Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by CE at Hong Kong Association for External Friendship Inauguration Ceremony (English only)
Ladies and gentlemen, when I was making preparation for this occasion, my colleagues told me that because we are talking about friendship, I should make three speeches, one in Cantonese, one is Putonghua and one in English. Indeed, Hong Kong focuses on efficiency and good use of time. For your benefit, don’t worry, I am going to speak in English because this is an occasion for external friendship.
Honorable Commissioner Cui Jianchun (Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Secretary General Sun Xueqing (Secretary General of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries), Professor Priscilla Leung (Founding President and Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. I am pleased to join you today to celebrate the inauguration of the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship.
Today, we will witness not only the beginning of an association, but also the initiation of a new force for global dialogue. A new impetus that facilitates people-to-people exchange, and cultivates friendships.
Because where better to make friends, and keep them, than in Hong Kong?
Under the unique “one country, two systems” principle, Hong Kong is the only world city that enjoys both the China advantage and the global advantage.
We boast a long tradition of the rule of law, and have a common law system similar to many global financial centres. We are home to five of the world’s top 100 universities, and the world’s four most international universities – they not only help to nurture a workforce that’s bilingual and well-versed with both Mainland and international practices, but also attract a world of students, researchers, and teachers to our city.
Our simple and transparent tax regime, world-class infrastructure, and the free flow of information, capital, goods and people, make it easy to work, study, or simply live here. To add to all that, our superb location means we’re just a five-hour flight from half of the world’s population.
China, our country, supports Hong Kong in deepening international engagement, putting a primacy on co-operation, regionally and globally – in business, trade, finance, education, culture and every other area that governments, companies and peoples can come together for mutually rewarding opportunities.
The HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government is dedicated to boosting Hong Kong’s relations with different economies. And the results have been recognised by international investors and corporations.
A week ago, an international newspaper published an article that analysed Hong Kong’s thriving stock market, which ranks first, globally, in IPO fundraising so far this year.
It noted that institutional investors are returning, adding: “Hong Kong continues to hold appeal as a gateway for Chinese capital and a bridge for international investors seeking exposure to Chinese growth”. Noting that this role of Hong Kong “remains difficult to replicate”, it added that to dismiss our rebound is “to overlook the changing dynamics under way”. I think it describes it perfectly.
Yes, in these times of economic uncertainties, Hong Kong remains a financial harbour wide open to the world, and a world of free and unfettered trade. All thanks to the “one country, two systems” principle, and Hong Kong’s unique role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder” in building bridges among different economies.
I am delighted to note that the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship is committed to becoming a bridging connector in its own vital way.
The Association is formed under the guidance of the Chinese People’s Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries, and focuses on cultivating “four friendships” – with cities, associations, organisations and individuals. That, ladies and gentlemen, is the essence of soft power and a critical complement to official diplomatic channels.
Diplomacy, both public and international, helped inspire the success of last December’s Global University Presidents and Leaders Summit – a landmark event organised by the Association that brought together university leaders from around the world in Hong Kong.
Today’s ceremony symbolises a deeper commitment to building bridges between Hong Kong and the world. Creating an organisation, and a way forward, based on dialogue, mutual understanding and collaboration.
In today’s complex and rapidly evolving global landscape, where co-operation is no longer a given, we must unite and remain open to dialogue, to maintaining friendly relations with different places that are eager to pursue development, very much like us. That makes the Association, and its mission, more crucial than ever. For that, I am grateful – grateful to its founder, Professor Priscilla Leung, and all those who have contributed to its establishment.
The HKSAR Government looks forward to working with you, to empowering the Hong Kong Association for External Friendship to become a dynamic force for international goodwill and co-operation.
Ladies and gentlemen, for those of you who checked the weather, you may notice a tropical storm is on its way to this part of the globe and could bring us some rainy and windy days.
To those who ask, “Can bridges survive storms?” We always point to our harbour. For centuries, typhoons have battered our shores. But Hong Kong, long a free port, has always provided a safe shelter for ships, seafarers and traders. Even in the harshest of storms and headwinds, Hong Kong will remain a safe and stress-tested harbour. We may not be able to change the global current, but united, we can sail together and chart our common course of co-operation and friendship.
