Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Following is the video speech by the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, at the Opening Ceremony of the New Premises of the Law Society of Hong Kong today (April 8):
Mr Roden Tong (President of the Law Society of Hong Kong), Council members, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
“New Vision Cantonese Opera: ‘To Be or Not To Be’ – The Legendary Story of Lu Wenlong”, jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Shenzhen Cantonese Opera Troupe, will be staged in Hong Kong this June. With renowned Hong Kong director Fredric Mao serving as artistic director, director and co-playwright, the production brings together talented performers and creative elites from Hong Kong and Shenzhen and reinterprets the classic story of “double-spear general” Lu Wenlong from a contemporary perspective. Peng Qinghua, winner of the China Theatre Plum Blossom Award and the Head of the Shenzhen Cantonese Opera Troupe, will lead a group of outstanding performers from the troupe to perform in Hong Kong, demonstrating the collaborative achievement in a high-quality cultural creation between Hong Kong and Shenzhen.
“To Be or Not To Be” is co-produced by the LCSD of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government, the Shenzhen Association for International Culture Exchanges, the Culture, Media, Tourism and Sports Bureau of Shenzhen Municipality, and the Shenzhen Bao’an District People’s Government. This production not only showcases the dedication of the Hong Kong and Shenzhen governments to foster arts, cultural development and talent exchanges in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), but also encourages innovation in Cantonese opera and promotes Chinese culture. With this premise, Mao has innovatively defined this epic opera with the concept of “new vision, new approach, new audience” – using more creative approaches to preserve the artistic essence of traditional Cantonese opera and bring it into a new era.
Mao selected the newly adapted story of Lu Wenlong, a legendary figure from the Qing dynasty novel “The Story of Yue Fei”. The narrative unfolds after the Jingkang Incident, where the Song general Lu Deng and his wife die in the name of their country, leaving their infant son Lu Wenlong. He is adopted by Jin prince Wuzhu, and raised to become a formidable warrior. Upon learning the truth of his origins, Wenlong is torn between national loyalty and the bond of his upbringing. “To Be or Not To Be” explores this classic story through a contemporary narrative approach. By refining the script, developing characters and pursuing the truth, it brings a modern flair to a Cantonese opera classic while preserving the traditional essence.
The creative team of “To Be or Not To Be” boasts exceptional talent. Alongside Mao, it features local young Chinese opera performing arts creator Jason Kong as co-playwright; seasoned Cantonese opera music designer Sunny Li for vocal and music design; lighting designer of the National Theatre of China Han Jiang for lighting design; with set and costume design by veteran Hong Kong artists Ricky Chan and Mandy Tam respectively.
Leading the cast, Peng, who received the title of “Leading Talent in Sheng Roles in Chinese Traditional Theatre”, will take on the role of Lu Wenlong. Lin Haitao, a fifth-generation inheritor of the Southern School of Cantonese opera, will portray Jin Wuzhu. Other key performers from the Shenzhen Cantonese Opera Troupe include Bu Meiling and Huang Hui, alongside outstanding young artist Lin Feng.
The collaborative creation on “To Be or Not To Be” fully leverages the complementary strengths of artistic elites from Hong Kong and Shenzhen. Building upon the legacy of traditional Cantonese opera, it infuses modern aesthetics and values, providing a platform to nurture young Cantonese opera talent, as well as enhancing the cohesion and expressive power of culture within the GBA.
The two Hong Kong performances will be held at 8pm on June 12 and 13 (Friday and Saturday) at the Auditorium of Kwai Tsing Theatre. Tickets priced at $180, $280, $380 and $480 are now available at URBTIX (www.urbtix.hk). For telephone bookings, please call 3166 1288. A 30 per cent early bird discount will be offered from now until April 21 for purchasing standard programme tickets. Additionally, a 30 per cent family package discount on standard tickets will be offered for each purchase of two standard tickets and one student or senior citizen concessionary ticket. For programme enquiries and concessionary schemes, please call 2734 2930 or visit www.cxlo.gov.hk/en/gba/page-1712.html.
