Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Government of Samoa

KEYNOTE SPEECH by the Minister of Works, Transport & Infrastructure – Hon. Olo Fiti Afoa Vaai [April 10, 2025]

Your Excellency, Aliona Niculita, the Resident Representative of UNDP Samoa Country Office,

Your Exellency, Ryotaro Suzuki, Ambassador, Government of Japan

Distinguished Guests,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I am indeed extremely privileged and humbled to address this important ceremony for the handing over of the much needed and immensely valued e-truck and charger to support the administration of TTM Hospital Oxygen Plants services and transportation of oxygen cylinders from our main oxygen plant here to other health facilities both in Upolu and Savaii.

I believe this electric-truck is one of the e-vehicles procured under the Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport project implemented by the Government of Samoa through the leadership of the Ministry of Works, Transport and Infrastructure in close partnership with UNDP and funded by the Government of Japan.

The procurement of this electric-truck is increasingly important for oxygen plant administration due to their potential to reduce emissions, lower operating costs and improve air quality, especially in areas where oxygen plants often operate.

I applaud the fact that this is the first time ever that this electric truck has been specially manufactured and reconfigured to cater the need of MOH, for a specialized truck to transport oxygen cylinders from the TTM Hospital Oxygen Plant to rural health facilities.

Most importantly, it is Samoa’s commitment to expected outcomes of the Pathway for the Development of Samoa 2021-2026 in placing emphasis on Samoa’s efforts towards decarbonization and enhancement of health services provision.

On behalf of Samoa government and its people, I would like to take this opportunity to express my sincere gratitude to UNDP and Government of Japan for your never-ending support. This handover is another good example of how we can continue working together and fostering our partnership in finding solutions for challenges that confront the health of our people on a daily basis.

I have no doubt that this pivotal assistance, will go a long way to save lives and improve the quality of life of all our people, by ensuring sufficient oxygen supplies to all health facilities in Samoa.

To this end, I would like to reiterate my deepest appreciation to our development partners who had kindly provide this assistance for us, not forgetting our local counterparts who had worked together in facilitating and negotiation of such important assistance to support the provision of quality and safe health support services for our people.

Ladies and gentlemen, it is my pleasure to celebrate with you this addition of e-vehicles provided by UNDP and Government of Japan through Climate Action Pathways for Island Transport project for Samoa, and look forward to receiving more e-vehicles in the coming years, and continue to receive more support from our partners to promote health and wellbeing of our people.

Soifua ma ia manuia.

 

Source:

[PRESS RELEASE Apia Samoa, 10th April 2025] – The Taiala Youth Exchange Program, a cultural and leadership initiative led by Brown Girl Woke and Samoan Solutions, was honored to meet with the Honorable Prime Minister Fiame Naomi Mataafa on April 10, 2025, at the Prime Minister’s Office in Apia.

The meeting brought together Samoan diaspora youth and national leadership to discuss service, identity, and the importance of reconnecting to Fa’aSamoa.

At 11:33 a.m., the Prime Minister was formally welcomed in Samoan by Jocelynette Leilua, Program Manager of Brown Girl Woke. The youth were introduced and acknowledged for their work and commitment to their cultural roots.

The Prime Minister shared her reflections on leadership, shaped by the legacy of her mother and aunties—women who modeled integrity and service in governance.

After receiving her matai title at age 20, her political career began shortly after, grounded in education, faith, and community.

Youth Questions & Prime Minister’s Reflections

1. Donnavyn Tuitele: Who were your role models and mentors?

Fiame: “My mother, my aunties, and the women in my community. They didn’t call themselves mentors, but they always told me what to do. I was raised by strong women who were midwives, teachers, and community leaders.”

2. Nerisa Tuaua: Did you feel pressure to enter politics because of your family’s legacy?

Fiame: “No, I always had an interest in politics. But things happened faster than I expected. When my father passed away, it shifted everything. I received my matai title at 20, and my leadership path began from there.”