Together, we will realise a global community of shared future, rooted in economic and cultural harmony and people-to-people connectivity. A flourishing and sustainable future for each and everyone of us.
Thank you very much.
Issued at HKT 15:41
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Third phase of Rule of Law Education Train-the-Leaders Programme trains youth leaders as ROLE ambassadors
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The third phase of the foundation course of the Rule of Law Education (ROLE) Stars Train-the-Leaders (TTL) Programme was officially launched today (July 5) by the Department of Justice (DoJ). The two-day course, which covers topics relevant to the rule of law and daily life, provides training to about 120 trainees from district youth committees in the 18 districts and a local university about knowledge on the rule of law in a diversified, interactive, and easy-to-understand manner, encouraging them to become ROLE ambassadors and actively promote the rule of law in their daily lives and work.
The Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC, and the President of the Education University of Hong Kong, Professor John Lee, delivered opening remarks for the event. Mr Lam expressed the hope that this Programme would enhance the trainees’ understanding of the legal system and the rule of law in Hong Kong, as well as their capability in promoting the rule of law as youth leaders and educators in the future, consolidating their role as leaders in the rule of law education.
On the first day of the course, Mr Lam gave a lecture on the topic of “Rule of law and our legal system”. He elaborated to the trainees on the essence of the rule of law concept, presented an overview on Hong Kong’s legal and judicial systems, and explained to them the relationship between the rule of law and the Constitution, the Basic Law, the Hong Kong National Security Law, the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance and “one country, two systems”.
Member of the Standing Committee of the 14th National People’s Congress (NPC) and Member of the Legislative Council, Dr Starry Lee, took part in the Programme as a speaker again to explain to the trainees about the Mainland legal system and the functions of the NPC and state institutions.
The trainees of the third phase of the Programme include members of the District Youth Community Building Committees and District Youth Development and Civic Education Committees in the 18 districts, as well as students of the Education University of Hong Kong. The second day event of the TTL Programme and its graduation ceremony will be held on July 12 and certificates will be presented to trainees who have completed the course.
The third phase of the TTL Programme carries on its legacy and forges ahead with an advanced course and a newly added extended course, with a view to further deepening the understanding of the legal system and the implementation of procedures for trainees who have completed the foundation course. The content of the advanced course includes visits to law enforcement agencies and mock court activities, enabling trainees to gain a first-hand experience of the practice of the rule of law. The new extended course provides thematic talks on specific legal topics, such as a thematic talk on the cyber world which was organised earlier, along with practice activities for promoting the rule of law. This aims to strengthen trainees’ legal knowledge and encourage them to organise and participate in various community promotion projects on their own, taking on the roles of promoters and leaders of the rule of law education.
​For more details on the TTL Programme and other information relating to the promotion and training on the rule of law, please visit the dedicated website at www.role-ttl.gov.hk.
S for Housing visits Barcelona (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Secretary for Housing, Ms Winnie Ho, commenced her visit to Barcelona, Spain, yesterday (July 4, Barcelona time).
In the morning, Ms Ho met with Deputy Mayor of Barcelona Mr Jordi Valls Riera, who oversees housing policies, economic affairs and tourism matters. They exchanged views on areas such as housing policies and construction technologies. Ms Ho shared Hong Kong’s experience in expeditiously building government-led Light Public Housing (LPH) using Modular Integrated Construction (MiC). For instance, the first LPH project at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long, took only about one year to complete. As for the Choi Hing Road project in Ngau Tau Kok, which is the first 19-storey LPH project with elevators, its first phase was completed in less than one and a half years, breaking the record for rapid construction of high-rise buildings in Hong Kong. She also shared that the Housing Bureau (HB) and the Hong Kong Housing Authority (HKHA) have been continuously optimising Hong Kong’s housing ladder to encourage more young people and families to move up the housing ladder. She mentioned that the HB will organise an international symposium to be held in Hong Kong in November this year, to showcase to the world the latest developments of construction technologies in Mainland China and Hong Kong. She expressed hope that friends from around the world could attend the symposium.