This programme features two sharing sessions (in Cantonese). The first session, titled “Defining Heroes on Stage: The Challenges of Chinese Opera Adaptation”, will be held at 7.30pm on May 5 (Tuesday) at Function Room AC2, Level 4, Administration Building, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. The speakers will be Mao and Kong. The second session, titled “Beyond Fan Culture: Promotion Strategies for Performing Arts in Hong Kong and Shenzhen”, will be held at 3.30pm on May 17 (Sunday), at Bar Lemna, Lemna of the Alchemist, G/F, Restaurant Block, Hong Kong Cultural Centre. The speakers will be Mao and the artistic producer of Actors’ Family, Mandy Yiu. The General Manager of the International Association of Theatre Critics (Hong Kong), Ms Bernice Chan, will serve as the moderator of both sessions. Admission is free, while online registration (www.iatc.com.hk/doc/107849) is required on a first-come, first-served basis. For the second session, a minimum purchase of one drink per participant is required.
Two Shenzhen performances of “To Be or Not To Be” will be held at 8pm on May 23 and 24 (Saturday and Sunday) at the Shenzhen Grand Theatre. Please visit the above-mentioned programme web page for more information.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Speech by SJ at Opening Ceremony of New Premises of Law Society of Hong Kong (English only)
President Roden Tong (President of the Law Society of Hong Kong), Council members, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good morning. It is a great honour to join you today to officiate the opening of the new premises of the Law Society of Hong Kong at The Center and to celebrate the 119th anniversary of the Law Society’s incorporation. This is a momentous occasion, not just for the Law Society, but for the legal community of Hong Kong. It is a celebration of heritage, of progress and of our shared commitment to the rule of law.
For over a century, the Law Society has stood as a steadfast pillar of Hong Kong’s legal system. From the early days of this city’s development to its current status as a leading international financial, shipping and trading centre and an international hub for high-calibre talent, generation after generation of solicitors have been the custodians of professional standards, the advocates for access to justice and the trusted advisors to individuals, business and the community at large.
Reaching such a historic milestone is a testament to the vision of your predecessors and the dedication of your current leadership and members. The legal landscape of Hong Kong has transformed dramatically over these 119 years and even more so recently given the rapid technological development and increasing globalisation. However, the core values of integrity, professionalism and service upheld and embodied by the Law Society have remained constant, guiding the profession through times of change and challenge.
Today, however, we are not just looking back at a rich history; we are looking forward to a bright future. In an era characterised by rapid technological advancement and evolving legal landscapes, the need for a strong, united and forward-looking professional body is greater than ever. Against this backdrop, the opening of the new premises is timely and symbolic of the Law Society’s commitment to nurturing young legal talent, as well as generating innovative ideas through fruitful collaborations.
As Hong Kong further consolidates its role as a leading centre for international legal and dispute resolution services as supported by the National 15th Five-Year Plan approved last month, the Department of Justice (DoJ) is itself embarking on an exciting project to develop a new Hong Kong International Legal Service Building next to the headquarters of the International Organization for Mediation in Wan Chai.
The construction of this new international legal hub reflects the Government’s firm commitment to provide enhanced infrastructure for our legal and dispute resolution communities. Just as the Law Society’s new premises will serve as a focal point for the solicitors’ profession, the new international legal hub will stand as another landmark for Hong Kong’s legal services sector as a whole. I also look forward to even closer collaboration between the Law Society and the DoJ in advancing the cause of justice and the rule of law, as well as to harnessing our unique legal system under the principle of “one country, two systems” to contribute to our country.
Once again, I extend my warmest congratulations to the Law Society, to its presidents past and present, and to all its members. May these new premises be a place where professional excellence, integrity and a deep commitment to justice continue to flourish. I am confident that this new chapter for the Law Society will be defined by continued excellence and an even stronger commitment to serve both its members and the people of Hong Kong. Thank you.
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Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Hong Kong Flower Show photo competition entries to close on April 21
The photo competition is jointly presented by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and Television Broadcasts Limited (TVB). The competition aims at promoting community greening with impressive photographs of flowers and plants on display, interesting or touching scenes captured at the showground, and portraits of TVB artistes and Miss Hong Kong titleholders with beautiful garden displays as the background.
The photo competition is divided into three categories: Category A – Portrait of TVB Artistes and Miss Hong Kong; Category B – Flowers; and Category C – Snapshots.
Entries for Category A, comprising the Open and Student Sections, must be photos of TVB artistes and Miss Hong Kong titleholders taken by entrants during the portrait photo shooting activity on March 19 at the showground in Victoria Park. Entries for Category B must be photos of flowers, including garden displays or floral art exhibits taken at the showground during the show period. Entries for Category C must be photos of interesting features at the flower show taken during the show period.
