Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
HKSAR Government strongly disapproves of and opposes US politicians interfering in HK affairs under pretext of Lai Chee-ying’s caseIssued at HKT 18:53
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Fifth GBA Legal Professional Examination held
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
The 2025 Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area Legal Professional Examination (GBA Examination) was held today (October 25).
Since the Standing Committee of the National People’s Congress’ authorisation of the State Council to conduct a pilot scheme in 2020, the GBA Examination has been held five times. Currently, over 620 Hong Kong and Macao legal practitioners have passed the GBA Examination and obtained the Lawyer’s License (Guangdong-Hongkong-Macao Greater Bay Area) to provide legal services in the nine Mainland municipalities in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) on specified civil and commercial matters to which the Mainland laws apply.
The Acting Secretary for Justice, Dr Cheung Kwok-kwan, said, “The GBA has the unique advantage of ‘one country, two systems and three jurisdictions’. GBA lawyers are dually qualified and can play an important role in facilitating the construction of the rule of law in the GBA as well as contributing to the country’s high-quality development. The Department of Justice will continue to support the authorities including the Ministry of Justice and the Department of Justice of Guangdong Province in their work to take forward the development of the GBA lawyers scheme, and also maintain communication with the legal sector to assist GBA lawyers in their business development.”
Games’ media centre opens Oct 26
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Main Media Centre (MMC) in the Hong Kong competition region of the 15th National Games (NG) will officially commence operation tomorrow and stay open until November 23.
Upholding the spirit of implementation of green initiatives in organising the 15th NG, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG), the MMC is converted from the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Sports Centre.
The MMC consists of the Main Press Centre and the International Broadcast Centre.
The Main Press Centre provides work stations, press positions, a press conference room and other facilities for registered media and broadcasters, and will live broadcast competitions as well as provide live results and information about the competitions.
The International Broadcast Centre will serve as the main broadcast control room of the 15th NG, 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG, and will be operated by the host broadcaster, China Central Television, for consolidating broadcast signals from all venues in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau. Four rights-holding broadcasters, including three local free television broadcasters and Radio Television Hong Kong, have been conferred the broadcasting rights, enabling them to broadcast the 15th NG for free locally.
After the 15th NG, the venue will be transformed into the MMC of the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG.
Occupational safety seminar promotes OSH among ethnic minorities (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
​The Labour Department (LD) and the Occupational Safety and Health Council (OSHC) jointly held an occupational safety seminar at the Kowloon Masjid and Islamic Centre today (October 25). The seminar elaborated on safety precautions that various industries should take while working, and demonstrated the use of appropriate safety equipment for repair, maintenance, alteration and addition works to enhance occupational safety awareness among ethnic minorities.
Speaking at the seminar, the Acting Commissioner for Labour, Mr Vincent Fung, said that the ethnic minority community is vital to the city’s workforce, and their occupational safety and well-being must be safeguarded. He emphasised that occupational safety and health (OSH) is a shared duty, and that employers and employees should work together to build a safety culture. The LD will continue to enhance occupational safety through inspections, enforcement, publicity and promotion, as well as education and training. He also took the opportunity to urge eligible voters to cast their ballots in the Legislative Council Elections on December 7, selecting capable and competent representatives who can contribute to Hong Kong’s occupational safety standards and the city’s prosperity.
At the seminar, a representative of the LD outlined the safety legislations on OSH, while a representative of the OSHC introduced various sponsorship schemes for small and medium-sized enterprise (SMEs) and OSH Star Enterprise Schemes, encouraging all SMEs across Hong Kong to participate and proactively improve their OSH practices.
A safety equipment exhibition was held at the venue, showcasing different types of equipment such as a light-duty working platform, a step platform, transportable temporary anchor devices and a full body safety harness, allowing participants to experience firsthand the effectiveness of the equipment.
Civil Aid Service Cadet Corps holds 150th New Cadets Passing-out Parade
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Civil Aid Service Cadet Corps holds 150th New Cadets Passing-out Parade
Speaking at the parade, Mr Chan congratulated all the new cadets on completing their training. He said the Cadet Corps has effectively enhanced the confidence and sense of responsibility of its members through foot drill and team-building training programmes, which are beneficial to their future academic and career development.
He also pointed out that the CAS and the Fire Services Department have all along been working closely in rescue operations during typhoons and floods. Whether in emergency rescue operations or recovery efforts after storms, the two departments collaborated seamlessly, fully demonstrating a people-oriented approach and a professional spirit of shouldering responsibility.
