April 10, 2024 A fire broke out in New Lucky House on Jordan Road, resulting in many casualties and a large number of residents being affected and required to be evacuated. Edward Leung served the Yau Tsim Mong community for many years, and he stated that DAB was active in providing assistance and liaising with hotels to provide free rooms for residents affected by the fire. Hotels which provided assistance included, Hilton Garden Inn Mongkok, The Mira Hotel, Holiday Inn Express Hong Kong Mongkok, Travelodge Kowloon, One Dundas Serviced Apartments. Edward Leung thanked the hotels for their assistance. His team would be in close contact with the District Offices to help affected residents. Media contact: LegCo member Edward Leung 9665 0660

April 9, 2024 LegCo member Lau Kwok-fan, together with tenant representatives from shopping malls and markets in housing estates in North District and Tin Shui Wai, met with the Assistant Director of Housing and the Chief Property Surveyor to express their opinions on rent matters. LegCo member Lau Kwok-fan urged the Housing Authority to revalue rents to help merchants tide over the difficulties. The Housing Department responded that it would strengthen promotion of shopping malls and markets and will revalue rents when the contracts would be renewed. LegCo member Lau Kwok-fan said: "High construction costs and rents made business environment difficult and hindered Hong Kong's overall competitiveness. I urge the government to lower construction costs and reduce rents, and ask the business to follow suit, in order allow merchants’  competitiveness and improve Hong Kong’s overall business environment. Media contact: LegCo member Lau Kwok-fan  9782 7408

March 21, 2024 The LegCo passed the Safeguarding National Security Ordinance unanimously and successfully enacted the Article 23, safeguarding national security and fulfilling its constitutional obligation.  The Hong Kong people had full confidence in this. The DAB opposed the  Foreign Secretary David Cameron’s smearing about the Article 23 legislation and defaming the democracy and rule of law in the Hong Kong SAR, and "one country, two systems". Safeguarding National Security Ordinance was carefully scrutinized. The offence components were clear, and punishments appropriate. The Ordinance respected and protected human rights, and safeguarded the rights and freedoms conferred by the Basic Law and relevant international conventions applicable to Hong Kong. The National Security in UK had many stringent provisions, including vaguely defined definitions and unclear enforcement powers. The British should reflect on its double standards. The core essence of the Sino-British Joint Declaration is about China's resumption of the exercise of sovereignty over Hong Kong. It did not authorise the UK to interfere in Hong Kong's affairs after its return to the motherland. We urge the British to abide by international law and basic norms of international relations, and stop interfering in Hong Kong affairs which are entirely China's internal affairs.

March 20, 2024 We collected views of citizens on  " Tenants Purchase Scheme Re-launch”and conducted a survey in the housing estates in early March and successfully received 3,648 responses. The poll results showed that the respondents had consensus over " Tenants Purchase Scheme Re-launch”. More than 90% (93.7%) of the respondents supported the scheme. More than 80% (85.5%) of the respondents said that they would consider purchasing the property they lived in if the scheme was re-launched. The poll results showed that the citizens had a clear view. We recommended that the Government considered the " Tenants Purchase Scheme Re-launch”. We propose to enhanced the old scheme and launch 2.0 version. We also propose to suspend the Green Form Subsidised Home Ownership Scheme, and the units be used for rental purposes, to optimize the use of resources and increase housing supply, while balancing the needs of public housing residents and the waiting list applicants.

