Category: MIL-OSI

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

According to the statistics, from January to February 2026, 347 foreign direct investment (FDI) projects with a total approved amount of US$ 1,070,700,000 were recorded. This represents a 19.66% increase in the number of cases, but a 36.60% decrease in the FDI amount compared with the same period in 2025.

Regarding inward investment from Mainland China, 2 cases with a total approved amount of US$98,000 were recorded from January to February 2026. This reflects a 60% decrease in the number of cases and a 99.90% decrease in the investment amount compared with the same period in 2025.

In terms of Taiwan’s outbound investment (excluding Mainland China), 87 projects were registered in February 2026, with a total amount of US$ 1,899,264,000. This represents a 1.14% decrease in the number of cases, and a 63.08% increase in the investment amount, compared with the same period in 2025.

As for Taiwan’s outward investment to Mainland China, 24 applications were approved in February 2026, marking a 31.43% decrease compared with the same period in 2025. The approved investment amount totaled US$ 187,662,000, representing a 16.20% decline compared with the same period in 2025.

Source: Government of Singapore

16 Mar 2026 – The prevailing Northeast Monsoon conditions are expected to continue for the rest of March 2026, with winds blowing mainly from the northwest or northeast.

2.          In the second half of March 2026, short-duration thundery showers are expected over parts of the island in the afternoon on some days. Towards the final week of the month, there may be several dry and warm days. The second half of March 2026 is likely to be less wet than the first, and the total rainfall is forecast to be below average over most parts of the island.

3.          The second half of March 2026 compared to the first. The daily maximum temperatures are likely to range between 34 degrees Celsius and 35 degrees Celsius on most days. On a few days, the daily maximum temperatures may exceed 35 degrees Celsius when there is less cloud coverage. 

4.          For updates of the daily weather forecast, please visit the MSS website (www.weather.gov.sg), NEA website (www.nea.gov.sg), or download the myENV app.

REVIEW OF THE PAST TWO WEEKS (1 – 15 March 2026)

CLIMATE STATION STATISTICS

Long-term Statistics for March   (Climatological reference period: 1991-2020)
Average daily maximum temperature:	32.2	°C
Average daily minimum temperature:	24.9	°C
Average monthly temperature:	27.8	°C
Average rainfall:	151.7	mm
Average number of rain days:	12
Historical Extremes for March   (Rainfall since 1869 and temperature since 1929)
Highest monthly mean daily maximum temperature:	34.1	°C (1998)
Lowest monthly mean daily minimum temperature:	22.1	°C (1934)
Highest monthly rainfall ever recorded:	528.3	mm (1913)
Lowest monthly rainfall ever recorded:	6.2	mm (2016)

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METEOROLOGICAL SERVICE SINGAPORE

16 Mar 2026

~~ End ~~

For more information, please submit your enquiries electronically via the Online Feedback Form or myENV mobile application.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

