Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Heritage Museum showcases Haven Collection’s Ming furniture and modern artistic chairs
Addressing the opening ceremony held today (May 23), the Deputy Director of Leisure and Cultural Services (Culture), Miss Eve Tam, said that Ming furniture embodies the profound wisdom of traditional Chinese design. Crafted from exquisite materials, with clean silhouettes and elegant forms, it fully exemplifies the spirit of Chinese craftsmanship. Through a unique perspective that juxtaposes past and present and pairs East and West, this exhibition illustrates how contemporary designers draw inspiration from Chinese cultural heritage, using upcycled materials and new technologies to reinterpret traditional craftsmanship in the modern era.
Other officiating guests included Legislative Council Member and Museum Expert Adviser for the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), Professor Lau Chi-pang; Dr Lau; Mr Lau; and the Museum Director of the HKHM, Mr Brian Lam.
The exhibits generate in-depth conversations between the past and the present. The craftsmanship on display ranges from traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery to cutting-edge 3D-printing techniques, with materials ranging from precious Chinese rosewood to eco-friendly upcycled resources. Highlights include a horseshoe armchair crafted from precious Chinese rosewood (huanghuali), distinguished by its clean and elegant silhouette – a form that embodies the ancient Chinese principle of “round heaven and square earth”. Another highlight is a grand-scale alcove bed made of Chinese southern elm. It features an enclosed chamber space, inviting visitors to closely observe the refined daily life of women from ancient noble families.
In parallel with the traditional furniture, the exhibition also features guest curator Mr Lau’s curated selection of modern furniture, including the iconic “CH24 Wishbone Chair” by renowned Danish modern designer Hans J Wegner, alongside creative works by local designers and artists. Among them is “Golden Blossom”, a 3D-printed flower table by artist Victor Wong that features carvings of exquisite floral motifs, symbolising wealth and harmony. The “Yuan Chair”, designed by Koren Sin and Kirin Leung, takes the Chinese drum stool’s simple form and reinterprets it with a twist of modern parametric style. These design works reveal contemporary interpretations of traditional Chinese furniture by designers from Hong Kong and abroad.
The exhibition will be held at Function Place, 1/F of the HKHM. Admission is free. It is also one of the activities in the Chinese Culture Promotion Series by the LCSD. A series of talks will be held during the exhibition, inviting audiences to explore the craftsmanship and design of Ming furniture and to examine how Chinese culture is deeply rooted in everyday life and has shaped the evolving aesthetics of everyday objects over the past century. For details of the exhibition and activities, please visit hk.heritage.museum/en/exhibitions/wow2_furniture.htmlIssued at HKT 17:50
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CE congratulates Hong Kong payload expert on participating in Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The China Manned Space Agency announced today (May 23) the Shenzhou-23 crew, including Dr Lai Ka-ying, the payload expert from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR). The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, expressed gratitude to the country for its support for and trust in the HKSAR. He also congratulated Dr Lai on passing the rigorous selection and training process to become one of the country’s fourth batch of astronauts, thereby contributing Hong Kong’s strength to the country’s aerospace endeavours. Mr Lee wished the Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission great success.
Mr Lee said, “As this year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan, the HKSAR is embracing a historic moment in the pursuit of its aerospace dream. We are deeply inspired by this moment of extraordinary significance, where a Hong Kong specialist takes part in the spaceflight mission as an astronaut for the first time. I express my heartfelt gratitude to the country for providing the HKSAR’s technology talent with this valuable opportunity to take part in the aerospace endeavours of the country.
“The HKSAR has been contributing to the country’s aerospace development. Various research institutions and universities have been participating in aerospace research projects, including providing systems, instruments, and technical support for the country’s lunar and Mars exploration missions, as well as conducting spaceborne experiments. The HKSAR Government has also established the Hong Kong Space Robotics and Energy Center under the InnoHK Research Clusters to participate in related national aerospace missions. Under the ‘one country, two systems’ principle, Hong Kong possesses the distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support of the motherland and being closely connected to the world. With five universities ranking among the world’s top 100, Hong Kong provides a powerful impetus for nurturing and attracting innovation and technology (I&T) talent.
“The participation of a scientific researcher from Hong Kong in the spaceflight mission for the first time is not only an affirmation of her own capability, but also a testimony to the country’s high recognition of Hong Kong’s I&T talent, development, and achievements. It also fully reflects the great importance attached, as well as the care and support given to the technological development in Hong Kong by our country. I warmly congratulate Dr Lai and sincerely wish her every success in the spaceflight mission.”
