Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department has once again invited members of “Fountain de Chopin”, a local emerging jazz music group, as the speakers and demonstrators for a ecture demonstration series entitled “Jazz Appreciation from Legends” that will be held from June to August. This new series consists of 10 lectures, each featuring one renowned jazz musician and his/her profound impact on future generations in each lecture. Complemented by live demonstrations of the musicians’ iconic compositions, audiences will be guided to appreciate the unique styles of various jazz music genres.
Details of each lecture are as follows:——————————————– Date: June 6 (Friday)——————————————— Date: June 13 (Friday)——————————————— Date: June 20 (Friday)——————————————— Date: July 4 (Friday)——————————————— Date: July 11 (Friday)——————————————— Date: July 18 (Friday)——————————————— Date: August 1 (Friday)——————————————— Date: August 8 (Friday)——————————————— Date: August 15 (Friday)——————————————— Date: August 29 (Friday)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The Government announced today (May 2) that the Chief Executive has appointed five new members and reappointed nine incumbent members to the Equal Opportunities Commission (EOC) for a term of two years with effect from May 20, 2025.
The newly appointed members are:
Dr Eliza Chan Ching-har
Ms Aruna Gurung
Revd Canon Peter Douglas Koon Ho-ming
Dr Lui Wai-cheung
Mr Symon Wong Yu-wing
The reappointed members are:
Ms Queenie Chan Lai-kwan
Ms Choi Yi-tak
Miss Lily Chow
Dr Theresa Cunanan
Mr James Mathew Fong
Mr Vishal Melwani
Miss Shirley To Shuk-yi
Ms Linda Tsang Chi-man
Dr Kitty Wu Kit-ying
“The membership of the EOC represents a variety of expertise and sectors, including women; persons with disabilities; ethnic minorities; members from the employment, social services, legal, accounting, academic and education sectors; and the community at large. Their experience and expertise are instrumental to the work of the EOC in promoting equal opportunities,” said a Government spokesperson.
“We would like to take the opportunity to thank Mr Vincent Cheng Wing-shun, Dr Henry Shie Wai-hung, Ms Anna Thompson, Dr Rizwan Ullah, and Mr Gary Wong Chi-him, who will be stepping down from the EOC, for their staunch support for the work of the Commission over the years.”
“We look forward to the continuous concerted efforts of the Chairperson of the EOC as well as its members in constructing a more harmonious, inclusive and caring Hong Kong,” the spokesperson added.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
AFCD urges public to think carefully before releasing animals A spokesman for the AFCD said, “In recent years, some members of the public have conducted mercy release activities in an improper manner, including releasing animals into unsuitable habitats, which may affect their survival. Moreover, releasing non-native species or species incompatible with the local ecology may have adverse impacts on the natural environment. As such, the Government does not encourage the public to release animals.”
The AFCD will deploy staff to conduct timely inspections at locations where animal releasing activities are likely to take place and will carry out publicity and education work.
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), it is an offence to cause unnecessary suffering to animals by releasing them not in a proper manner. Offenders are liable to a maximum fine of $200,000 and imprisonment for three years upon conviction.
The spokesman stressed that to safeguard animal welfare, members of the public must think carefully before participating in animal release activities. They may also consider participating in other charitable activities, such as planting trees or joining volunteer services with animal welfare groups and environmental organisations. Issued at HKT 11:00
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Special traffic arrangements for Tam Kung Festival————- Shau Kei Wan Main Street East between Factory Street and Tung Hei Road, except for trams; – Tam Kung Temple Road; – A Kung Ngam Village Road between Tung Hei Road and A Kung Ngam Road; – Westbound Tung Hei Road between its eastern junction with A Kung Ngam Village Road and Mong Lung Street; – Eastbound Tung Hei Road between Oi Lai Street and its eastern junction with A Kung Ngam Village Road; – Eastbound Oi Lai Street between Oi Yin Street and Tung Hei Road; – Wang Wa Street; – Factory Street between Shau Kei Wan Main Street East and Wang Wa Street; – Eastbound Factory Street between Mong Lung Street and Shau Kei Wan Main Street East; – Kam Wa Street between Mong Lung Street and Wang Wa Street; – Basel Road; and – Miu Tung Street.——————- Traffic along westbound Island Eastern Corridor and Tung Hei Road heading for Shau Kei Wan will be diverted via A Kung Ngam Village Road.—————————– Metered parking spaces on Shau Kei Wan Main Street East; – Metered parking spaces on Wang Wa Street; and – Metered parking spaces and disabled parking spaces on Kam Wa Street.Issued at HKT 11:16
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Proposed road works for expansion of Hong Kong Science Museum and Hong Kong Museum of History gazettedG/F, Harbour Building, 38 Pier Road, Central, Hong KongG/F, Mong Kok Government Offices, 30 Luen Wan Street, Mong Kok, Kowloon4/F, South Tower, West Kowloon Government Offices, 11 Hoi Ting Road, Yau Ma Tei, Kowloon A notice of objection should describe the objector’s interest and the manner in which he or she alleges that he or she will be affected by the works or the use. Objectors are requested to provide contact details to facilitate communication. A notice of objection should be delivered to the Secretary for Transport and Logistics not later than July 2, 2025. Issued at HKT 11:18
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Government published in the Gazette today (May 2) the Land (Miscellaneous Provisions) (Amendment) Regulation 2025 to revise the eight types of fees and three sets of economic costs payable as specified under the Land (Miscellaneous Provisions) Regulations (Cap 28A).
The revision cover the following categories:
(a) fees payable in respect of processing the applications for excavations and issuing excavation permits (XP) by the Government in relation to excavations in unleased land covering the extent in streets maintained by the Highways Department (HyD) and unleased land other than streets maintained by the HyD; and
(b) economic costs charged for the whole duration of the extended period of excavations in a street maintained by the HyD.
A spokesman for the Development Bureau said, “In line with the ‘user pays’ principle, it is the Government’s policy that fees charged by the Government should in general be set at levels adequate to recover the full cost of providing the services.
“The Government implemented a fee review moratorium on government fees and charges set on a cost recovery basis from August 2019 to December 2021. Starting from early 2022, the Government has gradually resumed the review of various fees. This is the first revision proposal for the above-mentioned fees and economic costs since the lifting of the fee review moratorium.
“In order to achieve full cost recovery gradually and avoid a steep fee increase, the eight types of fees payable in respect of processing the applications for excavations and issuing XP by the Government will be increased by 8 per cent to 20 per cent. In addition, three sets of economic costs charged for the whole duration of the extended period of excavations in a street maintained by the HyD will be increased by 24 per cent to 25 per cent to drive the excavation permittees to complete their works as soon as possible so as to minimise the disturbance to the road users.
“As stated in the Information Paper to the Legislative Council Panel on Development dated July 15, 2024, the service users involved in the subject fees and economic costs are mainly public utilities (such as electricity companies, telecommunication companies, and the town gas company). The subject fees and economic costs should represent a minute portion (amounting to around 0.1 per cent) of the total operating cost of the public utilities. Thus, the proposed increases should have a limited impact on their operations. The relevant stakeholders have been consulted on the proposed fee revision. They did not raise any comment on the proposed fee revision.”
The Regulation will be tabled at the Legislative Council on May 7. Subject to approval by negative vetting, the revised fees and economic costs will come into effect on July 1 this year.
India Showcases Creative and Technological Might at WAVES 2025 Discussions at WAVES on AI, Social Media and Advertising reflect India’s expanding footprint in the Digital Media sector
Posted On: 01 MAY 2025 9:24PM by PIB Mumbai
Mumbai, 1 May 2025
The inaugural session of WAVES 2025 was graced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, who officially opened the summit at the Jio World Centre in Mumbai. In his keynote address, PM Modi emphasized India’s rich storytelling heritage and its potential to become a global hub for content creation. He highlighted the convergence of content, creativity, and culture as the pillars of the ‘Orange Economy,’ urging creators worldwide to “Create in India, Create for the World.” The Prime Minister also paid tribute to Indian cinema legends by releasing commemorative postage stamps. He called upon global creators to explore India’s diverse narratives, stating that every street, mountain, and river in India carries a story waiting to be told. The session was attended by dignitaries from over 100 countries, industry leaders, and renowned artists, marking a significant step in India’s journey to becoming a creative superpower.
AI and Creativity: Adobe and NVIDIA Chart the Future
Shantanu Narayen, CEO of Adobe, highlighted India’s emergence as a global hub of creativity powered by digital tools and generative AI. With over 100 million content creators and 500 million OTT consumers, Narayen described India as “the world’s next creative superpower.” He showcased Adobe’s Firefly AI models and stressed ethical AI, content authenticity, and creator attribution as vital for sustainable growth.
In a fireside chat, Richard Kerris and Vishal Dhupar of NVIDIA explored how AI is revolutionizing the creative pipeline—allowing content to be generated, localized, and personalized at scale. “India has long exported talent. Now it can export culture,” Kerris declared, emphasizing AI’s ability to amplify regional voices and transform India into a storytelling giant.
YouTube to offer more support to boost the Creator Economy
YouTube CEO Neal Mohan announced a ₹850 crore investment to accelerate India’s creator economy, citing over 15,000 Indian channels with more than 1 million subscribers. Joined by global creators Mark Rober and Gautami Kawale (Slayy Point), Mohan underlined YouTube’s role in taking Indian stories global. “India isn’t just leading in music and film—it’s now a Creator Nation,” he said. Kawale shared how regional Indian content, when rooted in culture, has universal appeal, while Rober spoke about the power of STEM content crossing borders through AI-enabled dubbing and localization.
WPP and the Advertising Renaissance
Mark Read, CEO of WPP, described the advertising industry’s $1 trillion global footprint and its shift towards AI-led storytelling. He unveiled WPP’s open video production platform and shared a campaign featuring Shah Rukh Khan to demonstrate hyper-personalized content creation using motion AI. “AI is not replacing creativity—it is expanding it,” Read said, outlining the role of MSMEs and digital tools in democratizing access to quality advertising.
Global Collaboration: UK-India Cultural Pact
In a keynote that blended diplomacy and personal heritage, Lisa Nandy, UK Secretary of State for DCMS, emphasized the cultural bridge between India and the UK. She announced a Bilateral Cultural Federation Agreement to strengthen ties across cinema, museums, and performing arts. “From Manchester to Mumbai, we must empower the next generation of storytellers,” she urged, citing the legacy of figures like Sophia Duleep Singh and modern UK-Indian creatives.
Panel Highlights: AI, Culture, and Influence; Two panel discussions deepened the discourse:
“India M&E @100: The Future of Media and Entertainment” featured leaders from Eros Now, Jetsynthesys, and GroupM. They emphasized that India is in the fourth wave of disruption, where AI-led IP creation and Gen Z consumption patterns are reshaping the industry.
“The Business of Influence”, moderated by YouTube’s Gautam Anand, showcased creators like Chef Ranveer Brar, ChessTalk’s Jeetendra Advani, and Japanese YouTuber Mayo Murasaki. From chess to agriculture, they demonstrated how digital platforms are taking Indian knowledge global while preserving cultural authenticity.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Police announced today (May 2) that the “floating colours” parade in Cheung Chau on May 5 is expected to draw a large number of spectators. Crowd safety management measures and special arrangements will be implemented. Police urge members of the public to plan their trips in advance.
A. Crowd safety management measures
Depending on crowd conditions, crowd safety management measures will be implemented on the following roads:
– Pak She Street;
– â� San Hing Street;
– Tung Wan Road;
– Praya Street;
– Tai San Praya Road;
– Tai Hing Tai Road;
– Chung Hing Street;
– Tai Tsoi Yuen Road;
– Tai San Back Street;
– Hing Lung Main Street;
– â� San Hing Back Street;
– Man Shun Lane; and
– Kwok Man Road.
“No staying zones” will be set up outside Cheung Chau Ferry Pier, Cheung Chau Public Pier and Shing Cheong Lane, where members of the public are prohibited from staying.
Members of the public are advised to exercise tolerance and patience, and take heed of instructions of the Police on site. They are also reminded to look after the accompanying children and elderly.
B. Ferry services
To facilitate the dispersal of spectators from the “floating colours” parade, the ferry company will increase the frequency of trips between Central and Cheung Chau. Members of the public are advised to pay attention to the latest arrangements announced by the ferry company before leaving home.
Police anticipate that the peak period for individuals departing from Cheung Chau will occur from 5pm to 6pm. During this time, those queuing at Cheung Chau Ferry Pier are advised to exercise patience and take heed of instructions of the Police on site. Members of the public are advised to avoid the peak time unless necessary.
NHRC, India takes suo motu cognizance of the reported issue of non-availability of infrastructure and manpower to provide for the prisoners to pursue education in the Kerala jails Issues notice to the Director General of Prisons, Kerala, calling for a detailed report within four weeks
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 12:51PM by PIB Delhi
The National Human Rights (NHRC), India has taken suo motu cognizance of a media report highlighting the issue of non-availability of infrastructure and manpower to provide for the prisoners to pursue education in the Kerala jails. Reportedly, the growing number of inmates, including those convicted of grave crimes, are choosing to turn their lives around by enrolling in regular or online educational courses, but the authorities are struggling to support their efforts.
The Commission has observed that the contents of the news report, if true, raise issues of violation of human rights of the prisoners who intend to pursue educational programmes/ courses. Therefore, the Commission has issued a notice to the Director General of Prisons, Government of Kerala, calling for a detailed report in the matter, within four weeks.
According to the media report, carried on 25th April, 2025, the Kerala prison authorities are facing severe staff shortage, lack of dedicated devices and secure internet connection for the inmates, willing to study online. Reportedly, there is no monitoring system to ensure that the prisoners will use the internet only for educational purposes. Another challenge is that some dangerous criminals are also now trying to apply for the regular course as a devious tactic to get the interim release to facilitate travel outside the prison.
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicates Vizhinjam International Seaport in Kerala worth ₹8,800 crore to the nation The Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala is a significant advancement in India’s maritime infrastructure: PM
Today is the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Adi Shankaracharya, Adi Shankaracharya ji awakened the consciousness of the nation by coming out of Kerala and establishing monasteries in different corners of the country, I pay tribute to him on this auspicious occasion: PM
India’s coastal states and our port cities will become key centres of growth for a Viksit Bharat: PM
Government in collaboration with the state governments has upgraded the port infrastructure under the Sagarmala project enhancing port connectivity: PM
Under PM-Gatishakti, the inter-connectivity of waterways, railways, highways and airways is being improved at a fast pace: PM
In the last 10 years investments under Public-Private Partnerships have not only upgraded our ports to global standards, but have also made them future ready: PM
The world will always remember Pope Francis for his spirit of service: PM
Posted On: 02 MAY 2025 1:16PM by PIB Delhi
Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi dedicated Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport worth Rs 8,800 crore to the nation today in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Addressing the gathering on the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversary of Bhagwan Adi Shankaracharya, the Prime Minister highlighted that three years ago, in September, he had the privilege of visiting the revered birthplace of Adi Shankaracharya. He expressed his joy that a grand statue of Adi Shankaracharya has been installed in the Vishwanath Dham complex in his parliamentary constituency, Kashi. He emphasized that this installation stands as a tribute to the immense spiritual wisdom and teachings of Adi Shankaracharya. He further highlighted that he also had the honor of unveiling the divine statue of Adi Shankaracharya at the sacred Kedarnath Dham in Uttarakhand. The Prime Minister noted that today marks another special occasion as the doors of the Kedarnath temple have been opened to devotees. Prime Minister Modi underscored that Adi Shankaracharya, originating from Kerala, established monasteries in different corners of the country, awakening the consciousness of the nation. He emphasized that his efforts laid the foundation for a unified and spiritually enlightened Bharat.
Shri Modi highlighted the vast ocean, rich with immense possibilities, standing on one side, while on the other, nature’s breathtaking beauty adds to the grandeur. Amidst all this, he emphasized that the Vizhinjam Deep-Water Sea Port has now emerged as a symbol of new age development. He extended his congratulations to the people of Kerala and the entire nation on this remarkable achievement.
Underscoring that the Vizhinjam Deep-Water Sea Port has been developed at a cost of ₹8,800 crore, the Prime Minister remarked that the capacity of this transshipment hub will triple in the coming years, enabling the smooth arrival of some of the world’s largest cargo ships. He pointed out that 75% of India’s transshipment operations were previously conducted at foreign ports, leading to significant revenue loss for the country. Emphasizing that this situation is now set to change, he asserted that India’s money will now serve India and the funds that once flowed outside the country will now generate new economic opportunities for Kerala and Vizhinjam’s people.
Shri Modi remarked that before colonial rule, India witnessed centuries of prosperity, emphasising that at one point, India held a major share in the global GDP. He highlighted that what set India apart from other nations during that era was its maritime capacity and the economic activity of its port cities. Noting that Kerala played a significant role in this maritime strength and economic growth, he highlighted Kerala’s historical role in maritime trade, emphasizing that through the Arabian Sea, India maintained trade links with multiple nations. He noted that ships from Kerala carried goods to various countries, making it a vital hub for global commerce. “Today, the Government of India is committed to further strengthening this channel of economic power”, he added and asserted, “India’s coastal states and port cities will become key centers for the growth of a developed India”.
“The port economy reaches its full potential when infrastructure and ease of doing business are promoted together”, emphasised the Prime Minister, stating that over the past 10 years, this has been the blueprint of the Government of India’s port and waterways policy. He highlighted that the government has accelerated efforts for industrial activities and holistic development of states. He further remarked that the Government of India, in collaboration with state governments, has upgraded port infrastructure under the Sagarmala Project and strengthened port connectivity. He noted that under PM Gati Shakti, waterways, railways, highways, and airways are being rapidly integrated for seamless connectivity. He added that these reforms in ease of doing business have led to greater investment in ports and infrastructure sectors. The Prime Minister stated that the Government of India has also reformed regulations concerning Indian seafarers, yielding significant results. He pointed out that in 2014, the number of Indian seafarers was below 1.25 lakh. Today, this figure has surged beyond 3.25 lakh. He emphasized that India now ranks among the top three countries globally in terms of seafarer numbers.
Highlighting that a decade ago, ships faced long waiting times at ports, significantly delaying unloading operations, Shri Modi noted that this slowdown affected businesses, industries, and the overall economy. He stressed that the situation has now transformed and over the past 10 years, India’s major ports have reduced ship turn-around time by 30%, improving operational efficiency. He remarked that due to enhanced port efficiency, India is now handling greater cargo volumes in shorter durations, strengthening the nation’s logistics and trade capabilities.
“India’s maritime success is a result of a decade-long vision and effort”, exclaimed the Prime Minister, underlining that over the past 10 years, India has doubled the capacity of its ports and expanded its National Waterways eightfold. He noted that today, two Indian ports are among the global top 30 ports, while India’s ranking on the Logistics Performance Index has also improved. Additionally, he pointed out that India is now among the top 20 countries in global shipbuilding. The Prime Minister further remarked that after strengthening the country’s basic infrastructure, the focus has now shifted towards India’s strategic position in global trade. He announced the launch of Maritime Amrit Kaal Vision, which outlines India’s maritime strategy to achieve the goal of a developed India. He recalled the G-20 Summit, where India collaborated with several major countries to establish the India-Middle East-Europe Economic Corridor, highlighting Kerala’s critical role in this corridor, emphasizing that the state will greatly benefit from this initiative.
Underscoring the critical role of the private sector in elevating India’s maritime industry to new heights, Shri Modi said that under Public-Private Partnerships, thousands of crores have been invested over the past 10 years. He emphasized that this collaboration has not only upgraded India’s ports to global standards but has also made them future-ready. He noted that private sector participation has driven innovation and enhanced efficiency.
Prime Minister highlighted that India is advancing towards the establishment of a shipbuilding and repair cluster in Kochi. He emphasized that once completed, this cluster will create numerous new employment opportunities, providing Kerala’s local talent and youth with a platform for growth. The Prime Minister further stated that India is now setting ambitious targets to strengthen its shipbuilding capabilities. He noted that this year’s Union Budget introduced a new policy to promote the construction of large ships in India, which will significantly boost the manufacturing sector. He emphasized that this initiative will have direct benefits for MSMEs, generating a large number of employment and entrepreneurship opportunities across the country.
