Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LegCo Panel on Constitutional Affairs visits patriotic education facilities
Accompanied by the Under Secretary for Constitutional and Mainland Affairs, Mr Clement Woo, Members first visited the Hong Kong Sha Tau Kok Anti-War Memorial Hall (the Law’s House), which is Hong Kong’s first memorial hall to commemorate the War of Resistance. Members toured the exhibition to learn about the history of the War of Resistance and the anti-Japanese deeds of the Luo family, and understood community group’s efforts in promoting patriotic education through revitalising historic sites of the War of Resistance.
During the visit, Members and representatives of the Administration discussed how to assist the community group that operates the memorial hall in further enriching their exhibits and enhancing other supporting facilities to attract more tourists and students to visit.
Members then visited the Cenotaph for Martyrs at Wu Kau Tang to understand how heroes and historic sites of the War of Resistance are remembered and preserved. Members suggested that the Administration make good use of the various heritage resources related to the War of Resistance in Sha Tau Kok and the nearby Wu Kau Tang area to organise educational visits and guided tours to better promote patriotic education.
Members also visited the Patriotic Education Centre at Sha Tin, where they toured the thematic exhibition on aerospace science to learn about the implementation of patriotic education by offering experiential and interactive learning services to students. Members also exchanged views with representatives of the Government on promoting patriotic education through commemorating the 90th anniversary of the victory of the Long March.
A total of 16 members and non-members of the Panel on Constitutional Affairs participated in the visit.
Issued at HKT 21:34
NNNN
CHP continues to actively follow up on a case of low-pathogenic avian influenza A (H9) infection and reminds the public of the possibility of “twin-peaks” for seasonal influenza and COVID-19 during summer
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
CHP continues to actively follow up on a case of low-pathogenic avian influenza A (H9) infection and reminds the public of the possibility of “twin-peaks” for seasonal influenza and COVID-19 during summer
Human infection with influenza A (H9) virus
——————————————————
In relation to the recent influenza A (H9) infection in a two-year-old boy, the Public Health Laboratory Services Branch of the CHP conducted whole genome sequencing and analysis of the virus, confirming that the virus strain is a low-pathogenic H9N2 avian influenza virus and that no significant genetic variations were detected. The CHP has collected 17 environmental samples from the residence of the patient, the fresh provision shop at Wo Che Market he had visited, as well as a park in Fung Wo Estate. One sample collected from a metal tray placed at the bottom of a live chicken cage inside the shop that was used to collect chicken droppings was tested positive for the H9 avian influenza virus. The remaining 16 samples tested negative. The CHP will conduct further analysis on the positive environmental sample. The CHP believed that it is more likely for the boy to have contracted H9 avian influenza by touching a contaminated surface at the fresh food shop selling live poultry in Wo Che Market. Thorough disinfection and cleaning will be conducted at the fresh food shop in question.
Seasonal influenza and COVID-19
————————————————-
Influenza activity in Hong Kong has increased in recent weeks but remains below the baseline level. Based on past experience, Hong Kong may experience two influenza seasons each year. The onset of summer influenza season began at a later time than usual last year, and sustained a longer period, extending from early September last year to early January this year, resulting in the absence of the winter influenza season that traditionally occurs in the first quarter of each year. Since the summer influenza season typically occurs between July and August, it cannot be ruled out that it may begin earlier than usual this year.
Government’s vaccination programmes
—————————————————
Vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent seasonal influenza, COVID-19 and its complications. It also reduces the risk of hospitalisation and death.
The WHO has earlier announced its recommendations for the composition for seasonal influenza and COVID-19 vaccines in the upcoming season. Vaccine manufacturers are currently producing vaccines in accordance with the recommendations. A new batch of seasonal influenza vaccines will arrive in Hong Kong in this September, while COVID-19 vaccines will arrive in the fourth quarter. In addition, the shelf life of vaccines under the Government’s Seasonal Influenza Vaccination (SIV) Programmes will expire at the end of July. The DH launched the 2025/26 SIV Programmes in September last year. With the government’s active promotion and the cooperation of various stakeholders, over 2.03 million doses of vaccines have been administered. Members of the public who have not received vaccinations, particularly children, the elderly and chronic disease patients, should receive influenza vaccination as soon as possible.
