February 23, 2026 Legislative Council Member (Election Committee) Chen Chung-nin .Rock of the DAB appeared today on the footbridge of the East Wing of the Central Government Offices in Admiralty, dressed as a ship captain with a captain’s hat and a ship’s wheel prop. He was promoting the government’s newly established “Go Global Program for Mainland Enterprises” and its one-stop platform, urging Mainland enterprises to leverage Hong Kong’s advantages to “ride the waves” into the international market and capture more business opportunities. During the event,Rock Chen’s role as a captain symbolized Hong Kong’s position as a navigator and the best port of departure for Mainland enterprises to “go global via Hong Kong.” He pointed out that while there is strong demand for Mainland enterprises to expand overseas, they often face obstacles related to international law, accounting, finance, and certification. With its status as an international financial center, common law system, sophisticated capital market, and its advantage as the largest offshore RMB hub, Hong Kong is the premier gateway for Mainland enterprises. The platform provides integrated support, including cross-border finance, legal arbitration, establishment of regional headquarters, market development, and brand building. It can also assist enterprises with listing in Hong Kong to broaden their financing channels, creating business opportunities for Hong Kong’s commercial sector in the process. Rock Chen mentioned that in the face of rising geopolitical risks, Mainland enterprises need to actively “go global” to diversify risks. He encouraged them to seize the policy tailwind of the nation’s “Belt and Road” initiative to develop emerging markets such as ASEAN, the Middle East, and Africa, thereby reducing their dependence on any single market. He thanked the Chief Executive for accepting his proposal on May 29 of last year to integrate the resources of Invest Hong Kong, the Trade Development Council (TDC), and the Mainland offices to form a one-stop platform and a dedicated program to assist Mainland enterprises in using Hong Kong’s professional services to “go global.” Media Inquiries: Legislative Council Member Chen Chung-nin, Rock5398 3885

January 7,2026 On January 7, more than 20 students and involved staff from a university in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) visited the Legislative Council Complex. Under the arrangement by The DAB EMC, a guided tour was provided for the group of students in the Legislative Council Complex, and met with several DAB Legislative Council members, including EMC’s Chairman, Mr. Vincent Cheng for a sharing session. Other Legislative Council members, Ms. Nixie Lam, Ms. Elaine Chik, and Vice-Chairman of Young DAB, Ms. Elaine Shiu also participated in the meeting. The DAB has consistently supported establishing connections between Hong Kong and the Middle East, as well as countries under the Belt and Road Initiative, promoting exchanges and interactions in business, trade, talent, and tourism fields. In previous years, the DAB also advocated for Hong Kong’s development as a Muslim-friendly tourist city, welcoming people from relevant regions to visit Hong Kong, to explore business opportunities, or seek collaboration. As an international education hub, Hong Kong also welcomes overseas students to study in the city. The guided tour in the Legislative Council Complex for the group of students from the Business Administration faculty and its dean, Narjess Boubakri was led by Legislative Council members Mr. Vincent Cheng, Ms. Nixie Lam and Ms. Elaine Chik. Learning about the daily operations of the Legislative Council and its history, allowing them to first-handedly experience the environment of Hong Kong’s governmental and legislative work. During the meeting, Mr. Vincent Cheng introduced more about DAB’s development and Hong Kong’s economic and industrial landscape to the students and staff. As most of the students were visiting Hong Kong for the first time, they enjoyed the provided halal refreshments and actively asked questions. Many inquired about Hong Kong’s economic and industrial development, the Muslim population, Muslim-friendly policies, and work-life balance practices in Hong Kong. Mr. Vincent Cheng noted that Hong Kong has a significant Muslim population, with some families having lived in the city for many generations. As a place where Eastern and Western cultures converge, Hong Kong is well-suited for Muslims or individuals from abroad to live and work in the city. He hopes that Hong Kong would attract more investment and tourists from regions such as the Middle East in the future, fostering greater exchanges and cooperation. Ms. Nixie Lam welcomed the UAE students to explore development opportunities in Hong Kong, including visiting the Greater Bay Area. She mentioned that Hong Kong is actively developing its Muslim tourism market, with its own halal certification body, with nearly 200 certified halal restaurants. Ms. Elaine Chik had expressed great encouragement for UAE students to seek opportunities in Hong Kong after graduation, highlighting the city’s numerous development prospects for young people.

