Author: MIL-OSI Publisher

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Inter-departmental Task Force on Monitoring Fuel Supply announced today (July 13) that the two-month toll waiver and liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) fuel subsidy for commercial vehicles will end at 11.59pm on July 16 and 11.59pm on July 30 respectively as scheduled.

     The Government Economist estimates that international refined oil prices for diesel will gradually decline for the remainder of the year. Meanwhile, recent data also indicate that the prices of auto-LPG have remained broadly stable. As the support measures are temporary and short-term in nature, and to avoid creating risks to public finances, the Task Force decided that the above two time-limited support measures would end as scheduled upon the expiration of the two-month period.

     Starting from 0.00am on July 17, all commercial vehicles using government tolled tunnels and the Tsing Sha Control Area must resume paying normal tolls. The payment means and time limits remain unchanged. The Transport Department (TD) has directed the toll service provider to adjust the HKeToll system to ensure smooth operations. Motorists may obtain real-time toll information via the HKeToll or HKeMobility mobile apps, as well as toll information displays.

     In addition, from 0.00am on July 31, upon the cessation of the LPG fuel subsidy to local passenger transport commercial vehicles, drivers should note that the actual LPG prices will be subject to the oil companies’ retail prices.

     The Task Force will continue to dynamically assess the situation in the Middle East region as well as fuel supply and prices to ensure the stability of Hong Kong’s energy supply.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The following is issued on behalf of the Legislative Council Secretariat:

     The Legislative Council (LegCo) will hold a meeting on Wednesday (July 15) at 11am in the Chamber of the LegCo Complex. During the meeting, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare will move a proposed resolution under the Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance in relation to the implementation of a comprehensive smoking ban in construction sites. The proposed resolution is set out in Appendix 1.

     The Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs will also move a proposed resolution under the District Councils Ordinance. The proposed resolution is set out in Appendix 2.

     The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development will move a proposed resolution under the Trading Funds Ordinance. The proposed resolution is set out in Appendix 3.

     Meanwhile, Mr Chan Chun-ying will move a motion under Rule 49E(2) of the Rules of Procedure to take note of a report of the House Committee on consideration of subsidiary legislation and other instruments. The motion is set out in Appendix 4.

     During the meeting, the Chairman of the Public Accounts Committee, Mr Sunny Tan, will present the “Reports of the Public Accounts Committee on Report Nos. 85 and 86 of the Director of Audit on the Results of Value for Money Audits” and address the Council.

     Members will also ask the Government 22 questions on various policy areas, six of which require oral replies.

     The agenda of the above meeting is available on the LegCo Website (www.legco.gov.hk). Members of the public can watch or listen to the meeting via the “Webcast” system on the LegCo Website. To observe the proceedings of the meeting at the LegCo Complex, members of the public may call 3919 3399 during office hours to reserve seats.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in Dubai (HKETO Dubai) hosted the Oman-Hong Kong Business Forum in Muscat, capital of Oman on July 7 (Muscat time).  The forum brought together more than 150 participants from local government organisations and the business community in Oman to strengthen economic and trade ties between Hong Kong and Oman, while promoting the business opportunities in Hong Kong and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) to the local community.
 
     Co-organised by HKETO Dubai and the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and supported by Invest Oman, the forum highlighted Hong Kong’s key role as a gateway to the Chinese Mainland, in particular the GBA, and underscored HKETO Dubai’s mission to promote Hong Kong’s economic and trade relations with Oman and other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
 
     In his opening remarks, the Director-General of HKETO Dubai, Mr Simon Chan, highlighted the office’s role as a bridge between Hong Kong and the Gulf region by strengthening government-to-government ties, facilitating business connections, and showcasing the many opportunities Hong Kong offers as a world-class business and financial centre.
 
     “Oman-China relations have grown continuously, with China being Oman’s largest trading partner and Oman being a key partner in the Belt and Road Initiative (B&RI). This strategic partnership is not only driving co-operation under the B&RI, but also aligns with Oman’s Vision 2040 for economic diversification. In recent years, this collaboration has evolved beyond traditional trade, energy, and infrastructure; and is actively scaling into high-growth, next-generation frontiers, such as renewable energy, advanced technology, and digital economy. Hong Kong plays an important role in this flourishing partnership,” he said.
 
     Mr Chan highlighted Hong Kong’s unique role under the “one country, two systems” principle as the best gateway connecting international businesses with the Chinese Mainland and the wider Asian markets, as well as the city’s strengths as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” linking China with the rest of the world, making it an ideal platform for Omani businesses seeking to access the Chinese Mainland and expand across Asia.
 