On the morning of March 16, President Lai Ching-te attended the opening of the 2026 Yushan Forum, the theme of which was “Indo-Pacific Partnership Prospects: Taiwan’s Values, Technology, and Resilience.” In remarks, the president noted that Taiwan is home to world-leading advanced semiconductor manufacturing and solid IC design capabilities, and is determined to maintain regional peace and stability. He expressed hope that by leveraging the combined advantages of their democracies, economies, and technologies, Taiwan and its democratic partners can work together to build more resilient supply chains and economies, as well as collectively support the democratic umbrella and promote global democracy, peace, and prosperity.
A transcript of President Lai’s remarks follows:
I would like to begin with a warm welcome to all our good friends who have traveled from the Indo-Pacific, Europe, and other parts of the world to be here. This marks the ninth Yushan Forum, and this is an important milestone, because in our culture, the number nine symbolizes longevity and sustainability.
In these times of global uncertainty, it’s especially meaningful, for both Taiwan and the world, that we have gathered here to exchange ideas and discuss plans of action.
I want to thank Minister [of Foreign Affairs] Lin [Chia-lung] (林佳龍), [Taiwan-Asia Exchange Foundation] Chairman Hsiao [Hsin-huang] (蕭新煌), and all our partners for their hard work organizing this year’s gathering. It is through your vast knowledge, keen initiative, and passion for dynamic diplomacy that the Yushan Forum continues to reach new heights year after year.
Our theme this year is “Indo-Pacific Partnership Prospects: Taiwan’s Values, Technology, and Resilience.” Taiwan remains determined to build on the foundations of our New Southbound Policy through concrete action. We will continue to expand and deepen our partnerships with New Southbound and other Indo-Pacific nations, as well as democracies around the world. Through these partnerships, we hope to foster a more prosperous future together.
Taiwan strongly believes that there is no freedom without solidarity. Nobel Peace Prize laureate and former President of Poland Lech Walesa, who has lived by these words, is joining us here today. In 1980, he founded the trade union Solidarity, paving the way for democracy and reform in Poland – a true testament to the power of solidarity.
Since I took office nearly two years ago, Taiwan has been committed to uniting partners in democracy to collectively support a democratic umbrella. Our goal is to shield like-minded nations from the threats posed by authoritarian expansion, while working in solidarity to promote global democracy, peace, and prosperity.
We can all see that today’s Taiwan has moved away from a reliance on the Chinese market. In 2010, up to 83.8 percent of Taiwan’s outbound investment went to China. But last year, that figure fell to a historic low of just 3.75 percent. We are continuing to expand our presence in global markets. Over the past decade, investment by Taiwanese enterprises in EU countries has jumped by 650 percent.
Last year, the US became Taiwan’s largest export market, with exports to the US growing by 78 percent. In the same year, exports to New Southbound countries increased by 30.5 percent. These figures reflect the results of Taiwan’s efforts to diversify our markets and deepen economic and trade relations with countries around the world.
We strongly hope that by leveraging the combined advantages of our democracies, economies, and technologies, Taiwan and our democratic partners can work together to build more resilient supply chains and economies.
Taiwan is home to world-leading advanced semiconductor manufacturing and solid IC design capabilities. And as we meet the AI era head on, we are also actively pursuing R&D in the key fields of silicon photonics, quantum technology, and robotics. Whether it’s in helping to build global non-red supply chains for semiconductors, or leading the way in tech development around the world, Taiwan will always play a major role.
Peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait are essential components for global security and prosperity. That is why, as we face rapid changes in global geopolitics, non-conventional threats, and intensifying gray-zone aggression, Taiwan is determined to maintain regional peace and stability. We stand ready to work alongside fellow democracies to demonstrate the strength of deterrence and achieve peace through strength.
To that end, we have proposed a special defense budget and are expanding investment in defense. Defense spending, as defined by NATO, will be 3.32 percent of GDP this year, and we expect it to reach 5 percent of GDP by 2030. We are also accelerating the building of asymmetric capabilities and greatly enhancing whole-of-society defense and resilience, so that we can respond to any threat or challenge.
Taiwan is willing to share our experiences with other countries, and we are capable of contributing even more to the world. So let me thank everyone for attending. With you joining the discussion on issues of mutual concern, we can pool our knowledge and channel it into an even greater force. 
As we move forward, Taiwan will form national teams in specific fields to keep making our nation stronger. But we will go beyond that, by building international teams to keep leveraging the power of solidarity with other nations. This will make the world more stable, prosperous, and sustainable. Each of you is an important friend of Taiwan. I invite everyone to advance together with Taiwan to realize the vision of democracy, peace, and prosperity.
To close, I wish this gathering great success. May our partnerships continue to endure and thrive. Thank you.
Also in attendance at the event were former Prime Minister of the Republic of Fiji Mahendra Chaudhry, Japan-ROC Diet Members’ Consultative Council Chairman Furuya Keiji, and members of the foreign diplomatic corps stationed in Taiwan.