14 August 2025 The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) strongly condemns the US Government and is resolutely opposed to the U.S. State Department's release of the "2024 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices," which slanders Hong Kong's national security laws and smears Hong Kong's human rights and rule of law situation. Since the enactment of the Hong Kong National Security Law and the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance, the rights and freedoms enjoyed by Hong Kong residents, organizations, and institutions in accordance with the law have been fully safeguarded. Our robust rule-of-law, market-oriented, and internationalized business environment under "One Country, Two Systems" continues to attract global capital. In the first half of this year, Hong Kong's IPO market raised over HK$100 billion, ranking first globally in fundraising scale. This not only consolidates Hong Kong's status as Asia's financial hub, but also makes it the preferred destination for high-quality enterprises and capital worldwide – reflecting the international community's full recognition and confidence in "One Country, Two Systems" and Hong Kong's secure investment environment. Therefore, the U.S.'s repeated groundless remarks about Hong Kong's situation through its so-called annual human rights report, serves as an blatant attempt to interfere in Hong Kong's governance and undermine our rule of law and social prosperity and stability, represents a malicious scheme of vilification and attacks against Hong Kong, such barbarous effort is, however, doomed to fail. Notwithstanding that the U.S. Government imposes utterly unscrupulous sanctions and suppression against our nation's development and Hong Kong's prosperity and stability, and no matter how barbarous they are to us, the DAB will resolutely and and steadfastly support the SAR Government in fulfilling its constitutional duty to safeguard national security. This includes effectively preventing, prohibiting, and punishing acts and activities that endanger national security in accordance with the law, while safeguarding Hong Kong residents' rights and freedoms under the legal system. The information contained in this message or any of its attachments may be privileged or confidential, and intended for the exclusive use of the addressee. If you are not the intended recipient, any disclosure, reproduction, distribution or other dissemination or use of this communication is strictly prohibited. If you have received this transmission in error, please notify the sender by return e-mail and remove the information together with all copies from your system. Internet communications cannot be guaranteed to be timely, secure, error or virus-free; thereby, the sender does not accept liability for any lost or damage caused therefrom.

July 6, 2024   To celebrate the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) is hosting the subject exhibition. The opening ceremony was held this afternoon, officiated by Chief Secretary for Administration Mr. Eric Chan Kwok-ki,   Deputy Commissioner, Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr. Pan Yun-dong, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau Ms. Christile Drulhe, Executive Director of Sino Group Mr. Victor Tin Sio-un, Director of Swire Group Mr. Augustus Tang,  Professor Tam Siu-cheung, DAB Chairperson The Hon Gary Chan Hak-kan, DAB Party Affairs Advisor The Hon Starry Lee Wai-king and Tam Yiu-chung, DAB Vice Chairperson and Chairperson of the Liaison Committee The Hon Holden Chow and DAB Vice Chairpersons The Hon. Elizabeth Quat and Ben Chan.   Chief Secretary for Administration Mr. Eric Chan remarked that the exhibition holds triple significance: it highlights Hong Kong's unique position under "One Country, Two Systems" as a gateway connecting China with the world, providing citizens and visitors with an accessible understanding of how China and France have established a comprehensive strategic partnership; it promotes the relationship between Hong Kong and France, drawing lessons from the mutual understanding and cooperation between China and France in areas such as trade and culture to deepen connections; and it expands patriotic education, helping citizens better understand China's diplomatic achievements and thus strengthen national identity.   Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau Ms. Christile Drulhe stated that Chinese President Xi Jin-ping’s state visit to France in May this year further deepened bilateral relations. She also thanked the DAB for organizing the exhibition to celebrate this significant day marking the 60th anniversary of China-France diplomatic relations.    In his speech, DAB Chairperson Gary Chan noted that China and France have continuously cooperated in social and cultural exchanges, with Hong Kong serving as a meeting point for Eastern and Western cultures. He highlighted the "Le French May" art festival held annually in Hong Kong as one of the largest cultural events in Asia.   