The needy in Hong Kong have expressed their dissatisfaction with the current administration’s performance in the past year, particularly in addressing employment and housing issues. According to an annual survey, the government’s overall rating has dropped for the second consecutive year, falling from 6.8 in 2022 to 6.4 in 2023. SoCO deputy director Sze Lai-shan highlighted that despite expectations of economic recovery post-pandemic, the public continues to face insecurities as tangible results have yet to be seen. She criticized the government’s poverty alleviation projects for being limited in scale and lacking significant progress from a policymaking standpoint. With the growing…

Allegations of a male teacher sexually assaulting a 16-year-old girl at his home two years ago have sparked investigation by Hong Kong education authorities. The Education Bureau has mentioned that if professional misconduct is identified, the teacher will be held accountable and may have their registration revoked, banning them from teaching in schools. The school involved has reported the incident to the government, though its name has not been disclosed. The victim shared handwritten notes detailing the assault on social media, leading to public outcry. This case highlights the importance of addressing and preventing such misconduct in educational settings, safeguarding…

A Hong Kong social worker accused of rioting during the 2019 anti-government protests has been removed from the disciplinary committee of the statutory body overseeing the profession. Jackie Chen Hung-sau, previously acquitted in 2021, was not recommended to continue on the regulatory panel. The Chair of the Social Workers Registration Board confirmed the decision, stating that members of the disciplinary committee must have a spotless reputation. The board recently underwent reforms after criticism for not acting decisively against those involved in national security offenses. Despite her prior acquittal, Chen now faces renewed legal challenges as the Court of Appeal overturned…

Hong Kong Police ‘Shocked’ Over Bomb Plot Verdict Lam Chi-wai, chairman of the Junior Police Officers’ Association, expressed concern over only one defendant being found guilty in a thwarted bomb plot to kill officers. Despite guns, explosives, and a complete plan being involved, six defendants were acquitted, leading to fears of misconceptions about criminal liability. The case involved 14 people allegedly plotting to detonate explosives during anti-government protests in 2019. Union chief Lam believes the guilty verdict will have a deterrent effect, but stressed the need for legislation to protect officers from insults and provocation. Following the passage of a…

A recent survey in Hong Kong revealed that one-third of respondents have no plans for another child, citing financial burdens and work-life balance as key factors. Among those uninterested in a second child, reasons included stress of parenting and crowded living conditions. To address the declining birth rate, suggestions included more parental leave options, family-friendly working conditions, and increased childcare services. The city’s fertility rate of 0.75 in 2023 was among the lowest globally, below the replacement level of 2.1. Charity director Subrina Chow emphasized the need for government support in expanding childcare services to encourage more parents to join…

Hong Kong’s internet sensation, “Mr and Mrs Ho,” may have to vacate their public housing flat as authorities discovered that Mr Ho was not a registered tenant. The whirlwind romance and marriage between the 76-year-old Hongkonger and his 43-year-old mainland Chinese wife raised questions about their eligibility for the public housing. The couple flaunted their wealth on TV, triggering suspicions, and an investigation by housing authorities ensued. Mrs. Ho, who recently moved in, had not been included in a government asset declaration drive launched in April. The Housing Department stressed the importance of adding non-household members to the tenancy. Failure…

In a time of unrest and uncertainty, the Hong Kong Muslim community leader, Adeel Malik, urges calm and advises community members worldwide to stay composed and non-provocative in the face of potential conflict. Hong Kong Muslim council leader Adeel Malik, who now lives in the UK, at the Kowloon Mosque and Islamic Centre in Tsim Sha. Photo: Nora Tam Malik reveals how his son’s activities at a mosque were disrupted due to planned protests in the area, leading the family to avoid crowded spots for safety concerns. Chinese citizens in Hong Kong remain largely unfazed by the unrest, with some…

The Hong Kong health bureau is taking steps to integrate traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) into its healthcare system. They are working with insurance industry and Chinese Medicine Hospital operators to include TCM services in the voluntary health insurance scheme. The bureau is closely monitoring the scheme’s implementation and market response, with plans to review its direction as the market matures. The aim is to maximize the protective role of the scheme while considering its impact on policyholders and premiums. Herb and spices used in traditional Chinese medicine. Hong Kong s taking steps to integrate TCM into its healthcare system. Photo:…

Vivian Kong, a beloved athlete known for her strength, humility, and grace, has captured the hearts of many with her talent and kind spirit. From excelling academically to pursuing international relations and law, Kong has proven herself to be a true renaissance woman. Her dedication to promoting positivity, philanthropy, and environmental awareness has further endeared her to the public. Despite facing injuries and setbacks, Kong’s resilience and self-discipline have always propelled her to overcome challenges. Her recent gold medal win at the Paris Games was a testament to her unwavering determination and unwavering spirit. Vivian Kong with her gold medal…

Hong Kong recently launched its first community care teams specifically catering to ethnic minority groups, with a substantial annual budget of HK$110 million. The government aims to help these residents integrate more effectively into society to unlock their potential. The city’s Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu introduced this initiative to support the 300,000 ethnic minority residents in Hong Kong. These new teams, comprised mostly of ethnic minority members, will operate under service centers to assist households, provide government information, and connect residents with public services. Two additional teams are expected to be established, bringing the total number of care teams…