Results of the competition will be announced in June on the flower show webpage. Winners will be notified in writing for the collection of prizes. All winning entries will also be uploaded onto the flower show webpage for public viewing.
For enquiries, please call 2601 8260 or refer to the flower show webpage www.hkflowershow.hk/en/hkfs/2026/photo_rs.html
The HKFS is organised by the LCSD. The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust has supported the flower show since 2013 and has been its major sponsor since 2014.
Issued at HKT 12:30
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Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Auction of traditional vehicle registration marks to be held on April 25(i) the identity document of the successful bidder;
(ii) the identity document of the purchaser if it is different from the successful bidder;
(iii) a copy of the Certificate of Incorporation if the purchaser is a body corporate; and
(iv) a crossed cheque made payable to “The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region” or “The Government of the HKSAR”. (For an auctioned mark paid for by cheque, the first three working days after the date of auction will be required for cheque clearance confirmation before processing of the application for mark assignment can be completed.) Successful bidders can also pay through the Easy Pay System (EPS). Payment by post-dated cheques, cash or other methods will not be accepted.
(4) The display of a vehicle registration mark on a motor vehicle should be in compliance with the requirements stipulated in Schedule 4 to the Road Traffic (Registration and Licensing of Vehicles) Regulations.Issued at HKT 17:30
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Source: Hong Kong Information Services
Director of Immigration Benson Kwok will reach retirement age on April 9, 2026. He has been granted an extension of service to June 30, 2027.
The Government today said that the purpose of granting Mr Kwok an extension of service is to facilitate a smooth transition of the senior management of the Immigration Department.
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
The TECH WORLD Pavilion, which drew significant international attention and widespread acclaim during its participation at Expo 2025 Osaka, was recreated at the 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival in Chiayi with the support of the Executive Yuan. The pavilion was open to the public from March 2 to 15, between 10:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m. daily, for visitors to experience firsthand the exhibition that previously shined on the global stage.
According to the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), the TECH WORLD Pavilion marks Taiwan’s first fully self-developed international exhibition project to encompass planning, design, engineering, and operations. Over its 184-day exhibition in Osaka, it attracted more than one million visitors, received international awards, and gained strong popularity among international patrons,thereby demonstrating Taiwan’s integrated strengths in technology, design, and culture.
During its exhibition in Osaka, many people in Taiwan expressed their hope to experience the TECH WORLD Pavilion domestically. The MOEA noted that this public enthusiasm was a key force in driving the pavilion back to Taiwan.
Despite limited time and resources, the MOEA actively coordinated relevant agencies and teams to recreate this pavilion. After evaluating nearly 30 potential venues nationwide, the Taiwan Lantern Festival was selected due to its festive atmosphere, which aligned with the spirit of the Osaka Expo.
The recreated pavilion retained its original highlights and immersive experience, presenting Taiwan’s innovative technology, cultural diversity, and industrial capabilities.
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
Applications for the 2027 MOFA Taiwan Fellowship will be open from May 1 to June 30, 2026.
For further details, please visit the official Taiwan Fellowship website: https://taiwanfellowship.ncl.edu.tw/eng/index.aspx
MOFA Taiwan Fellowship is established by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) to award foreign experts and scholars interested in researches related to Taiwan, cross-strait relations, Asia-Pacific region and Sinology, as well as research topics related to key policies such as comprehensive diplomacy, energy security, transnational repression, undersea cables, and global supply chain resilience to conduct advanced research at universities or academic institutions in Taiwan. MOFA Taiwan Fellowship is open for application in May and June every year and recipients will conduct their research in Taiwan as early as January the next year.
1. Financial assistance
(1) Monthly grants are paid at the beginning of every month.
a. Professors, associate professors, research fellows, or associate research fellows: NT$60,000.
b. Assistant professors, assistant research fellows, post-doctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, doctoral program students, and other candidates recommended by ROC (Taiwan) missions: NT$50,000.
(2) One round-trip, economy-class ticket for the most direct route to Taiwan (The subsidy will be decided by MOFA in accordance with the relevant regulations).
(3) The terms of fellowship are 3 to 12 months.
(4) Accident insurance (plus a medical insurance for accidental injuries) coverage of NT$1 million.