Gary Chan added that post-reform, one of DAB's key focuses has been "Connecting the World." The exhibition aims to contribute to Sino-French people-to-people exchanges. He emphasized the educational significance of the exhibition, noting that a group of primary school students from A.D. & F.D. of Pok Oi Hospital Mrs. Cheng Yam On School, led by their principal, were invited to attend the event, allowing the younger generation to learn about Chinese and French history.   After the opening ceremony, the officiating guests listened to a presentation by Holden Chow, Vice Chairman of DAB, on key exhibits. These included early studies of the Chinese ancient masterpiece“Classic of Changes”(易經) by French missionary Joachim Bouvet, showcasing the influence of ancient Chinese philosophy on subsequent European scientific development, and the presentation of French state gift to China in 2019 where French President Emmanuel Macron presented a French edition of the 1688 “The Introduction to the Analects” to President Xi Jin-ping.   Holden Chow added that over 150 guests attended today’s opening ceremony, which positively demonstrates Hong Kong’s role in connecting with the world and showcasing the history of Sino-French cultural exchanges to international visitors.   “The 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of China-France Diplomatic Relations - Evolving Cities: Beijing & Paris" exhibition is organized by the DAB and Professor Tam Siu-cheung, with special thanks to Sino Group, the Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation, and Swire Group as co-organizers, as well as full support from Sun Hung Kai Properties, Central Plaza, and Mr. Shum Mak-ling.   The exhibition features over 80 exhibits, including ancient maps of Beijing and Paris, historical photos of China and France, and an antique music box from the reign of Napoleon IV. The exhibition runs from today until August 4th on the 46th floor of Central Plaza and is free to the public.     “The 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of China-France Diplomatic Relations Evolving Cities: Beijing & Paris” exhibition July 6 – Aug 4, 2024 10AM – 7PM 46/F., Central Plaza, 18 Harbour Road, Wan Chai, Hong Kong Organizer DAB Prof. Tam Siu-cheung Co-organizer Sino Group Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation Swire Group Acknowledgement Sun Hung Kai Properties Central Plaza Mr. Shum Mak-ling Fee Free Enquiries 3582 1111 Group reservation

April 1, 2025 The Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) members, led by DAB Vice Chairpersons Chan Yung, Holden Chow, and Chan Hok Fung, along with Secretary-General Chris Ip Ngo Tung, Deputy Secretary-General Terry Yip, Legislative Council members Frankie Ngan, Edward Leung, and Nixie Lam Lam, alongside district councilors, stage a protest outside the U.S. Consulate General Hong Kong & Macau today and express their unwavering opposition to the United States' overt interference in Hong Kong SAR and China's internal affairs, particularly in light of the recent announcement by the U.S. State Department regarding the so-called "sanctions" against six officials of the Hong Kong government and the central government's agencies. The release of the so-called "2025 Hong Kong Policy Act Report" further distorts the reality on the ground, forming an unfounded and illegitimate intervention that undermines the fundamental spirit of international relations and international law. It is imperative that the U.S. refrains from engaging in underhanded political tactics. Since the implementation of the Hong Kong National Security Law, there has been a significant enhancement in the national security legal framework, which has effectively fortified the region’s protection from external threats. Our reformed electoral system upholds the principle of "patriots administering Hong Kong," ensuring that governance lies in the hands of those who are genuinely committed to the prosperity and stability of the region. The Hong Kong police have rightfully taken action against criminals that seek to destabilize the nation, while the judicial system has adhered strictly to its duties, upholding judicial independence and impartiality in its operations. This commitment to the rule of law has led to an appreciation from the public and has contributed to a renewed stage of development in Hong Kong – which is able to deliver good governance Hong Kong’s stability translates to a solid foundation for its global business environment, fostering sustainable growth and guaranteeing the protection of citizens' rights and freedoms. These outcomes represent a successful application of the "One Country, Two Systems" policy – a framework that is increasingly recognized internationally. Just to add a note here, up to this month, Hong Kong ranks the 3rd again in global financial centres ranking. That certainly serves as a proof of our comeback Efforts by the U.S. to manipulate this narrative are futile and cannot undermine the achievements made thus far. We warn U.S. Secretary of State Rubio and other officials against their wrongdoings. The sanctions imposed by the U.S. are ill-intentioned political maneuvers , which is doomed to fail. In conclusion, Hong Kong affairs are unequivocally China’s internal affairs. External forces have no rightful claim to interfere. We urge the U.S. to immediately stop its meddling in Hong Kong SAR and China’s internal matters, and to adhere to norms of international law and respect for sovereignty.