     The forum also showcased Hong Kong’s unparalleled advantages as a core engine of the GBA, one of the world’s largest and most dynamic economic regions with vast opportunities. Speakers at the forum included Head of Marketing of Invest Oman, Ms Juhaina Al Balushi; Regional Director of Middle East and Africa of the HKTDC, Mr Daniel Lam; Head of Business and Talent Attraction/Investment Promotion of Invest Hong Kong (InvestHK), Mr Sultan Abdulla; and Deputy Director of Middle East and Africa of the HKTDC, Mr Nassif Mahfoud.
 
     HKETO Dubai is committed to supporting and promoting the “Economic and Trade Express” functional platform – established through the joint efforts of economic and trade offices, InvestHK and the HKTDC – to assist Hong Kong small and medium-sized enterprises and start-ups in exploring overseas markets, while attracting more enterprises to invest and establish operations in Hong Kong.

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Centre for Health Protection (CHP) of the Department of Health (DH) today (July 12) reminded the public, particularly the elderly, people with chronic illnesses, outdoor workers, pregnant women, infants and children, to adopt appropriate measures to protect their health in view of the cold weather.

Elderly and people with chronic illnesses
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     A spokesman for the CHP said that in general, elderly people have less insulating fat, and their body temperature control mechanisms would be weaker. Their body may not respond appropriately to the cold weather. In addition, some senior persons may have decreased mobility, which can impair their ability to generate and conserve body heat.

Chronic illnesses, such as hypertension, diabetes or hypothyroidism, would lower their metabolic rate, subsequently causing their body to generate less heat. Besides, persons with chronic illnesses, such as chronic respiratory illnesses or cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases, are vulnerable to disease aggravation due to cold weather.

     The spokesman reminded the public, in particular the elderly and persons with chronic illnesses, to adopt the following preventive measures:
 

• Take note of the weather forecast. Wear warm clothing, including hats, scarves, gloves and socks, accordingly;
• Consume sufficient food to ensure adequate calorie intake;
• Perform regular exercise to facilitate blood circulation and heat production;
• Stay in a warm environment. Avoid going out in the morning and at night when the temperature is lower, and avoid prolonged outdoor exposure;
• Use heaters with care and maintain adequate indoor ventilation;
• Avoid alcoholic beverages. Drinking alcohol cannot keep you warm. Alcohol accelerates the loss of body heat through dilated blood vessels, resulting in chilling instead; and
• Seek medical advice if feeling unwell.

Infants, children and pregnant women
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Infants and young children are more susceptible to heat loss during the cold weather. The spokesman reminded parents that they should ensure babies are sufficiently warm, but it is also important to keep babies relatively lightly clothed to avoid overheating them. When children engage in outdoor activities, their clothing should be adjusted accordingly, and changed quickly if soaked. Infants, young children and pregnant women should also try to avoid going out in the morning and at night when the temperature is lower.

     Parents should observe the following safety measures when putting their children to bed:

• Keep the room well ventilated and at a comfortable temperature;
• Always place babies on their backs to sleep. Leave their heads, faces and arms uncovered during sleep;
• Babies do not need pillows. Place babies on a firm and well-fitted mattress to sleep. Avoid soft objects, pillows and loose bedding;
• Let babies sleep in a cot placed near their parents’ bed; and
• Maintain a smoke-free environment.

Outdoor workers
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Outdoor workers should take heed of the weather report and wear appropriate warm clothing for work. Clothing should be changed as soon as possible if soaked. When the Cold Weather Warning is in force, they should take appropriate precautions. They should take a break immediately and seek help and medical attention if feeling unwell.

General public
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In addition, many respiratory pathogens, including influenza and SARS-CoV-2, may have increasing activity and community transmission during winter. Seasonal influenza vaccination is recommended for all persons aged 6 months or above, except those with known contraindications. Persons at higher risk of getting influenza and its complications, including the elderly and children, should receive seasonal influenza vaccinations early. Please see details of the vaccination schemes on the CHP’s website.