3. Alexandria Saelua: How do you care for your own mental health while serving Samoa?

Fiame: “Mental health is so important. We don’t talk about it enough here. There’s only one mental health organization in Samoa, and a small hospital unit. I try to reflect, stay close to nature, and surround myself with positive people. Rest and prayer help ground me.”

4. Manalita Sagote: What do you consider your greatest accomplishment?

Fiame: “Serving in the Ministry of Education and rebuilding after the cyclones. We had to redesign the curriculum to support bilingual learning—keeping Samoan language strong while teaching

English.”

5. Epi Aumavae: What message do you have for diaspora youth trying to reconnect to Samoa?

Fiame: “You can’t make up identity—it has to be lived. But you can build it. If our young people are supported where they are, they’ll carry Samoa with them. If not, we need to welcome them back with open arms and strong culture.”

6. Why Taiala Matters

a) Maluseu Doris Tulifau, founder of Brown Girl Woke, shared:

“Brown Girl Woke was created in Samoa as a safe space for diaspora Samoans who carry a deep desire to return—not just to reconnect, but to serve with humility.

Coming home isn’t always easy, but it’s necessary. Taiala helps bridge that journey. It allows us to ground our experiences in Fa’aSamoa, and to give back in a way that honors both where we come from and what we’ve learned. This exchange reminds us there is always room to return, to listen, and to serve with grace.”

b) Epi Leone Aumavae, founder of Samoan Solutions and Taiala Program Coordinator, added:

“Taiala was created to help our youth find their identity by learning about being samoan —not just by blood, but through culture, language, and service. We come back to Samoa because this is where we’re reminded who we are. For so many diaspora youth, that connection has been broken or never fully formed. This exchange gives them a path—not just to visit, but to belong.”

Brown Girl Woke & Samoan Solutions Leadership

1. Maluseu Doris Tulifau – Founder, Brown Girl Woke

2. Jocelynette Leilua – Program Manager, Brown Girl Woke

3. Prince Lalovi – Cultural Program Assistant, Brown Girl Woke

4. Epi Leone Aumavae – Founder, Samoan Solutions & Taiala Program Coordinator

2025 Taiala Youth Delegation

1. Lulani Jolee Tafilele Moors

2. Donnavyn Iliganoa Fatumalala Tuitele

3. Nerisa Anita Tuaua

4. Manalita Akenese Sefulu Sagote

5. Charmaine Susana Ah Kuoi – Sanft, Chaperone

6. Aaliyah Puataunofo Aumavae, Media Team Lead

7. Alexandria Laloifi Saelua, Mental Health Educator & Facilitator

7) A Cultural Homecoming

Prime Minister Mataafa left the youth with a reminder that identity is not fixed—it is something we choose to honor and carry.

“E matitiva fa’afesaga’i.”

“Even in poverty, be gracious, be generous, and stay connected to others.”

She explained that poverty is not only material, but emotional and spiritual—and in moments of disconnection, we must still choose compassion and community.

Taiala is more than a program. It is a cultural homecoming, a bridge between generations, and a living example of how young Samoans across the globe are returning with purpose.

For media inquiries, partnerships, or to support the next Taiala cohort:

Brown Girl Woke | browngirlwoke.com

Samoan Solutions | samoansolutions.org

ENDS.