December 2, 2024 The DAB's Liaison Committee held an engaging Christmas reception on the evening of November 29 at Lan Kwai Fong in Central, welcoming representatives from foreign business chambers and expatriates in Hong Kong. The Vice Chairman and Chairperson of the Liaison Committee, Legislative Councilor Holden Chow, addressed the audience, highlighting the DAB's ongoing reform initiatives under the leadership of Chairman Gary Chan. Chow emphasized the importance of harnessing the edge of "One Country, Two Systems" to strengthen people-to-people exchanges and deepen economic and trade connections between the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) and foreign jurisdictions. Chow noted that this year has proven fruitful for the DAB's effort in "Connecting the World." Notable events included the hosting of a special summer session on the Xia Shang Zhou exhibition, which allowed foreign business representatives and consuls in Hong Kong to gain insights into ancient Chinese civilization. This was followed by a successful exhibition commemorating 60 years of Sino-French diplomatic relations, aimed at enhancing the awareness of Hong Kong residents regarding the historical development of friendly ties between China and France. Additionally, DAB's Liaison Committee led a delegation in September to Shantou, facilitating foreign business representatives' exploration of potential business opportunities there As an alumnus of the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE), Holden Chow invited a British undergraduate from LSE, who is currently participating in an exchange program in Hong Kong, to join the Christmas reception, further illustrating the diverse collaboration and engagement fostered by the DAB. Chow highlighted that attendees at the event came from 13 regions around the globe, including representatives from foreign enterprises in Hong Kong and the overseas Chinese diaspora. The DAB Liaison Committee is committed to continuing its mission to foster global connections, organizing more exchanges with foreign expatriates and business representatives to promote people-to-people exchanges and enhance economic and trade relationships between the HKSAR and various countries. The aim is to drive collective efforts across different sectors to leverage Hong Kong's strengths in connecting with the world and contribute to the country's progress. Joseph Chan, the Deputy Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury, addressed the audience by delivering an insightful overview of the local financial landscape and external trade circumstances. He asserted that Hong Kong is a vibrant city excelling in various financial sectors, including capital markets, risk management, and asset and wealth management, expressing optimism for the future development of the financial services industry in the coming year. He also praised the significance of the Christmas reception, which brought together elites from various sectors familiar with local affairs for meaningful business and cultural exchanges. The guests attending the Christmas reception included DAB Chairman Gary Chan; Deputy Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development Bernard Chan; Deputy Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury Joseph Chan; DAB Liaison Committee Vice-Chairperson Edward Leung; and Committee Vice-Chairperson Noel Shih. Additionally, Legislative Council Members Frankie Ngan, Stanley Li, Nixie Lam, Edmund Wong, and DAB Deputy Secretary- general, District Councilor Terry Yip were present, engaging in fruitful exchanges with participants throughout the event.

