https://www.scmp.com/rss/524411/feed The latest news and updates on Chris Sun Yuk-han, a prominent Hong Kong government official with a distinguished career in public service. Having joined the Administrative Service in 1994, he previously held significant roles including Deputy Secretary for Food and Health, Head of Healthcare Planning and Development, and Commissioner for Labour. As Secretary for Labour and Welfare since July 2022, he is responsible for safeguarding employee rights, promoting social welfare, and addressing... en https://assets.i-scmp.com/static/img/icons/scmp-meta-1200x630.png https://www.scmp.com Eric Jiang Eric Jiang University student Harry Dong has spent more than two months sending out roughly 30 to 40 job applications across Hong Kong’s event management, technology and education sectors, but has secured only one interview so far. The 23-year-old University of Hong Kong student, who will graduate in December, said he had only applied for internship positions. “It’s too hard for us to find a full-time job directly. Each company has opened only one to three positions because AI has taken the rest,” Dong... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353821/ai-adoption-causing-utilitarian-employers-reduce-entry-level-hiring?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3353821/ai-adoption-causing-utilitarian-employers-reduce-entry-level-hiring?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 16 May 2026 11:40:15 +0000 Vivian Au Vivian Au Hong Kong industry leaders have called for the priority hiring of local graduates and greater participation in overseas exchange programmes to address a shrinking job market, after full-time entry-level vacancies plunged to about 31,000 last year. Their remarks on Thursday came after the city’s labour minister revealed that vacancies suitable for university graduates fell from about 80,000 in 2022 to around 31,000 in 2025 – a drop of 61 per cent. “If local graduates face significant difficulties... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353503/calls-grow-hire-locals-graduate-jobs-decline-amid-ai-economic-pressures?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353503/calls-grow-hire-locals-graduate-jobs-decline-amid-ai-economic-pressures?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 14 May 2026 04:05:42 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial It was devastating to hear investigators say that a cigarette was likely to have sparked last November’s deadly Hong Kong housing estate fire that raged for more than 43 hours, killed 168 people and left thousands without homes. There is growing hope that similar tragedies at renovation or construction sites could be prevented by banning smoking during such work. The public inquiry into the Wang Fuk Court blaze also learned that despite 17 checks at the site, Labour Department inspectors... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3353375/smoking-ban-construction-sites-must-be-implemented-without-delay?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3353375/smoking-ban-construction-sites-must-be-implemented-without-delay?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 13 May 2026 23:15:04 +0000 William Yiu William Yiu Hong Kong’s labour minister has dismissed calls to review the city’s immigration scheme for non-local graduates or tighten talent scheme requirements, despite a sharp decline in entry-level roles, arguing that the workforce is shrinking and the number of local degree holders is insufficient to meet demand. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han also said the Employees Retraining Board, which will be rebranded as “Upskill Hong Kong” later this year, could adopt a new focus to help... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3353437/hong-kong-labour-chief-rejects-review-non-local-graduate-visas-despite-job-slump?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3353437/hong-kong-labour-chief-rejects-review-non-local-graduate-visas-despite-job-slump?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 13 May 2026 09:46:39 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Hong Kong authorities may widen support to cover more younger elderly residents to bolster protection, the welfare minister has said, calling current efforts to identify at-risk seniors “just the beginning” as the city reels from two tragedies in a week. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han told the South China Morning Post that the government was mobilising all available resources to strengthen support for the elderly, but he noted the process would take time given the city’s... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353061/hong-kong-may-broaden-risk-elderly-support-after-recent-deaths-minister-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353061/hong-kong-may-broaden-risk-elderly-support-after-recent-deaths-minister-says?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 May 2026 02:00:10 +0000 Emily Hung Emily Hung Cigarette butts will be considered “strong evidence” of a possible breach under a proposed construction site smoking ban, Hong Kong’s labour chief has said, even as he sought to reassure contractors that preventive measures could shield them from the maximum HK$400,000 (US$51,070) fine. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-Han revealed further details about the ban in an interview with the South China Morning Post held amid an inquiry into the deadly Wang Fuk Court blaze, which heard... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353066/cigarette-butts-strong-evidence-smoking-ban-breach-work-sites-chris-sun?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353066/cigarette-butts-strong-evidence-smoking-ban-breach-work-sites-chris-sun?