To prevent respiratory diseases, members of the public should maintain good personal, hand and environmental hygiene at all times. Members of the public with respiratory symptoms, even if the symptoms are mild, should wear a surgical mask, avoid crowded places and seek medical advice promptly. They should maintain hand hygiene before putting on and after removing a mask. When there is a rise in activity levels of respiratory diseases, high-risk persons should wear surgical masks when visiting public places. The general public should also wear a surgical mask when taking public transport or staying in crowded places.Issued at HKT 22:10
NNNN
Hong Kong film industry participates in Shanghai International Film Festival to showcase emerging talents
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) of the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and the Hong Kong Film Development Council (FDC) led an industry delegation to participate in the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF). By participating in major film festivals in the Chinese Mainland and organising Hong Kong film screening events, the promotion aimed to enhance the exposure of Hong Kong films and filmmakers in the Chinese Mainland and showcase the latest works of the Hong Kong cinema to a broad audience.
The delegation included the Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries, Miss Drew Lai; Assistant Commissioner for Cultural and Creative Industries and Secretary-General of the FDC, Mr Gary Mak; the Chairman of FDC, Dr Wilfred Wong; producer Derek Yee, director Keane Wong and actor Stephen Fung of the film “Afterpiece”; director Philip Yung and actor Sean Lau of the film “Papa”; along with a cohort of new-generation directors and actors, collectively demonstrating the robustness and the thriving power of the new blood of the Hong Kong film industry.
Film productions by Hong Kong’s emerging filmmakers are attracting significant attention at this year’s SIFF. “Afterpiece”, funded by the Directors’ Succession Scheme under the Film Development Fund (FDF), was selected as the opening film. Furthermore, director Mak Tin-shu was nominated for the Asian New Talent of the Golden Goblet Awards with the film “Dog Day Evening”, financed by the Film Production Financing Scheme (Relaxation Plan) (FPRP) under the FDF.
CCIDA and the FDC organised the “Making Waves – Navigators of Hong Kong Cinema” (Making Waves) screening programme during the SIFF, featuring six films directed by emerging Hong Kong directors, including “Afterpiece”, “Dog Day Evening”, “Bird of Paradise” (a winning film project in the higher education institution group of the 7th First Feature Film Initiative), “Papa” (a film project financed by FPRP), “The Snowball on a Sunny Day” and “Unidentified Murder”. The programme aimed to highlight to audiences the diverse charms of Hong Kong cinema through these films.
CCIDA and the FDC hosted “Hong Kong Cinema: A Legacy in Succession” at the SIFFORUM, introducing the different film production financing and funding schemes under the FDF, while inviting Hong Kong veteran and emerging directors for a cross-generational dialogue and in-depth exchange on the development and innovation of the film industry.
In addition, Miss Lai, Mr Mak and Dr Wong met with the Executive Deputy Director-General of the China Film Administration, Mr Mao Yu, and representatives of international film and cultural institutions including Toronto International Film Festival and British Council, to strengthen ties between Hong Kong and overseas film industries. CCIDA and the FDC have long been committed to driving the development and innovation of the Hong Kong film industry, and will continue to provide steadfast support for film production and talent nurturing through various funding schemes, empowering emerging filmmakers to step onto and excel on broader stages.
HKETO Berlin supports Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council delegation “Go Global” visit to Germany
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Berlin (HKETO Berlin) supported a delegation visit by the Hong Kong Young Industrialists Council to Berlin, Germany, June 11 and 12 (Berlin time).
The aims of the visit were to strengthen business ties and encourage closer collaboration between the business and industrial communities of Hong Kong and Germany.
On June 11, the Director of the HKETO Berlin, Mr Indiana Wong, hosted a briefing for the delegation and provided an overview of the eight Central and Eastern European markets under HKETO Berlin’s purview. He highlighted the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government’s commitment to supporting Hong Kong enterprises in expanding their businesses under the “Go Global” initiative.
On the same day, the delegation also met with representatives of Germany Trade & Invest and visited the Science and Technology Park Berlin Adlershof to gain on-the-ground insights into Germany’s investment environment and innovation ecosystem.
On June 12, HKETO Berlin arranged a breakfast meeting for the delegation to meet with representatives of small and medium-sized enterprise executives, the German Association of Young Entrepreneurs, and visit a certification company in Berlin.
About HKETO Berlin
HKETO Berlin is the official representative of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government in commercial relations and other economic and trade matters in Germany as well as Austria, Czechia, Hungary, Poland, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia and Switzerland.