Source: Republic of China Taiwan

Taiwan’s medical prowess in smart healthcare has once again captured international attention at HIMSS 2026, one of the world’s premier health information and technology conferences. The Department of Industrial Technology (DoIT) under the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), in collaboration with the National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), led a delegation of 25 leading companies and research institutes to form the “Taiwan Smart Healthcare National Team.” Breaking away from the traditional single-device sales model, Taiwan presented–for the first time–a comprehensive “Total Care Solution” approach. The delegation showcased 29 cutting-edge technologies, successfully initiating clinical validation partnerships with five leading North American academic medical centres and eldercare institutions, including UCLA, USC, and Cedars-Sinai. This achievement signifies Taiwan’s transition from the development of isolated technologies to integrated systems that are “deployable and commercially viable.” Moreover, the integration also accelerated the introduction of new solutions into the North American market, further strengthening Taiwan’s key position in the global smart healthcare supply chain.

During this exhibition, the MOEA’s focus on “industrial deployment” and the NSTC’s commitment to “academic and research innovations” worked in synergy, enabling Taiwan to build a unique translational model “integrating semiconductor chips, ICT platforms, and hospital-based clinical validation.” By linking R&D, validation, and real-world application, Taiwan has enabled AI diagnostics and telemedicine solutions to move beyond laboratory data. These technologies are now being deployed in North America’s elderly communities and scenes of medical emergency, transforming them into practical, real-world healthcare tools.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

The Development Bureau and its departments have achieved a new record at the 51st International Exhibition of Inventions of Geneva, winning 36 awards for the 36 projects presented by the teams.

Secretary for Development Bernadette Linn today extended her congratulations to the teams from the bureau’s Works Branch and its various departments for their outstanding performance.

She noted that the bureau and the works departments have been actively engaged in research and development to apply innovative technologies. Ms Linn said that many of the award-winning projects at the exhibition introduced novel solutions in artificial intelligence, robotics and drones, earning them international recognition. 

She highlighted that these projects not only enhance the quality, efficiency and cost-effectiveness of public services but also serve as a model for the industry. She added that such initiatives drive wider technology adoption across the sector, supporting Hong Kong’s development into an international infrastructure centre.

The “T300” Crawler-type all-terrain survey robot,  jointly developed by the Drainage Services Department and a professional team from the Chinese Mainland, won the Saudi Innovation Excellence Prize from the Ministry of Education of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This is the first time a Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government department has received this prestigious award.

Equipped with a zoomable high-resolution camera, LiDAR and an adaptive lighting system, this robot captures comprehensive visual and spatial data. Its transformable tracked structure enables it to navigate complex and challenging terrain.

The robot can simultaneously collect photogrammetric information and point cloud data to automatically construct detailed three-dimensional models of drainage facilities. Its modular design also accommodates other sensors, such as gas detectors for monitoring air quality in confined spaces.

Inspection data is automatically uploaded to an artificial intelligence-powered online platform for real-time analysis and rapid generation of inspection reports.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Christopher Hui said today the Government’s proposed regulatory measures in the money lenders regime are highly targeted to address issues that need to be dealt with.

Speaking to reporters this morning, Mr Hui said the move aims to protect citizens, particularly households often used as referees in loan activities involving domestic helpers.

Under the proposal, money lenders will be prohibited from requesting borrowers to provide a loan referee from August 1.

Another measure is to introduce debt servicing ratio caps for low-income earners to prevent excessive borrowing.

Mr Hui stated that the new measure will limit the proportion of monthly income used for debt repayment. The requirement applies to all individuals with a monthly income below $12,000, including foreign domestic helpers.

“The overall approach that we take to deal with this money lending regime is that we are applying a rather equivalent requirement, not just to domestic helpers but everybody with a monthly income below $12,000,” he said.

He added that to prevent borrowers from circumventing the rules by using multiple lenders, all licensed lenders will be required to share borrower information.

Regarding the situation in the Middle East, Mr Hui affirmed that Hong Kong’s financial system remains robust, stable and sophisticated on both domestic and international fronts. 

“That’s why against this backdrop, we are proposing some measures to strengthen our role as an asset and wealth management centre in the current regime where many investors would like to diversify their investments,” he added.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Located in Tsing Yi, Ching Fu Jolly Net is redefining community support for the elderly. Subsidised by the Social Welfare Department and operated by Po Leung Kuk, the centre will officially open in mid-March, providing tailored services for seniors and their carers.

