{"total-count": 11, "returned-count": 11, "results": [{"title": "Speech by DCS at Opening Session of Ageing Well Hong Kong 2026 Conference (21.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/21/P2026102100318.htm", "date": "21.10.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, at the Opening Session of the Ageing Well Hong Kong 2026 Conference organised by the Actuarial Society of Hong Kong (ASHK) today (October 21): Clement (Executive Director (Policy and Legislation) of the Insurance Authority, Mr Clement Lau), Mark (President of the ASHK, Mr Mark Saunders), Council members of the ASHK, ladies and gentlemen, It is my great pleasure to join you today at Ageing Well Hong Kong 2026. My thanks to the Actuarial Society of Hong Kong for organising this meaningful event and for bringing together such a diverse group of experts to address one of the most profound demographic shifts of our time. Your expertise in risk assessment, longevity analytics and financial modelling places you at the forefront of understanding the changes that are reshaping our society. This Conference is held at a most timely juncture, in that the HKSAR (Hong Kong Special Administrative Region) Government has just announced its Report on Ageing Society Strategies last month. It is therefore most fitting that I share with you the Government's vision and achievements in tackling population ageing, in particular, our work to enhance silver financial security for our senior citizens and promote the immense potential of the silver economy. We are proud that Hong Kong has one of the highest life expectancies in the world. This is the result of our excellent healthcare system, rising living standards and greater health awareness. However, this success brings with it a structural challenge that impacts on every facet of our society. The numbers are clear. By 2046, it is projected that the population aged 65 and above will rise to 2.74 million, accounting for more than one-third of the total population. This demographic reality may evoke concerns about healthcare costs, pension sustainability and shrinking labour forces. But I would like to offer a different perspective, that is: the massive potential for developing a thriving silver economy that can drive innovation and enable our elderly people to not only live longer but to live better with purpose, dignity and security. This is precisely why our Government has placed population ageing high on our policy agenda. Back in 2024, the Chief Executive announced in the Policy Address the setting up of a Working Group on Promoting Silver Economy, which announced 30 measures in May last year in five areas, namely: boosting \"silver consumption\", developing \"silver industry\", promoting \"quality assurance of silver products\", enhancing \"silver financial and security arrangements\", and unleashing \"silver productivity\". Furthermore, Hong Kong's First Five-year Plan and the 2026 Policy Address announced by the Chief Executive last month steer more proactive and strategic planning. Central to this is the Working Group on Ageing Society Strategies, with me as the leader and all the 15 government policy bureaux as members. Our mandate is to break down silos and drive a co-ordinated, whole-of-government response. The Report on Ageing Society Strategies released last month is a comprehensive blueprint, putting forward 73 strategic measures across 11 areas, ranging from healthcare, technology, economy, mobility, elderly care, finance to manpower, learning, social life, and age-friendly urban design. Together, these measures form a holistic, cross-bureau response to population ageing. It would be mighty onerous to walk you through all the 73 measures. So I would like to focus more today on the silver economy arena. Among the 11 areas of our strategies, one key area is elderly financial security and safety, which serves as the bedrock of a worry-free retirement. With longer life expectancy, we must plan for a longer period without a regular salary. We believe that our role as the Government is to provide the enabling framework, the right products and the education to help our citizens manage longevity risk effectively. This is why we are strengthening our retirement financial planning tools. At the centre of our toolkit is the \"HKMC Retire 3\" operated by the Hong Kong Mortgage Corporation Limited (HKMC) and its subsidiaries. This package of three powerful products, namely the HKMC Annuity Plan, the Reverse Mortgage Programme and the Policy Reverse Mortgage Programme, are designed to unlock the value of assets many seniors already hold. To date, these products have benefited over 49 000 customers. We see immense potential for further growth for these products given the size of our elderly population. Hence as part of our measures in the Ageing Society Strategies, the Government will continue to explore further enhancements to the \"HKMC Retire 3\" suite in response to market conditions and public feedback. At the same time, we will also actively encourage insurers to partner with enterprises in the elderly care, medical and other sectors, and to develop insurance product offerings targeting financially better-off elderly people. With encouragement from the Insurance Authority, insurers in Hong Kong have already offered savings-oriented insurance products that provide policyholders with the right to access retirement facilities in the Chinese Mainland. In addition, we will step up public education on retirement planning and longevity risk management. The HKMC, the HKMC Annuity Limited, the Investor and Financial Education Council and the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) Schemes Authority are intensifying efforts to raise awareness of retirement planning. Educational materials will reach MPF scheme members turning 65 through the eMPF Platform. Seminars, media campaigns and community outreach continue to dispel misconceptions and encourage earlier planning, ideally well before retirement. Financial security for retirement is not just about having enough savings for retirement, but also about keeping the savings secure. In today's increasingly digital world, seniors often fall prey to sophisticated scams and fraud. To lower the chance of the elderly encountering fraudulent information at source, the Hong Kong Police is planning to implement a Cyber Hygiene Operation in collaboration with technology and telecommunications companies in 2027 to use AI to proactively filter and remove fraudulent content from social media platforms popular among seniors. The Police will also launch a Project Gatekeeper scheme next year to specifically enhance the ability of carers and frontline bank staff to identify and tackle scams involving the elderly. Intelligence sharing and partnership are pivotal to helping safeguard our elderly people’s financial assets. A key milestone is the Financial Intelligence Evaluation Sharing Tool, an intelligence sharing platform under the public-private partnership of the HKMA (Hong Kong Monetary Authority), the Police and the banking sector. As of mid-2026, all 28 retail banks are participating, covering over 90 per cent of our bank accounts. The \"Money Safe\" initiative is another powerful tool. It allows customers to designate a portion of their deposits as protected, requiring an extra verification step to withdraw. As of the