The CAS Cadet Corps has been committed to promoting diverse activities, including environmental initiatives such as coastal clean-ups by kayaking and tree planting, as well as organising various Mainland and overseas exchange programmes. These efforts aim to nurture cadets to become the next generation of patriots with a global perspective. Through these training programmes and activities, the Cadet Corps nurtures its members to become confident, self-disciplined and effective communicators in society.
Mr Chan also reminded participants of the Passing-out Parade that the Legislative Council General Election will be held on December 7. It is of utmost importance for accelerating the development of Hong Kong’s economy and improving people’s livelihood. Mr Chan called on members of the public to cast their vote on that day.
Recruitment of CAS cadets is open for application throughout the year. Recruitment details and application forms are available on the CAS website (www.cas.gov.hk/eng/org/cadet_corps.htmlIssued at HKT 16:00
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Main Media Centre in Hong Kong competition region of 15th National Games officially commences operation tomorrow (with photo)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Main Media Centre in Hong Kong competition region of 15th National Games officially commences operation tomorrow (with photo)
Upholding the spirit of implementation of green initiatives in organising the 15th NG, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities (NGD) and the 9th National Special Olympic Games (NSOG), the MMC is converted from the Sun Yat Sen Memorial Park Sports Centre (SYSMPSC).
The MMC consists of the Main Press Centre and the International Broadcast Centre. The former provides work stations, press positions, press conference room and other facilities for registered media and broadcasters, and will live broadcast competitions as well as provide live results and information about the competitions. The International Broadcast Centre will serve as the main broadcast control room of the 15th NG, 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG, and will be operated by the host broadcaster, China Central Television, for consolidating broadcast signals from all venues in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao. Four rights-holding broadcasters, including three local free television broadcasters and Radio Television Hong Kong, have been conferred the broadcasting rights, enabling them to broadcast the 15th NG for free locally.
Hundreds of Mainland and overseas media practitioners are expected to visit Hong Kong for coverage of the 15th NG, 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG. The MMC, located next to the Victoria Harbour, will allow media to incorporate Hong Kong’s iconic scenery into their coverage, showcasing the city’s charm. The MMC also features a distinctive “Hong Kong Street” dining area, serving local cuisine. There are also a National Games History Gallery, showcasing the history of the National Games, and a licensed merchandise retail shop selling limited-edition merchandise and souvenirs.
In addition, shuttle bus service is provided at the MMC for registered media traveling to and from various competition venues and hotels for media.
After the 15th NG, the SYSMPSC will be transformed into the MMC of the 12th NGD and the 9th NSOG. Four competition events of the NSOG are hosted by Hong Kong competition region, namely NGD events boccia, wheelchair fencing, para table tennis (TT11), and NSOG event table tennis.
Issued at HKT 16:00
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London ETO celebrates Hong Kong Cinema at London East Asia Film Festival 2025 (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
London ETO celebrates Hong Kong Cinema at London East Asia Film Festival 2025 Issued at HKT 15:55
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Black boxes of crashed plane found
Source: Hong Kong Information Services
The Air Accident Investigation Authority (AAIA) late last night retrieved the Flight Data Recorder and the Cockpit Voice Recorder, commonly known as the “black boxes” from the B744 cargo aircraft which ditched into the sea on Monday.
The cargo aircraft had arrived from Al Maktoum International Airport, United Arab Emirates, deviated from the North Runway of Hong Kong International Airport after landing and ditched into the sea.
There is water ingress into the two “black boxes”. The AAIA has sent the devices to a laboratory for preliminary examination to determine the next course of action.
Experts will conduct an in-depth analysis of the collected data, including reconstructing the sequence of events through the data from the “black boxes”, interviews with relevant personnel, laboratory findings, examination of the aircraft wreckage, aircraft operating procedures, aircraft system status and maintenance records, weather conditions, and other relevant factors, to prepare a report.
The AAIA said it will release a preliminary investigation report within one month and continue to conduct a thorough and rigorous investigation to determine the sequence of events and causes of the accident, as well as to propose safety recommendations to enhance aviation safety.
Pursuant to Annex 13 of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, the investigation into the accident is being led by the AAIA, which is also responsible for the dissemination of information.
Meanwhile, notifications have been issued to the State of Registry, the State of the Operator, the State of Design and the State of Manufacture of the aircraft in accordance with Annex 13.
Investigative authorities from these countries have appointed accredited representatives and experts to participate in the investigation and provide professional advice.
Personnel from the National Transportation Safety Board of the US and the Transport Safety Investigation Center of Türkiye have arrived in Hong Kong, while experts from Boeing are also participating.
