advancement of human development. Those connections are beautifully reflected in the voyages of the Alingano Maisu, he noted, whose journey across the Pacific celebrated the revival of traditional navigation, ancestral knowledge, and the enduring relationship between Austronesian peoples. Its voyages between Palau and Taiwan, he said, serve as a powerful reminder that the ocean has never separated our communities, but has instead kept them connected through shared histories, cultural traditions, and a deep respect for the sea that sustains our people. These shared roots continue to provide a meaningful foundation for the friendship and cooperation that Palau and Taiwan continue to strengthen today.
Ambassador Uherbelau said that under President Lai’s leadership, Taiwan’s partnership with Palau continues to embody a people-centered approach, delivering meaningful and lasting impacts for the peoples and communities of both nations. This enduring cooperation is reflected in the many Palauan students who have pursued their education in Taiwan and returned home as skilled professionals contributing to their nation’s development; in the patients who have received exceptional medical care in Taiwan’s leading hospitals and returned home with renewed health and hope; and in the technical experts who have worked hand in hand with Palauan communities to share knowledge, build capacity, and strengthen resilience. These exchanges, he said, represent the true foundation of the relationship: the lasting friendships and bonds between our peoples that grow stronger with each passing year, reflecting the depth and breadth of the partnership Palau and Taiwan share.
Ambassador Uherbelau expressed sincere appreciation for President Lai’s decision, together with Vice President Hsiao, to make Palau among the first destinations of their official visits following the commencement of the administration. He also expressed appreciation for the recent and highly productive visit of the Taiwan delegation led by Minister Lin to the 55th PIF. These visits, he said, are a profound demonstration of the importance President Lai places on the friendship between Palau and Taiwan.
Ambassador Uherbelau said that he begins his tenure with a deep sense of responsibility and a commitment to nurturing the friendship entrusted to him. He pledged to work diligently to strengthen cooperation between the two countries, expand opportunities for our peoples, and uphold the shared values that continue to unite our two nations.