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EDB co-organises AI in Education Forum Series

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The opening ceremony of the AI in Education (AIED) Forum Series, jointly organised by the Education Bureau (EDB), the Hong Kong Education City (EdCity) and the Hong Kong Cyberport Management Company Limited was held today (November 22). The event aims to provide teachers with a practical training platform to foster pedagogical innovations and enhance teaching effectiveness through cross-sector collaboration.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai, said that in line with the national strategy on digital education, the EDB has been vigorously promoting digital education in primary and secondary schools to enhance students’ digital literacy and skills. The Chief Executive proposed in the 2025 Policy Address a series of new policy initiatives to strengthen the promotion of digital education in primary and secondary schools, including setting aside $2 billion in the Quality Education Fund to support digital education in primary and secondary schools, formulating the Blueprint for Digital Education in Primary and Secondary Schools, enhancing AI training for teachers, and introducing corporate resources.

He said that, to further enhance students’ digital literacy, particularly in the application of AI to support learning, the EDB is going to set out an “AI literacy” learning framework for teachers’ reference. This aims to cultivate  ethical use of innovative technologies in students. Additionally, the EDB has been rolling out a series of new training programmes on AI in education for teachers, covering online training, offline exchanges and practical workshops, to support teachers in effectively integrating AI technology into their instruction.

Subsequently, as witnessed by Dr Sze, representatives from the EdCity signed Memoranda of Understanding with several organisations, covering collaborative initiatives such as co-organisation of events to further advance the development of digital education in Hong Kong. The EDB hopes that through cross-sector collaboration, resource sharing and exemplary teaching practices, teachers will be inspired to integrate innovative technologies in the classroom. This will enhance the effectiveness of learning and teaching, cultivating a new digitally literate generation and leading Hong Kong’s education towards a new era of intelligence.

The AIED Forum Series is being held from November 20 to 22, featuring keynote speeches, panel discussions, edtech solution exhibition booths and hands-on workshops for teachers. This programme aims to comprehensively enhance teachers’ knowledge and skills in application of AI to improve learning and teaching effectiveness. On the first day of the event, an innovation technology expert conducted a cybersecurity workshop to enhance capabilities of school technical staff in cybersecurity management and crisis response. The second day featured an AI forum hosted by an expert from Peking University, showcasing case studies on AI-powered teaching applications in various subjects to teachers. The last day comprises thematic presentations and panel discussions by experts and academics, alongside edtech solution exhibition booths and 14 hands-on workshops of diverse themes, which enabled participants to experience first-hand the practical application of cutting-edge educational technologies in the classroom, engage in exchanges with development teams, and explore AI tools and teaching strategies within interactive learning environments.

For details about the AIED Forum Series, please visit the event webpage (web.edcity.hk/en/aied/home).

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2025 Fight Crime Conference concludes successfully

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

2025 Fight Crime Conference concludes successfully (with photos/videos)　　 
     Officiating at the conference, the Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, said that this year marks the fifth anniversary of the promulgation and implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, and the conference has made “promoting and safeguarding national security” one of its themes, which comes at the right time. He pointed out that Hong  Kong is at the critical juncture of advancing from stability to prosperity, and that the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government is fully committed to deepening reforms, developing the economy and improving people’s livelihood, while stability is the foundation for development and reform. He stressed that only by strengthening the solid defence in national security can Hong  Kong effectively respond to various risks and challenges on a solid foundation.
　　 
     The conference also focused on discussing areas of work relating to scam prevention and crime fighting, as well as the drug abuse problem, addressing issues of current concern to the public.  Mr Lee said that in the face of rapidly evolving technology and ever-changing criminal methods, it is essential to continuously enhance public awareness of crime prevention.  He said he hopes that the FCC and the District Fight Crime Committees will continue to assist the Government in promoting the work of crime prevention, contributing to maintaining Hong  Kong’s law and order.
　　 
     In his welcoming remarks, the Chief Secretary for Administration and Chairperson of the FCC, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, said that since their establishment in the 1970s, the FCC and District Fight Crime Committees have been close partners of the Government and vital forces in maintaining Hong Kong’s prosperity and stability. He said he strongly believes that the FCC and District Fight Crime Committees will continue to serve as participants and guardians to safeguard community safety. Through the conference, the FCC and District Fight Crime Committees will pool their wisdom and reach consensus to carry out related work more comprehensively, with a view to building Hong Kong into a better and safer home.

