Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Labour Department (LD) is highly concerned about a fatal work accident that happened at a construction site in Tung Chung this afternoon (October 7), in which a male worker fell from height while dismantling a working platform on the external wall of a building under construction. He was certified dead later in hospital. The LD is saddened by the death of the worker and expresses its deepest sympathy to his family.
The LD’s spokesman said, “We commenced an immediate on-site investigation as soon as we were notified of the accident and have issued suspension notices to the contractors concerned, suspending the erection, alteration, dismantling and use of the working platforms on the external walls of buildings at the site. The contractors cannot resume the work process until the LD is satisfied that suitable measures to abate the relevant risks have been taken.”
The spokesman added, “We will complete the investigation as soon as possible to identify the cause of the accident, ascertain the liability of duty holders and recommend improvement measures. We will take action pursuant to the law if any violations are found during the investigation.”
To prevent workers from falling from height while dismantling working platforms, the LD reminds contractors to take adequate preventive measures against falls, including providing every worker with a suitable full-body harness that is attached continuously to a suitable and secure anchor point, an independent lifeline or a fall arresting system, and ensuring that workers concerned properly use the above safety equipment throughout the work.
The general duty provisions of the Occupational Safety and Health Ordinance require employers to provide safe working environments, plant and systems of work for their employees. Those who contravene the relevant provisions are liable to a maximum fine of $10 million and imprisonment for two years.
In regard to today’s accident, the LD will issue a Work Safety Alert through its mobile application “OSH 2.0”, website and email, giving a brief account of the accident concerned to duty holders, workers’ unions, professional bodies of safety practitioners and others, and reminding the industry of the importance of following safety precautionary measures to prevent a recurrence of similar accidents.
The LD will also remind the employer concerned of the liability for employees’ compensation under the Employees’ Compensation Ordinance, assist family members of the deceased to claim employees’ compensation and closely follow up on the case. For those with financial difficulties, the LD will assist them to apply for appropriate emergency funds. Subject to the needs and wishes of the family members of the deceased, the LD will also liaise with the Social Welfare Department for financial or other assistance.
For the sake of securing the safety and health of employees at work, the LD appeals to employers to provide plant and systems of work that are safe and without risks to health. Employees should also co-operate with their employers, adopt all safety measures and use personal protective equipment provided properly to avoid endangering their own work safety and that of other workers.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (October 7):
Question:
In 2020, this Council approved a total of $268 million for implementing the Lei Yue Mun Waterfront Enhancement Project (the Enhancement Project) to enhance the attractiveness of Lei Yue Mun as a tourist hotspot. However, there are views pointing out that the utilisation rate of the newly-constructed Lei Yue Mun New Pier (the New Pier) under the Enhancement Project is on the low side, and there is still room for improvement in the overall tourism planning and supporting facilities. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) given that the New Pier was only commissioned in 2025, yet the ferry route plying between the New Pier and Sai Wan Ho has ceased operation in recent months, whether the authorities will introduce targeted measures to attract more members of the public and visitors to use the facilities of the New Pier; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) given that the New Pier is an ideal location for viewing mega cruise liners entering and leaving Victoria Harbour at close range, whether the authorities will strengthen the management of the New Pier and enrich its tourism elements, for example, by providing the schedules of mega cruise liners passing through the Lei Yue Mun Fairway and creating a “check-in” spot for viewing cruise liners entering and leaving the Fairway; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(3) given that the former Lei Yue Mun Quarry site has a history of over a century and has been classified as a Grade 3 historic building, and there are views that the area is a rare attraction located in the urban area with unique features, whether the authorities will study revitalising it into a scenic area, introducing commercial modes of operation and enhancing the supporting facilities and connectivity; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(4) given that Fortifications at Devil’s Peak in Yau Tong are Grade 2 historic buildings of Hong Kong, and there are views pointing out that their structures are intact and they command views of Victoria Harbour, whether the authorities will study turning the aforesaid fortifications into an open museum, providing additional directional signs and historical information, so as to form an interactive historical education route with the Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence on the opposite shore; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(5) whether the authorities have studied optimising the transport connections between MTR Yau Tong Station and the Lei Yue Mun area, and improving the pedestrian network between the two places; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and
(6) whether the Government will consider including Lei Yue Mun as a tourist hotspot project of the Working Group on Developing Tourist Hotspots, so as to link up the various tourism resources in the district through cross-departmental co-ordination; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Tourism Commission has been implementing various measures to enhance Lei Yue Mun’s appeal to visitors. To improve the travel environment and ancillary facilities in Lei Yue Mun, the Tourism Commission launched the Lei Yue Mun Waterfront Enhancement Project to upgrade the waterfront area’s facilities and accessibility. The relevant construction works involved construction of a public landing facility, a breakwater, a waterfront promenade, and beautification works of viewing platform and lookout points. These enhanced facilities were fully open for use in June 2025. In addition, the Tourism Commission extended the City in Time tourism project to six designated locations in Lei Yue Mun in June 2024, using augmented reality technology to bring history back to life, thereby enriching visitors’ travelling experience.
In consultation with the Development Bureau, the Civil and Engineering Development Department, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Transport Department, the consolidated reply to the question raised by the Hon Yiu Pak-leung is as follows:
The new public landing facility provides an additional berthing point in Lei Yue Mun and facilitates visitors’ access to local attractions and eateries. The design of the public landing facility accommodates different types of vessels, and its platform is also provided with a ramp to facilitate wheelchair users to board or alight, thereby providing better supporting facilities for tourism development in the area. To tie in with the commissioning of the new public landing facility, the Tourism Commission convened interdepartmental meetings to discuss measures of enhancing the attractiveness of Lei Yue Mun, including proposal for improving marine transport of Lei Yue Mun in anticipation of the increase in visitors in the area. In this regard, the relevant department liaised with the operator of the licensed ferry service of “Sai Wan Ho – Sam Ka Tsuen” to operate special departures via Lei Yue Mun public landing facility on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays on a trial basis between June 28, 2025, and July 5, 2026. However, due to the persistently low demand for scheduled ferry service, the concerned service has suspended after the trial run period.