end of March 2026, over 14 000 customers have used \"Money Safe\" to safeguard a total of $4 billion in deposits. The Broader Silver Economy Opportunity The above measures in financial security and fraud prevention are part of a much larger, holistic vision. They also sit within our broader strategy to promote the silver economy which has massive potential: it is estimated that consumer spending by the elderly aged 60 and above in Hong Kong will increase by 45 per cent from $342 billion in 2024 to $496 billion in 2034, reflecting the continuously growing purchasing power of the elderly. To capture the vast market potential, the Government has been proactively promoting silver consumption, such as encouraging the business sector to incorporate silver elements in major exhibitions. For instance, in August this year, three major exhibitions (namely the Food Expo, the Beauty and Wellness Expo and the Home Delights Expo) attracted over half a million visits. We will continue to incorporate more silver-economy elements into other relevant exhibitions, offering retail and catering concessions to the elderly, encouraging e-commerce platforms to diversify their range of silver products and facilitate online shopping, as well as making more silver products available at restaurants and retail outlets. On developing the silver industry, the Government is dedicated to enhancing the innovation and technology ecosystem, including gerontechnology. At present, there are about 140 companies engaging in solutions and services related to gerontechnology in the Hong Kong Science and Technology Parks and Cyberport. To foster a vibrant gerontechnology ecosystem, the Government will earmark $100 million to launch the Gerontechnology Promotion Scheme to encourage and support local technology enterprises to proactively develop elderly care products and solutions. On promoting quality assurance of silver products, collaboration among the Government, businesses and social welfare organisations has resulted in the official promulgation of the Care Food Greater Bay Area (GBA) Standard, enhancing consumer confidence and boosting the competitiveness of local brands. Under the Government’s facilitation, the industry has also introduced various registration schemes, such as the Hong Kong Q-Mark Silver Scheme and the Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency's Hong Kong Registration – Silver-friendly Series, to recognise and promote quality silver-friendly products and services. The Government will further explore with relevant organisations to expand the scope of certification to other lines of products, such as walking sticks, wheelchairs and exoskeleton systems, and explore including them in the list of GBA Standards. We will facilitate the inclusion of more silver products and services in the list of GBA Standards to enhance the competitiveness and marketability of Hong Kong silver products and services, and assist the industry in expanding into the GBA and other Chinese Mainland markets. Unleashing silver productivity is another important element in driving Hong Kong’s silver economy. It does not only help strengthen our labour force, but also allows our elderly citizens to make good use of their valuable work experiences. The Re-employment Allowance Pilot Scheme has received over 86 000 participants and over 56 000 placements have been recorded, of which about one quarter involved persons aged 60 or above. The Government also continues to provide dedicated training courses to persons aged 50 or above. In 2025-26, for example, the enrolment of persons aged 50 and above in the ERB (Employees Retraining Board)’s courses exceeded 98 000. From 2026 onwards, the Labour Department will organise about 75 large-scale and regional thematic job fairs a year for older and middle-aged persons. Ladies and gentlemen, an ageing population requires us to rethink our approach to work, healthcare, housing, finance and community as a whole. Government action alone is not enough. Building a truly age-friendly Hong Kong requires the concerted efforts of the Government, the business sector, professional bodies, non-governmental organisations, and indeed of every family. In this endeavour, the actuarial profession has a distinctive and indispensable role to play. Your expertise provides the evidence base upon which sound policy must rest. By working closely with the actuarial community, financial institutions, and other stakeholders, we can continue to refine our retirement products, strengthen our protective mechanisms, and ensure that our policies remain responsive to evolving demographic realities. Ladies and Gentlemen, we together can build Hong Kong into a city that turns the challenge of ageing into an opportunity for a more inclusive, resilient and compassionate society. On this note, I wish this Conference a huge success and all of you a very fruitful time at the event. Thank you very much. Ends/Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Issued at HKT 12:53 NNNN"}, {"title": "LC: Speech by CS in presenting Government Minute in response to Report No. 85 and No. 86 of Public Accounts Committee (21.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/21/P2026102100358.htm", "date": "21.10.2026", "description": "Following is the speech (translated from Chinese) by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, in presenting the Government Minute in response to Report No. 85 and No. 86 of the Public Accounts Committee in the Legislative Council today (October 21): President, Laid on the table today is the Government Minute (GM) responding to Reports No. 85 and No. 86 of the Public Accounts Committee (PAC) presented to the Legislative Council on July 15, 2026. The Government welcome the Report of the PAC and would like to express its appreciation to the Chairman, the Hon Sunny Tan, and PAC members for the devotions and contributions. The Government has accepted PAC's various recommendations and set out in detail in the GM the specific responses of the relevant bureau and departments (B/Ds). The PAC conducted public hearings on the chapters on \"Management of food waste by the Environmental Protection Department\" and \"Regulation and monitoring of ferry services by the Transport Department\" of the Director of Audit's Report No. 86. I would like to highlight the latest progress on the key measures taken by the two departments in response to the recommendations. Management of food waste by the EPD The Environmental Protection Department (EPD) has been actively promoting food waste recycling. Through expanding the recycling network and strengthening publicity and education, the amount of food waste collected has continued to rise. The daily average increased by around 14 per cent from approximately 350 tonnes in 2025 to around 400 tonnes in the first half of 2026, demonstrating that the measures are progressively taking effect. The EPD has been continuously enhancing its food waste management work to provide more convenient and cost-effective recycling services in accordance with the recommendations of the Audit Commission and the PAC. These efforts include expanding the recycling network, intensifying public education , stepping up promotion on food waste recycling targeting commercial and industrial premises such as shopping malls and eateries, and implementing strengthened screening of inert materials to enhance both the quality and quantity of recycled food waste. Regarding the management of food waste collection services, the EPD formulated a series of guidelines for monitoring the services in April this year. These guidelines set out clearly the criteria and procedures for site inspections, assessment of non-compliances, and follow-up procedures for late report submissions. In addition to strengthening the internal vetting mechanism, the EPD has commenced a trial application of artificial intelligence tools to assist in cross-checking tender documents to ensure compliance of tendering procedures with Government procurement guidelines with technology support. At the same time, the EPD has refined the methodology for preparing pre-tender estimates and assessment criteria for food waste collection service contracts. The relevant measures have been implemented in the food waste collection service contracts tendered in July this year. For domestic food waste recycling, the \"one bin per block\" target for public rental housing estates will be achieved this year, and the EPD will continue to encourage and assist the installation of food waste smart recycling bins in private housing estates. Furthermore, the EPD has strategically set up approximately 260 public food waste recycling points across various districts in Hong Kong to provide food waste recycling services for residents at premises that lack space to install food waste recycling facilities. The EPD will continue to identify more suitable locations, such as public markets and refuse collection points, to set up recycling points. At the same time, the EPD will continue to review the operation of the recycling spots, adjust their locations and service hours in a timely manner to facilitate the general public's participation in food waste recycling. Furthermore, the EPD has commenced a review on the overall effectiveness of the Food Wise Hong Kong Campaign and will consult the Food Wise Hong Kong Steering Committee and its subcommittees, as well as gather feedback from the trade with a view to rolling out more publicity and promotional activities for encouraging more stakeholders to reduce and recycle food waste, working together to foster a \"food wise\" culture. Regulation and monitoring of ferry services by the TD The Transport and Logistics Bureau and the Transport Department (TD) attach great importance to the regulation and monitoring of ferry services, and have actively followed up on the views and recommendations put forward by the Audit and the PAC. On improving the financial viability of ferry services, the TD has been actively assisting operators in implementing proposals conducive to increasing non-farebox revenue. The TD has established a Task Force to co-ordinate across departments and expedite the approval of commercial activities and pier enhancement proposals that could help increase non-farebox revenue. The TD has also strengthened its monitoring of the pier rental situation, encouraging operators to make full use of pier resources to develop non-farebox revenue. Among these initiatives, the franchised ferry operator has adopted flexible rental combinations to improve the occupancy rate of shops at piers, and converted premises at the Wan Chai Ferry Pier that were originally used for storage into restaurants and retail shops to stimulate pedestrian flow. In terms of the regulation of ferry service performance, franchised, licensed, and kaito ferry operators must strictly adhere to their franchise or licence conditions. For franchised ferry services, the TD actively explores service schedule optimisation with the operator as well as monitors fleet maintenance and engine replacement progress, etc, so as to elevate its service performance. For licensed ferry services, the TD continuously follows up on operators' fulfillment of their tender commitments, and will regularly conduct monitoring surveys and follow up in a timely manner. For the kaito ferry services with relatively more flexible operation, the TD has, following Audit's recommendations, required kaito ferry operators to submit operational data and appropriately strengthened inspection work of kaito ferry routes to gain a more comprehensive understanding of their operational situation. Overall speaking, the TD has revised its internal guidelines, adopted measures to strengthen the oversight of consultants responsible for on-site surveys, and ensured that departmental staff take timely follow-up actions with operators having regard to the survey results, to more promptly process operators' submission and make public regular returns as well as operational information, and properly record related follow-up work. Furthermore, the Government attaches great importance to the safety of vessels and passengers, as well as PAC's concerns regarding illegal kaito. To facilitate identification of licensed kaito ferry service by the public, the TD has reminded all operators to display the plates and flags provided by the TD at prominent locations onboard, and display publicity posters with QR codes on TD's website and at major public piers or landing steps, so that the public can access the latest kaito ferry service information at any time. The TD will also strengthen the verification of kaito vessel licences and conduct patrols against illegal kaito. President, I would like to thank the PAC again for its efforts and suggestions. The B/Ds concerned will strictly adhere to their responses and implement various enhancement measures set out in the GM with full efforts. Thank you, President. Ends/Wednesday, October 21, 2026 Issued at HKT 12:23 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by DCS at LSCM Logistics Summit 2026 (14.10.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202610/14/P2026101400317.htm", "date": "14.10.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, at the LSCM (Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre) Logistics Summit 2026 today (October 14): Deputy Director Wang (Deputy Director of the Eighth Division, General Office of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Mr Wang Zongru), Chairman Lam (Chairman of the Board of Directors of the LSCM, Professor Alan Lam), distinguished guests, industry leaders, ladies and gentlemen, Good morning. It is my great pleasure to join you all today at the LSCM Logistics Summit 2026 to celebrate the 20th Anniversary of the Logistics and Supply Chain MultiTech R&D Centre. This milestone is not only a celebration of the LSCM's achievements, but also a testament to the remarkable evolution of Hong Kong's logistics and supply chain ecosystem. For two decades, the LSCM has served as a primary engine behind this evolution, which is propelled by advanced innovation and tech-driven transformation. By building a vibrant network of collaboration between our leading universities, industry partners and global stakeholders, the LSCM has successfully translated cutting-edge applied research into powerful core competencies that keep the Hong Kong's logistics industry globally competitive. The LSCM's contribution goes far beyond commercial logistics into the heart of our community. During our COVID-19 response, the LSCM rapidly deployed electronic wristbands to anchor smart quarantine logistics and leveraged its tracking and inventory management systems to put into effect the city's mass testing and vaccination measures. This is a classic example of how home-grown, practical technology can directly benefit our entire society. The LSCM has long been one of the Government's closest partners and advisers. Since joining the Hong Kong Logistics Development Council in 2014, the LSCM has steadfastly helped to shape our forward-looking policies and materialise the Government's Action Plan on Modern Logistics Development. This plan designates digitalisation as a core pillar for the industry's future, a direction for which the LSCM has been blazing the trail. This momentum in digitalising our logistics sector is not just an industry achievement. It is a critical engine to drive Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan. The Five-Year Plan charts an ambitious roadmap with innovation and technology (I&T) at its core, demanding that we strengthen our original scientific research to anchor our economic future. As logistics is the lifeblood of Hong Kong's economy, modernising this sector through the LSCM's technologies provides the exact robust foundation needed to achieve our primary goal, i.e. after 2030, we will have established an international I&T centre based in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, serving the entire country and connecting to the world. To bring this grand vision to life, the Government will continue to step up our support for R&D (research and development), and drive deeper collaboration among the industry, academia and research sectors. In this endeavour, I am confident that the LSCM will continue to be an indispensable conduit between scientific research and commercial application. Ladies and gentlemen, the complex supply chain challenges are catalysts for brilliant breakthroughs when great minds meet. By uniting the finest brains across disciplines, this summit shines as a platform for collaboration. Together, let us continue \"Linking Minds, Empowering Innovation\", and seize the opportunities ahead to further heighten Hong Kong's digital transformation and economic growth. In closing, I wish you all an inspiring, riveting and successful summit. Thank you very much. Ends/Wednesday, October 14, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:18 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by CS at Opening Ceremony of Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2026 (7.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/07/P2026090700234.htm", "date": "7.9.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Opening Ceremony of Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum 2026 today (September 7): Martin (Chairman of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Mr Martin Liao), Winfried (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good morning. I am pleased to welcome you to the Philanthropy for Better Cities Forum, delighted to note that this is the Forum's 10th anniversary. You're here over these next two days to get the latest intelligence and insights from a wide variety of high-profile local and international speakers. And all under the innovative theme of \"Leaping for Impact.\" This year's theme draws inspiration from the Olympic and Paralympic values. Philanthropy, like sport, required focus, discipline and resilience. It demands inclusion, a shared purpose, and the drive for excellence. And these values guide us toward greater collaboration and meaningful change. Hong Kong has always been a society built on compassion and a deep sense of giving. We are home to more than 11 000 tax-exempt charities. Just last year alone, we recognised more than 400 new charitable organisations. The Hong Kong SAR Government is fully committed to raising our city as a global centre for philanthropy. Under the \"one country, two systems\" principle, and as a bridge between East and West, we are uniquely positioned to deploy global capital for the greater good. Our status as a global business and philanthropic hub is underpinned by our simple, transparent and internationally recognised tax regime. To encourage public generosity, donations made to approved charities in Hong Kong are tax-deductible. Thanks to the generosity of our people and businesses, approved donations exceeded US$1.5 billion in the 2024-25 assessment year. Hong Kong is not just a financial hub. We are a wealth management powerhouse. We are now home to more than 3 300 single family offices – a 25 per cent increase over the past two years. And more than half of them have second-generation members in leadership roles, reflecting that ultra-high-net-worth families trust Hong Kong for generational wealth transfer. Projections show that over US$5.8 trillion in wealth will be handed over to the next generation in the Asia-Pacific region in the coming years. And they are choosing Hong Kong to do it. To make that as easy as possible, the Government has created comprehensive measures in support of family offices. Through Invest Hong Kong's dedicated team, we provide a seamless, one-stop service for family offices interested in setting up in Hong Kong. And through initiatives such as our annual \"Wealth for Good in Hong Kong\" Summit, we are creating a home where global asset owners can meet, exchange ideas and align their financial goals with social purpose. We are also among the world's largest cross-boundary wealth-management centres. Last year, the sector's total assets under management reached US$5.4 trillion, more than 12 times our GDP. And more than half of these funds came from investors beyond Hong Kong and the Chinese Mainland. Ladies and gentlemen, Hong Kong looks forward to working with you. With our enabling tax regime, dedicated family office strategy, and our unwavering commitment to doing good, we can make a difference for you and your philanthropic legacy. This year's Forum is the perfect place to start. I invite you, over these next two days, to embrace the spirit of the theme, \"Leaping for Impact\". Let us work together to build a brighter, safer, and more sustainable future for us all – and for the generations to come. I wish you all a rewarding conference and our many visitors an enjoyable stay here in Asia's world city. Thank you. Ends/Monday, September 7, 2026 Issued at HKT 9:50 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by CS at "She Inspires" Mentorship Programme First Cohort Graduation cum Second Cohort Kick-off Ceremony (5.9.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202609/05/P2026090500309.htm", "date": "5.9.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at \"She Inspires\" Mentorship Programme First Cohort Graduation cum Second Cohort Kick-off Ceremony today (September 5): 尊敬的陳清霞主席（婦女事務委員會主席）、各位友師、各位大學代表、各位學員、各位朋友： 大家早晨！我很高興今天和大家一同見證第一屆「『友』妳啟導」友師計劃圓滿完成，同時為第二屆計劃揭開序幕。 在大家身處的政府總部內，女性政策局局長及常任秘書長的人數都超過一半；而香港首位航天員，也是女性。香港女性在各行各業的卓越表現和驕人成就，大家有目共睹。這些成績當然值得驕傲，但同時我們亦不會停步，特區政府會繼續堅定推動女性全面發展，讓每一位女性都能夠盡展所長。 「千里之行，始於足下」。一位好導師的提攜，往往能讓初出茅廬的年輕人受惠一生。正因如此，行政長官在二○二四年《施政報告》中推出「『友』妳啟導」友師計劃，目標很清晰，就是要建立一個孕育未來女性領袖的基地，讓新一代在前輩的引領和指導下，裝備自己，踏上人生舞台，綻放光芒。 回顧第一屆計劃，民青局成功招募53名友師，與超過80位優秀學員配對。學員從中汲取領袖經驗、建立自信、拓展人脈，為職場做好準備。 第一屆計劃的成績令人非常鼓舞，所以行政長官在去年《施政報告》宣布，將第二屆學員名額增加五成至120名，讓更多同學受惠。第二屆計劃成功匯聚超過70位女性領袖出任友師，並收到超過430份學員申請，這些數字正正反映大家對計劃的認同和期望。 各位畢業學員和第二屆的新學員，我想用三個「敢」字為你們打氣： 第一，「敢想」—希望大家不要局限自己，要勇於訂立遠大目標。 第二，「敢試」—希望大家大膽探索不同行業和機會，從實踐中累積經驗；即使碰壁，也是成長的一部分。 第三，「敢承擔」—我們要勇於承擔對家庭、對社會的責任，讓「女性力量」在香港及國家發展的大舞台上閃耀光芒。 在座的每一位女性領袖，正正是「敢想」、「敢試」、「敢承擔」的榜樣。她們本身工作繁重，仍然願意抽出時間，分享人生經驗和體會。我在這裏向所有友師致以衷心謝意，同時感謝12所本地大學一直以來對計劃的支持，讓計劃得以順利推展至第二屆。 特區政府全力支持女性高質量發展。除了年青女性的啟導計劃，我們透過婦女自強基金，三年多以來已批出超過450個項目，為不同背景和年齡的女性提供技能提升、身心健康等支援。 而今年三月舉行的第二屆香港家庭暨婦女發展高峰會，匯聚超過1 200名來自不同界別的代表交流經驗。另一方面，我們亦持續豐富一站式家庭及婦女資訊平台，並推行贍養費調解試行計劃，從不同層面為婦女提供實用的資訊和支援。 國家《十五五規劃綱要》指出，要促進婦女全面發展，堅持男女平等基本國策。特區政府會繼續透過多元措施，為不同背景的女性創造更有利的發展環境，讓大家在求學、求職，以至追求理想的每個階段，都能夠獲得適切的支援。 To our English-speaking mentors and mentees, we are here today to celebrate two major milestones of the \"She Inspires\" Mentorship Programme - the graduation of our first cohort, and the launch of our second. This year, we proudly bring together over 70 mentors and 120 mentees, showcasing the power of women empowering women across generations. This programme is a celebration of continuity. Mentors pass on wisdom to ignite future leadership, while mentees broaden their horizons to reach further than ever. My sincere thanks go to our dedicated mentors, passionate mentees, university partners, and the team behind the scenes for making this a success. Congratulations to our graduating cohort, and best wishes to our new cohort as they begin their journey. And you do not walk alone. The Government will continue to work with the community to advance women's empowerment and open more doors for Hong Kong. I look forward to seeing every one of you become the future leaders of our city. Thank you. 多謝大家。 Ends/Saturday, September 5, 2026 Issued at HKT 12:03 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by CS at Carnival of Care and Harmony (23.8.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202608/23/P2026082300446.htm", "date": "23.8.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Carnival of Care and Harmony today (August 23): Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good afternoon. It is a great pleasure to join you today at this Carnival of Care and Harmony. This warm and vibrant gathering reminds me of everything that makes Hong Kong a truly multicultural metropolis - its energy, its openness and its spirit that welcomes everyone. For generations, people of diverse ethnic backgrounds have called this city home. Yet we recognise that while Hong Kong belongs to everyone, our friends from non-ethnic Chinese communities may still encounter challenges in their daily lives, whether language barriers, cultural differences or simply for not always being fully understood. That is why we are committed to taking action. Government bureaux and departments are dedicated to providing a wide range of support services to help ethnic minorities integrate more fully into society and realise their potential so that Hong Kong can truly become a home for all. Since assuming office, the current-term Government has been steadily enhancing these services and introducing new initiatives to support our multi-ethnic communities. In 2024, for example, we established two additional Support Service Centres, bringing the total to 10. These centres are strategically located in districts with larger ethnic minority populations. They run many programmes and activities to help community members engage more deeply with Hong Kong life. To enhance services, we have also set up \"Ethnic Minority Care Teams\" within each Support Service Centre. Each team is led by a social worker, supported by programme workers and volunteers who are familiar with the languages and cultures of the communities they serve. Through proactive outreach - including home visits and community activities - they connect with ethnic minorities in need, assisting with everyday challenges and providing timely support during emergencies or unexpected incidents. During typhoons, for example, these teams share weather updates through their community networks, accompany those in need to temporary shelters and check on elderly individuals living alone to ensure they receive proper care. In just over two years, these teams have reached some 18 000 ethnic minority households. That is real impact. Moreover, as announced in last year's Policy Address, each Support Service Centre has now established a \"Youth Network\" and a \"Women's Network\". The Youth Network offers a platform for young people to connect with one another and with the wider community, including through exchange visits to the Chinese Mainland, which deepen their understanding of Chinese history and culture. The Women's Network, meanwhile, aims to encourage social inclusion and encourage greater community participation among ethnic minority women. Looking ahead, we will continue our efforts to support our non-ethnic Chinese friends to better integrate into our society and create more opportunities for everyone. I wish you all a very enjoyable carnival and a fruitful afternoon of information sharing, performances, fun and games! Let us join hands and build an even more caring and harmonious Hong Kong. Now, I would like to say a few words in Cantonese. (Please also refer to the Chinese portion of the speech.) Ends/Sunday, August 23, 2026 Issued at HKT 15:16 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by CS at "The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Prosperity and Magnificence - Civilisation of the Sui and Tang Dynasties in Shaanxi Province" exhibition (14.7.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202607/14/P2026071400450.htm", "date": "14.7.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at \"The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Prosperity and Magnificence - Civilisation of the Sui and Tang Dynasties in Shaanxi Province\" exhibition today (July 14): Deputy Commissioner Li (Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Li Yongsheng), Gary (Chairman of the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB), Mr Gary Chan), Holden (Vice-Chairman of the DAB and Chairman of the Liaison Committee of the DAB, Mr Holden Chow), Consuls-General, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good afternoon. It gives me great pleasure to join you today at the Hong Kong Museum of History, and to welcome you to this exclusive session of \"The Hong Kong Jockey Club Series: Prosperity and Magnificence - Civilisation of the Sui and Tang Dynasties in Shaanxi Province\" exhibition. I would like to express my sincere thanks to the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the Hong Kong SAR (Special Administrative Region) and the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong for making this meaningful event possible. Hong Kong is deeply rooted in Chinese history and culture. At the same time, we are also strongly connected to the world. This gives us a clear and distinct national mission - to serve as an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange - a national mandate set out in both the 14th and 15th Five-Year Plans. This important role calls on us to foster cross-cultural dialogue and tell China's stories in a true, clear and easy-to-understand way across borders. To deepen public understanding of Chinese civilisation, we launched the flagship \"General History of China Series\" in 2024. The first two exhibitions - focusing on the Xia, Shang and Zhou dynasties, and then the Qin and Han periods - attracted more than 420 000 visitors, including more than 15 000 students and teachers from nearly 400 schools. This year, we turn to one of the golden eras of Chinese civilisation. After years of change, the Sui dynasty reunified the Chinese nation, built the Grand Canal, and reopened the Silk Road. The Tang dynasty then revitalised education and culture, expanded its influence, and opened a remarkable age of cross-cultural exchange. At the heart of this exchange, Chang'an became a vibrant capital renowned throughout the world. Today's Hong Kong shares a defining characteristic with Chang'an in its time: we are open and inclusive, and we serve as a bridge between cultures. We bring diverse traditions together and we welcome global exchange. As you explore this exhibition, I hope you will gain a deeper appreciation of the richness of Chinese culture. More importantly, I hope this shared experience opens new opportunities for mutual understanding and friendship among our nations. Finally, I wish you all an inspiring and enjoyable visit. Thank you. Ends/Tuesday, July 14, 2026 Issued at HKT 15:21 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by CS at Student of the Year Awards 2025/26 Presentation Ceremony (11.7.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202607/11/P2026071100371.htm", "date": "11.7.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Student of the Year Awards 2025/26 Presentation Ceremony today (July 11): Tammy (Publisher of the South China Morning Post, Ms Tammy Tam), Winfried (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Jockey Club, Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges), Bernard (Chairman of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority Board, Mr Bernard Chan), Advisory Board members, ladies and gentlemen, Good morning. It is a great pleasure to be here with you today at the Student of the Year Awards 2025/26 Presentation Ceremony. We are here to do more than hand out the awards. We are here to honour the hard work of our students, and we are here to thank the teachers and parents who guide them, every step of the way. This year marks the 45th anniversary of the Awards, a truly remarkable milestone. Over the years, the Student of the Year Awards has grown into one of Hong Kong's leading youth award programmes. It gives our students a platform to shine, and it pushes them to reach for even greater heights. I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the South China Morning Post and the Hong Kong Jockey Club for organising this meaningful event year after year. Your unwavering commitment to recognising young talent helps build our next generation of leaders. The theme of this year's edition, \"Leadership in Action: Shaping the Possible\", calls on every one of you to see the leader within. Leadership is not about a title. It is the courage to step forward, the strength to take responsibility, and the determination to turn ideas into reality. That is the spirit we celebrate today, and that spirit will shape a brighter future for our city, and for the world at large. The Government shares this vision wholeheartedly. We are firmly committed to youth development. In late 2022, we released the Youth Development Blueprint, which set out more than 160 specific actions and measures. It laid down our guiding principles for promoting long‑term youth development. And we are not standing still. We have since introduced around 130 additional youth‑related measures to keep pace with evolving needs. We are determined to create an enabling environment where every young person can realise their full potential. This year also marks the beginning of the National 15th Five‑Year Plan period, a critical moment for Hong Kong's future. To align with the national strategy, the Government is now drawing up Hong Kong's First Five-Year Plan. And on youth development, we will build on the foundation of the Blueprint, and leverage Hong Kong's unique advantages of enjoying the strong support of the motherland while remaining closely connected to the world. We aim to nurture a new generation of young people with a global perspective, a sense of responsibility, and a deep affection for Hong Kong and our country. This vision requires all of us, the Government, schools, families, and the wider community, to work hand in hand. Together, we will build a strong foundation for our youth to grow and succeed. Today, my warmest congratulations go to all the finalists and award recipients. Your achievements speak volumes about your talent, dedication and resilience. You have earned more than recognition from your schools, your families and the wider community. Above all, your courage to embrace challenges, and your determination to push beyond your limits will be your greatest guides. They will serve you well as you keep reaching for excellence in everything you do. To every student in this room, I encourage you to always have confidence in your own potential. Stay curious. Keep learning. Keep reaching for new heights. Hong Kong needs bright young minds like you, who are willing to lead, to serve and to innovate. I have every confidence that many of you will go on to shape a brighter future for our city. Let me once again congratulate all the winners and finalists. I wish you every success in the years ahead, and I hope today's ceremony will be a memorable milestone in your future journey. Thank you! Ends/Saturday, July 11, 2026 Issued at HKT 13:46 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by CS at Opening Ceremony of Learning and Teaching Expo 2026 (25.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/25/P2026062500305.htm", "date": "25.6.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Opening Ceremony of Learning and Teaching Expo 2026 today (June 25): Mr Armstrong Lee (Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hong Kong Education City), Dr David Wong (Chairman of the Education Commission), Dr Elizabeth Quat (Founder and Honorary President of the Smart City Consortium), Dr Winnie Tang (Founder and Honorary President of the Smart City Consortium), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good morning. It is a privilege to join you at the Opening Ceremony of the Learning and Teaching Expo 2026. On behalf of the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR), I extend a very warm welcome to our global community of educators, innovators, policymakers, and digital education stakeholders who have gathered here today. The theme of this year's event is \"Reimagining Education: Human-Centric and Future-Ready\", it captures our ambition perfectly. It aligns with our vision to make Hong Kong a premier international innovation and technology hub. This is not just an economic goal. This is about our future. AI and emerging technologies are changing our world at lightning speed. To stay competitive and to prosper, we must move boldly. And we are. The Hong Kong SAR Government is taking action on many fronts. We are building world-class I&T infrastructure. We are providing strategic funding to support growth. And we are building strong global partnerships to bring in the best talent and opportunities. While technology builds the future, education builds the people who live in it. Technology without talent is meaningless. And talent, as all of you here know very well, does not emerge overnight. It is nurtured patiently. What we need is an education that can nurture future-ready learners — young people who can navigate the digital world, who can solve problems, and who can handle new technologies wisely and responsibly. Ultimately, when we reimagine what education means in the AI era, we are also laying the very foundation that will power Hong Kong's future as a global technology hub. That is why our strategy follows a powerful cycle. We grow technology through talent, we lead industries through technology, and we attract talent through industries. When education, technology, and talent move forward together, our city moves forward too — we build an unparalleled talent pool, we develop a richer knowledge reserve, and we strengthen our capabilities for scientific and technological innovation, lifting our competitiveness to new heights. And I am pleased to let you know that our vision is already bearing fruit. Hong Kong now ranks third globally in \"Technology\" in the World Digital Competitiveness Ranking. The Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Guangzhou cluster remains the world's number one innovation cluster in the 2025 Global Innovation Index. In 2024, we set up the Committee on Education, Technology and Talents to bring these policies closer together. Many of the Committee's key proposals were integrated into the 2025 Policy Address. And I am pleased to say we are already putting them into practice. Universities and research institutions are the pillars of innovation. 5 universities in Hong Kong ranked among the world's top 100, and we also have 4 of the world's most internationalised universities. They conduct strong basic research, which serves as a crucial starting point for innovative scientific development. To further consolidate our upstream strengths, our InnoHK Research Clusters initiative has attracted more than 30 top-notch universities and R&D institutes from 12 economies, bringing together some 3 000 outstanding I&T talents around the world to work side by side. All these achievements hinge on one core asset — our people. And the expertise of our people starts with education. So the key question is: how do we equip our next generation for an age constantly reshaped by technology, especially AI? Our Education Bureau has worked closely with the Curriculum Development Council to answer that question. The result is the Blueprint for Digital Education Development in Primary and Secondary Schools — launched just last week. It is the product of countless professional conversations, with principals, with frontline teachers, with experts from our universities and our technology sector. It reflects our commitment to Hong Kong's future. And its heart is a simple yet powerful message: cultivating values through education, keeping our students as the foundation, and using technology as the support. And this is what the word \"Human-centric\" in this year's Expo theme means to us in practice. The Blueprint offers a clear roadmap for every school, every teacher, and every student to excel in the digital age — not by simply using more technology, but by using it wisely, ethically, and creatively. It focuses on four key areas: nurturing talents with both digital literacy and humanistic qualities; strengthening teacher training to drive digital transformation of education; optimising infrastructure to build smart campuses; and promoting cross-sector collaboration to co-create a digital education ecosystem. In the short-to-medium term, we aim to achieve AI education for all students across all schools, progressively reaching the goal of comprehensively enhancing all students' AI literacy. To deliver this ambition, we need strong partners. Hong Kong Education City has firmly established itself as a premier digital learning hub, empowering our teachers and students with cutting-edge tools and high-quality educational content. It acts as the bridge that carries technology from policy into real practice. Let me end where it all truly begins. The path to becoming a leading I&T hub is paved in our classrooms. When we invest in our teachers and when we empower our students with future-ready skills, we are building the foundation for a vibrant, innovative, and sustainable Hong Kong. So to the teachers, the innovators and the officials with us this morning, the future you are helping to shape is already taking root right here, right now. I wish you all a rewarding and inspiring Expo. Thank you. Ends/Thursday, June 25, 2026 Issued at HKT 10:35 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by CS at Groundbreaking Ceremony for HKMU New Campus - A Hub for Community Health and Wellness (9.6.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202606/09/P2026060900520.htm", "date": "9.6.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Chan Kwok-ki, at the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Hong Kong Metropolitan University (HKMU) New Campus - A Hub for Community Health and Wellness today (June 9): Dr Eddy Fong (the Pro-Chancellor of HKMU), Dr Conrad Wong (the Council Chairman of HKMU), Professor Paul Lam (the President of HKMU), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good afternoon. I'm delighted to be here for the Groundbreaking Ceremony of the Hong Kong Metropolitan University's Hub for Community Health and Wellness. I have had the privilege of witnessing the remarkable development of HKMU since its establishment in 1989. From a pioneer in distance learning for adults, it has become a dynamic, comprehensive, and internationally recognised university. With more than 170 000 graduates and over 17 000 full-time students today, HKMU has become the largest self-financing university in Hong Kong. And despite this impressive growth, HKMU remains steadfastly committed to its founding mission: \"Education for All\". Through quality and flexible education, HKMU continues to offer life-long learning opportunities to individuals from all walks of life, regardless of age, gender or personal circumstances. Being Hong Kong's first university of applied sciences, or UAS in short, HKMU has found a clear and compelling niche - to provide vocational and professional education and training, a critical driver of manpower development and a promising pathway for our youth. This approach also echoes the 15th Five-Year Plan, in promoting the integrated development of education, technology and talent. HKMU's practical, market-driven curriculum brings that vision to life. The new Hub for Community Health and Wellness takes this further. It will support nursing and health sciences education and research across multiple disciplines. It will be home to at least six undergraduate programmes and two higher diploma programmes, all aligned with HKMU's strategic positioning as a UAS. HKMU has long enjoyed strong ties to industry. The new campus will deepen those ties, nurturing a new generation of industry-ready professionals. The interdisciplinary research centre will focus on solving real-world problems and, in doing so, attract the high-calibre talent required for our long-term industrial growth. I am confident that HKMU will play a leading role in raising the status of vocational and professional education and training at the degree level, enhancing its articulation pathways and working with other member institutions of the Alliance of UAS. The Government, let me emphasise, is committed to the sustainable development of the self-financing, post-secondary education sector. And we back our words with action. Through the Start-up Loan Scheme, we