     The conference comprised three plenary sessions, namely: (1) national security education in the community; (2) drug abuse; and (3) deception, with the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, SC; the Secretary for Security, Mr Tang Ping-keung; and the Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Yip Wan-lung, as moderators respectively. Members of the FCC as well as chairpersons and representatives of the District Fight Crime Committees were invited to share their experiences.
　　 
     In his closing remarks, Mr Tang said that the discussion and sharing at the conference were meaningful and that relevant opinions will be considered and followed up. He said that the HKSAR Government will do its utmost to safeguard national sovereignty, maintain public order and combat crimes, with a view to creating a safe and stable environment for Hong Kong so that society can focus on economic development and improving people’s livelihood.
　　 
     Taking the opportunity of the conference, Mr Lee, Mr Chan and Mr Tang also encouraged the public to fulfil their civic responsibility by casting their votes in the Legislative Council (LegCo) General Election on December 7, to elect patriotic and capable LegCo Members to contribute to Hong Kong’s development and people’s livelihood.
　　 
     Other officials attending the conference included the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Mr Chris Sun; the Permanent Secretary for Security, Mr Patrick Li; the Acting Commissioner of Police, Mr Kan Kai-yan; the Under Secretary for Security, Mr Michael Cheuk; the Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung; the Under Secretary for Education, Dr Sze Chun-fai; the Commissioner of Correctional Services, Mr Wong Kwok-hing; and the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To.
Issued at HKT 13:50

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Hong Kong Public Libraries commends awardees of Reading Programme for Children and Youth

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     The Hong Kong Public Libraries (HKPL) of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department held a certificate presentation ceremony at the Hong Kong Central Library today (November 22) to commend members who had participated in the 2024-25 Reading Programme for Children and Youth.
 
     The programme continues to receive an overwhelming response from students of different ages and has recruited over 7 000 children and youth members this year. Twenty-four members received Star of the Month awards for their reading reports, with the nine best being recognised as Reading Supernova. Seventeen members of the programme participating in the most sessions of the Monthly Meeting of Joyful Reading were awarded Elite of Joyful Reading medals.
 
     The HKPL endeavours to promote good reading habits among children and youth with schools. The Most Active School in Promoting Participation awards were presented to schools that successfully nominated the largest number of new members in the year. This year’s awards went to W F Joseph Lee Primary School, PLK Riverain Primary School, Good Health Anglo-Chinese Kindergarten (Ma On Shan), Methodist School, and Pok Oi Hospital Tang Pui King Memorial College.

     Five schools with the highest total number of books read by their nominated members received the Most Active School in Promoting Reading awards. The winning schools are W F Joseph Lee Primary School, Hong Kong Baptist Convention Primary School, Tseung Kwan O Methodist Primary School, S.K.H. Yan Laap Primary School, and S.K.H. Tin Wan Chi Nam Primary School.
 
     Targeting children and youth from kindergarten to Secondary Six, the Reading Programme aims to arouse their reading interest, cultivate their reading habits, and encourage them to share their reading tips and the joy of reading with other people. To promote paired reading, children from kindergarten to Primary Three can join the family category with their parents. People interested in participating in the Reading Programme may contact any public library or visit www.hkpl.gov.hk/rp.
 
     This year’s Reading Supernova winning works are now on display at the foyer of the South Entrance of the Hong Kong Central Library until November 26. A roving exhibition will also be held at various public libraries later.

     

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Speech by PSCST at Denim Delight Party of “4th Hong Kong Denim Festival – Denim Artistry” (English only)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Speech by PSCST at Denim Delight Party of “4th Hong Kong Denim Festival – Denim Artistry” (English only) 
Tony (Chairman of the Vocational Training Council, Mr Tony Tai), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good evening. It gives me great pleasure to join you at the Denim Delight Party of the “4th Hong Kong Denim Festival – Denim Artistry”, which celebrates the artistry of denim through a spectacular fashion show staged against Hong Kong’s stunning skyline and unparalleled view of Victoria Harbour.
      