To enhance the tourism elements of the public landing facility and its surroundings, the Tourism Commission engaged a local organisation to paint distinctive murals on the feature wall near the public landing facility and at the five lookout points. Besides, the LCSD also installed beautification and photo-taking spots along Lei Yue Mun Waterfront, such as displaying festive decorations in the recent Mid-Autumn Festival to enhance festive ambience and attract visitors.
Furthermore, the Tourism Commission actively linked up various tourism resources in the district, and engaged in in-depth discussions with the trade on leveraging the new facilities to connect distinctive land-and-water travel routes and develop in-depth tour products. The travel trade organised a seminar and field trip in August 2025 centered on the themes of putting “tourism is everywhere” into practice and strengthening the local tourism economy. Over 100 trade representatives visited historical and cultural sites in the Eastern District and Lei Yue Mun, including a visit to the Hong Kong Museum of the War of Resistance and Coastal Defence, followed by a boat ride to Lei Yue Mun via the public landing facility. It is understood that some travel agencies have already included Lei Yue Mun in their tour itineraries, connecting attractions such as Lei Yue Mun Seafood Street, Tin Hau Temple, and Tung Lung Chau. To promote and inherit patriotic education and attract more visitors to Lei Yue Mun, the Tourism Commission also co-organised with the LCSD and the Kowloon Federation of Associations the thematic exhibition “Brothers in Arms: War of Resistance Activities of the East River Column in Shenzhen and Hong Kong” at Jockey Club Lei Yue Mun Plus from August to November 2025. Lei Yue Mun is famous for its seafood eateries, and hence the Tourism Commission has also encouraged local merchants and eateries to actively provide special offers for visitors for further promotion of local delicacies.
In terms of land transport, to further enhance the transport linkage between MTR Yau Tong Station and Lei Yue Mun, the Transport Department has, with effect from August 24, 2026, introduced a new Kowloon GMB Route No. 24S (Yau Tong (Ko Chiu Road) – Yau Tong (Tung Yuen Street) (Circular)) to provide service between MTR Yau Tong Station and the Lei Yue Mun area. In addition, passengers may take Kowloon GMB Route No. 24 (Lam Tin (Ping Tin Public Transport Interchange) – Sam Ka Tsuen Ferry (Circular)) at Yau Tong Public Transport Interchange, or board KMB Route No. 14X (Yau Tong (Shung Tak Wai) – Tsim Sha Tsui (Circular)) outside Lei Yue Mun Estate Public Transport Interchange adjacent to MTR Yau Tong Station, to travel to the Lei Yue Mun area. Meanwhile, the Government has installed traffic signs at suitable locations along major roads connecting MTR Yau Tong Station and Lei Yue Mun (such as Ko Chiu Road and Cha Kwo Ling Road) to provide clear guidance for pedestrians and motorists travelling between the two areas. The Tourism Commission has also installed 20 directional signs between MTR Yau Tong Station and Lei Yue Mun Seafood District through the Visitor Signage Improvement Scheme to facilitate visitors’ wayfinding of both places.
In terms of promotion, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has been promoting Lei Yue Mun’s tourism features and unique experiences to visitors through various channels, such as its website, Visitor Centres and Visitor Hotline. The HKTB’s website lists in detail the attractions and photo-taking spots in Lei Yue Mun, including the Old Lei Yue Mun Quarry, Tin Hau Temple, Murals Village, Lei Yue Mun Lighthouse, Viewing Platform, Jockey Club Lei Yue Mun Plus, and Lei Yue Mun Seafood District, as well as a map detailing the locations of the various attractions and the transportation to Lei Yue Mun. To tie in with the commissioning of the new public landing facility, the HKTB rolled out an online promotional video in 2025, highlighting Lei Yue Mun’s beautiful sunset scenery, special photo-taking spots and various travel experiences, etc. For cruise ships’ estimated arrival/departure times, locals and visitors can check the respective websites of the operators of Ocean Terminal and Kai Tak Cruise Terminal for details.
The above illustrations show that the Tourism Commission has proactively strengthened the appeal of Lei Yue Mun in various aspects. To further realise Lei Yue Mun’s tourism potential, apart from public facilities and ancillary infrastructure, the intrinsic attractiveness of the area to locals and visitors as well as proactive participation from local merchants, community groups and the travel trade are equally crucial. Only with the joint efforts by different sectors can we successfully create tourism projects with characteristics. The Government welcomes interested commercial entities to submit concrete proposals on Lei Yue Mun’s transport ancillary facilities and revitalisation of the Old Lei Yue Mun Quarry. The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau stands ready to proactively explore with the relevant parties and to play a facilitating role to co-ordinate with the relevant bureaux and departments for removing barriers and easing restrictions, and jointly advancing the proposals.
In addition, there is a hiking trail currently connecting Lei Yue Mun to Devil’s Peak, passing by the Tin Hau Temple in Lei Yue Mun, the Old Quarry Site Structures and the Fortifications at Devil’s Peak. The Development Bureau is taking forward the development off Tseung Kwan O Area 132 adjacent to this trail. As presented to the Sai Kung District Council earlier this year, the Development Bureau will construct new trail and footpath to link the existing trail, via Area 132, to the Tseung Kwan O town centre near Tiu Keng Leng, while enhancing the existing trail by constructing steps and provision of signage. In future, visitors travelling from the Tseung Kwan O town centre to Lei Yue Mun through Area 132 via the new and existing trails will be able to enjoy the scenic views of Lei Yue Mun Point along the way, and visit the sites of significant historic value mentioned above. Subject to the funding approval by the Legislative Council for the development off Area 132 later this year, the Development Bureau expects the pedestrian connection works to be completed progressively from 2029 onwards.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Following is a question by Dr the Hon Johnny Ng and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (October 7):
Question:
There are views pointing out that as young people have become increasingly keen to pay for emotional value and cultural identity, the “nostalgia economy” that transforms nostalgia for the good old days into spending power has emerged globally, with products such as film cameras and Beyblades regaining popularity. There are views that while Hong Kong possesses rich cultural assets and collective memories capable of providing consumers with exceptionally high emotional value, relevant industries are at present mostly operated by the private sector in a fragmented manner without long-term policy guidance and industrial chain integration. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether the Government has compiled statistics on the revenue contributed by the “nostalgia economy” to the Gross Domestic Product over the past three years, and whether it has assessed the actual economic benefits that the “nostalgia economy” can bring to Hong Kong in the next three years;
(2) as there are views that promoting the “nostalgia economy” and enhancing the emotional value of products and brands will help stimulate local consumption and revitalise tourism appeal, whether the Government will study and introduce policy measures to develop the “nostalgia economy”, including encouraging the trade to leverage Hong Kong’s collective memories and transform them into commercial industries, thereby injecting new vitality into the real economy through the “nostalgia economy”;
(3) of the specific policies put in place by the Government to (i) assist local creators as well as small and medium enterprises in transforming classic Hong Kong cultural elements with emotional value (e.g. animation and comics, historic buildings and nostalgic trendy items) into commercially valuable cultural intellectual property, and enhance the assessment criteria of the Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales by incorporating the “emotional economy” and “conveyance of emotional value” into the assessment standards, and (ii) assist declining local heritage brands and traditional crafts in their transformation and upgrading, package products with a rich history as new economic growth points, and provide policy support for local brands carrying emotional value; and
(4) whether the Government will consider drawing on overseas experience to lead or fund the organisation of a major international “Hong Kong-style Retro Trend Festival”, combining traditional Hong Kong-style handicrafts with iconic scenes from Hong Kong films to create immersive consumption experiences with substantial commercial value, so as to attract tourists from the Mainland and overseas to “check in” and spend in Hong Kong?
Reply:
President,
Having consulted the Commerce and Economic Development Bureau, the Trade and Industry Department, the Census and Statistics Department and the Office of the Government Economist, the reply in response to the questions raised by Dr the Hon Johnny Ng is as follows:
(1) The Government does not maintain statistics on the proportion of “nostalgia economy” in the Gross Domestic Product.
(2) to (4) The Government has all along been encouraging local enterprises to upgrade and transform through various support measures, with a view to enhancing their market competitiveness as well as identifying new business growth points in the face of the complicated and ever-changing market environment.
The Dedicated Fund on Branding, Upgrading and Domestic Sales (BUD Fund) under the Trade and Industry Department (TID) provides funding support to the trade with a view to encouraging non-listed Hong Kong enterprises to develop more diversified markets outside Hong Kong to enhance their competitiveness. Eligible enterprises from all industries and sectors complying with the funding criteria may, according to their business characteristics and needs, apply for funding support to implement projects on branding, upgrading, and domestic sales for their products or services. Besides, the Chief Executive’s 2026 Policy Address announced that the TID will co-ordinate with the “Four-in-One” Integrated Services of SME Centres to organise branding seminars and workshops, which covers aspects such as exploration of new markets, to assist small and medium-sized enterprises in formulating brand development strategies, thereby increasing the inherent competitiveness of brands and seizing the opportunities brought about by emerging industries.
Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) actively promotes Hong Kong brands, leveraging Hong Kong’s strengths as an international business hub and a gateway connecting with the Mainland and the world to help Hong Kong enterprises enhance their brand value and expand into new markets. Through a diverse range of business activities and support services, the HKTDC will continue to facilitate the expansion of Hong Kong brands into the Mainland and overseas markets. These include setting up dedicated brand promotion zones at more than 30 local and international exhibitions held each year to boost brand visibility and expand business opportunities for different industries and sectors in Hong Kong, as well as organising promotional events or setting up Hong Kong Pavilions at major exhibitions abroad to assist Hong Kong enterprises in brand development.
The Government encourages the industry to leverage Hong Kong’s rich cultural intellectual property (IP) to explore business opportunities. The Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau has been identifying potential projects in the creative sectors, encouraging cross-sectoral collaboration, and promoting the development of cultural IPs and cultural IP trading, with a view to advancing industrialisation of cultural IPs. CCIDA leverages Hong Kong film IP to promote tourism, and has launched in the past two years the “Kowloon Walled City: A Cinematic Journey” exhibition at the Kowloon Walled City Park and the “Yau Ma Tei Police Station: A Cinematic Journey” exhibition at the Old Yau Ma Tei Police Station (Old YMTPS), showcasing the Walled City filmset and the then everyday life at the Walled City, and filmset of classic Hong Kong police and crime films respectively. The two exhibitions are well-received by the public and visitors. CCIDA will take forward the second phase of “Yau Ma Tei Police Station: A Cinematic Journey” exhibition, which is expected to be launched in early 2027. In addition, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will design routes of classic Hong Kong films connecting the Old YMTPS, Temple Street and neighbourhood historical buildings and activities, complemented by authentic local night markets and dining experiences, thereby allowing tourists to take a deep dive into Hong Kong’s unique cityscape and local life culture. To leverage Hong Kong’s traditional festivals and cultural contents, the HKTB will also demarcate a period each year for the International Arts Season (February to May), the Chinese Arts Season (June to September) and the Festive Mega Events Season (October to February the following year), setting a mega-event framework under these three themes to solidify Hong Kong’s reputation as the Events Capital of Asia as well as to boost visitor spending and extend their stay in Hong Kong.
The Intangible Cultural Heritage Office under the Leisure and Cultural Services Department actively assists local cultural and creative industry brands to launch creative cultural merchandise related to Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH). For example, it has co-operated with a local fashion brand since 2024 to present a series of new-style cheongsams that revitalise traditions, and clothing created with ICH elements to showcase Hong Kong’s ICH elements in a novel way. The ICH Office will continue to provide information on ICH to suitable cultural and creative industry brands, so as to assist them in transforming ICH into value-added cultural and creative products through revitalisation.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Hong Kong Customs detected two sea smuggling cases on September 22 and 24 respectively. More than 780 000 suspected illicit cigarettes with a total estimated market value of about $3.5 million and a duty potential of about $2.6 million were seized.
Customs took over an illicit cigarette storage case from the Hong Kong Police Force on September 21 for follow-up investigation, which later revealed that crime syndicates repacked illicit cigarettes as genuine cargo pending transhipment, waiting for a chance to smuggle the illicit cigarettes into foreign countries or regions with higher duty rates on tobacco than Hong Kong for profit.
Customs officers subsequently took enforcement actions on September 22 and 24 and intercepted two sea consignments destined for Australia, and seized the batch of illicit cigarettes.
In the first case, Customs officers on September 22 selected and examined a consignment declared as carrying auto parts at a logistics warehouse in Tin Shui Wai. Upon inspection, Customs officers seized about 400 000 suspected illicit cigarettes from the consignment.
In the second case, Customs officers on September 24 selected and examined a 40-foot seaborne container, also declared as carrying auto parts, at the Customs Tsing Yi Cargo Examination Compound. Customs officers seized about 380 000 million suspected illicit cigarettes from the container.
An investigation is ongoing. Customs will continue to trace the source and flow of the suspected illicit cigarettes. The likelihood of further arrests is not ruled out.
Customs will continue its risk assessment and intelligence analysis, and step up enforcement actions to combat smuggling of illicit cigarettes. Customs stresses that smuggling is a serious offence. Under the Import and Export Ordinance (Cap. 60), any person found guilty of importing or exporting unmanifested cargo is liable to a maximum fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years. Moreover, under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance (Cap. 109), any person who deals with, possesses, sells or buys illicit cigarettes commits an offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $2 million and imprisonment for seven years.
Members of the public may report any suspected illicit cigarette activities to Customs’ 24-hour hotline 182 8080 or its dedicated crime-reporting email account (crimereport@customs.gov.hk) or online form (eform.cefs.gov.hk/form/ced002).
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Traffic and transport arrangements for redeveloped Huanggang Port
Route*Provides daily service during morning and evening peaks at initial launch*Provides daytime service on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays*Some stopping points will only be in use during specific hours The TD has arranged dedicated public transport lanes leading directly to San Sham Road from Fanling Highway and San Tin Highway for use by franchised buses, GMBs and CBCs to the new port, bypassing San Tin Interchange and thereby enhancing the efficiency of travelling to and from the port. A public transport buffer area has also been set up near the port building. Public transport operators (PTOs) will arrange backup vehicles in the buffer area, which can proceed to the port to pick up passengers within a short time to strengthen service frequencies when necessary, aiming to expedite the dispersal of passenger flows during peak periods.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ5: Government outsourced service contracts Question:
Regarding outsourced service contracts awarded by tender by the four major procuring departments (i.e. the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), the Housing Department (HD) and the Government Property Agency (GPA)) for employing non-skilled workers, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the respective numbers of cases in each of the past two years and the current year to date where contractors of the four major procuring departments were issued with verbal and written warnings or default notices, or were subject to deduction of service payments and termination of contracts owing to their failure to comply with contract provisions, with a breakdown by type of service (i.e. security service, cleansing service and other services);
(2) of the number of cases in each of the past two years and the current year to date where the contractors concerned failed to implement the measures to which they had committed in the Heat Stroke Prevention Work Plan submitted with their bids for the contracts;
(3) given that as reported, FEHD has incorporated the relevant requirements into its contracts in accordance with the Guidance Notes on Prevention of Heat Stroke at Work (the Guidance Notes) and stipulated that contractors must conduct heat stress risk assessments and formulate corresponding work-rest arrangements, of the details of the cases in each of the past two years and the current year to date where FEHD contractors contravened the relevant requirements and the penalties imposed; and whether LCSD, HD and GPA have incorporated the relevant requirements into their contracts in accordance with the Guidance Notes; if so, the details of the cases in each of the past two years and the current year to date where their contractors contravened the requirements of the Guidance Notes and the penalties imposed; if not, the reasons for that;
(4) under the marking schemes currently adopted by the four major procuring departments for outsourced service contracts, of the mid-point of the maximum marks for the various technical assessment criteria (i.e. wage rates, working hours, demerit records, past service performance records and other assessment criteria), as well as the respective technical-to-price weightings in terms of percentage; and
(5) whether the four major procuring departments have plans to progressively increase the weightings accorded to “wage rates” and “working hours” in the assessment, with a view to encouraging tenderers to provide better employment terms and conditions for non-skilled workers; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
In response to the question regarding non-skilled worker service contracts, having consulted the four major procuring departments (i.e. the Food and Environmental Hygiene Department (FEHD), the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), the Housing Department (HD) and the Government Property Agency (GPA)), our consolidated reply is as follows:
(1) A breakdown of the follow-up actions taken by the four major procuring departments in the past three years (up to August this year) against contractors of outsourced non-skilled worker contracts for non-compliance with contract terms is set out at Annex 1.
(2) and (3) The Government has all along attached great importance to the protection of occupational safety and health of outsourced workers employed by government service contractors. For government service contractors employing non-skilled workers, tenderers for service contracts that involve non-skilled workers performing duties outdoors, in an indoor environment without air-conditioning, and/or in the vicinity of high temperature installations are required to submit a Heat Stroke Prevention Work Plan (Work Plan) certified by a Safety Officer who has a valid registration with the Labour Department (LD). Procuring departments will also stipulate in the tender documents the minimum proposals of the Work Plan to be submitted by the tenderers, which include adopting measures by making reference to the Guidance Notes on Prevention of Heat Stroke at Work published by the LD, such as conducting risk assessments of heat stress and implementing appropriate heat stroke preventive measures based on the risk assessment results. Any tender submitted without a Work Plan will not be considered in the tender assessment. Contractors who fail to comply with the measures committed in the Work Plan may also be issued with demerit points under the Demerit Point System.
The four major procuring departments have incorporated the relevant requirements mentioned above into the relevant non-skilled worker service contracts. In the past three years (up to August this year), no case of non-compliance with the Work Plan was found by the four major procuring departments.Issued at HKT 12:45
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ1: Promoting aerospace popular science education and relevant talent nurturing Questions:
The National 15th Five-Year Plan explicitly supports Hong Kong’s development into an international innovation and technology (I&T) centre. There are views pointing out that Hong Kong’s first astronaut carrying out a mission aboard the Tiangong Space Station in the capacity of a payload expert has ignited a sense of pride in national aerospace technology and interest in I&T among the Hong Kong community (particularly the youth groups). The SAR Government should seize the opportunity to strengthen collaboration among departments, thereby turning the community’s passion for aerospace technology into sustained momentum for nurturing I&T talent. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) whether the Education Bureau (EDB) will collaborate with the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB) to set up a Working Group on Aerospace Popular Science Education to systematically integrate the latest national achievements in aerospace technology, including lunar exploration, space station experiments and deep space exploration, into STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics) education in primary and secondary schools; whether the two policy bureaux will consider supporting schools, through existing resources or dedicated subsidy, in developing and using aerospace teaching kits, such as microgravity simulation, rover programming and space mission design teaching materials, and provide more aerospace interactive experiential facilities at schools, the Hong Kong Science Museum and I&T bases;
(2) whether the EDB will increase the quotas for visits to key national aerospace facilities, such as the Jiuquan Satellite Launch Center, the Wenchang Spacecraft Launch Site and the Beijing Aerospace Control Center, under the existing Mainland exchange programmes for primary and secondary students; whether the ITIB will leverage its collaboration network with Mainland scientific research institutes and aerospace enterprises to provide senior secondary students and STEAM teachers in Hong Kong with opportunities to participate in short-term internships, research matching and dedicated training at Mainland aerospace laboratories;
(3) to promote the interface between aerospace popular science education and I&T talent nurturing, whether the ITIB and the EDB will strengthen co-operation with local tertiary institutions and Mainland aerospace institutions to provide clearer guidance on further studies for Hong Kong students who demonstrate interest and potential in aerospace technology; whether the Government will consider establishing a dedicated aerospace and I&T scholarship and incorporating aerospace technology elements into relevant research talent funding schemes, so as to nurture local space engineering, space science and relevant I&T talent; and
(4) given that the Northern Metropolis is a key engine for Hong Kong’s future I&T development, whether the Government will explore the planning of a sizeable Hong Kong Aerospace Science and Technology Museum or Deep Space Exploration Education Centre in the Northern Metropolis, such as the San Tin Technopole, to showcase national aerospace achievements and valuable exhibits, and establish immersive lunar or Martian base experiential zones, thereby serving as new platforms for regular reality teaching for primary and secondary schools across the territory, patriotic popular science education as well as I&T culture and tourism in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area?
Reply:
President,
For the first time, the National 15th Five-Year Plan includes “work faster to boost China’s strength in aerospace” as a key task for development over the five-year period, making clear that aerospace technology is an important component of the country’s development of new quality productive forces. This demonstrates the great importance the country attaches to its aerospace endeavours and brings Hong Kong broader opportunities for participation and development. The five core objectives of Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan include accelerating the development of an international Innovation & Technology (I&T) centre, developing the Northern Metropolis into a major growth engine for higher education and I&T, and integrating into and serving the overall national development. In nurturing I&T talent, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government departments are working together through various approaches. Taking the recently held “Tiangong Class” Hong Kong and Macao Designated Session as an example, the Education Bureau (EDB) collaborated with the China Manned Space Agency and other organisations to let primary and secondary school teachers and students across Hong Kong to watch the live broadcast of the space lesson simultaneously. Hong Kong’s first payload specialist, Dr Lai Ka-ying, served as a “space teacher”, demonstrating science experiments in real time and interacting with students. Through the roving exhibition on “Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours”, the Innovation, Technology and Industry Bureau (ITIB) systematically showcases the development journey and remarkable achievements of the country’s aerospace endeavours. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong Space Museum, under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB), continues to update its exhibition content by incorporating information on the Shenzhou-23 mission and Dr Lai’s training experiences; and is planning a new thematic exhibition towards the end of the year to review the mission’s achievements. These collaborative efforts across departments demonstrate the HKSAR Government’s diverse approaches to talent development, spanning curricula, exhibitions, competitions and Mainland exchanges, to nurture passionate young talent with broad horizons for Hong Kong’s I&T development.
The consolidated reply of the EDB, the ITIB and the CSTB to the question raised by the Hon Ng Wun-kit is as follows:
(1) Regarding the primary and secondary school curricula, the EDB has updated the content of the Science curricula by strengthening the learning elements relating to aerospace, I&T and STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics), to deepen students’ understanding of the country’s aerospace achievements and foster a sense of national pride. The EDB has also been providing a range of resource supports for schools. For example, schools may flexibly deploy the Life-wide Learning and Sister School Grant to arrange for students to participate in aerospace-related competitions and activities. Schools may also apply to the Quality Education Fund to develop school-based aerospace curricula and activities. In collaboration with relevant organisations, the EDB continues to organise aerospace-related learning activities, such as the Hong Kong Youth Aerospace Innovation Competition, to enrich students’ learning experiences.
The permanent exhibition halls of the Space Museum feature a number of interactive aerospace exhibits that systematically showcase the country’s latest achievements in aerospace technology, including “Moon | Mars VR”, “Zhurong’s Mars Exploration” and “China’s Lunar Exploration”. In addition, information on the Shenzhou-23 mission has been incorporated into the “China Space Exploration” zone, enabling visitors to learn about the journey of Dr Lai and other astronauts, from training to carrying out missions aboard the Tiangong Space Station. To coincide with the return of the Shenzhou-23 crew to Earth at the end of 2026, the Space Museum is planning a new thematic exhibition towards the end of the year to review the mission’s major achievements. The Space Museum will continue to update its exhibition content and incorporate information on national aerospace projects as appropriate. The EDB has also issued a circular memorandum encouraging schools to arrange for students to visit the relevant exhibitions at the Space Museum.