As one of three Jolly Net facilities managed by Po Leung Kuk, the centre aims to challenge traditional stereotypes of elderly care. By offering a diverse range of modern and engaging activities, it empowers seniors to lead fulfilling lives within their own communities.

 

These vibrant programmes have already become a significant draw for local residents, fostering a culture of active ageing.

Virtual vistas

After undergoing surgeries on both knees, Mr Sam So could not move and spent his days at home feeling bored. By chance, he saw the Po Leung Kuk Jolly Net nearby. Since they had an e-sports class, he decided to join.

Before retirement, Mr So navigated the city’s streets as a taxi driver and possessed a strong knack for car maintenance. Now, he has found a new outlet in the world of e-sports racing games, where he often outperforms younger players. 

“Life is vibrant and colourful now. I teach my friends the techniques I have learned and we play together.

“Everyone is happy. Recently, the centre even arranged for us to compete against some teenagers from Tuen Mun.

“We were lucky enough to win the championship. My friends and I were thrilled,” he added.  

The centre’s diverse programmes take a holistic approach to wellness, enhancing both the physical health and mental well-being of its members.

Among those benefiting is Ms Lucia Tam. Previously struggling with poor health and requiring mobility assistance to walk, her life took a positive turn after she joined the centre. By actively participating in stretching and yoga classes, she has seen a significant improvement in her physical fitness and now enjoys a clearer, more vibrant mind.

“Discovering the centre had opened was a happy accident and I thought why not give it a try.

“So, I became a member. Now, I never miss a stretching class and I also take part in yoga.

“I have noticed a real improvement in my body. I used to struggle with simple movements and needed help just to walk or sit. Since joining the centre, I have completely set aside all worries.

“This is why I am so eager to take part in activities here.” 

Golden opportunities

Po Leung Kuk Assistant Principal Social Services Secretary Rebecca Wong said traditional elderly centres often focus on basic care and social activities. While these services are important, she said they do not fully meet the expectations of younger seniors for growth and development.

“We aim to provide innovative and specialised activities that offer seniors more opportunities to develop their skills, showcase their abilities and achieve self-fulfilment,” she explained.

The centre offers a wide range of physical activities, including yoga classes, mountain climbing, canoeing and pickleball. These programmes are designed to help seniors maintain mobility, independence and overall health, while also providing opportunities to connect with nature.

To support emotional well-being, the centre also provides horticultural therapy, aroma therapy, art work sessions, latte art workshops and wine tasting activities.

These therapeutic programmes aim to reduce stress, alleviate anxiety and depressive symptoms, and help participants regulate their emotions.

To foster digital inclusion, the centre organises courses on artificial intelligence applications and e-sports activities. These initiatives empower seniors to keep pace with technological advancements, maintain mental agility through strategic thinking and strengthen their social bonds.

For many participants, Jolly Net is more than just a meeting point; it is a platform where they can showcase their talent, contribute to the community and lead fulfilling lives in their golden years.

Source: Hong Kong Information Services

Police today held the Good Citizen Award Presentation Ceremony 2025 to commend 80 citizens for their assistance in combating crime and saving lives. 

The Good Citizen of the Year Award was presented to Leung Ho-yin who rescued three people from drowning after they fell into the sea during Super Typhoon Ragasa in last year.

In addition, six organisations received the Good Organisation Award in recognition of their active support for Police in promoting anti-deception initiatives, fighting crime, safeguarding national security and fostering youth development.

Speaking at the ceremony, Commissioner of Police Chow Yat-ming expressed his gratitude to the awardees for their courage in making the right choices during critical moments.

Mr Chow noted that exercising calm judgment can help the public avoid falling victim to scammers. He urged citizens to use of “Scameter+” mobile app to identify suspicious calls and websites.

Regarding the six Good Organisation Award recipients, the Commissioner praised them for fulfilling their corporate social responsibilities. He highlighted their efforts in spreading anti-scam and anti-drug messages throughout the community to support police work.

A new promotional video series, A Flash Moment of Good Citizens, premiered at the ceremony. Adapted from four award-winning cases of 2025, the series features the award winners themselves portraying their stories.

The videos will be uploaded to the Police’s Facebook page and YouTube channel for public viewing.