Dr Lai thanked the country and the HKSAR Government for their support. She felt deeply honoured to be able to represent the HKSAR to participate in the country’s spaceflight mission. She said that she will spare no effort and strive to live up to the expectations of the country and the HKSAR. Meanwhile, she expressed the hope that this mission would inspire more Hong Kong youths to devote themselves to the field of I&T, thereby contributing to the country’s scientific and technological self-reliance and strength.
The Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Professor Sun Dong, led a HKSAR delegation to the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center to participate in the upcoming send-off ceremony and witness this historic moment. Members of the delegation include the Under Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk, and other government representatives, I&T experts, youths and students.
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Dr Lai obtained a doctoral degree in computer forensics. She is a Superintendent of the Hong Kong Police Force. In the recruitment exercise of the country’s fourth batch of preparatory astronauts launched in 2022, she was successfully selected as a payload expert and was deployed to the China Astronaut Research and Training Center for training. Payload experts are responsible for conducting experiments such as scientific and applied research at the space station.
Hospital Authority Family Medicine Outpatient Services arrangements on day following Birthday of the Buddha holiday
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Red flag lowered at Hung Shing Yeh Beach
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Attention TV/radio announcers:
Please broadcast the following as soon as possible and repeat it at regular intervals:
Here is an item of interest to swimmers.
The Leisure and Cultural Services Department said today (May 24) that the red flag at Hung Shing Yeh Beach in Islands District has been lowered.
The red flag was hoisted at the beach earlier after an oil spill.
Speech by SCED at APEC MRT Meeting discussion session on “Foster New Engines of Innovative and Dynamic Trade and Investment Cooperation” in Suzhou (English only)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mr Algernon Yau, at the discussion session entitled “Foster New Engines of Innovative and Dynamic Trade and Investment Cooperation” at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Ministers Responsible for Trade Meeting in Suzhou today (May 23):
Thank you, Chair, and the Acting Secretary-General of the UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) for his insightful presentation.
ExCo Non-official Members congratulate successful launch of manned Shenzhou-23 spacecraft
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The following is issued on behalf of the Executive Council Secretariat:
Non-official Members of the Executive Council (ExCo) today (May 24) warmly congratulate the successful launch of the Shenzhou-23 manned spaceship. They extend their highest respect to all crew members, including Dr Lai Ka-ying, the first payload expert from the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).
The Convenor of ExCo Non-official Members, Mrs Regina Ip, said, “This year marks the beginning of the National 15th Five-Year Plan. This mission is the first manned spaceflight during the 15th Five-Year Plan period and the first time a Hong Kong expert has participated, which is a truly momentous occasion. I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the country for providing Hong Kong’s innovation and technology talent with this invaluable opportunity to take part in the country’s aerospace endeavours. Dr Lai has successfully undergone the rigorous selection and training process to become one of the country’s fourth batch of astronauts, and China’s fourth female astronaut to reach space, contributing Hong Kong’s strength to the national aerospace endeavours. She has exemplified the Lion Rock spirit of rising to challenges with resilience and perseverance. Her courage and determination are truly admirable, and all Hong Kong citizens are immensely inspired and proud of her. The understanding and support of her family are also essential for her to participate in this mission with resolution. I am deeply grateful for their support and commitment.
“The HKSAR Government is actively developing Hong Kong into an international innovation and technology centre and supporting promising research projects through various funding schemes. As an example, the Multi-Spectral Imaging Carbon Observatory (MUSICO) camera, developed under a project led by the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology and funded by the Government’s Innovation and Technology Support Programme Special Call on Aerospace Technology, has successfully arrived at China’s Tiangong Space Station, becoming Hong Kong’s first scientific payload aboard the station. This fully demonstrates Hong Kong’s innovation and technology edge and talent advantages.”
Non-official Members of the Executive Council expressed their heartfelt gratitude to the country for its high recognition of Hong Kong’s innovation and technology talent, development and achievements, as well as its profound emphasis, care and support for Hong Kong’s scientific and technological development. They firmly believe that the HKSAR Government will seize this historic moment to nurture more outstanding innovation and technology talent for the country and Hong Kong, and better integrate into and serve the country’s overall development.
Government delegation departs for Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission send-off ceremony at Jiuquan, Gansu
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Government delegation departs for Shenzhou-23 manned spaceflight mission send-off ceremony at Jiuquan, Gansu
Members of the delegation include the Under Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk, the Commissioner for Innovation and Technology, Mr Ivan Lee, experts from the innovation and technology sector, youths and students.
Professor Sun will return to Hong Kong on May 25. During his absence, the Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry, Ms Lillian Cheong, will be the Acting Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry.
Issued at HKT 11:00
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AFCD investigates suspected cruelty to animal case at dog shelter in Kam Sheung Road
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) announced yesterday (May 24) that it is investigating a suspected case of cruelty to animals at a dog shelter on Ching Tam Road, Yuen Kong San Tsuen, Kam Sheung Road.