(2) The EDB has been organising diversified Mainland exchange programmes for primary and secondary students and subsidising schools to organise such programmes. These include aerospace-related itineraries, such as visits to the Wenchang Aerospace Supercomputing Center and the Aifeike Aviation Popularisation of Science Education Base, to deepen students’ understanding of the country’s development and achievements in aerospace technology. The EDB will continue to enhance Mainland exchange programmes for students to further promote aerospace science and technology education.
The Chief Executive’s 2026 Policy Address also announced that the number of places in the Young Astronaut Training Camp organised by the Space Museum next year will be increased to 35, enabling students to visit the country’s major aerospace and astronomy facilities in person.
Among other things, the Chief Executive’s 2026 Policy Address announced that the Government will continue to provide funding support for the Hong Kong Productivity Council to organise the Hong Kong Future Aerospace Technology Talents Training Programme for secondary students. The Programme aims to enable students to learn about different aerospace technologies and related skills through training courses, hands-on workshops and field trips. It will not only foster students’ interest and potential in aerospace technology, but also nurture more I&T talents for the country and the HKSAR, better integrating into and serving the overall national development.
(3) The Government has all along encouraged the University Grants Committee (UGC)-funded universities to offer programmes that meet Hong Kong’s development needs, expand the talent pool in key areas and strengthen Hong Kong’s competitiveness. During the 2025–28 triennium, the eight UGC-funded universities are collectively introducing 27 new undergraduate programmes related to STEAM and the “eight centres”. These programmes cover emerging fields that have developed rapidly in recent years and are popular among young people, including aerospace science and technology. It was announced in the Chief Executive’s 2026 Policy Address that innovative popular science education and talent development in aerospace would be stepped up, including supporting local institutions in promoting aerospace-related programmes to nurture future talent. At present, four UGC-funded universities in Hong Kong offer undergraduate programmes providing knowledge and training in aerospace, namely City University of Hong Kong, the Chinese University of Hong Kong, the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology. The PolyU also offers postgraduate programmes. The Government will continue to keep abreast of the development needs of aerospace technology in Hong Kong and the country, and support institutions in reviewing and developing relevant programmes as appropriate.
The Innovation and Technology Commission (ITC) will launch a new round of Special Call on Aerospace Technology, with an emphasis on supporting technology research related to national space missions, assisting research and development (R&D) talent in conducting research and exploration in areas such as satellite technologies, space exploration instruments, aerospace materials and remote sensing.
To expand the local research and I&T talent pool through a multi-pronged approach, as well as support enterprises and research institutions in grooming technology (including aerospace technology) talent and promoting I&T development, the ITIB and the ITC also launched the following specific measures:
(i) the STEM Internship Scheme, which subsidises undergraduates and postgraduates taking full-time STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics)-related programmes to enrol in short-term internships for gaining exposure to I&T-related work. About 10 000 internship quotas will be provided within two years, and each intern will receive a monthly subsidy of no less than $11,000 for up to three months; (ii) the Research Talent Hub, which provides funding support for companies or organisations undertaking R&D activities in Hong Kong to engage research talent to conduct R&D work; and (iii) the New Industrialisation and Technology Training Programme, which subsidises local enterprises on a 1(Government):1(enterprise) matching basis to train their staff in advanced technologies.
(4) As flagship projects for launching of the Northern Metropolis University Town, the San Tin Technopole and the Loop Hong Kong Park will focus on synergistic development among the industries, academia, and research sectors in frontier technologies, including aerospace and aviation technology. The roving exhibition on “Achievements of National Aerospace Endeavours”, organised by the Government in collaboration with various I&T parks and R&D institutions over the past few months, has been well-received by the public, attracting tens of thousands of visitors. Building on its success while taking into account actual circumstances and developments, the ITIB will suitably explore setting up relevant exhibitions in I&T parks (including the San Tin Technopole and the Loop Hong Kong Park) at an appropriate juncture.
Overall, the National 15th Five-Year Plan identifies “work faster to boost China’s strength in aerospace” as a key task, bringing significant opportunities for Hong Kong to participate in the country’s aerospace endeavours and nurture I&T talent. Hong Kong’s first astronaut, Dr Lai Ka-ying, has entered the Tiangong Space Station as a payload specialist, strengthening the sense of pride across the community in the country’s aerospace achievements and inspiring young people’s keen interest in science and I&T. In line with Hong Kong’s First Five-Year Plan, which positions the Northern Metropolis as an engine for I&T development and advances the integrated development of education, technology and talent, the EDB, the ITIB and the CSTB are working together to nurture I&T talent through curriculum renewal, resource supports, competitions, exhibition experiences and Mainland exchanges, using diverse approaches such as “Tiangong Class”. The HKSAR Government will continue to capitalise on the opportunities arising from the country’s aerospace development and deepen cross-departmental collaboration to nurture a new generation of talent with an understanding of aerospace and the capability to innovate, for Hong Kong and the country as a whole. Issued at HKT 12:45
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
LCQ17: Accelerated settlement for cash market Question:
The Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) published a consultation paper in April this year, proposing to shorten the settlement cycle for the Hong Kong cash market from the current “T+2” to “T+1” (where “T” denotes the trading day), with implementation expected in the fourth quarter of 2027 at the earliest. There are views suggesting that shortening the settlement cycle will have far-reaching implications for the operational processes and system configurations of securities firms, as well as for the trading habits of investors. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) given that securities firms will be required to complete trade confirmation and fund settlement procedures within a very short time frame following the shortening of the “T+1” settlement cycle, whether the Government has assessed the financial and technical difficulties faced by local small and medium-sized securities firms in upgrading their back-office settlement systems and implementing automated technologies; whether the Government and HKEX will consider providing targeted transitional support measures or funding for technological upgrades to assist the industry in making a smooth transition; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that;
(2) with regard to retail investors (particularly elderly investors who rely on physical cheques or non-real-time fund transfers for settlement), of the specific strategies the Government and the Investor and Financial Education Council have in place to strengthen public education to ensure that investors fully understand the impact of the “T+1” settlement cycle on their fund allocation and margin call requirements, thereby avoiding the risk of default or incurring additional interest expenses; and
(3) while advancing the “T+1” settlement reform, whether the Government will urge HKEX to further explore the application of advanced financial technologies such as artificial intelligence and blockchain, with a view to comprehensively optimising and automating post-trade settlement and delivery processes, thereby boosting market efficiency and the long-term competitiveness of Hong Kong’s capital markets, as well as further reducing overall systemic risk; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Government is committed to driving the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC) and the Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited (HKEX) to explore and enhance measures relating to trading, clearing and settlement mechanisms, with a view to modernising market infrastructure, enhancing trading efficiency and consolidating Hong Kong’s competitiveness as an international financial centre.
