Hong Kong Strengthens International Engagement and Strictly Regulates Public Health and Food Safety
The Secretary for Health, Professor Lo Chung-mau, departed for Geneva, Switzerland, on May 16 to attend the 79th World Health Assembly. The trip aims to exchange views with health officials from around the world and strengthen cooperation with international health organizations. Meanwhile, the Hong Kong government announced that it would maintain its economic growth forecast for the year, demonstrating stable confidence in local economic development.
Regarding economy and international trade, global markets are focusing on China's upcoming industrial production data and the U.S. housing market index. To consolidate Hong Kong's international status, the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office in London organized a promotional event at the headquarters of the International Maritime Organization to showcase Hong Kong's important role and advantages as an international shipping center.
In terms of public health and medical safety, the Centre for Health Protection is investigating a suspected case of poisoning due to botulinum toxin injection and has urged the public to choose legitimate medical institutions before receiving cosmetic injections. Additionally, the Department of Health is following up on a sentinel event reported by Tuen Mun Hospital and is currently conducting an in-depth investigation with the local responsible person for the relevant medical devices to ensure patient safety.
Food safety is also a key focus today. The Centre for Food Safety announced that two samples of frozen desserts imported from Malaysia were found to have coliform counts and total bacterial counts exceeding the legal limits. The Centre has taken immediate action, requesting the importer to stop selling the relevant products and sealing the affected food to protect public food safety.
Regarding government internal affairs and technology application, the Secretary for the Civil Service, Mrs. Ingrid Yeung, visited the Working Family and Student Financial Assistance Agency. She learned how the department has utilized new technologies in recent years to enhance service efficiency and encouraged the civil service team to continue providing more convenient subsidy application services for citizens through innovative methods.
In terms of law and enforcement, an incoming traveler was sentenced to imprisonment by the West Kowloon Magistrates' Courts for illegally importing duty-not-paid cigarettes and failing to make a declaration to customs officers. Customs once again reminded all travelers that bringing dutiable goods into the country must strictly comply with the law and be declared accordingly, otherwise they will face legal sanctions.
Finally, regarding social welfare and community activities, the Social Welfare Department announced that a regional flag day is being held today. A total of three charitable organizations have been authorized to conduct fundraising activities in different districts, and the proceeds will be used to support various social welfare services to help those in need in society.