AFCD received a complaint on May 21 concerning dogs being kept in cages and placed in open areas at the dog shelter. AFCD officers, together with staff from the Hong Kong Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals immediately visited the site but were unable to gain entry. On May 22, AFCD officers returned to the shelter with police assistance and successfully entered the site for investigation.
During the operation, AFCD officers found a number of dogs, some of which were kept in cages placed in open areas without adequate shelter. As the dog keeper failed to make immediate reasonable improvement, the AFCD seized a total of 12 dogs on site and took them back to the animal management centre for care. The AFCD will continue to conduct an in-depth investigation into the case. If there is sufficient evidence, prosecution will be taken against the person concerned.
Under the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Ordinance (Cap. 169), any person who treats an animal cruelly, including causing any unnecessary suffering to an animal by any act or omission without reasonable cause, commits an offence. Upon conviction, the maximum penalty is a fine of $200,000 and imprisonment for three years.
Members of the public who come across any suspected cases of cruelty to animals are urged to report to AFCD immediately by calling 1823. In case of emergency, please call the Police for assistance.
EMSD leads delegation to study hydrogen development in Yangtze River Delta region
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
A delegation led by the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department (EMSD) completed their three-day technical visits on hydrogen in Yangtze River Delta region today (May 23).
The Yangtze River Delta is one of the most vibrant regions for the hydrogen industry development in the country, with a complete industrial chain and an innovation-driven ecosystem. The delegation, comprised international and Hong Kong hydrogen experts and corporate representatives, visited state-level key hydrogen testing facilities and leading hydrogen enterprises in Shanghai, Jiangsu and Zhejiang. They learnt about fuel cell vehicles, fuel cells, liquid hydrogen equipment, hydrogen tank containers, electrolysers and railway-related hydrogen equipment, as well as a variety of innovative and large-scale application scenarios, including the Jiaxing Zhapu International Port Container Terminal and a hydrogen refuelling station supplied with hydrogen via pipelines.
The delegation learnt about national-level hydrogen testing capabilities, research and manufacturing capacities across the five core segments of the hydrogen industry namely production, storage, transportation, refuelling and utilisation, as well as application outcomes of hydrogen in various scenarios, further deepening collaboration between the country and international partners in hydrogen development.
When concluding the visits, the Assistant Director (Gas and General Legislation) of the EMSD, Mr Eric Wong, said that, as set out in “The Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address”, Hong Kong will actively integrate itself into the country’s overall development and plays an active role of “Bringing in” and “Going Global”. The visits were one of the key events of the Hydrogen Week. By leading representatives from more than ten countries and hydrogen experts to witness on-site the significant potential of the hydrogen energy technologies in the country and Hong Kong, the visits are expected to help foster more cross-border co-operation opportunities, fully demonstrating Hong Kong’s unique role as a “super connector” and “super value-adder”.
Looking ahead, the EMSD will continue to make use of key platforms such as the Hydrogen Week, to give full play to Hong Kong’s advantages of internationalisation and connecting the Mainland and the world. This will help high-quality hydrogen enterprises from the Mainland and Hong Kong to “go global”, while bringing international enterprises and capital into the country, thereby contributing to the robust development of the country’s hydrogen industry in the international market.
Hospital Authority to standardise caller identification number prefix 18285 and 18286 from tomorrow
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hospital Authority to standardise caller identification number prefix 18285 and 18286 from tomorrow
All new numbers will be used solely for caller ID purposes of calls made by the HA, to assist the public in identifying incoming calls. When members of the public call back the number, they will generally only hear a recorded phone message indicating which public hospital or clinic the call originated from. If necessary, staff will contact them again later. The caller ID number will not be connected to the relevant public hospital or clinic. As for the existing phone numbers for contacting HA operating units, they will remain unchanged. Members of the public may visit the HA website to check the relevant dialling numbers. In addition, for operational needs, some HA operating units will still retain direct landline numbers or use mobile phones to contact members of the public.
The spokesperson for the HA reiterated that the purpose of adopting caller ID numbers beginning with 18285 or 18286 is to enable members of the public to clearly identify HA calls, thereby reducing the chances of them refusing to answer calls due to concerns about excessive promotional calls or potential phone scams, and even missing urgent calls from accident and emergency departments or wards.
The HA reminds members of the public to take care to verify the identity of the caller when receiving calls from public hospitals. Where the HA needs to contact members of the public, it will generally do so by having staff call them directly and provide relevant information to verify identity. Members of the public should not provide any personal information to calls from unknown sources to avoid privacy breaches. If members of the public suspect they have received a scam call, they should seek assistance from the Police.
Issued at HKT 9:00
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