Chief Executive Lee Ka-chiu Compares Governance to Farming, Reviews Four Years of Work

With the fourth anniversary of his tenure approaching on July 1, Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu yesterday posted a video on social media in which he compared governance to farming, stating that it requires “deep ploughing and careful cultivation”. The post, titled “Deep Ploughing, Careful Cultivation – Seizing the Momentum (Part 1),” reviews the past four years of governance through four stages: turning the soil, sowing seeds, cultivating, and harvesting.

Lee explained that “turning the soil” means identifying problems and reform methods during governance, removing obstacles, overcoming difficulties and challenges, and improving the system. “Sowing seeds” involves identifying direction and introducing different policies to establish future development directions, while “cultivation” and “harvesting” mean helping citizens in need and seeing results.

He emphasized that governance must ultimately benefit the public, and “deep ploughing and careful cultivation” is not a matter of just one or two years. The government has become a “results-oriented” team, continuously changing its governance culture, fully leveraging the advantages of “one country, two systems,” building a solid national security barrier, and breaking down vested interests to benefit citizens.

Regarding land and housing, Lee said the government has taken a multi-pronged approach to shorten the average waiting time for public rental housing from 6.1 years to 4.7 years – the lowest in over eight years. Nearly 10,000 households have moved into “light public housing,” and the government is working to phase out substandard subdivided flats while stabilizing the property market. He also noted that the government has implemented targeted poverty alleviation, identifying those most in need, and has introduced multiple labor rights measures.

Lee revealed that the government is expediting the formulation of Hong Kong’s first “five-year plan,” which will clearly articulate development visions and strategic directions for the next five years, and public consultation has already begun. He stressed that the plan belongs to all Hong Kong citizens and will bring practical benefits across multiple levels. He expressed confidence that with the spirit of “deep ploughing and careful cultivation,” Hong Kong will surely reap even more fruitful results in the future.

International Dragon Boat Invitational Celebrates Golden Jubilee, World Dragon Boat Federation Headquarters Officially Lands in Hong Kong

The “Sun Life Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Invitational Race” is being held over two days (June 27-28) at the Tsim Sha Tsui East waterfront, featuring over 220 teams with more than 4,500 athletes from 16 countries and regions competing in 21 events.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the Hong Kong International Dragon Boat Invitational Race. Hong Kong Tourism Board Chairman Peter Lam Kin-ngok said at the opening ceremony that this year’s event is grand in scale, and the tourism board will continue to organize promotional activities, hoping to let visitors “shop happily, play to their hearts’ content, and spend more”.

The China Hong Kong Dragon Boat Association Chairman Chung Chi-lok announced at the opening ceremony that the World Dragon Boat Federation headquarters has officially been established in Hong Kong, cementing the city’s position as the birthplace of modern dragon boat sport. This year’s race has set a new participation record, gathering teams from 16 countries and regions. Two highlight events have been specially arranged: the “50th Anniversary Fishermen’s Cup” invites six local fishermen’s teams from Aberdeen, Chai Wan, and other areas to compete in traditional wooden dragon boats; and the “50th Anniversary Championship” brings together champions from nine major events to vie for the title of “Ultimate Dragon King”.

The first-time Indonesian team KDB Jakarta Dragon Boat Club expressed excitement, describing Hong Kong as the “mecca” of dragon boat racing. A team member said the biggest challenge is competing against experienced masters from around the world, but it is also a rare opportunity to challenge themselves.

The Tsim Sha Tsui waterfront was crowded with spectators and tourists. Mr. Wong, a local resident, said he came specifically after learning about the race through the news. Mr. Chan, who brought his children to watch, described the atmosphere as good with favorable weather. Another Mr. Chan, who works in Hong Kong, said he had participated in the Dragon Boat Festival at the waterfront last week but there were no races then, so he came specially today with friends.

PLA Hong Kong Garrison Opens Barracks to Public

To celebrate the 29th anniversary of Hong Kong’s return to China, the People’s Liberation Army Hong Kong Garrison is holding open days at its barracks. The Ngong Shuen Chau Barracks was open on June 20 and 21, while the Shek Kong and San Wai Barracks are open today and yesterday (June 27-28). Activities include flag-raising ceremonies, military demonstrations, equipment displays, training experiences, and cultural performances.

At the San Wai Barracks, one visitor dressed her child in the style of the older generation of PLA soldiers. Ms. Ng told Wen Wei Po: “My grandfather was actually a PLA soldier of the older generation. The badges on my child are actually commemorative medals my grandfather received when he joined the army”. The patriotic sentiment spanning four generations flowed warmly through the barracks.

Wang Fai Court Acquisition Plan Becomes Clearer – Over 75% of Owners Confirm Sale Intentions

Seven months after the tragic fire at Tai Po’s Wang Fai Court, the long-term housing arrangements for residents are becoming clearer. The government announced that over 75% of owners across all eight blocks (totaling nearly 2,000 households) have confirmed their intention to sell their properties to the authorities, indicating that most residents hope to resettle as soon as possible and return to normal life.