     Under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau of the Hong Kong Government, the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) is delighted to have sponsored the Hong Kong Denim Festival since its inauguration in 2019. This evening marks the fourth edition of the Festival, which is also one of the programmes of the second edition of the CCIDA-sponsored Hong Kong Fashion Fest that is organised by a host of our partners.
      
     Hong Kong Fashion Fest provides a platform for local and international fashion brands to showcase and connect, to ultimately develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub in Asia. I welcome all of you to experience the vibrant spirit of Hong Kong fashion, and to join us at a variety of exciting fashion events, including fashion shows, exhibitions, conferences and workshops, which will be held in various locations in Hong Kong until December 7.
      
     Denim is a symbol of versatility. Its application has evolved from making streetwear like jeans and jackets to creating high-end fashion, stylish accessories, home decor, and even artistic pieces. The Hong Kong Denim Festival will present a wide range of denim works, guiding audiences through the enduring artistry and craftsmanship of denim, and showcasing its vast possibilities.
      
     Today’s fashion show shines a spotlight on the emerging generation of designers who are driving Hong Kong’s creative scene forward with bold ideas and fresh perspectives. We will see the creative designs of eight local young denim artisans alongside the work of a well-established Hong Kong fashion label. It demonstrates one of the Government’s nurturing efforts for local design talents.
      
     This year, the Denim Festival has gone beyond to real businesses by arranging in these two months for our emerging local designers to showcase their talents through in-store campaigns with the support of leading denim brands. Through such collaborations, our designers will be able to gain exposure, hands-on retail experience and first-hand feedback from buyers, which will definitely uplift their portfolios and empower them to grow their businesses.
      
     I would like to extend my gratitude to the Hong Kong Design Institute of the Vocational Training Council for organising this meaningful programme. We look forward to more opportunities in the fashion industry that inspire young talents to pursue entrepreneurship and provide them with exposure on the global stage.
      
     We are determined to develop our fashion design industry and bring about more opportunities to our designers. On a related note, let me take this opportunity to call on everyone in Hong Kong’s fashion community to support the 2025 Legislative Council General Election on December 7. Cast your vote to elect representatives who can help shape a brighter future for Hong Kong.
      
     I wish you all a wonderful and enjoyable evening. Thank you.
Issued at HKT 19:55

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Hong Kong Customs detects suspected case of illegal importing of animals

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

Hong Kong Customs yesterday (November 21) detected a suspected case of illegal importing of animals at the Lo Wu Control Point. Two suspected illegally imported kittens with an estimated market value of about $20,000 were seized.

Customs officers yesterday intercepted an incoming 61-year-old male passenger at the Arrival Hall of the said Control Point. Upon examination, two kittens were seized from his carrier bag, and he wassubsequently arrested.

The case has been handed over to the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department for follow-up investigation.

Customs reminds the public that importing animals into Hong Kong without a valid permit is an offence.

Under the Rabies Regulation, any person found guilty of illegally importing animals, carcasses or animal products is liable to a maximum fine of $50,000 and imprisonment for one year.

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Speech by SCST at opening ceremony and show of “VIRTUOSE: The Artistry of Couture 2025” (English only)

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

Speech by SCST at opening ceremony and show of “VIRTUOSE: The Artistry of Couture 2025” (English only) 
Mr Kevin Yeung (Chairman of the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association), Consuls-General, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
 
     Good afternoon. On behalf of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (SAR), I would like to extend a warm welcome to all of you at the opening of “VIRTUOSE: The Artistry of Couture 2025”.
      
     Couture originated in late 19th century Paris, representing the highest level of design and craftsmanship in fashion. It transforms the most exquisite fabrics into breathtaking masterpieces. Given its rich heritage and enduring influence, we have chosen a couture-themed event as the opening of our second Hong Kong Fashion Fest.
      