Afterwards, Ms Ho visited a social housing project, Modulus Matrix: 85 Social Housing, which used timber frame construction to reduce carbon emissions and a modular design to shorten construction time.
In the afternoon, Ms Ho toured a social housing project, APROP-Glòries, which was converted from containers to provide temporary accommodation to people in need. Ms Ho said that both the Hong Kong and Barcelona governments are dedicated to increasing their housing supply with swift and pragmatic approaches, and providing accommodation to families with urgent housing needs. She said she hoped that the two places would continue holding close exchanges on relevant initiatives.
Ms Ho then paid a courtesy call on the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Barcelona, Ms Meng Yuhong, to share with her various housing initiatives being implemented by the HB, which include promoting the development of housing construction technologies by leveraging the strengths of the Mainland cities of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA).
Ms Ho today (July 5, Barcelona time) visited another social housing project, 72 Social Housing Units, to see its architectural design that creates a simple, livable and energy-efficient living environment.
Concluding the trip, Ms Ho said, “Hong Kong enjoys the unique advantage of having the strong support of the motherland while maintaining unparalleled connectivity with the world, as well as the strategic geographical location of being connected to the GBA. This visit demonstrated how Hong Kong gives full play to its important roles as a ‘super connector’ and ‘super value-adder’. I look forward to maintaining close exchanges with Portugal and Spain in areas including innovative construction technologies, people-oriented ‘Well-being design’ concepts and sustainable smart city development, and exploring further collaboration to create more opportunities for the industries and enterprises of the three places.”
Ms Ho will return to Hong Kong tomorrow morning (July 6).
Speech by DSJ at Opening Ceremony of Law Society of Hong Kong’s Teen Talk 2025 “Deepening Legal Cooperation, Youth Shaping Tomorrow” GBA Study Tour (English only) (with photo)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following are the opening remarks by the Deputy Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, at the Opening Ceremony of Law Society of Hong Kong’s Teen Talk 2025 “Deepening Legal Cooperation, Youth Shaping Tomorrow” GBA Study Tour today (July 5):
Mr Roden Tong (President of the Law Society of Hong Kong), Mr Liu Chunhua (Director-General of the Department of Law of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Mr Cao Hailei (Deputy Director of the Justice Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality),
Good morning everyone! It is my great pleasure to join you at today’s opening ceremony of “Teen Talk GBA Study Tour 2025” organised by the Law Society of Hong Kong.
Our youth today are the leaders of tomorrow. I am pleased to note that the Law Society has empowered over 18 000 students through Teen Talk since 2009, fostering essential values such as empathy, team work and respect for the rule of law.
In recent years, the Greater Bay Area (GBA) has emerged as one of the world’s most significant economic zones. This dynamic region represents the successful collaboration between Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, leveraging their complementary strengths to create exceptional opportunities for talented individuals like yourselves.
As Asia-Pacific’s premier hub for international legal services, Hong Kong’s established common law tradition provides distinctive expertise in bridging different legal systems. We should leverage our unique advantages and reinforce our connectivity with both the Mainland and the world, offering our unique contribution as the GBA continues its remarkable development.
It is therefore most timely for the Law Society to organise this second edition of cross-boundary Study Tour to Shenzhen. I would also like to welcome our participants assembled here today. Over the next two days, you will visit leading institutions, as Roden has mentioned, including the Qianhai People’s Court and the Shenzhen Court of International Arbitration, gaining valuable insights into cross-jurisdictional legal systems. I am sure that the volunteer solicitors who are joining today will be most happy to share their experience and broaden your understanding of legal practice.
I encourage you to approach this unique experience with intellectual curiosity, and embrace this opportunity for learning and meaningful exchanges.
I wish you all a highly successful and fruitful study tour. Enjoy!