Following the trend towards shorter settlement cycles in major markets globally, the HKEX issued a discussion paper in July 2025 to explore with the market the shortening of the cash equities market settlement cycle to T+1, and further sought market views broadly on the specific operational model and implementation timetable in April this year. As mentioned in the Chief Executive’s 2026 Policy Address, the HKEX is conducting preparations with the market for launching a T+1 settlement cycle for the cash market upon co-ordination with relevant Mainland units. The HKEX’s target is to publish the consultation conclusions and announce relevant details such as the implementation arrangements and timetable within the year.
In consultation with the SFC and the HKEX, the reply to the three parts of the question is as follows:
(1) and (3) The adoption of a T+1 settlement cycle in the cash equities market is an important initiative to enhance market infrastructure. It will align Hong Kong’s settlement cycle more closely with international market practice and facilitate smoother capital flows between Hong Kong and overseas markets, thereby further consolidating and enhancing Hong Kong’s position as an international financial centre. A shorter settlement cycle will also improve capital utilisation efficiency for market participants and reduce settlement-related market risks.
As shortening the settlement cycle requires adjustments to settlement processes and existing infrastructure of the market, the HKEX will accord priority to a smooth and orderly market transition when formulating the implementation model, while taking into account the practical circumstances of the local industry. In this regard, the HKEX has put forward a number of specific proposals in its consultation paper with a view to working together with market participants to review and enhance post-trade processes. In addition to adjusting the timetable for settlement and clearing procedures to ensure that the relevant processes can be completed in a timely and orderly manner within the shortened settlement cycle, the HKEX has also proposed extending the service hours for settlement instruction activities (such as the input and matching of settlement instructions), having regard to the reduced timeframe available for post-trade processing. This would provide participants with greater flexibility in completing the necessary procedures. At the same time, the HKEX has proposed retaining the existing delivery-versus-payment arrangements, the batch settlement processing framework and the settlement risk management framework, thereby reducing transition costs for the industry. The HKEX is carefully considering market feedback on the various proposals in order to finalise the details of relevant arrangements.
Since the issuance of the discussion paper, the HKEX has been encouraging the industry to begin reviewing its internal infrastructure and procedures as early as possible, including the need for system upgrades and process automation. To better support market participants, the HKEX is exploring the feasibility of developing tools to streamline the allocation and confirmation processes (including a centralised standard settlement instruction repository, a management information dashboard) so that participants can complete the key preparatory activities (such as allocation and confirmation) before the commencement of settlement. This would enhance the efficiency of pre-settlement matching activities. In response to market feedback, the HKEX is also exploring the establishment of a new workflow platform for stakeholders, including investment fund managers, custodians and brokers, to help improve their operational efficiency. The HKEX will release the relevant technical specifications, operational guidance and supporting measures in due course to facilitate the necessary system enhancements by the industry.
To ensure Hong Kong transitions to T+1 in a stable and orderly manner, the HKEX will take full account of the practical needs of the industry (particularly small and medium-sized brokers) in relation to system upgrades and process adjustments when formulating the implementation timetable. Sufficient preparation time will be allowed to ensure an orderly transition across the market. The HKEX will continue to engage closely with the industry to understand the preparedness and practical needs of different market participants. Through the phased release of information materials, the provision of adequate preparation and testing time, the facilitation of industry-wide guidance and the promotion of standardisation initiatives, the HKEX will assist market participants in preparing for and transitioning smoothly to the T+1 settlement cycle.
The HKEX will also continue to maintain close communication with the financial industry and explore further opportunities to leverage emerging technologies to enhance matching, clearing and settlement processes. Through the continuous upgrading of clearing house technology infrastructure, optimisation of market risk management and promotion of paperless and automated processing workflows, the HKEX aims to further improve market efficiency, reduce overall systemic risk and strengthen Hong Kong’s position as a leading international financial centre.
(2) Shortening the settlement cycle from T+2 to T+1 will improve capital efficiency. As proceeds from sell trades can be received one business day earlier, investors (including institutional and retail investors) will be able to conduct subsequent investments more flexibly and promptly. To ensure that retail investors fully understand the T+1 settlement arrangements, the Government will encourage the HKEX and the Investor and Financial Education Council (IFEC) to strengthen public education efforts targeted at retail investors. The HKEX will provide comprehensive implementation support to the market through a dedicated T+1 webpage containing relevant information materials and implementation arrangements. The HKEX will also continue to maintain close communication with the market and facilitate market participants’ advance preparation through briefings, industry participation events and systematic testing.
