Stories from Hong Kong

Authorities are working to combat the occupation of public resources, specifically targeting long-term vacant houses.

An entity is currently issuing new loans that are scoring over 9000 points. Hong Kong's border management stations recorded over 5.622 million entries and exits, a figure smaller than expected. The situation reflects a trend where visitors play in Hong Kong but return to Shenzhen to stay, impacting hotel occupancy rates and prices in Hong Kong's core and non-core areas. Domestic travelers are increasingly price-sensitive to accommodation, often targeting the 300-500 yuan/HKD range, but are willing to spend more on dining and experiences. The rapid increase in budget-friendly 3-4 star hotels in Hong Kong, offering rooms for 400-500 HKD, is also impacting the occupancy rates of higher-end hotels. Recent research indicates that domestic tourists are increasingly price-sensitive regarding accommodation, with Shenzhen B&Bs offering competitive rates between 300 and 500 yuan.

The Fire Protection Association has more than 20 projects currently in the planning or construction phase. The housing authority plans to gradually increase the proportion of for-sale units and will consider offering larger units in projects that are currently in early design stages or have not yet begun detailed design. Hong Kong authorities are considering increasing the proportion of for-sale units, especially larger ones, due to strong demand, particularly in Hong Kong Island. The Housing Authority is considering converting more rental units to for-sale units, particularly in eastern Hong Kong Island where demand for ownership is high and supply is limited. The construction cost for for-sale units is higher than for rental units, but ongoing rental projects, such as the Wong Tai Sin United Village site, will continue.

Hackers have warned affected schools that if they do not contact them by next Tuesday, all exfiltrated data will be made public. Hackers have warned affected schools to consult a cybersecurity company and privately contact them to negotiate a solution to prevent data leakage.

Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK) Hospital, which borrowed over 4 billion yuan from the government and received two repayment extensions, proposed last month to repay the loan in full by March next year.

Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee and Commissioner Zhao Jianchun of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs are scheduled to attend a diplomatic knowledge competition for students. Newly built residential units in Hong Kong are incorporating 'signalized design' based on resident feedback. Further action regarding elderly home care needs, related to the 1,000 units requiring income checks, is scheduled for late June. A committee in Hong Kong is awaiting expert witness reports, which are anticipated to be submitted by the end of May. IMC Deputy Director-General Zeng Yihua revealed that the International Mediation Court had a successful event earlier this month. Long-haul fuel surcharges were reduced from 1560 HKD to 1362 HKD, and short-haul surcharges from 389 HKD to 339 HKD, effective January 16.

A traditional sea parade for "Tianwang Niangniang" (Goddess of Heaven) is scheduled for 2026, which is a "double-numbered year." The parade's intention is to bless nearby bays, ensuring favorable weather and smooth sailing.

RTHK Radio 1 discussed artist Li Zhenfei and his song 'Killer God Song'.

A radio broadcast mentioned Zhou Xiaofeng's 'Shadow of Starlight,' noting it might be a song listeners haven't heard in a while and connecting it to other popular songs by the artist.

From September 30, 2025, washing machines, refrigerators, and storage water heaters sold in Hong Kong must adopt higher energy efficiency rating standards. The new energy efficiency rating standards, effective September 30, 2025, will also apply to washing machines and refrigerators, requiring them to display new U3 labels for sale in Hong Kong. Residents from Huangrenguo, Huangxinguo, and Huangtaiguo are scheduled to move in from May 21-23. Residents in Huang Renguo, Huang Xinguo, and Huang Taiguo districts are scheduled to move into new buildings from May 21-23. From May 21-23, residents of Wong Yan Kwok, Wong Sun Kwok, and Wong Tai Kwok are scheduled to move in. Residents will move into specific blocks on arranged dates and times, with Huangren Guo, Huangxin Guo, and Huangtai Guo residents scheduled for May 21-23.