Remarks by SLW on Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme and database on carers
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Remarks by SLW on Enhanced Supplementary Labour Scheme and database on carersIssued at HKT 10:25
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Decision No. 8 of Taiwan-Paraguay ECA Enters into Force
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
Decision No. 8 of the Agreement on Economic Cooperation between the Republic of China (Taiwan) and the Republic of Paraguay formally entered into force on July 5, 2025.
This decision grants tariff concessions on 17 products and reduces tariffs on two additional items. One of the items, namely natural honey, will have its tariff reduced in three stages, to 30% in the first year, 25% in the second year, and 20% in the third year. The tariff on rice crackers will be reduced to 10%. The products on which tariffs will be eliminated include two swine items, one prepared or preserved offal item of bovine, and other industrial or consumer products, such as wheat flour, industrial ethyl alcohol, plastic bottles, various clothing items, etc.
Both sides look forward to the benefits and business opportunities the new tariff reductions will bring to bilateral trade. More details about Decision No. 8 are available at the following website: https://fta.trade.gov.tw/
Hong Kong Customs seizes suspected cannabis buds and suspected cannabis oil at airport (with photo)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Hong Kong Customs today (July 4) detected a drug trafficking case involving baggage concealment at Hong Kong International Airport and seized about 11.2 kg of suspected cannabis buds and 50 sticks of vapes containing suspected cannabis oil with a total estimated market value of about $2.4 million.
The case involved a 38-year-old male passenger arriving in Hong Kong from Bangkok, Thailand, today. During customs clearance, Customs officers found the batch of suspected cannabis buds and vapes containing suspected cannabis oil in his two check-in suitcases. The man was subsequently arrested.
The arrested person has been charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug. The case will be brought up at the Kowloon City Magistrates’ Courts tomorrow (July 5).
Customs will continue to step up enforcement against drug trafficking activities through intelligence analysis. The department also reminds members of the public to stay alert and not to participate in drug trafficking activities for monetary return. They must not accept hiring or delegation from another party to carry controlled items into and out of Hong Kong. They are also reminded not to carry unknown items for other people.
Customs will continue to apply a risk assessment approach and focus on selecting passengers from high-risk regions for clearance to combat transnational drug trafficking activities.
Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, trafficking in a dangerous drug is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $5 million and life imprisonment.
Members of the public may report any suspected drug trafficking activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
HKSAR Government spokesman: statement on HKNSL by former Court of Final Appeal non-permanent judge Brenda Hale far from truth
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
A spokesman of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government today (July 4) said that the statement made by the former non-permanent judge of the Court of Final Appeal (CFA), Brenda Hale, on the Hong Kong National Security Law (HKNSL) and the rule of law and independent judicial power in Hong Kong is far from the truth, particularly her assertion that the so-called “the National Security Law has taken over the Basic Law” is absolutely incorrect and contrary to the facts.
Brenda Hale was appointed as a non-permanent judge of the CFA in 2018 but has never been involved in the hearing of any cases. She indicated to the Judiciary in June 2021 that, for personal reasons, she would not wish to have her appointment extended for another term upon the expiry of her then appointment, which differs from her current statement.
The HKSAR Government spokesman said that any claims that the HKNSL overrides the Basic Law are incorrect. Article 1 of the HKNSL clearly states that the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress (NPCSC) enacts the HKNSL in accordance with the Constitution, the Basic Law, and the Decision of the National People’s Congress on Establishing and Improving the Legal System and Enforcement Mechanisms for Safeguarding National Security in the HKSAR. The HKNSL was promulgated and implemented in the HKSAR on June 30, 2020, which has addressed the shortcomings and plugged the loopholes in the legal system and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security of the HKSAR. The HKNSL and other laws in safeguarding national security in the HKSAR firmly adhere to the principle of the rule of law while protecting the rights and freedoms enjoyed under the Basic Law in accordance with the law.
