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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Speech by SJ at Opening Ceremony of New Premises of Law Society of Hong Kong (English only)
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.
Issued at HKT 14:40
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Auction of traditional vehicle registration marks to be held on April 25
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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Immigration head’s service extended
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.
The TECH WORLD Pavilion from Expo 2025 Osaka Returns to Chiayi to Showcase Its International Achievements at the Taiwan Lantern Festival
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.
2027 MOFA Taiwan Fellowship
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.
DH observes World Health Day by strengthening its roles as WHO collaborating centres and promoting health through science
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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HYAB launches 18-District Health Community Project with Care Teams and Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of University of Hong Kong
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.
President Lai meets delegation led by Lions Clubs International President A.P. Singh
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
President Lai meets delegation led by Lions Clubs International President A.P. Singh
On the afternoon of April 3, President Lai Ching-te met with a delegation led by Lions Clubs International (LCI) President A.P. Singh. In remarks, President Lai stated that LCI members have always embodied the “We Serve” spirit in spreading compassion and warmth to every corner of the world, and that Taiwan’s LCI members have long been dedicated to serving the public and caring for those in need. He expressed hope for further exchanges and cooperation between the government and LCI members in order to together spread kindness, justice, and even more positive energy to every corner of society.
A translation of President Lai’s remarks follows:
It is a pleasure to meet with members of LCI and its Taiwan chapter today. I also extend a warm welcome to President Singh, who is visiting Taiwan once again. LCI is the world’s largest service club organization, and the members of the Taiwan chapter are a formidable force for public good in our nation. Since taking office, I have met and exchanged ideas with LCI members many times here at the Presidential Office. I very much admire your enthusiasm and contributions.
LCI members have always embodied the “We Serve” spirit in spreading compassion and warmth to every corner of the world. This spirit not only aligns with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, but also drives the noble cause of advancing overall human development and protecting human rights.
I would like to thank LCI for its years of service in our society. When Taiwan needed help after the 2024 Hualien earthquake and the 2025 Fata’an Creek barrier lake disaster, you provided timely care and support through the LCI Foundation (LCIF). On behalf of the people of Taiwan, I once again sincerely thank LCI and all the LCI members in Taiwan for their efforts.
Over the years, Taiwan’s members have played an increasingly prominent and influential role in LCI. Several years ago, for instance, the Taiwan chapter donated over US$40 million to the Campaign 100: LCIF Empowering Service fundraising effort – the highest amount from anywhere in the world. Taiwan also currently contributes more than any other country in terms of per capita member donation. Additionally, the Taiwan chapter has expanded from one to five multiple districts with the approval of the international board of directors. This demonstrates the importance that LCI attaches to its Taiwan members and its high expectations for the future development of the chapter.
President Singh has said that Lions serve because they care and lead because their communities need them. Taiwan’s LCI members have long been dedicated to serving the public and caring for those in need. Moving ahead, I look forward to further exchanges and cooperation between our government and LCI members. Let us together spread kindness, justice, and even more positive energy to every corner of society.
In closing, I once again thank LCI and its members. Please be sure to show President Singh the beauty of Taiwan. I wish you a smooth and successful visit.
2026 Taiwan International Geothermal Conference: Linking Next-Generation Technology, Moving Towards Scalable Development
Source: Republic of China Taiwan
Hosted by the Ministry of Economic Affairs (MOEA), the 4th “2026 Taiwan International Geothermal Conference” (2026 TIGC) opened on March 26. In his opening remarks, Vice Minister of Economic Affairs Chien-hsin Lai emphasized that the MOEA will be committed to developing geothermal energy with the advantages of being a local resource and providing a “stable supply.” He also invited international experts to focus their discussions and propose solutions for the specific challenges faced by Taiwan’s geothermal generation, aiming to develop Taiwan’s geothermal energy and strengthen national energy resilience.
Vice Minister Lai stated that conflicts in the Middle East have affected the stability of energy supplies, and CPC Corporation has long implemented a diversified supply strategy for oil and natural gas. Amidst ongoing global changes, the government remains on top of the situation and is handling it with appropriate measures. Every year, the Energy Administration of the MOEA forecasts electricity demand over the next decade, and the power development progress planned by Taipower shows that supply exceeds future demand. The Administration also continues to strengthen power stability and resilience, moving toward the national vision of carbon reduction. Since coming into office, President Lai has declared the “Second Energy Transition,” actively promoting various renewable energy policies to provide sustainable green energy and achieve Taiwan’s 2050 net-zero emissions goal. Especially as Taiwan is a vital link in the global AI supply chain, geothermal energy plays a key role in green energy supply.
The MOEA stated that Taiwan possesses massive potential and advantages for geothermal development. To accelerate promotion, the MOEA has launched numerous measures ranging from early-stage exploration to subsequent development to achieve de-risking while balancing environmental protection. These include providing demonstration incentive grants and conducting the central government geothermal investment selection process later this year.
The Energy Administration explained that this “2026 Taiwan International Geothermal Conference” hosted by the MOEA has invited over 700 domestic and international experts and industry leaders from more than 10 countries, including the United States, New Zealand, Japan, Canada, Iceland, Denmark, and Italy, making it the largest-scale event in recent years. By providing an international exchange platform to share geothermal technology and practical experience, it is hoped that experts from around the world will take this opportunity to exchange ideas and provide valuable suggestions to promote Taiwan’s geothermal development.
The core of this conference focuses on “Next-Generation Geothermal Technologies”, including international experience sharing on Enhanced Geothermal Systems (EGS), Advanced Geothermal Systems (AGS) and Supercritical Geothermal Systems (SGS). Experts from various countries, the state-owned CPC Corporation, and the Geological Survey and Mining Management Agency (GSMMA) have been invited to engage in in-depth dialogues on geothermal exploration and drilling decisions under Taiwan’s specific geological environment. The conference also highlights Taiwan’s introduction of more efficient exploration techniques and high-temperature resistant sensing technologies to reduce development risks and shorten development timelines.
The Energy Administration mentioned that a “Geothermal Technology and Solutions Exhibition” is being held concurrently at the venue, which has invited leading geothermal developers, engineering firms, and precision drilling equipment manufacturers from home and abroad, and offers a technical matchmaking platform for domestic and international vendors.
The Energy Administration also emphasized that the success of geothermal development depends not only on technological breakthroughs but also often on mutual prosperity with local communities. Therefore, this conference has specially invited the Council of Indigenous Peoples to give a keynote presentation on “The Role of Indigenous Peoples and Collaborative Visions in Advancing Geothermal Development within the Energy Transition”, emphasizing the importance of establishing a sound benefit-sharing mechanism and giving concrete suggestions.
On the second day of the conference (the 27th), professional workshops will be held on three major themes: “Elements of Drilling Team”, “Geothermal Power Plant Engineering Planning” and “Geothermal Power Plant Operations.” The workshops welcome participants from all sectors and hopes to inspire developers for breakthroughs in geothermal generation. The Energy Administration also hopes that this conference will serve as an exchange platform-through deep cooperation with experienced international partners, Taiwan looks forward to jointly creating a geothermal power generation model that prospers with the local community, enhances industrial competitiveness, and moves toward the sustainable goal of net-zero emissions.
Spokesperson:
Mr. Chung-Hsien Chen, Deputy Director General , Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Tel: +886-2-2775-7700 / +886-919-998-339
Email: ctchen2@moeaea.gov.tw
Contact Person:
Ms. Hsiu-fen Tsai, Director, Energy Administration, Ministry of Economic Affairs
Tel: +886-2-2775-7730
Email: hftsai@moeaea.gov.tw