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 11 May 2026 01:00:23 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Authorities will negotiate with operators of popular care homes in Guangdong province to secure more places for elderly Hongkongers to meet a rising demand, the welfare minister has said, amid a ninefold surge in city residents moving into such facilities across the border in recent years. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said in an interview with the South China Morning Post that the number of elderly Hongkongers living in care homes under the Residential Care Services Scheme... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353016/hong-kong-seek-more-elderly-care-places-guangdong-chris-sun-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3353016/hong-kong-seek-more-elderly-care-places-guangdong-chris-sun-says?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 10 May 2026 04:00:21 +0000 Edith Lin Edith Lin Authorities have demanded that Hong Kong’s largest franchised bus operator investigate glitches in its fare rebate machines, which provided free trips to passengers on the day a revised HK$2 (26 US cents) transport subsidy scheme was implemented. The city’s welfare minister also stressed on Saturday that the problems that occurred with KMB’s machines the previous day – when the revised scheme took effect – did not involve any malfunction in the government’s own system. “We understand that the... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3349016/kmb-told-probe-machines-gave-free-bus-rides-revised-hk2-scheme-launched?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3349016/kmb-told-probe-machines-gave-free-bus-rides-revised-hk2-scheme-launched?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 04 Apr 2026 04:00:32 +0000 Edith Lin Edith Lin Hong Kong’s elderly residents have raised concerns about the financial burden placed on their low-income peers under a revised HK$2 (26 US cents) transport fare scheme that came into force on Friday, with some avoiding higher-charging, long-route buses. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said the implementation of the new arrangements had gone smoothly on the first day. He also stressed that the government was still subsidising a large part of the fares and the saved funds would... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3348933/revamped-transport-fare-scheme-triggers-concerns-about-cost-working-elderly?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3348933/revamped-transport-fare-scheme-triggers-concerns-about-cost-working-elderly?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 03 Apr 2026 07:53:25 +0000 Edith Lin Edith Lin Hong Kong’s heavy reliance on hiring workers from mainland China could lead to a “downgrade” of its status as an international hub, experts said, after data showed that 94.5 per cent of successful top talent scheme applicants came from across the border. Industry veterans and a lawmaker on Thursday called for a strategic shift towards Middle East and Asean talent amid geopolitical tensions, though others cautioned that Hong Kong still struggled with Muslim-friendly workplaces and job... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3348087/hong-kong-must-look-beyond-mainland-china-talent-stay-global-experts-say?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3348087/hong-kong-must-look-beyond-mainland-china-talent-stay-global-experts-say?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Mar 2026 04:40:45 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong authorities will launch advertisements and a transport guide to help seniors adapt to the revised HK$2 (26 US cents) transport fare scheme, which comes into effect next Friday, according to the city’s welfare chief. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said on Tuesday that the government would extensively publicise changes to the scheme and introduce a guide covering different districts in the coming days. “On Monday, I met district councillors and care teams from... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3347668/government-launch-guide-help-elderly-hongkongers-revised-hk2-fare-scheme?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3347668/government-launch-guide-help-elderly-hongkongers-revised-hk2-fare-scheme?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 24 Mar 2026 04:53:18 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong will implement the revised HK$2 (26 US cents) transport fare scheme next Friday, under which elderly residents and those with disabilities will only enjoy the flat rate for journeys costing HK$10 or less. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said on Monday the move was expected to slash government spending by HK$550 million in the coming year. The remaining part of the revised scheme, where beneficiaries would be capped at 240 subsidised trips monthly, will be rolled out... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3347531/changes-hong-kongs-hk2-transport-subsidy-scheme-kick-april-3?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/transport/article/3347531/changes-hong-kongs-hk2-transport-subsidy-scheme-kick-april-3?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 23 Mar 2026 04:09:50 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Attracting talent to Hong Kong has been a core mission for the city’s leaders for several years. A human resources mega-event that began this week is showcasing to the world how their efforts are taking root and forming a diverse international talent ecosystem. The Global Talent Summit Week has drawn more than 7,000 participants and over 130,000 online with an international forum, an expo and nine satellite events that include award ceremonies, conferences and recruitment fairs. At the summit’s... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3347270/global-talent-summit-week-affirms-hong-kongs-push-diversity-innovation?