Photos by the Government of Samoa (Peseta Tusiga Taofiga)

April 25, 2025

Source: Government of India

Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary presides over Passing Out Parade of 75th batch of 42 Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Indirect Taxes) officer trainees at NACIN, Palasamudram

Confident that new batch of officers will advance vision of Viksit Bharat by promoting economic progress and social equality: MoS Shri Pankaj Chaudhary

CBIC Chairman urges officers for balance between enforcement and facilitation, encouraging officers to lead with empathy, confidence, and discipline

Public servants must remain accessible, fair and citizen-centric in their conduct: CBIC Member

The 75th batch is the first to undergo entire Foundation Training at the newly-developed NACIN Palasaudram campus: DG NACIN

Five exceptional performers also earn gold medals in various benchmarked areas

Posted On: 25 APR 2025 4:01PM by PIB Delhi

Union Minister of State for Finance Shri Pankaj Chaudhary presided over the Passing Out Parade today as Chief Guest of the 75th batch of 42 Indian Revenue Service (Customs & Indirect Taxes) officer trainees, including 25 men and 17 lady officers at NACIN, Palasamudram.  Five officers are from the Royal Government of Bhutan were also part of the training programme. Also present were Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, CBIC, Ms Aruna Narayan Gupta, Member, CBIC, and Dr. M. Subramanyam, Director General, NACIN, along with senior officers of CBIC and dignitaries.

The Passing Out Parade, National Academy of Customs, Indirect Taxes & Narcotics (NACIN), Palasamudram, marks the culmination of an intensive 18-month training programne and commences their journey as Karmayogi, dedicated to safeguarding India’s economic interests.

The ceremony commenced with a solemn observance of mourning and tribute for the victims of the tragic Pahalgam incident, with officers and dignitaries stood in silence to honour victims’ memory.

In his address on the occasion, Shri Chaudhary commended the batch’s achievements and emphasised their responsibility in building a transparent and accountable tax system.  Shri Chaudhary highlighted the role of IRS officers in economic growth and urged them to lead with courage and clarity. The Minister expressed confidence in their ability to advance the Government’s vision of Viksit Bharat by promoting economic progress and social equality.

In his address, Shri Sanjay Kumar Agarwal, Chairman, CBIC, congratulated the 75th batch officers and outlined their pivotal role in revenue mobilisation, trade facilitation, and national development and urged them to stay updated, uphold integrity, and embrace digital transformation to serve efficiently. Shri Agarwal further urged them for a balance between enforcement and facilitation, encouraging officers to lead with empathy, confidence, and discipline.

In her address, Ms. Aruna Narayan Gupta, Member, CBIC, stressed on ethical conduct, empathy and continuous learning, while underscoring “Sevabhav” as a foundational quality for IRS officers, urging them to approach their duties with empathy, humility and a service-oriented mindset. She emphasised that public servants must remain accessible, fair and citizen-centric in their conduct, reinforcing that serving people is at the heart of governance.

In his address, Dr. M. Subramanyam, Director General, NACIN, congratulated the officers as they are the first batch to undergo their entire foundational training at the newly developed NACIN Palasamudram campus, making the occasion a historic milestone for the academy. Further emphasising adaptability, public service and the importance of integrity in shaping modern tax officers, he expressed pride in the academy’s evolving capabilities, highlighting its advanced training infrastructure and growing international collaborations.

During the ceremony, the following exceptional performers of the 75^th batch, were honoured with gold medals for their outstanding achievements:

• Finance Minister’s Gold Medal: Awarded to Shri Sreekumar Ravindrakumar for achieving balanced excellence in academics, attendance and physical training.
• Chairman’s Gold Medal: Awarded to Shri Abhishek Maji for securing the highest aggregate marks in written examinations.
• Smt. Kaushalya Narayanan Memorial Gold Medal: Awarded to Ms. Pooja Barwal for her outstanding performance as the best lady officer trainee.
• Director General’s Gold Medal: Awarded to Shri Shantanu Sunil Malani for consistent performance and excellent conduct throughout the training.
• Shri N.K. Upadhyay Memorial Gold Medal: Awarded to Mrs Sathya Parvathy R for exemplary discipline, conduct and teamwork.

The parade included a display of drills, showcasing the professionalism and discipline of the officers and also reaffirmed NACIN’s role as a world-class institution committed to excellence in training and nation-building. The event concluded with the officers taking a solemn pledge to uphold the values of integrity and service as they step into their roles as economic enablers and defenders of the nation.