On the other hand, the IFEC will leverage a wide range of communication channels (including its one-stop investor education website, social media platforms, radio programmes, online media, newspaper columns and media interviews) to enhance retail investors’ understanding of the implementation of the shortened settlement cycle for the cash equities market and the operational changes arising from the new arrangements. The IFEC will also continue to work closely with the SFC, the HKEX and other stakeholders to disseminate investor education messages to market participants effectively through stakeholder networks, including brokers, financial industry bodies and professional associations. Such messages will cover, for instance, the benefits of transitioning from a T+2 to a T+1 settlement cycle, funding arrangements, order placement arrangements and other changes relating to trading and settlement. Issued at HKT 12:56
It has been reported that in recent years, a number of emerging aggregated payment platforms have appeared in the market, soliciting small merchants for co-operation with low handling fees and promotional offers such as “Buy Now, Pay Later”. However, some of these platforms have given rise to problems such as payment defaults and fake payments one after another, causing severe losses to merchants. It is learnt that some payment platforms are registered only as financial technology companies and have not obtained any financial services licences, nor have they disclosed their partner institutions or operational status, and their operations are thus not subject to regulation. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:
(1) of the total number of complaints received by the authorities involving new types of payment platforms in the past three years, and the total amount of money involved in such cases;
(2) whether the authorities will bring such new types of payment platforms under the regulation of relevant ordinances such as the Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance, put in place a mandatory registration or licensing regime for such platforms, or even consider requiring upstream licensed institutions to assume “joint and several regulatory responsibility” for the payment platforms with which they co-operate; if so, of the specific plans; if not, the reasons for that; and
(3) given that emerging financial instruments may entail risks, whether the authorities have plans to implement a more forward-looking dynamic regulatory mechanism (e.g. identifying regulatory blind spots through complaint cases), so as to take timely responsive measures and enhance capabilities in risk warning and prevention; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that?
Reply:
President,
The Government and financial regulators have been continuously monitoring the latest developments in the financial market (including emerging payment models), and have been taking appropriate enforcement action as necessary under the relevant statutory regulatory frameworks to maintain financial stability and safeguard the rights and interests of clients and the public.
Having consulted the Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Hong Kong Customs and Excise Department (C&ED), my reply to the three parts of the question is as follows:
(1) Between January 2024 and September 2026, the HKMA received a total of 16 complaints regarding suspected unlicensed issuance or operation of stored value facilities (SVFs). Upon investigation, one of the complaints was substantiated, and the complainant in this case did not report any monetary loss. Regarding this complaint, the HKMA is actively following up with the company concerned and will take appropriate action depending on the progress of the case.
(2) and (3) The HKMA regulates SVFs under the Payment Systems and Stored Value Facilities Ordinance (Cap. 584) (PSSVFO) to ensure the safe and sound development of the local retail payment market. Under the PSSVFO, unless a statutory exemption applies, it is an offence for any person to issue or operate SVFs in Hong Kong without a licence.
In addition, according to the Anti-Money Laundering and Counter-Terrorist Financing Ordinance (Cap. 615) (AMLO), any person who operates money changing or cross-border remittance services (i.e. money service as defined under the AMLO) is required to obtain a licence from the C&ED, unless a statutory exemption applies (including where the relevant money service is an ancillary business of the aforementioned SVF licensee). Therefore, if the business of a relevant payment platform involves money changing or cross-border remittance, it is also subject to regulation under the licensing regime for money service operators.
The existing regulatory regimes have already imposed stringent and effective risk management requirements on relevant licensees. When considering relevant licence applications, the HKMA and the C&ED will assess the applicants’ competence, integrity, and ability to operate fairly. They will also ensure that the licensees comply with requirements relating to customer due diligence, record keeping, proper handling of clients’ funds and other licensing requirements in the course of business, thereby fully protecting the clients of the relevant payment platforms and mitigating potential money laundering risks.
In cases involving suspected unlicensed SVF operation or non-compliance with the PSSVFO, the HKMA will intervene directly. Depending on the nature of specific cases, the HKMA will collaborate with other relevant regulatory bodies, and will refer cases to law enforcement agencies as appropriate. The C&ED will likewise take decisive and appropriate enforcement action against cases violating the licensing regime for money service operators.
Furthermore, institutions providing “Buy Now, Pay Later” services, except for banks which are regulated by the HKMA, are required to obtain a money lender’s licence under the Money Lenders Ordinance (Cap. 163) if their services involve the operation of a money-lending business. Such lending transactions are subject to the regulation under the Money Lenders Ordinance and the licensing conditions.
In the face of the rapid evolution of financial technology, the Government and financial regulators will continue to proactively mitigate risks, including strengthening cross-departmental co-operation and intelligence sharing to effectively identify, investigate and combat illicit financial activities. We will also closely and continuously monitor market developments, complaint cases and trends, as well as the development of emerging payment models, so as to adapt to the rapidly changing electronic payment market through suitable policy and regulation. Issued at HKT 14:05
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
Four owners were convicted and fined $1,181,400 in total, of which $1,061,400 was the fine for the number of days that the offence continued, at the Kwun Tong Magistrates’ Courts yesterday (October 6) for failing to comply with removal orders and repair orders issued under the Buildings Ordinance (BO) (Cap. 123).
The case involved alteration of six units into mini-storage units in an industrial building on Hoi Bun Road, Kwun Tong. As the alteration and addition works were carried out without prior approval and consent from the Buildings Department (BD), and they obstructed the means of escape and means of access for firefighting and rescue activities, contravening the Building (Planning) Regulations, six removal orders and six repair orders were served on the four owners under section 24(1) and section 26 of the BO respectively.
Failing to comply with the statutory orders, the four owners had been prosecuted by the BD and were fined upon conviction by the court. As they persisted in not complying with the statutory orders, they were prosecuted for the second time.
A spokesman for the BD said today (October 7), “Unauthorised alteration works causing obstruction to the means of escape and means of access for firefighting and rescue activities, or affecting the fire-resistant construction of a building may lead to serious consequences. Owners must comply with removal orders and repair orders without delay. The BD will continue to take stringent enforcement action and instigate prosecutions against owners again if they persist in not complying with removal orders and repair orders, so as to ensure building and public safety.”
Failure to comply with a removal order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence under the BO. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of $200,000 and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of up to $20,000 for each day that the offence continues. Moreover, failure to comply with a repair order without reasonable excuse is a serious offence. The maximum penalty upon conviction is a fine of level 5 ($50,000 at present) and one year’s imprisonment, and a further fine of up to $5,000 for each day that the offence continues.