March 19, 2024 Nearly 27 years after Hong Kong returned to the motherland, the LegCo passed the "Safeguarding National Security Ordinance" today. This was an event of important historical significance. All DAB LegCo members voted unanimously in support of the ordinance. We were deeply honored to be able to participate in this important legislation and fulfill our constitutional responsibilities under the Basic Law. During the scrutiny of the ordinance, we carefully reviewed it and put forward many opinions on the original intention of the legislation, the definition of crime, the proportionality of crime and punishment, and whether there was an appropriate defense, etc., in order to accurately target behaviors that endanger national security and resolve the public's worries about being caught by law by mistake. We thanked the working teams led by the Secretary for Justice, Mr Paul Lam, and the Secretary for Security, Mr Chris Tang. The entire legislative process was rigorous and efficient, fully reflecting the positive interaction between executive and legislative under Patriots administering Hong Kong in the new era. Today, Hong Kong completed enactment of Article 23 of the Basic Law. This was a new historical starting point. The DAB actively promoted "Safeguarding National Security Ordinance" to raise awareness. The DAB believed that with the strong backing of the country, Hong Kong would move forward with unity and gave full play to its strengths under one country, two systems, strengthened its position as an international city.

March 18, 2024 The DAB stated in its New Year's Day declaration this year that the Alliance would have four work plans: Strengthening the cores, building Hong Kong, serving the country, and connecting the world. DAB vice chairpersons, Chan Hok-fung and Elizabeth Quat, Chief Secretary Chris Ip and Deputy Chief Secretary Terry Yip had a press conference and shared insights on "strengthening the core" and "building Hong Kong". Chan Hok-fung stated that it was important for a political group to strengthen its core. The DAB established a "Human Resources Committee" to better manage DAB's "talent pool" and allow them to shine. Elizabeth Quat was responsible for "building Hong Kong". The future direction for initiatives would be to develop the economy, improve people's livelihood, and improve people’s living standards. She stated that policy initiatives should be in-depth. LegCo members would the District councillors to promote cooperation and reflect peoples views, to ensure that polices were  pragmatic, feasible and effective. Terry Yip  said that the DAB would merge its operation and publicity committees into the "Operation and Publicity Committee". He would manage petitions and other activities. The committee would also promote DAB’s work on Xiaohongshu. Chris Ip stated that on district pointed out that at the district governance level, the Steering Committee on District Governance would strengthen contact with the DAB LegCol members and district councilors. LegCo members would gather public’s views through the district network.

February 29, 2024 The YoungDAB announced that it would organize The Course of Governance- Public Policy Course for University students, to cultivate young patriotic talents for public governance, and to create opportunities for young people who were determined to devote themselves to building Hong Kong. A press conference on the course was held today (February 29), and LegCo member Edward Leung, Central & Western District Councilor Noel Shih, Sai Kung District Councilor Angel Chong. Edward Leung said that the Course of Governance- Public Policy Course for University students, would invite mainland and local elites, senior scholars, experts and officials to share insights about development and governance experience of Hong Kong, mainland China and other countries with the young people. He hoped that the young people would understand the national trends and the future direction of Hong Kong, and this would stimulate their own improvement. Noel Shih said that the course had strong speakers. The students could attend an evening party to communicate with DAB LegCo members after completing the course and graduating. Angel Chong believed that the Course of Governance would be a good opportunity for young people to begin a new chapter in their lives. She called on all patriotic undergraduates interested in serving the society to sign up. The Course offers 50 places. If you want to know more information about the course, please refer to the attachment and visit the following website: www.eventdab.org.hk/明道 Press contact: Noel Shih DAB Central & Western District Councilor (9544 8811)