Oct 16, 2024 The DAB warmly welcomes and supports Chief Executive Mr. John Lee's 2024 Policy Address, believing it embodies the government's proactively flexible, innovative and prag matic spirit. The DAB agrees that the Policy Address actively and prudently advances development across all sectors, focusing on economic development to strengthen Hong Kong's international status in finance, shipping, and trade, and to transform Hong Kong into a hub for international high-calibre talent. These policy measures will promote new development opportunities and will further deepen reform comprehensively to advance Chinese modernization. The DAB gladly notes that Chief Executive Mr. John Lee has accepted our proposals, including developing the low-altitude economy, promoting the new energy economy, developing the "Northern Metropolis University Town," reducing liquor duty rate, transforming the Kai Tak Community Isolation Facility into a "Youth Post" hostel and spaces for cultural and art exchanges for youths, establishing the "Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board," streamlining the listing vetting procedures, and various measures to integrate into the national development. In terms of improving people’s livelihoods, we believe that the Policy Address is citizen-oriented, presenting various measures to address the difficulties faced by the people. We welcome these initiatives. Hong Kong is advancing from stability to prosperity and has fulfilled its constitutional responsibility to enact local legislation for Article 23 of the Basic Law. However, the work of safeguarding national security does not cease. To ensure effective prevention of external threats and elimination of internal risks, we support the measures proposed in the Policy Address, including training mentors for promoting national security, as well as conducting activities to promote patriotic education. These efforts aim to build a peaceful and stable social environment, ensuring the steadfast and successful implementation of "One Country, Two Systems." The DAB will fully support the Policy Address and fulfill our duties in the Legislative Council to assist in the timely and effective implementation of the policy measures proposed in the Policy Address for the benefit of the economy and people's livelihoods. Regarding the various measures in the Policy Address, DAB Legislative Council members have the following opinions: Mr. Gary Chan Hak Kan supports the proposals in the Policy Address to establish a green fuel bunkering centre, develop green fuel technology, and establish a green fuel reserve centre. He believes that these measures will greatly benefit both the aviation and shipping industries and will help leverage the country's development advantages in these areas and its leading position globally. He is also confident that when Hong Kong becomes a green fuel bunkering centre, it will help consolidate and enhance the city's status as a shipping and aviation hub. Additionally, the establishment of a demonstration base for green hydrogen production in Hong Kong will showcase the country's advanced technology through Hong Kong and enable institutions to utilize Hong Kong as a base for fundraising and financing. Ms. Starry Lee Wai King welcomes the alignment of the Policy Address with the "Resolution" passed at the Third Plenary Session and emphasizes Hong Kong's integration into national development and the Greater Bay Area, including initiatives to promote the development of the Hong Kong-Shenzhen I&T Park in the Loop and leverage the strengths of the GBA to expand capacity. Furthermore, regarding the Chief Executive's efforts to resume the "multiple-entry" Individual Visit Endorsement s for Shenzhen residents and expand the coverage of pilot cities for implementing policies on the "one trip per week" Individual Visit Endorsements, Ms. Starry Lee believes this will boost the retail and catering industries in Hong Kong and further stimulate the recovery of the tourism sector. Mr. Kennedy Wong Ying Ho believes that the Policy Address's acceptance of the DAB's proposal to reduce liq uor duty rate can boost Hong Kong's commerce, trading and tourism industries and position Hong Kong as a hub for the liquor trade in Asia, enhancing its competitiveness in the region while also balancing considerations for public health. We hope the government will leverage the attractiveness of adjusting liquor duty rate to invite mainland liquor producers to visit Hong Kong, explore opportunities for establishing sales outlets for exports, and collaborate under the "Mega Events" brand to host more international liquor exhibitions and related events. This will rapidly establish a platform for industry exchange and market promotion, driving the local catering and tourism sectors in a synergistic manner. Mr. Kennedy Wong also welcomes the government's increased support for small and medium enterprises, aiding them in t heir upgrading and transformation, including the re-launch of the principal moratorium, injecting HK$1 billion into the BUD Fund, and expanding the geographical subsidy coverage of the "E-commerce Easy" to include all ten ASEAN countries. Mr. Steven Ho Chun Yin points out that currently, Chinese liquor trade accounts for only 10% of Hong Kong's total liquor trade, suggesting significant room for market expansion in this area. He hopes that