Hong Kong Dragon shines bright at OzAsia Festival in Adelaide (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region
Glowing along Adelaide’s River Torrens, the striking 40-metre-long Hong Kong Dragon Lantern is once again a major highlight of the Moon Lantern Trail at this year’s OzAsia Festival from October 17 to November 2. The display showcases Hong Kong’s unique position as a cultural bridge between East and West, while also honouring the growing creative collaboration between Hong Kong and Australia.
The OzAsia Festival, organised by the Adelaide Festival Centre, stands as a leading international arts festival in Australia. The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Sydney (Sydney ETO) is proud to once again be part of the Festival, bringing Hong Kong’s creativity to Adelaide through the stunning Hong Kong Dragon Lantern showcased at the Festival’s iconic Moon Lantern Trail.
Speaking at the OzAsia Festival Opening Night, the Director of the Sydney ETO, Mr Ricky Chong, said that the Sydney ETO has long supported initiatives that advance Hong Kong’s role as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange under the National 14th Five-Year Plan. The Sydney ETO was pleased to support contemporary art platform Hong Kong Soul at the Adelaide Fringe and the Hong Kong String Orchestra performing in Adelaide earlier this year. These exchanges strengthen cultural ties and foster lasting friendship between Hong Kong and South Australia.
He introduced the key measures announced in “The Chief Executive’s 2025 Policy Address” to promote the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism, generating fresh economic momentum and further enhancing Hong Kong’s global appeal. Mr Chong noted that the Kai Tak Sports Park, the largest sports infrastructure project ever built in Hong Kong, has already opened its doors and hosted a series of major events. Hong Kong will also cohost the National Games with Guangdong and Macao, which will take place next month.
Mr Chong remarked that with direct flights between Adelaide and Hong Kong soon to resume, there is no better time to experience Hong Kong’s vibrant energy and cultural dynamism.
Held annually over three weeks (October 17 to November 9), the OzAsia Festival is Australia’s leading contemporary arts festival that engages with Asia. This year’s festival presents a rich programme spanning theatre, dance, music, visual arts, literature, cuisine, and cultural events from across the region. The vibrant line-up features more than 200 artists from Australia and abroad including Hong Kong, with six world premieres to be staged.
Launching ceremony of second-term Care Teams held today (with photos)
Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4
The Home Affairs Department (HAD) today (October 24) held a launching ceremony for the second-term District Services & Community Care Teams (Care Teams) at the Central Government Offices. The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, accompanied by the Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Miss Alice Mak, officiated at the ceremony.
At the launching ceremony, Mr Lee said that when he ran in the Chief Executive Election in 2022, he proposed in his election manifesto to set up Care Teams in the 18 districts. Care Teams had already become an integral part of the Government’s efforts to improve district governance. Under the enhanced district governance structure, the District Councils, the “three district committees”, and Care Teams each have well-defined roles while maintaining close co-ordination and synergy in helping those in need. This governance structure enables the Government services to be rooted in the community, reach out to the public and accurately and effectively provide relief measures and solutions. Each Care Team actively provided and organised caring and community activities, reached out and helped the underprivileged, disseminated government information, and assisted the Government in providing relief in times of incidents and emergencies. Mr Lee said the Care Teams serve without seeking reward and without fear of hardship, embodying the spirit of care and compassion.
To further support the work of Care Teams, the Government has set up three additional Care Teams in accordance with district needs and enhanced the key performance indicators (KPIs) for the second-term of service, enabling Care Teams to provide services and activities better tailored to district needs. Under a regularised mode of operation and with increased government funding, the second-term service of Care Teams will further extend the community support network. The Government will also enhance training for Care Teams and facilitate them to strengthen ties and co-operation with government departments, public utilities and district organisations. Mr Lee expressed his hope that the Care Teams would continue to carry forward the spirit and strength of unity, mutual support, resilience and inclusiveness.
Other officiating guests included the Under Secretary for Home and Youth Affairs, Mr Clarence Leung, and the Director of Home Affairs, Ms Priscilla To. District Officers of the 18 districts, who are the commanders of Care Teams in their districts, and the representative of all 455 Care Teams also attended the ceremony.
The first-term of Care Team services has completed and all KPIs have been met. Care Teams have made around 610 000 visits to elderly households and other households in need, provided close to 100 000 times of basic home or other support services, organised around 50 000 district-level activities, and their achievements are evident to all. The HAD and District Offices will consolidate the reports of the Care Teams in the first term and let the public know their achievements.
The second-term service of Care Teams will run till September 30, 2027. Building on the established district networks, Care Teams will continue to deepen and broaden their services to further enhance people’s sense of satisfaction and well-being.