****

NB/KMN

(Release ID: 2124290) Visitor Counter : 14

Source:

REMARKS by the Prime Minister of the Independent State of Samoa, Honourable Fiame Naomi Mata’afa [Wednesday 9 April, 2025]

Pastor Samoa Unoi,

Your Excellency, Viktor Vavricka and your good lady,

Members of the Diplomatic Corps,

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Talofa and a pleasant good evening to you all.

It is a pleasure to join you this evening to celebrate the growing relations between Samoa and Switzerland. In that regard let me extend a very warm welcome to Your Excellency, Ambassador Viktor Vavricka and your good lady. I also congratulate you on your accreditation yesterday as the Ambassador of the Swiss Confederation to Samoa.

We look forward to working closely with you to further strengthen the connections between our two nations.

Samoa and Switzerland have enjoyed cordial relationship over four decades underpinned by mutual respect and our shared aspirations for sustainable development.

Switzerland’s invaluable support has played a crucial role in advancing Samoa’s interests on the global stage. We acknowledge Switzerland’s financial assistance to support the establishment in 2022 of Samoa’s Embassy and Permanent Mission in Geneva, which serves as a vital platform for multilateral diplomacy to engage especially with UN agencies such as WTO, Human Rights, FAO and UNESCO.

Your country’s generosity in this regard reflects its steadfast commitment to supporting small island developing states in amplifying their voices in the international arena.

Switzerland’s contribution and investment in the Green Climate Fund GCF) and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) has benefitted Samoa through climate resilient projects for Small island developing states. These projects have continued to significantly assist Samoa in building resilience against climate change, promoting sustainable economic growth, and enhancing our disaster preparedness.

Excellency, it would be remiss of me not to acknowledge the contribution made by Mrs. Sylvie Salanoa as the Swiss Honorary Consul to Samoa especially through Switzerland’s small grant aid which has benefitted our local community. Her dedication has added to fostering stronger ties between our two nations.

Excellency, I am assured that your tenure as the Ambassador of Switzerland to Samoa will present new opportunities for collaboration and sustained progress in our relations.

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in proposing a toast: “To the close and enduring relations between Samoa and Switzerland”.

Soifua and God bless.

Photo by the Government of Samoa (Peseta Tusiga Taofiga)

Source:

[PRESS RELEASE 11 April 2025] – The Independent State of Samoa is proud to announce its participation in the Osaka, Kansai Expo 2025, where it will present its Exhibit under the shared Pavillion theme “Empowering Lives” in the Commons A Pavilion. Visitors will have the chance to engage with Samoa’s rich heritage and experience its world renowned hospitality.

■Background of the Theme

Samoa’s Exhibition theme, “Fostering Inclusive Prosperity through enhanced access to opportunity for the people of Samoa,” aligns with its national vision of advancing opportunities for all, particularly women and youth, while strengthening spiritual, cultural, and leadership development. People empowerment is at the heart of Samoa’s national development, promoting social harmony, inclusion, gender equality, and support for the most vulnerable.

The Samoa Exhibit will offer an immersive experience highlighting three main components:

1. Samoan Culture, People and Way of Life

2. Investment and Business Opportunities

3. Sustainable Tourism Promotion

The overarching EXPO theme ‘Designing Future Society for our Lives’ underscores the importance of resilience, innovation, and sustainable development. Samoa’s participation will also emphasize the significance of land and marine conservation in ensuring food security and economic growth for small island nations.

Samoa’s Exhibits aspires to showcase its key national priorities while fostering cross cultural exchanges. Bysharing its rich traditions and development journey, Samoa seeks to learn from other participants and inspire global collaborations.

■Exhibit Highlights

Visitors to the Samoa Exhibit will experience:

– A curated collection of cultural artefacts and locally made products such as beverages, handcrafted items, textiles, organic personal care products, and local business merchandise.

– Visual displays including images, banners, and videos showcasing Samoa’s vibrant culture, craftsmanship, and economic potential.

– Interactive engagements with exhibit staff to learn more about Samoa’s initiatives and opportunities for investment, trade, and tourism.

■Samoa’s National Day Celebrations

Samoa’s National Day at the Expo will be celebrated on 8th June 2025, from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM at the National Day Hall (‘Ray Garden’), featuring traditional siva (dance) performances by the Samoa Tourism Authority’s Dance Group. Additional cultural and promotional activities will be held at the following times and locations:

– 8th June 2025: 5:00 PM 8:00 PM at National Day Hall (Ray Garden)

– 9th 10th June 2025: 12:00 PM 3:00 PM at Inner East Pop up Stages

■Discover Samoa

Samoa, a tropical island in the South Pacific, is celebrated for its breathtaking rainforests, pristine beaches, and warm hospitality. With a population of approximately 220,000, Samoa consists of nine islands spanning 2,842 square kilometers, with Apia as its capital city. Known as the “Cradle of Polynesia,” Samoa maintains a strong cultural heritage rooted in the Fa’a Samoa way of life.

The economy is driven by agriculture, fisheries, remittances, and tourism, with key exports including coconuts, taro, and fresh seafood. As a parliamentary democracy, Samoa prioritizes sustainable development, environmental preservation, and community empowerment. Notably, Samoa was the first Pacific nation to gain independence in 1962 and made history as the first Pacific Island nation with a female Prime Minister, Hon. Fiame Naomi Mata’afa, who took office in 2021.

Samoa invites all visitors to explore its Exhibition Booths at the Osaka, Kansai Expo 2025 and experience the essence of its culture, resilience, and vision for the future.

Expo Site

https://www.expo2025.or.jp/expo

END.

April 25, 2025

Source:

(GOVT. PRESS SECRETARY]- To’oala Elita To’oala, will continue as the Ministry of Public Enterprise Chief Executive Officer per Cabinet approval this week.

A Samoa College alumni To’oala completed her Undergraduate Degree in Business Studies at the University of the South Pacific (USP) in Fiji complemented by a Bachelor of Commerce from the National University of Samoa (NUS) and Masters in Business Studies with the University of Western Sydney, Australia.

This will be her 4th consecutive three year term in office.

April 25, 2025

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Government of India

Posted On: 24 APR 2025 8:27PM by PIB Mumbai

Mumbai, 24 April 2025

 

Addressing a gathering electronically at the India Steel 2025, PM Modi said that he hoped the event would prove to be a new launch pad for sharing new ideas, forge partnerships and boost innovation. “This event will become the foundation of a new chapter in the steel industry.

“The role of steel in all developed economies has been like a skeleton. Be it sky-scarpers, highways, high speed trains, smart cities, industrial corridors…every success story is backed by the strength of steel,” PM Modi said. He said that the country was taking steps to become a USD 5 trillion economy. “The steel industry will play a crucial role in achieving this target. We are proud that India is now the second biggest steel producer in the world,” he said, underscoring how his government formulated the steel policy envisaging production of 3 million tonnes of steel by 2030. The per capita consumption of steel at present is 98 Kg, which is expected to rise up to 160 Kgs by 2030.

“The increase in steel consumption signals the direction of the country’s growth, its efficiency and effectiveness,” he said, adding that the steel industry was full of new hopes and ideas. “Today country has the base of PM Gati Shakti and national masterplan,” he said, highlighting how the various utility services and logistic nodes were integrated under PM Gati Shakti. Likewise, he said, the various mine areas and steel units were being mapped for multi-model connectivity.

“This is the reason why government initiatives have the largest proportion in steel consumption,” he said. The PM said that the steel policy of the government was enabling other industries to become globally competitive. “Our manufacturing, construction and automobile sectors are gaining strength from the steel industry,” he said, adding that the government has tried to give impetus to Make In India by announcing the National Manufacturing Mission. “This mission will boost the small, medium and large industries besides opening new avenues for the steel industry,” he said.

“We are moving with the goal of building modern and large ships in the country. Our target is that other countries of the world should also buy the steel made in India. Similarly, the demand for pipelines, grade steel and corrosion registered alloys is also increasing in the country. Today, the railway infrastructure in the country is also being developed rapidly,” he said.

The PM said that there should be a goal for all such needs. “We are aiming to export 25 million tons of steel. We are also working to reach our capacity of 500 million tons by 2047. But for this it is necessary that our steel sector is ready for new processes, new growth and new scale. We have to keep the future in mind and update ourselves,” he said.

“There are infinite possibilities of employment generation in the growth potential of the steel industry. I appeal to both the private and public sectors to develop new ideas, nurture them and share them. We need to move ahead together in the modern technology upgrade in manufacturing. We have to create as many new employment opportunities as possible for the youth of the country,” he said, adding that there were some challenges in the development journey of the steel industry and it is necessary to solve them to move ahead.

The PM said that if the global partners and Indian companies work together in this direction, then various challenges will be resolved faster.

In the last 10 years, the country has taken strides in mining. “Now it is very important to use these allotted mines and the resources of the country properly and on time. The more delay there is in this, the country will suffer losses and the industry will also suffer losses,” he said, stressing on acceleration of green field mining.

Shri Bhupathi Raju Srinivasa Varma, Minister of State, Ministry of Steel said, “Steel industry is a pivotal pillar of India’s economic expansion, contributing nearly 2% of GDP. As we strive towards becoming a US $ 5 Trillion economy, the sector’s role in infrastructure, manufacturing and exports will only become indispensable. Every investment in steel fuels a ripple effect across allied industries, strengthening our economic foundation and manufacturing excellence.”

Shri Lakhan Lal Dewangan, Hon’ble Minister of Commerce and Industry, Labour, Chhattisgarh highlighted the important role of his state in Indian Steel Industry stating, Chhattisgarh has long been the backbone of India’s steel industry, contributing significantly to the nation’s production capacity and industrial growth. India Steel 2025 is a timely platform to showcase the immense potential of our state—not only as a leading steel-producing region but also as an emerging hub for green manufacturing and value-added steel products. With the strong support of central government initiatives such as the PM Gati Shakti programme, the National Steel Policy, and Production Linked Incentive (PLI) schemes, Chhattisgarh is rapidly enhancing its infrastructure, attracting new investments, and creating skilled employment opportunities.”

Shri Sandeep Pondrik, Secretary, Ministry of Steel highlighted the importance of the Indian steel industry. He said, “For the last four years, India has been growing in double digit, perhaps the only major economy which is growing at such a rate. We are not only growing, we will continue to grow for a foreseeable future.  He further added that this growth is happening because of growing steel consumption. In the last 10 years we have doubled the consumption and that is why the steel industry is seeing a positive side. Another factor is our per capita consumption is growing- we have crossed 100 KGs per capita consumption and we are hoping to cross 160 KGs per capita consumption in next 4/5 years.

Shri Amarendu Prakash, Chairman, Steel Authority of India Ltd. (SAIL) highlighted the importance of India Steel 2025.  He said “India Steel 2025 is not just an exhibition—it is a strategic platform that underscores India’s rising stature in the global steel landscape. As we continue to strengthen our capabilities and expand our global footprint, forums like India Steel provide the perfect opportunity to engage with international partners, showcase our technological advancements, and reaffirm our commitment to nation-building through steel.”

Shri Anant Goenka, Senior Vice President, FICCI & Vice Chairman, RPG Group said, “The steel industry today serves as a critical catalyst for advancing multiple national priorities. Its growth generates a multiplier effect on manufacturing, industrial and economic growth. To support the growth of the steel industry, it is essential to address certain challenges like financing of capacity augmentation, dumping, cost competitiveness and regulatory pressure around decarbonization as we transition to green steel.

Dr. Edwin Basson, Director General, World Steel Association said, “India is the second largest steel producer and user, which means what happens here in India is important on a global basis and is also important for the global steel industry. It is indicative of India’s status as a developing economy. Steel industry is an enabling industry, for every 1 US dollar of income generated in the steel industry, there is another 5$ USD generated elsewhere in the economic system.

He also highlighted the challenges faced by the industry such as maintaining the level playing field, decarbonization and last but not the least is human challenge. India can play a major role in combating all these challenges.

With India now the second-largest producer of steel globally, India Steel 2025 serves as a vital convergence point for domestic and international stakeholders to explore investment opportunities, forge partnerships, and accelerate the industry’s contribution to India’s economic growth.

 

* * *

PIB Mumbai | T.Jadhav/ D.Rane

Follow us on social media: @PIBMumbai    /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai   pibmumbai[at]gmail[dot]com  /PIBMumbai     /pibmumbai

(Release ID: 2124170) Visitor Counter : 94

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     The Housing Bureau (HB) today (April 25) invites tenders for two operation and management contracts of the Light Public Housing (LPH), and encourages capable and experienced organisations to participate.
 
     The first contract covers the four school conversion projects located at Shun On Road, Choi Yuen Road, Shun Lee Tsuen Road and Chuk Yuen Road respectively (i.e. the Mission Covenant Church Holm Glad No. 2 Primary School in Shun On Estate, Kwun Tong; Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Ma Kam Chan Memorial Primary School (Choi Yuen Annex) in Choi Yuen Estate, Sheung Shui; Carmel Leung Sing Tak School in Shun On Estate, Kwun Tong; and Baptist Rainbow Primary School in Chuk Yuen South Estate, Wong Tai Sin), the conversion works of which will be completed in two phases. The first phase covers the two projects at Shun On Road and Choi Yuen Road, which will provide about 130 and 110 units respectively, and are expected to be completed in the fourth quarter of this year. The second phase covers the two projects at Shun Lee Tsuen Road and Chuk Yuen Road, which will provide about 110 and 105 units respectively, and are expected to be completed in the first quarter of 2027. The second contract covers the project at Sheung On Street, Chai Wan, which will provide about 1 720 units and is expected to be completed in the second quarter of next year.
 
     A spokesperson for the HB said, “The four school conversion projects are packaged into one single contract, taking into account that these four projects are relatively smaller in scale. By engaging a single operating organisation for the overall operation and management, resources can be shared among the projects to enhance cost-effectiveness.”
 
     Same as the contracts already awarded, the operation and management services for the LPH not only cover occupant management, property management and daily maintenance, but also the provision of social services, as well as the management and operation of ancillary facilities, etc. To encourage participation of different stakeholders in the community, the HB welcomes tenders from all capable and experienced service providers, including non-government organisations and those with a valid property management company licence, or collaborations between them.
 
     To ensure service quality, the HB will carry out technical assessments based on a series of factors, including the management capability, relevant experience and past service performance of the organisations, as well as the proposed modes of operation and management, social services to be provided, feasibility of exit plan and use of innovation and information technology as stated in their proposals, so that the facilities and services of the LPH can meet the needs of the residents and the local community. The tender price will then be evaluated to form a consolidated assessment to decide on the most suitable organisation for operating the LPH.
 