February 28, 2024 Hong Kong was facing internal and external challenges and opportunities in its economic development, and this year's budget actively promoted the development of Hong Kong's economy on all fronts. It aimed at stimulating the market, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises, promoting innovation and technology industries, building the Hong Kong brand, promoting the upgrade development of tourism, deepening ties with the mainland and the "Belt and Road" economic entities, and further promoting the development of Hong Kong's eight centers. The budget also appropriately proposed measures to support citizens and enterprises, while taking into consideration the Government’s financial situation. The DAB believed that this year's budget was flexible to respond the needs of the times and pragmatic. In terms of simulating the market, the Budget took up some recommendations made by the DAB, and scrap property transaction taxes, and relaxing property mortgage loans, to stimulate recovery, and the DAB welcomed this. In addition, there were many positive measures to promote financial markets, trade, tourism, innovation and technology, new industries and digital economy. In terms of stabilizing the Government’s financial situation, the Budget also took up the DAB recommendations. The Budget did not propose to increase fees related to public services, to avoid increasing the burden on citizens. LegCo member Rock Chen said that green and sustainable financial development would be the future direction and he appreciated that the SAR government's investment for development. LegCo member Kennedy Wong stated that establishment of economic and trade offices in Saudi Arabia and Malaysia carried strategic significance; in addition, he noticed that the 1 million reserved in the BUD fund for e-commerce companies only applied to mainland e-commerce companies. He suggested that e-commerce development in the Middle East and ASEAN regions should be included. LegCo member Elizabeth Quat appreciated that the Government strengthened measures to promote innovation and technology, Web 3.0 and green financial technology, and invest resources in improving digital inclusion. LegCo member Holden Chow welcomed the Government’s prompt actions to scrap the property transaction tazes. He also welcomed the $10 billion New Industrialisation Acceleration Scheme, to provide funding support on a matching basis up to $200 million. LegCo member Brave Chan welcomed the Government's efforts to accelerate financial cooperation in Hong Kong-Shenzhen Innovation and Technology Park and the Greater Bay Area, including increasing the individual investor quota to RMB 3 million in Cross-boundary Wealth Management Connect (WMC) Scheme. LegCo member Vincent Cheng hoped that in the future, the Government would increase art and cultural activities, summits and other major events, and launch the HK Pass measure to attract more tourists to Hong Kong, especially during tourism non-peak seasons. LegCo member Edward Lau welcomed the Government's move towards green development in land and housing development. LegCo member Nixie Lam was glad to see the Government providing more  exchange and internship opportunities for young people in the mainland and overseas, to deepen their understanding of the national situation and enhance their sense of national identity. LegCo member Ben Chan said that, although the maximum first registration tax concession for electric private cars granted under the “One-for-One Replacement” Scheme had been adjusted to $172,500 from $287,500, the tax concessions were continued to meet the needs of car owners while taking into consideration the Government’s financial situation. Press contact: DAB Gary Chan, DAB Chairman (2524 9191)

February 26, 2024 Today (26/2) the LegCo Panel on Administration of Justice and Legal Services discussed arrangements for the government to recruit manpower for the preparation of the International Organization for Mediation Preparatory Office. Holden Chow, DAB vice chairman and spokesperson for Justice and Legal Services, welcomed the establishment of International Organization for Mediation Headquarter with the strong support of the central government. Holden Chow stated that this was a breakthrough, for an international organization to set up its headquarters in Hong Kong. He looked forward to more international organizations establishing their headquarters in Hong Kong in the future. Holden Chow said that this arrangement showed how much the Central Government valued the role of Hong Kong. It highlighted Hong Kong's strengths under one country, two systems, relying on the backing of China, and connecting to the world. It also highlighted the international recognition of Hong Kong's legal system and its position in dispute resolution. Three lawyers had been transferred from the Department of Justice to handle the work of the International Organization for Mediation Preparatory Office, until the secretariat office would be established.  Holden Chow stated that these colleagues would accumulate valuable experience in handling matters related to the International Organization for Mediation. He recommended that these colleagues continue to contribute to the work of the International Organization for Mediation. Press contact: Holden Chow, DAB spokesperson for Justice and Legal Services 37039870

January 25, 2024 The DAB fully supports the Chief Executive in enacting Article 23 of the Basic Law as soon as possible, to discharge the constitutional and legal responsibilities under the Basic Law, improve shortcomings and deficiencies to safeguard national security, and promote economic and social development. DAB councilors and district associations will actively promote the Article 23 to all sectors in Hong Kong and the international community. We will refute any false claims and ward against external interference. We will stand united with the public to support the enactment of Article 23 of the Basic Law.