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3347270/global-talent-summit-week-affirms-hong-kongs-push-diversity-innovation?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Mar 2026 23:15:17 +0000 Brian Wong,Leopold Chen Brian Wong,Leopold Chen Residents of a housing complex destroyed in one of Hong Kong’s deadliest fires were misled into picking a convicted contractor for the estate’s renovation project amid “widespread” bid-rigging and other corruption in the construction industry, a public hearing has been told. The judge-led independent committee also heard on Friday that an engineering consultant allegedly accepted a monthly stipend to “rubber stamp” tender evaluation reports, including one recommending Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3347387/residents-tai-po-blaze-building-misled-over-renovation-project-inquiry-told?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3347387/residents-tai-po-blaze-building-misled-over-renovation-project-inquiry-told?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Mar 2026 14:59:36 +0000 Jess Ma Jess Ma Hong Kong’s labour chief has said geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have made the city, with its relative security and stability, “a more attractive place” for global talent, including those from Gulf countries. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han also highlighted the government’s efforts in recent years to attract talent, dismissing concerns that most successful applicants under its schemes were from mainland China. He said that about a fourth of imported workers from... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3347047/hong-kong-more-attractive-talent-amid-middle-east-tensions-labour-chief-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3347047/hong-kong-more-attractive-talent-amid-middle-east-tensions-labour-chief-says?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Mar 2026 12:24:53 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong’s jobless rate dipped by 0.1 percentage point over the past three months to 3.8 per cent, with unemployment dropping in the retail, accommodation, and foundation and superstructure sectors. “The sustained growth momentum of the Hong Kong economy should continue to support the overall labour market, though employment situations in some local sectors may still face challenges due to their business performances,” Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said on Wednesday. The... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3347046/hong-kongs-jobless-rate-falls-01-percentage-point?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3347046/hong-kongs-jobless-rate-falls-01-percentage-point?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 18 Mar 2026 10:34:43 +0000 William Yiu William Yiu The family of deceased firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who died while battling Hong Kong’s deadliest blaze in seven decades, will receive HK$6.15 million (US$831,250) in financial support in recognition of his courage and selflessness. The government on Friday announced a grant approved by the body responsible for providing financial help to families of individuals who died while saving others. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han, who also chairs the committee, paid tribute to Ho’s... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3345669/hong-kong-grants-hk615m-family-firefighter-killed-deadly-tai-po-blaze?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3345669/hong-kong-grants-hk615m-family-firefighter-killed-deadly-tai-po-blaze?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 06 Mar 2026 04:54:06 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Conflicts in the Middle East highlight Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a talent hub promising safety and stability, the city’s labour chief has said. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han on Monday said that while Hong Kong already drew global talent because of its status as an international city, its safety and security were “equally important” factors that the escalating tensions in the Middle East had thrown into relief. The joint United States-Israel strikes on Iran entered a... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3345156/middle-east-tensions-highlight-hong-kongs-stability-opportunities-labour-minister?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3345156/middle-east-tensions-highlight-hong-kongs-stability-opportunities-labour-minister?utm_source=rss_feed Mon, 02 Mar 2026 10:32:13 +0000 Ng Kang-chung Ng Kang-chung Hong Kong authorities have defended a controversial subsidy cut for the kindergarten sector for the coming financial year, saying the low birth rate and resultant shrinking pupil population have prompted a reassessment of education policy priorities. Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin said on Friday that the government would channel more resources towards promoting “high-quality education” and adopt a more targeted approach to helping pupils in need. According to the 2026-27 budget,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3344918/hong-kong-budget-2026-27-minister-defends-cuts-kindergarten-subsidy?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/education/article/3344918/hong-kong-budget-2026-27-minister-defends-cuts-kindergarten-subsidy?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 27 Feb 2026 12:04:20 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial Smoking on construction sites in Hong Kong might have a better chance of being snuffed out with the fixed penalty being proposed by authorities. The approach seems a sensible alternative to initial plans for an approach that would carry much higher potential fines. Education and enforcement will also be needed to correct behaviour that could have caused the deadly Tai Po fire that claimed 168 lives as it raged for 43 hours through scaffolding and green mesh put up on the towers during renovation... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3344092/fixed-penalty-can-spark-reduction-smoking-hong-kong-construction-sites?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3344092/fixed-penalty-can-spark-reduction-smoking-hong-kong-construction-sites?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Feb 2026 23:15:07 +0000 Ng Kang-chung Ng Kang-chung Hong Kong’s jobless rate edged up by 0.1 percentage point over the past three months to 3.9 per cent after holding steady since the August to October period last year, with unemployment rising in the insurance, construction and finance sectors. But labour authorities expressed optimism, saying the growing economy would support the job market going forward. Provisional figures released by the Census and Statistics Department on Friday showed the unemployment rate for the November to January... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3344161/hong-kongs-jobless-rate-edges-01-percentage-point-39-over-past-3-months?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3344161/hong-kongs-jobless-rate-edges-01-percentage-point-39-over-past-3-months?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 20 Feb 2026 11:06:34 +0000 Leopold Chen,Natalie Wong Leopold Chen,Natalie Wong Hong Kong authorities will “shortly” announce long-term rehousing plans for residents displaced by the deadly Tai Po fire, after settling differences in individual preferences and resolving uncertainties over insurance and legal issues, the city’s leader has said. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu made the pledge on Friday after visiting some of the affected residents temporarily staying in a youth hostel in Kai Tak and revealed that he had told all ministers to conduct community visits before... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3343428/hong-kong-soon-announce-rehousing-plans-tai-po-fire-victims-john-lee-says?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3343428/hong-kong-soon-announce-rehousing-plans-tai-po-fire-victims-john-lee-says?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 13 Feb 2026 05:34:34 +0000 Edith Lin Edith Lin Hong Kong’s lowest-paid workers are set to receive a pay rise of HK$1 per hour, from the current HK$42.10 (US$5.40) to HK$43.10, as recommended by the government’s top decision-making body, with the new rate expected to come into force as early as May. The government announced on Tuesday that the Executive Council had adopted the proposal from the Minimum Wage Commission (MWC), which had suggested the 2.38 per cent increase. The amendment will be tabled in the legislature on February 25. Subject... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3343063/hong-kongs-minimum-wage-set-rise-hk1-hour-hk4310?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/article/3343063/hong-kongs-minimum-wage-set-rise-hk1-hour-hk4310?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 10 Feb 2026 09:24:43 +0000 Ambrose Li Ambrose Li Hong Kong authorities are considering changing the proposed fine for smoking on a construction site to a fixed penalty of HK$3,000 (US$385) rather than a maximum of HK$150,000. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said on Tuesday that the initial plan was to amend the Factories and Industrial Undertakings Ordinance, which only stipulates the maximum fine to be determined by the courts rather than a fixed amount. The proposed smoking ban is in response to the deadly Tai Po blaze in... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342284/hong-kong-consider-hk3000-fixed-penalty-smoking-construction-sites?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/health-environment/article/3342284/hong-kong-consider-hk3000-fixed-penalty-smoking-construction-sites?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 03 Feb 2026 15:24:54 +0000 Theodora Yu Theodora Yu Hong Kong authorities should step up support for elderly residents at risk of suicide across all social classes, analysts have said, after a 73-year-old woman was arrested on Thursday on suspicion of murdering her husband in a hotel before taking sleeping pills and losing consciousness. They added that officials should broaden efforts to educate frontline workers on identifying socially isolated elderly people – those who lack connections to social services or resources – and refer them to... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3341056/hong-kong-urged-boost-support-risk-elders-across-all-social-classes?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3341056/hong-kong-urged-boost-support-risk-elders-across-all-social-classes?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 23 Jan 2026 13:59:23 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Hong Kong mother Amy Chan* often feels overwhelmed caring for her nine-year-old son, who has attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The 39-year-old said her son, diagnosed with the condition two years ago, seldom listened to her and lost his temper easily, putting tremendous pressure on her and taking a toll on her mental health. Chan, who works as a part-time clerk, said her frustration with her son’s uncooperative behaviour and her own stress sometimes became so intense that she was... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340598/hong-kong-parents-special-needs-children-fear-abuse-claims-under-new-law?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340598/hong-kong-parents-special-needs-children-fear-abuse-claims-under-new-law?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 Jan 2026 13:30:49 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong’s unemployment rate held steady at 3.8 per cent over the past three months, with authorities expecting that stronger economic growth and local consumption will continue to support the labour market. