Author: Cannix Yau
A coalition of 23 countries has expressed “grave concern” after two former Hong Kong editors were convicted of conspiracy to publish seditious articles, stressing journalism should not be prosecuted under “the guise of national security”. The Media Freedom Coalition, whose members include the US, the UK and France, said on Monday it was alarmed by the guilty verdict against the ex-editors of now-closed online outlet Stand News and the “wider suppression of media freedom” in the city. Last month, former editor-in-chief Chung Pui-kuen, 54, and ex-acting editor-in-chief Patrick Lam Shiu-tung, 36, were found guilty of sedition by the District Court.…
Hong Kong police have arrested a man and a woman for defrauding a victim by tricking her into having sex under the guise of changing her luck, while exploiting her out of HK$400,000 (US$51,300). The suspects posed as a tarot card reader and an Instagram fortune-telling administrator to carry out the scam. The victim reported the incident to the police after being coerced into sex and swindled of her money. During the raid, police found HK$20,000 in suspected proceeds, fortune-telling tools, condoms, computer equipment, and more. The police believe they have dismantled the syndicate and warned the public to be…
In the push towards sustainable aviation, Cathay Pacific aims to increase the usage of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to 10% by 2050 from just 0.2% in 2022. Despite challenges, the airline is committed, with the hope for government support. Emphasizing the importance of a holistic approach and long-term view, Cathay Pacific’s CEO sees policy support crucial for the industry’s transformation. The focus is on subsidies, logistical help, and bridging the price gap for green jet fuel. The airline anticipates a surge in SAF usage nearing 2030, aligning with Hong Kong’s 2050 target, a decade ahead of China’s goal. However, the…
Recent incidents at the Fukushima nuclear power plant have sparked concerns about food safety in Hong Kong. The government is closely monitoring nuclear effluent discharge and considering precautionary measures after several accidents at the plant. The discharge, which will last for 30 years, poses risks to marine ecology and food safety. Despite calls to lift the ban on Japanese food products, Hong Kong is cautious due to uncertainties about the disposal of treated nuclear waste water. The city’s Japanese restaurants have suffered from the ban, affecting tourism and high-end dining establishments. An expert has dismissed the need for further restrictions…
Hong Kong’s aviation industry is facing challenges and opportunities as the city aims to maintain its status as an international aviation hub. Newly appointed transport minister Lam Sai-hung is focused on maximizing support from the motherland and global connections. The completion of Hong Kong International Airport’s HK$141.5 billion three-runway system is expected to boost capacity significantly, but progress may be hindered by challenges faced by flag carrier Cathay Pacific Airways. Efforts to speed up Cathay’s recovery are crucial as competitors like Shenzhen and Guangzhou airports in mainland China ramp up their capacity and services. Staying ahead requires local airlines, particularly…
In a bold move, Hong Kong is not waiting for Cathay Pacific to regain its full capacity post-pandemic and is actively seeking other airlines to expand services to the city, particularly in anticipation of the third runway opening. Secretary for Transport and Logistics Lam Sai-hung emphasized the importance of enhancing Hong Kong’s status as an international aviation hub and urged other airlines to step in where Cathay has been slow to recover. With the Hong Kong International Airport aiming to restore full pre-pandemic capacity by the end of the year, Lam called on airlines from the mainland, overseas, and within…
Exciting news has been revealed about Hong Kong’s first astronaut, who will be engaging in science outreach activities for young people while in space. In addition to her regular duties operating instruments and conducting experiments, the astronaut will be spreading knowledge and inspiring the next generation of scientists. The government is also showing support for local research teams involved in national space exploration initiatives. Funding will be allocated to help develop autonomous navigation robots and assist universities in their Mars and lunar exploration missions. In the midst of cybersecurity concerns, efforts are being made to enhance security measures in both…
Hong Kong’s flag carrier, Cathay Pacific Airways, is set to launch direct passenger flights to Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on October 28. This move aims to enhance connectivity, trade, and cultural exchanges between Hong Kong and countries participating in the Belt and Road Initiative. Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Lam Sai-hung, hailed the aviation partnership between Hong Kong and Saudi Arabia as a significant milestone. The agreement between Cathay Pacific and the Saudi Air Connectivity Programme was signed to strengthen air connectivity between the two regions. Cathay will operate three return flights per week between Hong Kong and Riyadh using its…
Financial Secretary Paul Chan recently led a joint delegation with Macau and Guangdong officials to promote business opportunities in the Greater Bay Area. During a tech event, Chan urged Hong Kong companies to expand business, collaborate, and showcase innovations globally. He also invited VivaTech and Theatre National de Chaillot to participate in events in Hong Kong. Chan attended a trade cooperation conference in France and welcomed French companies to establish bases in Hong Kong. He will also participate in conferences in the US to update stakeholders on business opportunities. This trip marks Chan’s second visit to San Francisco in six…