the government will strengthen its connections with relevant liquor traders. Ms Elizabeth Quat points out that the Policy Address has adopted a number of proposals from the DAB for the development of low-altitude economy, including establishing a Working Group on Developing Low-altitude Economy to initiate projects on low-altitude applications, designate specific venues for such purposes, formulate regulations and construction systems, draw up regulations and design the institutional set-up, study and map out plans to develop the required infrastructure and networks, and promote integration with the mainland. She believes this reflects the government's performance of being "pragmatic, innovative, and proactive." Furthermore, Ms Elizabeth Quat notes a series of policies in innovation and technology, which she believes will help attract more talent, funds, and businesses to settle in Hong Kong and drive the development of Hong Kong's innovation and technology sector. In terms of financial development, the Policy Address has accepted many proposals from the DAB, including simplifying the listin g procedures an d shortening the listing approval time. Regarding building an international gold trading market, Mr. Rock Chen Chung Nin emphasized the significance of this policy and believed that a gold trading centre could spur the development of related industry chain, ranging from investment transactions, derivatives, insurance, storage, to trading and logistic services. If Hong Kong can explore with the mainland authorities on the inclusion of gold-related products in the mutual market access, it has the opportunity to become the international gold pricing centre during the Asian trading hours. Creating a commodity trading ecosystem is not just about trading but also integrating the functions of commerce, trading, maritime, and financial centre within the same ecosystem, which is worth promoting and supporting. Mr. Holden Chow Ho Ting supports the establishment of the "Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board" and believes that in the long term, the authorities should consider enhancing the powers and functions of the "Hong Kong Maritime and Port Development Board" to elevate its status to a statutory body, effectively driving the overall development of the maritime and logistics industry. Mr. Frankie Ngan Man Yu welcomes the government's proactive response to the DAB's proposal to build Hong Kong into an international hub for high-calibre talent, including expanding the list of universities under the Top Talent Pass Scheme to 198 universities by adding 13 top Mainland and overseas universities, and updating the Talent List based on the needs of the "eight centres." These measures will help attract more outstanding talent to Hong Kong. Furthermore, Mr. Frankie Ngan points out that the government has also responded positively in terms of worker training, such as reforming the Employees Retraining Board, removing the academic qualification ceiling to allow more workers to participate in transformation and upgrading. He also supports the government's establishment of the "GBA Youth Employment Scheme" to lower the barriers for Hong Kong youth to work in the Greater Bay Area. Ms. Lillian Kwok Ling Lai supports the establishment of the "Committee on Education, Technology and Talents" and the introduction of a bill next year to amend the Post Secondary Colleges Ordinance to improve the regulatory and quality development mechanisms of self-financing post-secondary institutions. Additionally, Ms Lillian Kwok welcomes the government's proactive response to the content of patriotic education, incorporating suggestions on the curriculum framework. Furthermore, the government has also adopted the DAB's suggestions on student mental health, strengthening support for children and adolescents, including the extension and enhancement of the Three-Tier School-based Emergency Mechanism. Mr. Vincent Cheng Wing Shun commends the Policy Address for proposing a roadmap and timeline to bid farewell to subdivided units, and looks forward to promptly meeting with the authorities to discuss the execution and legislative details, including how to effectively eliminate substandard subdivided units, reasonably relocate affected residents, and establish standards for legal Basic Housing Units. Additionally, Mr. Vincent Cheng anticipates the prompt release of the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development, to implement the roles in various sectors of the arts and creative industries, as well as to announce governance reforms for national sports associations(NSAs). Mr. Chan Hok Fung supports allocating an extra ballot number for applicants who have failed to purchase a SSF in the last two consecutive sale exercises of the same type of SSF, believing that such measures can help young families better plan their homeownership plans. Furthermore, regarding the Housing Authority's review of the ratio between PRH and SSF, gradually adjusting from the current 7:3 to 6:4, Mr. Chan Hok Fung believes that in the long run, the authorities should abandon the ratio and instead adopt a "demand-driven" approach to determine the relevant unit supply to meet various housing needs of the public. Mr. Edward Lau Kwok Fan welcomes the government's acceptance of the DAB's proposal to adopt "a large-scale land-disposal approach" to