The judicial system of the HKSAR is protected by the Basic Law. According to Articles 2, 19 and 85 of the Basic Law, the HKSAR shall be vested with independent judicial power, including that of final adjudication; the courts shall exercise judicial power independently, free from any interference. All judges and judicial officers abide by the Judicial Oath and administer justice in full accordance with the law, without fear or favour, self-interest or deceit. When adjudicating cases of offences endangering national security, as in any other cases, judges remain independent and impartial in performing their judicial duties, free from any interference. The implementation of the HKNSL over the past five years has proven that the courts have handled all the cases involving the HKNSL strictly in accordance with the above principles.
The authority of the NPCSC to interpret the Basic Law and national laws that apply in the HKSAR is a fundamental aspect of the “one country, two systems” principle and has long been recognised in the jurisprudence of the HKSAR. It is therefore entirely in line with the “one country, two systems” principle that the general power to interpret the HKNSL being a piece of national law, as stipulated in Article 65 thereof, is also vested in the NPCSC. The interpretation given by the NPCSC on Articles 14 and 47 of the HKNSL in December 2022 does not and did not directly deal with any specific judicial proceedings or cases. Rather, it clarifies the meaning of the relevant legal provisions and the basis for application of the HKNSL. It does not in any way impair the independent judicial power and the power of final adjudication of the HKSAR courts as guaranteed by the Basic Law. It is for the HKSAR to resolve specific cases and issues by itself.
The long-time presence of esteemed judges from overseas appointed or reappointed as non-permanent judges of the CFA participating in hearings of the Court, as well as after the enactment of the HKNSL, has been conducive to the international legal environment and the development of the jurisprudence of common law in Hong Kong. There are currently six non-permanent judges from the United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand in the CFA.
EDB’s first Digital Education Week launches International Summit on Use of AI in Learning and Teaching Languages and Other Subjects (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
​Digital Education Week 2025 (DEW) is a landmark event promoting the development of digital education by the Education Bureau (EDB). A flagship event of the first DEW, the International Summit on the Use of AI in Learning and Teaching Languages and Other Subjects (AIinLT), was officially launched today (July 4). The AIinLT is co-organised by the EDB, the Standing Committee on Language Education and Research (SCOLAR), the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) Department of English and Communication and the Hong Kong Education City (EdCity), providing a valuable and practical platform for teachers, researchers, and others in the education sector to learn and share insights regarding the use of AI in their respective fields of education.
Officiating at the opening ceremony, the Secretary for Education, Dr Choi Yuk-lin, said that the country placed great importance on advancing digital education. The EDB also implements digital education through four major focus areas, namely:
1. enhancing students’ digital literacy and skills to prepare them as responsible citizens and lifelong learners;
2. strengthening professional training in digital education for teachers and encouraging schools to leverage innovative technologies;
3. optimising digital education infrastructure and fostering personalized learning; and
4. expanding cross-border and international collaboration to enhance synergy and promote high-quality digital education development.
Dr Choi also called for collaboration among all stakeholders – including the Government, educational institutions, educators, and the community – to optimise resources, share best practices, and maximise the impact of digital education. She also emphasised the irreplaceable role of human connections in learning, encouraging attendees to harness AI wisely to empower individuals, strengthen communities and build a smarter, more connected world of learning.
At the ceremony, the Chairperson of SCOLAR, Dr Anissa Chan, said that SCOLAR is committed to embracing technological advancements in language education. She noted that this commitment was what inspired SCOLAR to organise, finance and host the AIinLT, which is one of the first international events in Hong Kong focusing on the use of AI in education. The AIinLT serves as a collaborative platform for innovation and exploration.
Dr Chan also spoke on the transformative potential of AI in personalising learning and enhancing language acquisition. She stressed the importance of guiding technological development through effective strategies, ethical considerations, and a learner-centred approach. She encouraged participants to shape the future of smart language learning, ensuring that AI serves as an enabler in education rather than a replacement for human interaction.
In his welcome remarks, the President of PolyU, Professor Teng Jinguang, echoed Dr Choi and said that the city of Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to be a global leader in AI-powered education and technology-driven learning, given its world-class education system, renowned universities, and its development into an international innovation and technology centre and international hub for post-secondary education.