September 25, 2023 Today (September 25), the DAB held its first meeting for the new Executive Committee and elected 21 members as Standing Committee members. The Standing Committee elected Gary Chan Hak Kan as the chairperson, Chan Yung, Chow Ho Ding, Holden, Chan Hok Fung, Quat Elizabeth and Chan Han Pan, Ben as the vice chairpersons, Ip Ngo Tung, Chris as the secretary-general, and Steve Chong Wai Ming as the treasurer. Additionally, the Standing Committee, after deliberation, appointed Yip Man Pan, Terry as the deputy secretary-general. The 10th Senate also held its first meeting today, where Lo Man Tuen was re-elected as the chairperson. Gary Chan met with the media after the meeting with the leadership team. He first expressed his gratitude to former chairperson Starry Lee Wai King for leading the DAB and overcoming various challenges over the past eight years, allowing the party to continue growing. He expressed admiration for her contributions and dedication. He mentioned that since its establishment in 1992, the DAB has gone through an extraordinary journey of 31 years. From humble beginnings, it has grown from strength to strength. The DAB has always loved our country and Hong Kong, has been supporting our country’s reform and opening-up, and the great cause of the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. The DAB has consistently been supporting the SAR government to govern according to law and has been committed to representing the aspirations of the society, standing together with the people of Hong Kong. Gary Chan also mentioned that the task of the new leadership is to lead the DAB to unite, carry on the past with creativeness, take on responsibilities courageously, and work with various sectors of the society to forge a new era from stability to prosperity in Hong Kong. Gary Chan said that we are currently in a new era of the national development, and Hong Kong has also entered a new stage of development for prosperity. In the face of these new changes, the DAB must become a cross-sector political organization that values the views of different social sectors, rather than just advocating for specific groups or individuals. Furthermore, the DAB must strive to become a cross-sector political organization for governance that actively plays a role in setting direction, building consensus, promoting development, enhancing cooperation, and improving governance. Elevate Oneself, Build Hong Kong, Serve the Nation, Connect the World Gary Chan has outlined four key areas of focus for the DAB’s future work. Firstly, it must enhance itself by strengthening various training programs and elevating the political, theoretical, and policy advocacy capabilities of its members. Secondly, it must contribute to the development of Hong Kong by firmly supporting the government to govern according to law, promoting economic growth, improving people’s livelihoods, and maintaining Hong Kong's unique position and advantages. Thirdly, it must serve the country by leveraging Hong Kong's strengths and supporting the nation's modernization efforts while opposing the hegemonic actions of the US and Western countries, and safeguarding national security and the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong. Lastly, it must connect with the world by enhancing relationships with people overseas, telling the good stories of China and Hong Kong, and promoting mutual understanding and win-win cooperation. Gary Chan said that in this new era and at a new starting point, he deeply feels a great sense of responsibility, and he is determined to devote his full efforts and fulfill his duties with utmost responsibility. He expressed hope that all members of the DAB unite as one, strive to improve themselves, develop Hong Kong, serve the country, and connect with the world, playing a greater role in the successful implementation of "One Country, Two Systems". Media enquiries: DAB Chairperson Gary Chan Hak Kan (5275 5581)