     Often perceived as a solemn and traditional art form, couture carries a legacy of elegance and prestige. However, today’s event offers a fresh perspective, reinterpreting couture through international collaboration and youthful creativity. The upcoming fashion show will feature an exceptional lineup of visionary international designers – Caroline Hu from Hong Kong, Zhaoyi Yu from the Chinese Mainland, Tomo Koizumi from Japan, and Peet Dullaert from France. Notably, the average age of these designers is only 33, yet they have already received prestigious awards and showcased their outstanding designs on the runways of international fashion weeks. They represent a vibrant new force shaping the future of global couture.  
      
     With their exceptional craftsmanship, 40 remarkable pieces will soon be showcased against the iconic backdrop of Victoria Harbour. I’m truly excited to witness this stunning display of creativity and artistry.
      
     The excitement does not end today. In the coming days, guests can look forward to trunk shows and a fireside chat with the designers, fostering dialogue with potential couture clients and offering insights into the inspiration behind each piece.
      
     As announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address”, the Hong Kong SAR Government will continue to advance our annual flagship event – the Hong Kong Fashion Fest – to develop Hong Kong into a fashion design hub in Asia. Building on last year’s success, I am pleased to note that the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency has initiated and driven new crossover projects with two renowned Fashion Weeks – Paris and Milan – to jointly promote digital fashion and sustainable fashion in the second edition of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest. This achievement reaffirms our goal of promoting Hong Kong’s fashion and textile design brands and enhancing Hong Kong’s position as a premier destination for hosting major cultural and creative events.
      
     From today until December 7, seven flagship projects covering couture, digital fashion, denim culture, sustainability, cross-disciplinary collaboration and industry exchanges will be brilliantly showcased in Hong Kong, an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange.
      
     I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association for organising this spectacular event, as well as to all the designers for your invaluable presence and contribution.
      
     Ladies and gentlemen, for those of you from the local community, may I also take this opportunity to encourage you to cast your vote in the 2025 Legislative Council General Election on December 7 to help build an even better Hong Kong.
      
     Now, without further ado, please enjoy the fashion show and the wonderful programmes of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest for the rest of the week. Thank you very much.
Issued at HKT 16:05

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Missing man in Aberdeen located

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

     A man who went missing in Aberdeen has been located.

     Chan Ho-yin, aged 38, went missing after he left his residence in Ap Lei Chau Estate on November 15 noon. His family made a report to Police on November 17.

     The man was located on Heung Yip Road in the small hours today (November 22). He sustained no injuries and no suspicious circumstances were detected.

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HKMoA, Conservation Office and Faculty of Arts of University of Hong Kong launch post-doctoral research fellowship in scientific analysis of Chinese paintings

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Hong Kong Museum of Art (HKMoA), the Conservation Office of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the Faculty of Arts of the University of Hong Kong (HKU) announced today (November 22) the launch of a post-doctoral research fellowship project entitled “Scientific Analysis of Chinese Paintings”. This pioneering partnership, first of its kind in Hong Kong, aims to recruit global talent for expanding cultural heritage conservation.

Supported by funds provided by Professor Douglas So, this project, a collaboration among an academic university, a public museum, a dedicated team of conservation experts and a private funding donor, demonstrates a shared commitment to advancing cultural and scientific excellence.

One top postdoctoral fellow will be engaged to undertake a three-year research fellowship project with the designated Chinese painting collections, namely the Xubaizhai, Chih Lo Lou and Jingguanlou Collections of the HKMoA as the subject of study. The fellow will be an affiliate of the Faculty of Arts of the HKU’s Society of Fellows in the Humanities and will work closely with Professor Marc Walton of the Master of Arts in Museum Studies Programme of the Faculty of Arts of the HKU and the Conservation Office of the LCSD on research projects. The research will encompass the characterisation of painting materials for dating, provenance analysis, and material analysis for conservation and preservation purposes. By bridging the gap between conservation, scientific analysis, and curatorial exploration, this fellowship will contribute to a deeper understanding and appreciation of the rich Chinese cultural heritage.

The recruitment advertisement will be posted on the HKU Careers website (jobs.hku.hk/en/listing) in due course.