2. Eligibility
Recipients shall be foreign professors, associate professors, assistant professors, post-doctoral researchers, doctoral candidates, or doctoral program students at related departments of overseas universities, or are research fellows at an equivalent level in academic institutions abroad.
3. Miscellaneous
(1) Fellowship administrator: Center for Chinese Studies at National Central Library: https://ccs.ncl.edu.tw/
(2) The year of 2027 online application period is from May 1 to June 30, 2026.
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
DH observes World Health Day by strengthening its roles as WHO collaborating centres and promoting health through science
WHO Collaborating Centre for Smoking Cessation and Treatment of Tobacco Dependence
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The DH was designated by the WHO to establish the Collaborating Centre for Smoking Cessation and Treatment of Tobacco Dependence in Hong Kong, China with the aim of supporting other member states/regions within the Western Pacific Region in developing smoking cessation strategies and conducting training programmes. It regularly provides specialised tobacco control and training programmes in smoking cessation treatment for healthcare professionals as well as for tobacco control and smoking cessation practitioners in the HKSAR, on the Chinese Mainland and throughout the entire Western Pacific Region. The Collaborating Centre also organises training courses on Chinese medicine acupuncture for frontline Chinese medicine practitioners to help them further enhance their knowledge and skills in smoking cessation, and promotes Chinese medicine-based smoking cessation in overseas regions.
WHO Collaborating Centre for Traditional Medicine
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The DH was designated by the WHO to establish the Collaborating Centre for Traditional Medicine in Hong Kong, China, to support the WHO in developing International Herbal Pharmacopoeia, traditional medicine strategy and regulatory standards etc. Upon the request of the WHO, the Collaborating Centre has consistently provided technical support for the formulation of safety and quality standards for Chinese medicines. It also actively participates in the WHO’s global network activities promoting traditional medicine and supports the cultivation of traditional medicine professionals worldwide to enhance professional knowledge and development.
WHO Collaborating Centre on quality and capacity building for GISRS
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The Microbiology Division of the PHLSB under the CHP provides laboratory diagnostic services for disease surveillance and control, health promotion and disease prevention. Designated by the WHO as National Influenza Centre in 1963 and as Global Influenza A (H5) Reference Laboratory in 2004, the Microbiology Division has collaborated closely with the WHO over the years.Issued at HKT 11:12
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Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Home and Youth Affairs Bureau (HYAB), the District Services & Community Care Teams (Care Teams), and the Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of the University of Hong Kong (HKUMed) held the kick-off ceremony of the “Shape Your Healthy Life: 18 District Health Community Project” and the first district outreach health promotion event at the Sai Ying Pun Community Complex Community Hall today (April 7). The project aims to strengthen community level primary health support, as well as enable citizens to gain practical health knowledge.
The kick-off ceremony was officiated by the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak; the Permanent Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Patrick Li; the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To; the Executive Vice-President (Administration and Finance) of the University of Hong Kong, Mrs Cherry Tse; and the Dean of the HKUMed, Professor Lau Chak-sing.
The HYAB and Care Teams partnered with the HKUMed for the first time to launch a territory-wide health project in 18 districts, providing community services to citizens. In her speech, Miss Mak stated that the HYAB has always been committed to promoting community participation and believing that for health awareness to be transformed into action, it is necessary to deliver information and services to the citizens and express care to those in need. This collaboration with the HKUMed precisely combines the community network of the Care Teams with professional medical knowledge, taking community health services a step further and jointly promoting the health awareness in the community.
Miss Mak expressed her gratitude to the doctors from the HKUMed, members of the Care Teams, as well as the students of the HKUMed and the volunteers of the “Youth Link” for contributing to support community health. She hoped that this project will not only raise citizens’ awareness of physical and mental health, but also gather community power to shape a healthy life together. The project will mobilise Care Teams of the 18 districts and members of the “Youth Link” to participate, fully embodying the “We Care We Serve” spirit of serving the community and expressing care for those in need.
The year-long “18-District Health Community Project”, spanning all districts of Hong Kong, provides free health screenings, public seminars, community sports programmes, and health consultations for the elderly and families, aiming to promote preventive health and enhance community well-being. In the coming months, various activities tailored to the needs of different communities will be gradually launched, aiming to further raising citizens’ health awareness.
After the kick-off ceremony, the first district health promotion event began, with over 250 citizens participating in health talks and free health screening services held in the community hall.