DAB's expectations for the 2023 Policy Address September 7, 2023 Today, the DAB met with the Chief Executive to present their comprehensive "Expectations for the 2023 Policy Address" under the theme of "Revitalising the Economy and Benefiting the People". Recognising that Hong Kong finds itself at a critical stage of development, brimming with opportunities due to the new journey of national modernisation, the DAB acknowledges the manifold challenges presented by global political and economic uncertainties. In light of these circumstances, the SAR government must exhibit flexibility in its policy responses, with a keen focus on market stabilisation and the implementation of diverse measures to bolster Hong Kong's economic development. Hong Kong must continue integrating into the national development, leveraging its unique advantages to foster global connections and contribute to the overarching national development strategy. Simultaneously, it is crucial to address the concerns and expectations of the public, implementing measures that genuinely benefit the people and effectively address livelihood issues. To this end, the DAB has proposed fifteen key initiatives, totaling 88 recommendations, in the two crucial areas of revitalizing the economy and benefiting the livelihoods of the people. In the short term, we suggest addressing the confidence issues in the stock and property markets through measures like reducing the SSD and BSD. In the long term, we propose financial reforms to strengthen our position as an international financial center, promote economic diversification, and implement more proactive talent acquisition policies. Strengthening Hong Kong's position as an international financial center is crucial for revitalizing the economy. The DAB suggests the following: Promote the "HKD-RMB Dual Counter Model" to overseas regions engaged in RMB settlement trade, enticing them to invest their yuan-denominated funds in Hong Kong stocks. Reduce the stamp duty on stock trading to augment the competitiveness of the Hong Kong stock market. Promote ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) standards and certification systems applicable to various industries. To promote economic diversification and the development of new energy, the DAB suggests the following: Establish an e-commerce development commissioner to facilitate communication and collaboration with the mainland's relevant departments, promoting the development of e-commerce in Hong Kong. In line with the new tourism trends, we propose promoting deep tourism, bazaar economy, and night economy. Additionally, the government should capitalise on the opportunities presented by international events hosted in Hong Kong to create a vibrant "Super Event Month”. Actively promote the new energy transportation industry, including continuing the "One-for-One" program for electric vehicles with reduced first registration tax, and introducing electric vehicle charging equipment that complies with national standards (GB standards). In order to actively attract and cultivate talent, we propose the following recommendations: Increase the quota for non-local students while ensuring that the admission rate of local students remains unaffected. It should grant tertiary institutions the autonomy to apply to the University Grants Committee based on their unique circumstances. Change the collection method for the stamp duty (beyond the second standard rate stamp duty) applicable to various talent admission programmes from "refund after collect "to "collect after exemption". Establish a comprehensive "shortage of labour supply" list to effectively address the prevailing workforce supply and demand dynamics across diverse industries. Given the prevailing circumstances of global and local interest rate hikes, reduced local demand, and cautious market sentiment towards the economic outlook, the DAB suggests the following in improving housing policies: Adjust residential property stamp duty. Specifically, we recommend reverting the current uniform 15% "ad valorem stamp duty" back to the previous "double ad valorem stamp duty" system, as it stood before November 2016. (To illustrate, let us consider the scenario of a permanent resident purchasing a second property valued at 10 million. Under the 15% rate, the stamp duty payment would amount to 1.5 million. However, under the double ad valorem rate, this would reduce the fee to 750,000, and 350,000 under ad valorem stamp duty) Implement a priority policy that exempts first-time local buyers from paying any residential stamp duty, capped at a price ceiling of 10 million. Set a target to eliminate poor-quality subdivided units within five years. Set the homeownership scheme supply at 15,000 per year. Recognising the challenges posed by low birth rates and an ageing population, the DAB suggests the following: Formulate policies to encourage childbirth, providing medical subsidies for women intending to have children. Promote a five-day workweek and flexible working hours to employers. Expeditiously implement T21 non-invasive prenatal testing (NIPT) for all pregnant women receiving care in public hospitals, ensuring a risk-free prenatal screening process. Establish a "Newborn Allowance" of HK$10,000 as a one-time grant for newborns, along with a HK$20,000 allowance for pregnant women. To actively align with the national imperative of patriotic education, the DAB suggests the following: Establish a dedicated Patriotic Education Coordination Committee to ensure the comprehensive implementation and support of patriotic education across all sectors of society, including families, religious groups, schools, and enterprises. Set up a "Promoting China's Story Publishing Fund" to support the publishing industry in producing books that promote Chinese culture and embody the guiding principle of "One Country, Two Systems." This will equip Hong Kong to play a significant role in connecting with the world and narrating China's remarkable story. Media enquiries: Starry Lee, DAB Chairperson and LegCo member (9457 9853)