     Tenant intake for the first LPH project at Yau Pok Road, Yuen Long, which provides about 2 100 units, already commenced on March 28 this year by phases. It is managed and operated by the Pioneer Management Limited – Tung Wah Group of Hospitals Joint Venture. The second operation and management contract, which covers the two LPH projects at Choi Hing Road and Choi Shek Lane, Ngau Tau Kok (i.e. the former St Joseph’s Anglo-Chinese School), providing about 2 290 and 148 units respectively, has been awarded to the Easy Living Consultant Limited and Yan Chai Hospital Joint Venture. The two LPH projects are to be completed by late June this year and the first quarter of next year respectively. The HB is now evaluating tenders for the third and fourth operation and management contracts covering the LPH projects at Tsing Fuk Lane, Tuen Mun (i.e. Tuen Mun Area 3A) and Olympic Avenue, Kai Tak (Phase 1), which will provide about 1 900 and 3 000 units respectively, with tenant intake anticipated in the fourth quarter of this year.
 
     The spokesperson said, “Under the leadership of the HB, the brand new operation and management model of the LPH has entered into a new stage, with intake for the first LPH project commenced in late March on a gradual basis. Through the provision of an improved living environment, better living facilities, lower rent, larger units and a series of social services, those with the most pressing needs in society can receive practical assistance and enhance their sense of happiness and sense of gain. At the same time, the LPH can suitably serve as an adequate housing option for the tenants of subdivided units (SDUs) in need. Along with transitional housing and the various traditional public rental housing projects to be completed in the coming few years, the Government will have the fundamental strength to effectively and accurately address the problem of SDUs in Hong Kong. To this end, we hope that experienced and aspirational organisations can participate in the tender exercises and join hands with us in this large-scale social project.”
 
     Interested organisations may download the tender documents via the relevant tender notices on the HB’s website (www.hb.gov.hk) or from the e-Tendering System; or contact the Dedicated Team on Light Public Housing under the HB for obtaining the tender documents. The Tender Reference for the Shun On Road; Choi Yuen Road; Shun Lee Tsuen Road and Chuk Yuen Road LPH projects is HB2025/OPR-LPH-VSP, while the Tender Reference for the Sheung On Street, Chai Wan LPH project is HB2025/OPR-LPH-CW.
 
     Tenderers must submit the tenders by noon on June 13, 2025 (Friday), either electronically via the e-Tendering System or by deposit in the Government Secretariat Tender Box situated at Lobby of the Public Entrance on Ground Floor, East Wing, Central Government Offices, 2 Tim Mei Avenue, Tamar. Late tenders will not be accepted.

Source:

KEYNOTE ADDRESS by the Prime Minister Hon. Fiame Naomi Mataafa [Saturday, 5th April 2025]

Talofa lava, and a warm welcome to our distinguished Guests, Captains, Crews and Supporters gathered here for the 26th Annual Samoa International Game Fishing Tournament.

This year we are honoured to host an impressive overseas representation of boats including 5 from New Zealand, 6 from American Samoa, 1 from Tonga not to mention a very impressive local representation of 17 boats flying the Samoan Flag.

Unlike last year, this year‘s tournament is doubling as the Inaugural Neptune Pacific Direct Line (NPDL) Pacific Islands Game Fishing Tournament. This is the first of its kind in the Pacific. After Samoa, the boats are off to American Samoa then to Tonga for the final leg.

Over the next week of competition friendships will be forged and stories will be told over a few cleansing ales. Stories of how you landed the big one and stories of how you dropped the big one. The latter being where tall tales associated with fishing come from. Only you and your crew know so this can be embellished to no end. The fish can be as big as you say it was and no one can argue.

For our overseas guests I hope that you will take some time to explore our Beautiful Samoa. Experience our culture, our people and our diverse landscapes.

In closing I wish to congratulate the President, Vaughan Simpson, and SIGFA for putting together yet another great event, and in particular for initiating the first ever Pacific Islands Fishing Tournament!

For all the participants may your lines be tight and the fish aplenty. Be safe and I wish you all the best of luck.

Fa’afetai tele lava, and let the 26th Samoa International Game Fishing Tournament begin!

SOIFUA.

Photo by the Government of Samoa (Peseta Tusiga Taofiga)

April 25, 2025