The first deadline for Wang Fai Court owners to sell their properties is set for June 30. In response to demands from many residents of Wang Chi Court to be included in the government’s acquisition scope, the authorities announced in late April that if at least three-quarters of owners confirm their intention to sell to the government by June 30, the long-term resettlement plan would be extended to Wang Chi Court. Currently, 77.8% of Wang Chi Court owners have signed and submitted “letters accepting the acquisition offer,” while 78.4% of owners in the other seven blocks have also expressed their intention to sell.

The entire Wang Fai Court comprises 1,984 households. The government’s proposal to acquire all units requires significant funding – including Wang Chi Court, the estimated total amount reaches HK$7.8 billion, and after deducting donations from various sources, it is still expected to require HK$5 billion in public funds. The authorities are acquiring unsubsidized and subsidized units at HK$8,000 and HK$10,500 per square foot respectively, approximately 30% higher than the pre-fire valuation.

Ming Pao editorial noted that for the more than 20% of owners who have not yet accepted the government’s acquisition offer, the authorities should continue sincere communication and patient explanation, resolving issues through persuasion whenever possible, with compulsory acquisition by legislation as a last resort. Deputy Financial Secretary Huang Wailun said the current stage still envisions the government acquiring units from owners through mutual consent.

Kwun Tong Yue Man Square Road Closure Marks Final Phase of Redevelopment

The Kwun Tong town centre redevelopment project continues to advance. The Yue Man Square and Tung Yan Street carriageways were officially closed from midnight today to facilitate the final phase of underground utility diversion works for the Urban Renewal Authority’s “Kwun Tong Town Centre 2.0” project. Some citizens came specially in the evening to take photos as mementos. After the last taxi drove into Yue Man Square, workers began placing water barriers and setting up temporary fencing from midnight.

Following the road closure, multiple public transport arrangements took effect simultaneously. Eighteen bus routes, two minibus routes, and cross-border buses terminating at Yue Man Square will be rerouted. The taxi stand originally located at Yue Man Square will also be closed. To facilitate citizens commuting between Kwun Tong MTR Station and the new bus and minibus stops on Hip Wo Street, a temporary pedestrian passage will be opened in the middle section of Tung Yan Street.

Sun Yuk-han on Baby Protection Order: Acting in the Infant’s Best Interests

Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han reiterated yesterday on RTHK’s “Saturday Questions” program that the Social Welfare Department’s application for a protection order for the infant Danny was made in the infant’s best interests. A multi-professional case conference was held beforehand, and professionals unanimously agreed that the case involved neglect.

Sun said the court had previously issued a three-year protection order regarding the infant’s situation. He explained that the authorities had difficulty contacting the parents over the past period, and they failed to meet the authorities’ expectations by providing contact information and proof, making it impossible for SWD staff to feel assured that they could properly care for the infant.

When asked whether the authorities would use the full three-year term, Sun said if the situation changes, they could apply to the court to shorten the protection order, but this must be based on professional judgment and consideration of the infant’s interests. Parental visitation arrangements will currently remain at once per week and can be reviewed later.

Regarding the double-elder murder-suicide case in Lai King Estate last week, where the two individuals were not included in the Care Team’s visitation scope because they were under 80, Sun emphasized that the visitation criteria are determined by the authorities, not the Care Teams. The authorities have already lowered the visitation threshold for elderly singleton households to 75 and will further reduce it to 70 in the future. He also said the authorities will work with the Hospital Authority to identify families with members suffering from cognitive impairment or serious illnesses, and these will be classified as high-risk groups regardless of age.

First Half Investment Promotion Exceeds HK$53 Billion, Economy Shows Strong Growth

The InvestHK recently held its annual welcome reception for international and mainland enterprises establishing operations in Hong Kong, releasing the first-half 2026 investment promotion results on-site. From January to date, InvestHK has assisted 413 overseas and mainland enterprises in setting up or expanding businesses in Hong Kong. These enterprises are expected to bring over HK$53 billion in foreign direct investment, representing a 36% year-on-year increase, and create more than 8,600 new jobs in Hong Kong.

Acting Financial Secretary Huang Wailun said Hong Kong’s economy recorded 5.9% GDP growth in the first quarter of this year – the highest in nearly five years. Even in the face of global uncertainties, enterprises can still explore new opportunities, driving growth in exports, tourism, and retail sectors.

Government statistics show that in May 2026, Hong Kong’s overall exports surged 40.8% year-on-year, while imports rose 42.0%. In the IMD World Competitiveness Ranking 2026, Hong Kong rose to second place globally, with the “government efficiency” indicator continuing to rank among the top.

Police Dismantle Credit Card Theft Syndicate, Arrest 4 Ringleaders

Police have dismantled a credit card theft syndicate, conducting a two-day operation (June 26-27) and arresting four core members – three men and one woman aged 32 to 61 – on suspicion of “theft” and “obtaining property by deception”. The syndicate is linked to at least 12 cases on Hong Kong Island, with losses amounting to HK$2 million.