10th Anniversary Fun Day@HK ICH Centre to showcase diverse Intangible Cultural Heritage of different ethnic groups
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
10th Anniversary Fun Day@HK ICH Centre to showcase diverse Intangible Cultural Heritage of different ethnic groups
Highlights of the first day’s performances included an inclusive Cantonese opera performance presented by non-ethnic Chinese children, Hoi Luk Fung unicorn dance, young Chiu Chow music and Hakka Folk Song Duet. A variety of free interactive activities were staged for members of the public, such as workshops on patterned band weaving and prosperity motif embroidery, a traditional architecture preservation technique demonstration and experience led by a veteran historic building restoration master, and the Cantonese Literary Fun Hub. Moreover, visitors could make diffuser stones with auspicious animal designs, 10th anniversary magnets, postcards stamped with the “Ten-Year Imprint”, and more at the fun day, and appreciate creative paper craft products and old photos of Sam Tung Uk.
Highlights for tomorrow include the “Village Chief Leads the Way: Deep Dive into Sam Tung Uk” tour, led by the village chief of Sam Tung Uk Village, Mr Chan Kam-hong, allowing participants to explore the ingenuity of the architectural layout story of Sam Tung Uk, a Hakka walled house with over 200 years of history, from the perspective of an indigenous resident. A Teej performance, with Nepali women singing and dancing in traditional costumes, will also be presented, as well as an Indian festival activity introducing the history, origins, and customs of Indian festivals such as Diwali, offering participants an opportunity to learn about traditional folk dances and chants. Other not-to-be-missed programmes will include the art of Chiu Chow Kung Fu tea demonstration and experience, shadow puppetry performances, as well as stilt house construction technique model demonstrations.
For details of the fun day, please visit the website: www.icho.hk/en/web/icho/2026_hkich_month_carnival_stum.htmlIssued at HKT 17:04
NNNN
HKSAR Government strongly condemns Washington Post editorial on Subsidiary Legislation safeguarding national security
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
HKSAR Government strongly condemns Washington Post editorial on Subsidiary Legislation safeguarding national security
A spokesperson for the HKSAR Government stated, “In accordance with international law based on the Charter of the United Nations, it is each and every sovereign state’s inherent right, as well as an international practice, to enact laws safeguarding national security. With at least 21 pieces of legislation in the United States (US) safeguarding national security, anti-China media, in particular The Washington Post, shamelessly display its hypocrisy and double standards by pointing fingers at the HKSAR as we continuously improve our legal system to fulfill a constitutional duty to safeguard national security.”
In response to the article’s baseless allegations, the spokesperson points out that, “The Procedural Matters Regulation only aims to state clearly the classification mechanism under the Law of the People’s Republic of China on Safeguarding National Security in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKNSL) and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance (SNSO) for ‘other offences endangering national security under the law of the HKSAR’, thereby bringing even greater certainty to the implementation of the relevant provisions under the HKNSL, the SNSO and other laws.
“Any reasonable and objective person who has studied the three provisions of the Procedural Matters Regulation with care, and observed the relevant discussions at the Legislative Council (LegCo) meetings would have no difficulty in finding that the Procedural Matters Regulation has no retrospective effect at all. It does not create any new offence or alter the penalties of any offence. It certainly does not turn any lawful conduct into an offence. It is not applicable to legal proceedings that are concluded. Yet, The Washington Post falsely and maliciously claimed that ‘people can now be charged retroactively for crimes that didn’t exist when they allegedly committed them’. Its ignorance of facts and betrayal of the basic tenets of responsible journalism are shocking, irresponsible, and totally unacceptable behaviour for any media organisation.
“More important, the Procedural Matters Regulation will in no way infringe any legitimate right of a defendant. Hong Kong is a place underpinned by the rule of law. The guilt or innocence of a defendant remains a matter to be adjudicated by the court independently and in accordance with law. The court will, as always, ensure a defendant’s right to a fair trial. Article 4 of the HKNSL stipulates that human rights shall be respected and protected in safeguarding national security. The rights and freedoms, which the residents of the HKSAR enjoy under the Basic Law and the provisions of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights as applied to Hong Kong, shall be protected in accordance with the law. Article 5 stipulates that the principle of the rule of law shall be adhered to in preventing, suppressing, and imposing punishment for offences endangering national security, which includes protection for the right to defend oneself and other rights in judicial proceedings that a criminal suspect and defendant are entitled to under the law. Section 2 of the SNSO also clearly stipulates that the Ordinance is based on the above principle of respect and protection for human rights and the principle of the rule of law.”