expedite development of the Northern Metropolis and looks forward to further details on three land parcels, each occupying 10 to 20 hectares as pilot sites. Furthermore, he points out that the Development Bureau has request ed departments to ad opt a mindset of facilitating development and promoting cooperation, streamlining administrative procedures related to development. Therefore, he requests the authorities to publicly disclose simplified guidelines for   review by councillors and the public, aiming to enhance project development progress. In regards to improvement of district governance and implementation of the principle of patriots governing Hong Kong, Mr. Chan Yung supports the Policy Address for adopting the suggestions of the DAB to regularize funding for care teams and to increase the subsidy amount by 50% in the next allocation to support the work of care teams. Furthermore, in light of the upcoming 80th anniversary of commemorating Victory Day of Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese, both Mr. Chan Yung and Ms. Starry Lee hope that the government will enhance the promotion of patriotism education and celebratory activities. They also urge for the prompt selection of a site for the museum to showcase the development and achievements of our country, the launch of a series of exhibitions, and the introduction of historical paths of the war of resistance against Japanese. These initiatives are aimed at enabling students to understand the history of the war of resistance while fostering a sense of national identity.   Press enquiries: DAB Chairperson Mr. Gary Chan Hak Kan 2524 9191 / 5275 5581

July 2, 2024  This year marks the 60th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France. To celebrate this remarkable milestone, the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong (DAB) will hold the “The 60th Anniversary of the Establishment of China-France Diplomatic Relations - Evolving Cities: Beijing & Paris” exhibition from July 6 to August 4, on the 46th floor of Central Plaza. The exhibition is free of charge. DAB Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Liaison Committee, The Hon Holden Chow, who is in charge of steering the exhibition, said that the opening ceremony of the exhibition will be held in the afternoon of 6 July. Chief Secretary for Administration Eric Chan Kwok-ki, representative from the French Consulate General in Hong Kong, and representative from the Commissioner’s Office of China’s Foreign Ministry in the HKSAR will serve as officiating guests. Holden Chow noted that the exhibition will showcase over 80 exhibits, revisiting the old landscapes of Beijing and Paris and the cultural exchanges between China and France through Beijing antique maps, Chinese historical photographs, Paris antique maps, French historical photographs, and an antique music box of Napoleon IV. Among the exhibits, there is Chinese map jointly drawn by French missionaries such as Joachim Bouvet and Chinese astronomical and geographical officials, during the reign of Emperor Kangxi of the Qing Dynasty. Other exhibits showcase how French missionaries delved into the Chinese ancient masterpiece "Classic of Changes" （易經）as early as the 17th century, and the significant contributions of the Classic of Changes to French scientist and his published research paper subsequently in the early 18th century. France was the first Western country to establish diplomatic relations with the People's Republic of China. Against the backdrop of the Cold War at that time, this especially highlighted the wisdom, vision of the leaders of both countries. The exhibition also displays a timeline of major events in Sino-French diplomatic relations, the joint communique on the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and France, excerpts from leaders' speeches, and other content, allowing visitors to understand the major milestones in Sino-French diplomatic relations. Sino-French relations have always been playing a leading role in promoting mutual recognition of global civilizations, and is always at the forefront of diplomatic relations between China and Western countries. Holden Chow added that coinciding with the Olympics being held in Paris this year, the exhibition also displays historical photographs/news clippings of the 2008 Beijing Olympics, allowing everyone to relive the grand event of Beijing's successful hosting of the Olympics and also wishing the Paris Olympics a complete success. Since the latest reform of the DAB, "Connecting the World" has been one of our key mission. By organizing this exhibition, the DAB hopes to showcase the history and cultural exchanges between China and France to Hong Kong people, international visitors, and foreigners residing in Hong Kong through Hong Kong's status as an international cultural center. The exhibition will be held during the summer vacation. Holden Chow welcomed parents to bring their children to pay a visit to the exhibition, the exhibtion also serves a purpose of national education. The exhibition is co-organized by the DAB and Professor Tam Siu-cheung. Holden Chow expressed his deepest gratitude to Sino Group, Ng Teng Fong Charitable Foundation, and Swire Group for their support as co-organizers, and also extended special gratitude to Sun Hung Kai Properties, Central Plaza, and Mr. Shum Mak-ling for their support.

May 8, 2024 The MTR Yau Ma Tei Station has been in operation for more than 40 years since its opening, and the hangers at the top of the tunnel needed to be replaced. The MTR Corporation said today (8th) that train services on the Kwun Tong Line between Prince Edward, Mong Kok, Yau Ma Tei and Ho Man Tin stations will be suspended on July 28 (Sunday). The MTR Corporation will cooperate with KMB on that day to provide two free bus lines to provide services to passengers in Yau Ma Tei, Ho Man Tin and Whampoa districts. LegCo member and DAB spokesman for transport Ben Chan expressed that this arrangement was understandable. He urged the MTR to promote the arrangement, and raise publicity at the ports, to allow passengers to plan their routes in advance. The MTR should also post notices at the stations in advance about the arrangement on July 28. LegCo member Starry Lee pointed out that the residents of Ho Man Tin and Whampoa would be affected the most out of all the stations. She urged the MTR to work with the district council in advance to report the scope of the project and transportation arrangements to reduce the impact on residents. Media enquiries: LegCo member and DAB spokesman for transport Ben Chan (9274 7035) LegCo member Starry Lee (9457 9853)

May 7, 2024 Nixie Lam participated (on the 7th) in a forum commemorating the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Malaysia in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and promoted deeper exchanges from the political and business sectors. Nixie Lam stated that in recent years, the SAR government had actively promoted youth exchanges to the mainland and overseas, and there were at least 7 visiting groups to Malaysia every year, which were important measures to promote youth exchanges. Nixie Lam stated that Malaysians and Hong Kong people use Cantonese as medium of communication and have very similar preferences in popular culture and art. Hong Kong has an important role in promoting art in the Greater Bay Area, and Malaysians are welcome to Hong Kong to seek opportunities in art. Media enquiries: Nixie Lam 6344 0879

May 6, 2024 The DAB conducted a poll on the public’s level of Confidence on employment prospect by telephone mid last year. The poll revealed that 1) the respondents were satisfied with the current salary and benefits, but were not confident about future prospects; 2) the mid- to long-term unemployed became more confident in job finding despite their unemployment period was extended; 3) More than 85% of the respondents who were retired or housewives had no plans to return to the workforce within one year; 4) More than half of the respondents agreed to shorten the Working Family Allowance application period; 5) The respondents tended to support relaxing the academic requirements for the Employees Retraining Board courses. Recommendations: 1. Enhance the "Working Family Allowance Scheme" 2. Relax the academic requirements for Employees Retraining Board courses 3. Set up a talent shortage list and give allowances 4. Enhance training courses 5. Enhance the support of the Labor Department’s employment platform 6. Improve public childcare services to attract women to work full-time

May 6, 2024 The Companies Registry had an incident of personal data leakage after the Electrical and Mechanical Services Department had a similar incident. Panel on Information Technology and Broadcasting Chairman Elizabeth Quat stated that the incidents showed that cybersecurity and protection of personal privacy could be strengthened. She urged the responsible persons in the Government to take more secure measures to protect privacy of personal data and that relevant persons should be held accountable. Elizabeth Quat pointed out the leakage was due to poor management and human error. The DAB made these recommendations: 1. The authorities must conduct a thorough investigation hold relevant persons accountable; 2. If any negligence or violation of regulations is revealed, the relevant persons must be subject to disciplinary action; 3. The Government should perform personal data assessment and audit in IT projects to ensure that systems do not disclose excessive and unnecessary personal data to the public; and 4. In the future, the Digital Policy Office should closely monitor and safeguard against any cyber attacks and security threats, to issue warnings, and enhance adaptability of the Government departments and resistance against risks. Media enquiries: LegCo member Elizabeth Quat 9031 7995