A person who gets influenza and COVID-19 at the same time may become more seriously ill and would have a higher risk of death. It is important for elderly persons, especially those residing in residential care homes, to receive both a seasonal influenza vaccination and a COVID-19 vaccination. They should also receive an additional booster against COVID-19 according to recommendations as soon as possible. The public should also maintain good personal and environmental hygiene against respiratory illnesses and note the following:
 

• Surgical masks can prevent transmission of respiratory viruses from ill persons. It is essential for persons who are symptomatic (even if having mild symptoms) to wear a surgical mask;
• Wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places. It is important to wear a mask properly, including performing hand hygiene before wearing and after removing a mask;
• Avoid touching one’s eyes, mouth and nose;
• Wash hands with liquid soap and water properly whenever possibly contaminated;
• When hands are not visibly soiled, clean them with 70 to 80 per cent alcohol-based handrub;
• Cover the mouth and nose with tissue paper when sneezing or coughing. Dispose of soiled tissue paper properly into a lidded rubbish bin and wash hands thoroughly afterwards;
• Maintain good indoor ventilation;
• When having respiratory symptoms, wear a surgical mask, refrain from work or attending classes at school, avoid going to crowded places and seek medical advice promptly; and
• Maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, take adequate rest, do not smoke and avoid overstress.

     
​Food-borne diseases, particularly those linked to hotpot cuisine, are also common in cold weather. The following preventive measures should be taken:

• Wash hands before handling and consuming food;
• Do not patronise unlicensed vendors or those with poor hygienic standards while selecting food;
• Wash and cook all food thoroughly;
• Vegetables should be washed thoroughly in clean running water before cooking and consumption. When appropriate, scrub vegetables with hard surfaces with a clean brush to remove dirt and substances, including pesticide residues and contaminants, from surfaces and crevices;
• Shrimps should be fully cooked until the shells turn red and the flesh turns white and opaque;
• For shellfish such as scallops and geoduck, scrub the shells thoroughly and remove internal organs;
• Do not eat any undercooked freshwater aquatic products. To ensure that the food is thoroughly cooked, the centre of the food should reach a temperature of at least 75 degrees Celsius so as to destroy pathogens;
• Most hotpot ingredients should be stored in a refrigerator at 4 degrees C or below, while frozen food should be stored in a freezer at -18 degrees C or below;
• Never use raw eggs as a dipping sauce for hotpot; and
• Use different sets of chopsticks to handle raw and cooked food to avoid cross-contamination.

​​In addition, when using fuel-burning appliances, especially in indoor areas, the public should ensure adequate ventilation to avoid harmful exposure to carbon monoxide (CO) and prevent CO poisoning.

     For more health information, the public may call the DH’s Health Education Infoline (2833 0111) or visit the CHP’s website and Facebook Fanpage as well as press releases of the Labour Department on precautions against cold weather for outdoor workers and their employers when the Cold Weather Warning is in force.

     The public may also call Dial-a-Weather (1878 200) or visit the website of the Hong Kong Observatory for the latest weather information and forecasts, or its page on Weather Information for Senior Citizens. 

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Government will launch a pilot scheme on October 1 aimed at encouraging Comprehensive Social Security Assistance (CSSA) recipients capable of working to achieve self-reliance through employment.

Eligible households will receive cash incentives of up to $45,000 under the three-year “Pilot Scheme for Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Households Transitioning to Working Family Allowance Scheme”, which is funded by the Community Care Fund.

To be eligible, households should leave the CSSA scheme on or after October 1. They should apply to join the Working Family Allowance (WFA) scheme and then have at least two consecutive WFA applications approved within the period from October 2026 to September 2029, meaning they have been in continuous employment. 

All types of CSSA households can participate in the scheme. A separate sign-up is not required as the WFA Office will identify eligible households and notify them.

Each eligible household can receive up to three cash incentive payments, totalling $45,000. 

Regardless of household size and the WFA rate approved, standard payments will be disbursed in instalments as follows: a first payment of $10,000; a second of $15,000; and a third of $20,000.

Call the enquiry hotline 3897 1897 for further information.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

After the unfortunate passing of United States Senator Lindsey Graham on July 11 (US time), Presidential Office Spokesperson Karen Kuo (郭雅慧) stated on July 12 that President Lai Ching-te was deeply saddened by the news and extended his sincerest condolences to Senator Graham’s family.
Spokesperson Kuo noted that Senator Graham served in the US Congress for many years and formed a deep friendship with Taiwan. During his tenure, he actively promoted legislation in support of Taiwan, backed our international participation, advocated for the strengthening of our self-defense capabilities, and worked to deepen Taiwan-US economic and trade relations. He was a steadfast and important friend to Taiwan in Congress.
The spokesperson noted that Senator Graham made three visits to Taiwan, including once in 2022 as the leader of a bipartisan congressional delegation, demonstrating his support through concrete action.
Spokesperson Kuo stated that on behalf of the people of Taiwan, President Lai expressed deep gratitude for Senator Graham’s longstanding contributions to peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and to Taiwan-US relations, and paid his highest respects. Taiwan has lost an important friend, the spokesperson stated, and President Lai along with all the people of Taiwan mourn Senator Graham’s passing. 