The spokesperson pointed out, “Another allegation by The Washington Post about the issuance of a certificate by the Chief Executive under Article 47 of the HKNSL or section 115 of the SNSO is plainly wrong. The issuance of the certificate by the Chief Executive is a rigorous and solemn action. As the top official with primary responsibility for safeguarding national security in the HKSAR, the Chief Executive has access to all relevant information, including extremely sensitive intelligence and information on acts and activities endangering national security, which are not suitable for public disclosure. Such confidential information may even pertain to threats by state actors. It follows that the Chief Executive must shoulder the important responsibility, and indeed is in the best position, to make the necessary assessments and exercise the power to issue certificates on whether a criminal act involves national security. It must be firmly stated that this is a very rigorous and cautious process, leaving absolutely no room for uncertainty.
“As a matter of fact, it is a well-established principle at common law, upheld by the highest courts of common law jurisdictions including Hong Kong, the US and the United Kingdom, that the courts accord deference to the assessments and judgments of the executive authorities on national security. Constitutionally, the executive authorities have the responsibility for assessing and addressing risks to national security, whereas the court is tasked to administer justice and adjudicate disputes independently. For institutional reasons, the executive has the requisite experience, expertise, resources and access to information and intelligence, which make it best suited to making evaluative judgments on those matters. Notably, a judgment of the Supreme Court of the US in 2010 (which has been applied in many subsequent Supreme Court judgments) explained why the judiciary must defer to the executive authorities’ assessment of national security issues, stating that ‘national security and foreign policy concerns arise in connection with efforts to confront evolving threats in an area where information can be difficult to obtain and the impact of certain conduct difficult to assess’, and ‘the lack of competence on the part of the courts is marked’. Turning a blind eye to the above simply demonstrates The Washington Post’s double standards and ignorance.”
The spokesperson also stressed that the legislative process on the Procedural Matters Regulation is entirely in compliance with all legal and procedural requirements. “The Procedural Matters Regulation is a piece of subsidiary legislation made under section 110 of the SNSO. It is subject to scrutiny by the LegCo under the negative vetting procedure, as in the case of many other pieces of legislation that are currently in force in Hong Kong. In accordance with section 34 of the Interpretation and General Clauses Ordinance (Cap. 1), the LegCo may pass resolution to amend the subsidiary legislation in any manner consistent with the power to make such subsidiary legislation. As a matter of fact, the LegCo convened a subcommittee on June 11 to study the Procedural Matters Regulation. Members of the subcommittee asked Government officials numerous questions concerning the policy, legal and drafting aspects of the Procedural Matters Regulation, and were satisfied that it is in order in all respects.”
Regarding The Washington Post’s baseless claim that Hong Kong is now “a less secure place to visit or do business”, the spokesperson said, “It is most appalling that The Washington Post has to resort to dirty tricks and tell bold-faced lies to smear the HKSAR. In fact, a simple online “fact-check” will reveal this is completely at odds with how investors and businesses around the world perceive the HKSAR: Hong Kong has been heralded the world’s freest economy for decades; in the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025, Hong Kong’s ranking improved by two places to third globally; Hong Kong continues to rank among the top three international financial centres, and is number one in the world in terms of initial public offering (IPO) fundraising in the first quarter of 2026, as well as the largest cross-boundary wealth management centre.
“Foreign businesses have no reason to worry about the laws safeguarding national security in the HKSAR. In fact, many entrepreneurs welcome such laws, which ensure a safer and more stable environment for investments and economic development. The findings of a survey by the American Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong earlier this year, showed increased confidence in Hong Kong’s business environment for 2026; 94 per cent of the respondents expressed confidence in Hong Kong’s rule of law, a marked increase from 83 per cent in 2025. It is time for The Washington Post to face facts and respect the truth, including honest opinions expressed by their fellow countrymen who invest their money and do business in and with Hong Kong.
“The HKSAR Government will, as always, resolutely, fully and faithfully implement the HKNSL, the SNSO and other relevant laws safeguarding national security in the HKSAR, to effectively prevent, suppress and impose punishment for acts and activities endangering national security in accordance with the law, while upholding the rights and freedoms of Hong Kong people in accordance with the law, so as to ensure the steadfast and successful implementation of the principle of ‘one country, two systems’.”
Issued at HKT 23:36
NNNN
81st round of computer ballot registration for submitting applications for Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles to be open June 15 to 18
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Transport Department today (June 14) reminded members of the public that the 81st round of computer ballot registration for submitting applications for Northbound Travel for Hong Kong Vehicles (the scheme) will be open from 10am tomorrow (June 15) to 11.59pm on June 18, and the ballot result will be announced on June 19.