“True development is achieved when infrastructure is built, trade expands, and basic needs of the common people are met”, stressed the Prime Minister, remarking that the people of Kerala have witnessed rapid progress over the past 10 years, not just in port infrastructure, but also in highways, railways, and airports. He highlighted that projects like the Kollam Bypass and Alappuzha Bypass, which had been stalled for years, were advanced by the Government of India. He also noted that Kerala has been provided with modern Vande Bharat trains, further strengthening its transport network and connectivity.
Shri Modi emphasized that the Government of India firmly believes in the principle that Kerala’s development contributes to India’s overall growth. He remarked that the government operates with the spirit of cooperative federalism, ensuring Kerala’s progress across key social parameters over the past decade. He highlighted several initiatives that have benefited the people of Kerala, including Jal Jeevan Mission, Ujjwala Yojana, Ayushman Bharat, and Pradhan Mantri Suryagarh Free Electricity Scheme.
Reiterating that the welfare of fishermen remains a top priority, the Prime Minister noted that under Blue Revolution and Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, projects worth hundreds of crores have been sanctioned for Kerala. He further highlighted the modernization of fishing harbors, including Ponnani and Puthiyappa. Additionally, he remarked that thousands of fishermen in Kerala have been provided Kisan Credit Cards, enabling them to receive financial assistance worth hundreds of crores.
Underlining that Kerala has always been a land of harmony and tolerance, Shri Modi highlighted that centuries ago, Saint Thomas Church, one of the oldest churches in the world, was established here. He acknowledged the recent moment of grief that has touched people across the world when Pope Francis passed away a few days ago, leaving behind a profound legacy. He added that President Droupadi Murmu represented India at his funeral, paying respects on behalf of the nation. Shri Modi once again expressed his condolences to all those mourning this loss from the sacred land of Kerala.
Paying tribute to Pope Francis, acknowledging his spirit of service and his efforts to ensure inclusivity within Christian traditions, the Prime Minister remarked that the world will always remember his contributions. He shared his personal experiences, expressing his gratitude for having had multiple opportunities to meet Pope Francis. He noted that he received special warmth from him and cherished their discussions on humanity, service, and peace, which will continue to inspire him.
Extending his best wishes to all present at the event, Shri Modi envisioned Kerala as a major center for global maritime trade, leading to the creation of thousands of new jobs. He reaffirmed the commitment of the Government of India, working alongside the state government, to advance this goal. Shri Modi concluded by expressing confidence in the capabilities of Kerala’s people and stated, “India’s maritime sector will reach new heights”.
The Governor of Kerala, Shri Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar, Chief Minister of Kerala, Shri Pinarayi Vijayan, Union Ministers, Shri Suresh Prabhu, Shri George Kurien were present among other dignitaries at the event.
Background
Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport worth Rs 8,800 crore is country’s first dedicated container transshipment port that represents the transformative advancements being made in India’s maritime sector as part of the unified vision of Viksit Bharat.
Vizhinjam Port, having strategic importance, has been identified as a key priority project which will contribute in strengthening India’s position in global trade, enhance logistics efficiency, and reduce reliance on foreign ports for cargo transshipment. Its natural deep draft of nearly 20 meters and location near one of the world’s busiest sea trade routes further strengthens India’s position in global trade.
The Vizhinjam International Deepwater Multipurpose Seaport in Kerala is a significant advancement in India’s maritime infrastructure. https://t.co/sUeQ5k7TK1
Inauguration of the Vizhinjam Port in Kerala is significant for India’s maritime sector. People have been waiting for this port for many years. It will boost trade, commerce and will be particularly beneficial for Kerala’s economy.
My visit to Kerala has happened on a very auspicious day, the Jayanti of Adi Shankaracharya. His contribution towards India’s cultural regeneration will forever be remembered. pic.twitter.com/1ii569wBMR