Police said the theft syndicate had been active since last month, targeting citizens in public places who placed their personal belongings beside them while engaging in other activities. The suspects would steal credit cards when victims were not paying attention and then return other items to their original positions. Police believe the operation has successfully dismantled a recently active credit card theft syndicate. Police reminded citizens to take good care of their valuables.

Tuen Mun “Letter Thieves” Arrested – Used Chopsticks to Steal from Mailboxes

A “letter theft gang” has appeared in Tuen Mun. Three individuals entered the lobby of an industrial building in the early morning hours and used chopsticks to steal multiple letters from mailboxes. The approximately four-minute process was captured by the building’s CCTV and went viral on social media. After investigation, police arrested two individuals the day before yesterday.

In the video, a woman in black clothing can be seen using chopsticks to reach into the mailbox and pull out multiple letters, handing them to accomplices for inspection – a very skilled technique. A cheque worth HK$8,000 stolen from the letters was subsequently cashed. Police are still pursuing one male accomplice who remains at large.

Ta Kwu Ling Transitional Housing Arson Case Under Investigation

A fire broke out at the “Pok Oi Sing Ping Village” transitional housing project in Ta Kwu Ling, New Territories North, last night. A fire hose reel glass box in the village suddenly caught fire. After investigation, firefighters deemed the cause suspicious. Police have launched an investigation, and no arrests have been made so far. The fire was reported at 10:19 pm on Saturday (June 27). No injuries were reported and no evacuation was required.

Tuen Mun Lung Kwu Tan Villa Burglarized, HK$400,000 in Property Stolen

A burglary occurred in Tuen Mun’s Lung Kwu Tan. At 8:51 pm on Saturday (June 27), police received a report from a 39-year-old female resident surnamed Chan. She discovered that a window of her detached house on Lung Kwu Tan Road had been pried open and the interior showed signs of ransacking, suspected to have been burglarized. Stolen items include two luxury watches, four designer handbags, jewelry, and cash totaling approximately HK$400,000.

Mong Kok Man Perches on Footbridge, Fire Services Deploy Air Cushion

A suspected suicide attempt occurred in Mong Kok. At around 2 am today (June 28), a man climbed to the outside of the pedestrian footbridge crossing Nathan Road at Mong Kok Road and stood precariously on the edge, reportedly drinking and smoking. Police and firefighters arrived at the scene, with firefighters deploying an air cushion on the ground as a precaution. Negotiators were called in for persuasion. After persuasion by rescue personnel, the man returned to safety on his own and was taken to hospital by ambulance in a conscious state for examination.

Hung Hom Residential Building Fire Suspected Caused by Electrical Short Circuit

A fire broke out in a residential building on Tsz Yan Street in Hung Hom last night. A storage room on the ground floor of Kiu Wai Building at 6 Tsz Yan Street suddenly caught fire and emitted thick smoke. The incident occurred at around 11 pm on Saturday (June 27). Multiple residents reported the fire. Firefighters arrived and quickly extinguished the blaze. After investigation, firefighters suspected the fire was caused by an electrical short circuit. Several residents of the building evacuated to safety on their own, and no injuries were reported.

Ming Pao Editorial: Medical Council Reform Takes a Step Forward, Hopes to Break Down Entrenched Interests

Ming Pao’s editorial today noted that the government is amending regulations to reform the Medical Council, including increasing the proportion of lay members and reforming the complaint handling mechanism. The bill will be given its first reading in the Legislative Council early next month.

The editorial pointed out that Hong Kong’s healthcare industry regulation follows the principle of “professional autonomy,” with the industry regulating itself. However, the Medical Council has repeatedly been embroiled in controversies over “doctors protecting doctors,” raising questions about its impartiality.

The government’s latest reform proposal still has an insufficient proportion of lay members, but at least it takes a step forward in diversifying the Medical Council’s composition. The complaint handling and appeal mechanisms are also more reasonable than before. The editorial expressed hope that the reform can effectively break down the entrenched interests within the industry and reverse years of accumulated problems. “Professional autonomy must be built on self-discipline and must also accept social supervision,” the editorial emphasized. The latest reform recommendations reflect that the authorities are attempting to address the root causes, with greater force than previous reforms.

Hong Kong Economic Journal Editorial: Redefining Success Criteria for Housing Policy

The Hong Kong Economic Journal’s editorial today noted that against the backdrop of generally improving living quality in major global cities, Hong Kong’s stagnation is particularly glaring. The root of the problem lies in the government’s long-standing reliance on the number of new units built as the primary indicator of housing policy effectiveness, rather than living quality.

Since the Hong Kong government intends to abandon its previous positive non-interventionist approach and intervene in the market proactively, it should redefine the success criteria for housing policy and translate policy objectives into quantifiable and accountable specific indicators. The five-year plan should clearly establish a timeline and implementation path for improving per capita living space, including phased implementation arrangements and corresponding accountability mechanisms.