Hong Kong Today: Medical Technology Advancements, New Transport Regulations, and Rainstorm Response Measures
Hong Kong has seen significant progress in medical and public health today. The Hospital Authority announced the establishment of the "Office for the Introduction of Innovative Medicines and Medical Devices," aimed at shortening the time for new drugs and medical equipment to enter the market, allowing patients to receive advanced treatment earlier. Meanwhile, the Microbiology Branch of the Department of Health's Centre for Health Protection has been appointed by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a Collaborating Centre for the Global Influenza Surveillance and Response System. It also hosted two international expert meetings in Hong Kong, demonstrating the city's status in the international public health arena.
Regarding transport policy, the Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mable Chan, attended a Legislative Council meeting today to discuss four subsidiary legislations concerning the regulation of online car-hailing services. The government is studying how to enable the more orderly development of online car-hailing services in Hong Kong through a legal framework. This discussion is of great significance for citizens' future travel choices and fair competition in the transport market.
In terms of weather, as the Observatory issued a Red Rainstorm Warning Signal earlier today, the Emergency Coordination Centre of the Home Affairs Department immediately commenced operations to handle potential emergencies in various districts. As the rain weakened, the coordination centre and related emergency hotlines have now ceased operations. The Labour Department also issued a special reminder that when performing electrical work or handling electrical installations during rainstorms, employers and contractors must take necessary safety measures to ensure the electrical safety of employees.
Addressing work environments under adverse weather, the Labour Department issued multiple reminders today, calling on employers to establish clear work arrangements with employees in advance. This includes not only guidelines for commuting while rainstorm warnings are in effect but also resumption arrangements after warnings are cancelled or under "extreme conditions." Employers should consider the operation of public transport and road safety to provide reasonable and practical solutions that ensure staff safety.
Affected by weather and sea conditions, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department hoisted red flags today at Hung Shing Yeh Beach and Pui O Beach in the Islands District. This indicates that swimming at these locations is dangerous; the authorities urge the public not to enter the water for safety reasons.
Finally, the Hong Kong Observatory announced new names for tropical cyclones in 2026 today. Nine new names will be added to the list for the Northwest Pacific and the South China Sea, including "Kogi" and "Janguvi," among others. These new names will replace old ones for use in weather forecasts in the coming years.