He added that PolyU has been promoting the development of AI in education. PolyU was a forerunner university to introduce compulsory AI education for undergraduates back in 2022, and established this year the Faculty of Computer and Mathematical Sciences, the PolyU Academy for Artificial Intelligence as well as the Language Education Institute. All these efforts underscore PolyU’s far-sightedness and leadership in AI-empowered education and research. He expects that this event will spark meaningful ideas and collaborations that will help reshape AI in education in Hong Kong.
In his address, the Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hong Kong Education City, Mr Armstrong Lee, emphasised EdCity’s unwavering commitment to fostering cross-sector collaboration aimed at establishing a robust AI education ecosystem that propels the advancement of digital education. To expedite the digital transformation of educational practices, EdCity is developing the “EdMarket,” an innovative super-shelf for electronic teaching tools. This platform will feature a diverse array of high-quality global educational resources, including pioneering AI teaching tools designed to enrich and inspire transformative teaching and learning methodologies.
The AIinLT is taking place at PolyU for four consecutive days starting from today. The AIinLT on the first two days feature keynote speeches, a panel discussion, paper presentations, and teaching demonstrations. The following two days will include a post-summit workshop series covering a wide range of topics, along with a technology showcase where leading EdTech providers will demonstrate the latest AI hardware and software solutions, offering educators firsthand exposure to cutting edge-innovations. For details of the AIinLT, please visit the event website (events.polyu.edu.hk/aiinlt/home).
Public transport services to be enhanced amid ferry service adjustments on July 7
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Transport Department (TD) today (July 4) reminded the public that, in view of special marine transport measures next Monday (July 7) morning, ferry services will be adjusted. It has steered operators to enhance relevant public transport services, including ferry, bus and the MTR Tung Chung Line and Tuen Ma Line services. Operators will also provide free special outlying island ferry services (a total of four round trips) to ease the passenger flow. Members of the public, especially residents of outlying islands, should plan their journeys early and allow sufficient time for commuting.
(1) Outlying island ferry service adjustments
From about 10am to noon on that day, at most two sailings for each bound of each of a total of nine outlying island ferry service routes will be suspended gradually. Service details in the periods concerned are as follows:
- Central – Cheung Chau
From Cheung Chau: An additional fast ferry sailing at 9.15am, sailing at 9.30am to remain unchanged, sailings at 10am and 10.45am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.15am
From Central: Sailing at 9.45am to remain unchanged, sailings at 10.15am and 10.45am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.15am
- Central – Mui Wo
From Mui Wo: Sailing at 10am to remain unchanged, sailing at 10.40am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.30am
From Central: Sailing at 9.50am to remain unchanged, sailings at 10.30am and 11.10am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.50am
- Central – Peng Chau
From Peng Chau: Sailing at 9.15am to remain unchanged, sailings at 10am and 10.45am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.30am
From Central: Sailing at 10am to remain unchanged, sailing at 10.45am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.30am
- Central – Yung Shue Wan
From Yung Shue Wan: Sailing at 9.40am to remain unchanged, sailing at 10.30am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.20am
From Central: Sailing at 9.30am to remain unchanged, scheduled sailing at 10.10am to be advanced to depart at 10am, sailing at 11am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at noon
- Central – Sok Kwu Wan
From Sok Kwu Wan: Sailing at 9.35am to remain unchanged, sailing at 11.05am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 12.40pm
From Central: Sailing at 8.35am to remain unchanged, scheduled sailing at 10.20am to be advanced to depart at 10am, service to resume normal at 11.50am
- Aberdeen – Pak Kok Tsuen – Yung Shue Wan
From Yung Shue Wan: Sailing at 9.20am to remain unchanged, sailing at noon to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 2.20pm