  

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Hong Kong Fashion Fest kicks off its second edition today

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

     Presented by the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, spearheaded and sponsored by the Cultural and Creative Industries Development Agency (CCIDA) under the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB), the second edition of Hong Kong Fashion Fest opened today (November 22) with the launch programme “VIRTUOSE: The Artistry of Couture 2025” (VIRTUOSE) held at Central Pier No. 4.

     Organised by the Hong Kong Fashion Designers Association (HKFDA), VIRTUOSE aims to highlight the different facets of craftsmanship through an haute couture runway and showcase programme, inviting emerging local, Mainland and overseas haute couture designers to use Hong Kong as a stage for the international fashion community.

     Speaking at the ceremony, the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, said that couture represents the highest level of design and craftsmanship in fashion, transforming the most exquisite fabrics into breathtaking masterpieces. Given its rich heritage and enduring influence, CCIDA has chosen couture as the theme for the opening of the second edition of the Hong Kong Fashion Fest.

     The runway brings together four new-generation couture designers, namely, Peet Dullaert, Tomo Koizumi, Zhaoyi Yu and Caroline Hu, whose forty looks are presented on the dazzling stage set against the Victoria Harbour. Their outstanding works have shone at international fashion weeks; through global collaborations and their own creative talent, they are shaping the future of couture worldwide. The four designers will also host time-limited trunk shows and fireside chats, engaging industry professionals in in-depth discussions and sharing their creative journeys as well as the insight into future trends and development of couture.

     Highlights of the runway show will be available for replay on the official social media channels of Hong Kong Fashion Fest, the HKFDA and VIRTUOSE. For more information on Hong Kong Fashion Fest, please visit www.hongkongfashionfest.com.

           

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Woman arrested on suspicion of illegally selling topical product with undeclared controlled drug ingredients

Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

The Department of Health (DH) today (November 24) carried out an enforcement operation with the Police against the suspected illegal sale of a topical product containing undeclared controlled medicines (see photo) at a beauty parlour in Yuen Long. During the operation, a 48-year old woman was arrested on suspicion of the illegal sale of Part 1 poison and an unregistered pharmaceutical product.

Following up on a case referred by the Hospital Authority, the DH earlier purchased a sample of a product called Rong Shi Gao Fu Kang Medical Antipyretic Gel from a beauty parlour on Wang Yip Street South in Yuen Long for analysis. Test results from the Government Laboratory revealed that the product sample contained clobetasol propionate and miconazole, which are Part 1 poisons under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance (Cap. 138) (the Ordinance). The product is also suspected to be an unregistered pharmaceutical product.

The DH urged members of the public who have purchased the product concerned to stop using it immediately and reminded the public not to buy or use products of doubtful composition or from unknown sources. The DH will continue to investigate the incident and take appropriate follow-up actions.

Clobetasol propionate is a steroid substance for treating inflammation. Inappropriate application of steroids could cause skin problems and systemic side effects such as moon face, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, adrenal insufficiency and osteoporosis. Products containing clobetasol propionate are prescription medicines that should be used under a doctor’s directions and be supplied in the premises of an Authorized Seller of Poisons (i.e. a pharmacy) under the supervision of a registered pharmacist upon a doctor’s prescription. Miconazole is used for the treatment of fungal infections with side effects including local irritation and sensitivity reactions. Topical products containing miconazole should be supplied in a pharmacy under the supervision of a registered pharmacist.

According to the Ordinance, all pharmaceutical products must be registered with the Pharmacy and Poisons Board of Hong Kong before they can be sold in the market. Illegal sale or possession of unregistered pharmaceutical products or Part 1 poisons are criminal offences. The maximum penalty on conviction of each offence is a fine of $100,000 and two years’ imprisonment.

The DH reminded members of the public That all registered pharmaceutical products should carry a Hong Kong registration number on the package in the format of “HK-XXXXX”. The safety, quality and efficacy of unregistered pharmaceutical products are not guaranteed.

People who have purchased the product concerned should stop using it immediately and consult healthcare professionals if in doubt or feeling unwell after use. They may submit the product to the Drug Office of the DH at Room 1804-06, 18/F, Wing On Kowloon Centre, 345 Nathan Road, Kowloon, during office hours for disposal.