Eligible applicants for the scheme can register for computer balloting through the designated website (www.hzmbqfs.gov.hk). Successful balloting applicants are required to submit applications for the scheme within the designated application period.
Toronto ETO celebrates dragon boat racing festivals in Toronto and Ottawa
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (Toronto) (Toronto ETO) joined community leaders, athletes, and thousands of spectators at the 38th Toronto International Dragon Boat Race Festival (Festival) held on the Centre Island in Toronto, Canada, celebrating the global appeal of dragon boat racing and the strong cultural ties between Hong Kong and Canada.
Speaking at the opening ceremony of the Festival on June 13 (Toronto Time), the Director of the Toronto ETO, Mr Bill Wong, congratulated the Toronto Chinese Business Association on hosting another successful edition of one of the most anticipated summer events in Ontario.
“Exactly 50 years ago, the first international dragon boat race took place in Hong Kong, transforming a traditional Chinese cultural activity into a modern international sport,” Mr Wong said. “Ten years later, dragon boat racing arrived in Canada during Expo 86 in Vancouver before expanding to other major cities across the country, including Toronto.”
He added that the annual Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Festival, one of the city’s signature mega events, will take place in two weeks. The event will feature teams from 16 countries and regions, including Canada.
Mr Wong invited friends in Canada to visit Hong Kong this summer to experience in person the energy of dragon boat racing at the world-renowned Victoria Harbour, as well as the rich culture and vibrancy of the city.
On both days of the Festival, the Toronto ETO set up a Hong Kong Pavilion with a mini-exhibition to showcase the history of dragon boats. Gifts were also distributed to the race spectators.
As one of the highlights of the Festival, the commemorative Hong Kong Cup, sponsored by the Toronto ETO, was presented to a winning teams on June 14.
The Toronto ETO will also support the Dragon Boat Festival in Ottawa from June 19 to 21 (Ottawa Time), to continue promoting dragon boating and fostering cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and Canada.
North District Hospital appeals to public regarding missing patient
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The following is issued on behalf of the Hospital Authority:
The spokesperson for North District Hospital (NDH) made the following appeal today (June 14) regarding a patient leaving the hospital without notifying hospital staff:
A 61-year-old male patient left an Orthopaedics & Traumatology ward at around 1.30am today without notifying hospital staff. Security guards were immediately deployed to search for the patient within the hospital compound and the vicinity, but could not locate the patient. The hospital is very concerned about the incident and immediately informed the patient’s family, and asked the Police for assistance.
The patient is about 1.7 metres tall, with a tall and thin body build, and short hair. He was wearing a patient uniform and black slippers when he left the hospital. The hospital appeals to the public to contact the Police or the hospital hotline at 2683 7091 if they know the whereabouts of the patient.
NDH has reported the case to the Hospital Authority Head Office via the Advance Incident Reporting System.
Over 4 000 blood donors and Elite Partners commended at Annual Donor Award Ceremony for second consecutive year
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Over 4 000 blood donors and Elite Partners commended at Annual Donor Award Ceremony for second consecutive year Prudential Hong Kong Limited
Sun Hung Kai Properties Limited
Sino Group
The Hongkong and Shanghai Banking Corporation Limited
Bank of China (Hong Kong) Limited
Standard Chartered Bank (Hong Kong) Limited
Elite Partnership Award – Community Partners
Tsz Shan Monastery
Scout Association of Hong Kong
Lions Clubs International District 303
Rotary International District 3450
Yan Oi Tong
Evangelical Free Church of China – Yan Fook Church
Elite Partnership Award – Community Partners (Blood Donation Vehicle)
Whampoa Garden Management Limited
Lung Mun Oasis
Citygate
Elite Partnership Award – University
The Chinese University of Hong Kong
The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology
The University of Hong Kong
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong Baptist University
Elite Partnership Award – Secondary School
Kellet School
Ng Yuk Secondary School
St. Stephen’s Girls College
Discovery College
Discovery Bay International School
Cheung Sha Wan Catholic Secondary School
HK & Kln Kaifong Women’s Association Sun Fong Chung College
Diocesan Boys’ School
STFA Tam Pak Yu College
TWGHs Chang Ming Thien College
PLK Wu Chung CollegeIssued at HKT 15:38
NNNN