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Starting a new life far from home in unfamiliar environment with a different language poses significant challenges, a reality well understood by ethnic minorities in Hong Kong.

To facilitate community integration and enhance access to public services, the Home Affairs Department funds non-profit organisations to operate support service centres for ethnic minorities. Service user Sheila Ramchandra Dhanawadi finds the activities and services both engaging and helpful.

Building bonds

Fifteen years ago, Sheila left Mumbai, India for Hong Kong. In 2021, a social worker connected her with the HOPE Support Service Centre for Ethnic Minorities, where she found a community of people with similar backgrounds.

Sheila hopes to expand her social circle while better integrating into the community. “The activities and services have made a positive difference in my life,” she said.

The HOPE Support Service Centre for Ethnic Minorities offers a diverse range of activities, including language classes and local festive celebrations, to familiarise the new residents with Hong Kong’s culture and lifestyle. The centre also organises volunteer opportunities, allowing participants to give back to the community while strengthening their sense of belonging in the city.

Among the centre’s most popular activities are its Cantonese classes, which teach practical, daily dialogue to help participants navigate everyday situations. In addition, the facility hosts a large-scale showcase annually to bring local residents and ethnic minorities together. The signature event features orienteering competitions alongside live music and dance performances.

Extending outreach

In April, the centre launched its Youth Network and Women’s Network. These initiatives offer tailored skills, vocational training and Mainland exchange tours.

The centre also hosts sports classes, such as swimming, designed specifically for ethnic minority women.

Enriching integration

Apart from language barriers, one of the biggest hurdles for many ethnic minorities is simply not knowing what community resources are out there. Finding support from people who truly understand their cultural background and circumstances remains a steep challenge.

To respond to the Policy Address’s call for stronger community integration, the HOPE Interpretation & Translation Service Centre for Ethnic Minorities opened its doors last December.

The facility provides interpretation and translation services in seven languages, namely Indonesian, Bengali, Hindi, Nepali, Punjabi, Tagalog and Urdu – most of which are free of charge. Services include telephone and on-site interpretation. The centre also assists ethnic minority members with navigating daily essentials such as appointments, housing and public services.

Staff can also accompany service users to relevant public service agencies to give on-site support. Moreover, the centre translates daily news highlights, helping ethnic minority groups stay updated on local community developments.

Personalised support

“Those in need can raise any questions they encounter due to the language barriers, and the centre will provide appropriate support,” said HOPE Support Service Centre for Ethnic Minorities person-in-charge Amy Wong.

She highlighted that all interpreters have relevant interpretation experience and are proficient in both English and ethnic minority languages. The centre also conducts spot checks to maintain service quality.

The organisation hopes such services will ease daily life for ethnic minorities, giving them the confidence to truly make them feel at home in Hong Kong.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Culture, Sports & Tourism Rosanna Law inspected a passing-out parade for 13 probationary inspectors and 131 recruit police constables at the Police College today, urging them to serve as the public’s trusted guardians.

Speaking at the ceremony, Miss Law highlighted that the country has officially entered a new phase under the National 15th Five-Year Plan this year, heralding unprecedented development opportunities for Hong Kong.

She noted that Hong Kong serves as an important gateway for the nation’s opening up. The city leverages the strong support of the motherland while maintaining close global connections under the “one country, two systems” principle.

The city has been proactively aligning with the national development strategies and deepening its integration into the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

Miss Law emphasised that a safe, stable and lawful society forms the foundation of all development. Therefore, the Police Force’s role in steadfastly upholding the rule of law and maintaining social order remains of paramount importance.

Having worked closely with the Police Force across various government roles over the years, Miss Law observed that Hong Kong faces both new opportunities and challenges amid a complex, changing geopolitical environment. Safeguarding national security, she added, must remain the top operational priority for the Police Force.

She expressed her hope that police officers will consistently uphold professionalism, impartiality, empathy and the highest standards of integrity, regardless of shifts in the social climate.

Miss Law urged the graduates to act strictly in accordance with the law, safeguard social order, and think from the citizens’ perspectives. By devoting themselves to public well-being, she said they will provide a solid security guarantee for the smooth implementation of the National 15th Five-Year Plan in Hong Kong.