are supporting HKMU's new campus with a loan of some HK$1.3 billion. And it does much more than ease the university's shortage of campus space. It will house a wide range of state-of-the-art facilities, including an integrated health centre and the interdisciplinary research centre, creating an outstanding environment to support teaching, research and the promotion of health and wellness in the community. Most importantly, this campus will enable more students to access high-quality, applied education, giving them the skills and understanding they need to serve society with competence, creativity and compassion. I'm also pleased to note that some of the facilities in the new complex will be open to the Hong Kong public, including the integrated health centre. HKMU has long been committed to promoting public health through targeted educational programmes and wellness activities. This new campus will clearly expand that commitment, to the benefit of all Hong Kong. Ladies and gentlemen, I wish HKMU and its new campus - a Hub for Community Health and Wellness - far-reaching success. May it become a shining example in vocational and professional education, empowering generations of outstanding graduates to contribute to the prosperity and well-being of Hong Kong and our nation. Thank you. Ends/Tuesday, June 9, 2026 Issued at HKT 15:38 NNNN"}, {"title": "Speech by Acting CS at Hospital Authority Convention 2026 Opening Ceremony (11.5.2026)", "link": "https://www.info.gov.hk/gia/general/202605/11/P2026051100279.htm", "date": "11.5.2026", "description": "Following is the speech by the Acting Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, at the Hospital Authority Convention 2026 Opening Ceremony today (May 11): Deputy Director-General Li Wei (Deputy Director-General of the Office of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan Affairs of the National Health Commission), Chairman Fan (Chairman of the Hospital Authority, Mr Henry Fan), Secretary CM Lo (Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau), Chief Executive Libby Lee (Chief Executive of the Hospital Authority, Dr Libby Lee), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen, Good morning. It is a great pleasure to welcome you to the Hospital Authority Convention this year, marking the Convention's 30th edition. In keeping with the landmark anniversary, this year's event features a record-high 75 sessions throughout the three-day Convention, according us with the precious opportunity to hear from some 210 distinguished speakers joining us from all over the world. The Convention's scientific programme will focus on the Hospital Authority's core values, namely: people-centred care, professional service, committed staff and teamwork. Plenaries, symposiums and special sessions in the next three days include healthcare and health technology advances, data-driven and evidence-based clinical practices, sustainable healthcare, research and clinical excellence, medical education, non-communicable diseases, global talent and a great deal more. As President Xi Jinping has said, \"Health is the most important indicator of people's happiness.\" To bring \"happiness\" to all, the Government will continue to embrace innovation in healthcare and medical services, while expanding co-operation in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) and beyond, advancing the goal of a \"Healthy China\". In the furtherance of this strategy, we have been taking forward a number of initiatives. For example, the GBA Clinical Trial Collaboration Platform and the Real-World Study and Application Centre were set up last December. The Platform enables pharmaceutical companies to conduct trials simultaneously in Hong Kong and Shenzhen, accelerating clinical trials for rare-disease drugs, high-end cancer drugs and such advances as gene therapies; while the Centre aims to promote the standardisation of clinical data across the GBA. Going forward, we will set up the Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation by the end of this year. The Government will enact legislation to empower the Centre to regulate Western and Chinese medicines and establish a statutory framework for the regulation of medical devices, supporting Hong Kong's rising role as an internationally recognised regulatory authority for medical products. Furthermore, the Government will implement \"primary evaluation\" for new drug registration in phases, beginning this year. We will also expedite the \"1+\" mechanism for new drugs, piloting priority evaluation and approval of innovative drugs with urgent clinical use recommended by the Hospital Authority. Our goal is to accelerate patient access to the most advanced treatments. To achieve this goal, the Hospital Authority will soon establish an Office for Introducing Innovative Drugs and Medical Devices to identify the needs and benefits of innovative drug treatments for local patients. The Office will liaise with manufacturers of innovative drugs and medical devices, promoting the \"1+\" mechanism for registering drugs and medical devices that are cost-effective and beneficial to patients. The Hospital Authority is the cornerstone of Hong Kong's healthcare system, providing about 90 per cent of our city's healthcare services. It has achieved high international levels of healthcare quality and plays a pivotal role in both local and national health and medical development. The Hospital Authority champions the advancement of smart hospital development and nurturing a smart workforce. It is applying artificial intelligence in clinical workflow, from tomography imaging analysis and digital pathology to simultaneous interpretation services for consultations. AI is also being used to provide clinical-decision support and early detection of disease deterioration, as well as to improve the accuracy of cancer diagnoses and streamline treatment planning. The Hospital Authority is also making significant strides in the internationalisation of national hospital accreditation standards. To date, four public hospitals in Hong Kong have gained accreditation to China's International Hospital Accreditation Standards, with more in the pipeline. The Hospital Authority has also established chest pain centres and stroke centres in accordance with national accreditation standards. The Hospital Authority continues to invest in its greatest asset: its people. The Mainland Healthcare Talents Visiting Programmes flourish in Shanghai and Beijing, in cities across the GBA and throughout the Mainland. Our Global Healthcare Talent Scheme also offers exchange opportunities for professional enhancement. Through collaboration and exchanges, we are building a resilient healthcare future. This year marks the beginning of the country's 15th Five-Year Plan. I am confident that the Hospital Authority, with its much-celebrated achievements, will continue to strengthen its services and work with the Government in drawing up Hong Kong's first five-year plan. Last but not least, my thanks go to the Hospital Authority for its continuous commitment to its mission of \"Helping People Stay Healthy\" and for organising this meaningful Convention. Ladies and gentlemen, I wish you all a stimulating, rewarding experience at the Convention and a pleasant stay in Hong Kong. Thank you very much. Ends/Monday, May 11, 2026 Issued at HKT 11:30 NNNN"}]}