From Aberdeen: Sailing at 8.40am to remain unchanged, sailing at 11.15am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 1.45pm
- Aberdeen – Sok Kwu Wan (via Mo Tat)
From Sok Kwu Wan: Sailing at 8.45am to remain unchanged, sailing at 10.15am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.45am
From Aberdeen: Sailing at 9.30am to remain unchanged, sailing at 11am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 12.30pm
- Ma Wan – Central
From Ma Wan: Sailing at 10am to remain unchanged, sailing at 11am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at noon
From Central: Sailing at 10.10am to remain unchanged, sailing at 10.30am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.30am
- Central – Discovery Bay
From Discovery Bay or Central: Sailings at 9.10am to remain unchanged, scheduled sailings at 9.40am and 10.10am to be advanced to depart at 9.30am and 9.50am respectively, sailings at 10.40am and 11.10am to be cancelled, service to resume normal at 11.40am
(2) Outlying island public transport services to be enhanced
Free of charge special outlying island ferry services
On the morning of July 7, operators will provide the following free special ferry service routes between individual outlying island locations and Tsuen Wan West, comprising four round trips. Passengers can transfer to the MTR Tuen Ma Line or other road-based transport modes at Tsuen Wan West Station to other destinations:
- Cheung Chau – Tsuen Wan West: departing from Cheung Chau at 10.25am and departing from Tsuen Wan West (Tsuen Wan Ferry Pier) at 11.25am;
- Peng Chau – Tsuen Wan West: departing from Peng Chau at 10.30am and departing from Tsuen Wan West (Tsuen Wan Ferry Pier) at 11.10am;
- Yung Shue Wan – Tsuen Wan West: departing from Yung Shue Wan at 10.30am and departing from Tsuen Wan West (Tsuen Wan Ferry Pier) at 11.20am; and
- Discovery Bay – Tsuen Wan West: departing from Discovery Bay at 10.40am and departing from Tsuen Wan West (Tsuen Wan Ferry Pier) at 11.15am.
Bus services to be enhanced
At the same time, operators will enhance bus services in Mui Wo, Ma Wan and Discovery Bay to ease the passenger flow, including:
- Enhancing service between Mui Wo Pier and Tung Chung Station (New Lantao Bus route No. 3M);
- Enhancing service between Ma Wan (Tung Wan Bus Terminus) and Tsing Yi Station (Residents’ Service route No. NR330);
- Operating free bus service from Discovery Bay to Central Ferry Pier No. 3 at 10.30am;
- Operating free bus service from Ma Wan to Central Ferry Pier No. 2 at 11am; and
- Strengthening service between Discovery Bay/Discovery Bay North and Sunny Bay (Residents’ Service route No. DB03R/DB03RP).
MTR services to be enhanced
On the morning of July 7, the MTR Corporation Limited (MTRCL) will arrange standby trains on Tung Chung Line and Tuen Ma Line for taking passengers if needed. The MTRCL will also deploy additional staff to busier stations to facilitate passenger flow and assist passengers.
Details of the above outlying island ferry service adjustments and special public transport service arrangements are set out in the Annex.
(3) In-harbour ferries’ temporary service adjustments
Of note, from around 10am to noon on July 7, subject to the actual situation, there may be temporary service adjustments up to around 30 minutes in nine in-harbour ferry routes, namely Wan Chai – Tsim Sha Tsui, Central – Tsim Sha Tsui, North Point – Hung Hom, North Point – Kowloon City, Central – Hung Hom, North Point – Kwun Tong, Water Taxi, Sai Wan Ho – Kwun Tong and Sai Wan Ho – Sam Ka Tsuen. Members of the public are urged to pay heed to the latest traffic news and announcements through radio and television broadcasts, the TD’s website (www.td.gov.hk), the HKeMobility mobile application and the ferry operators. The TD and operators will closely monitor the actual traffic situation at sea and, if practicable, resume normal services as soon as possible. Public transport services will be enhanced as needed to ease the passenger flow.
The TD will continue to work with the Islands District Office, relevant District Services and Community Care Teams of Islands District as well as ferry and road-based public transport operators to enhance information dissemination through websites, mobile applications, notices at piers and onboard as well as district networks to inform passengers of the above arrangements.
The TD’s Emergency Transport Co-ordination Centre will operate round the clock to closely monitor the traffic conditions and public transport services across the territory including districts concerned.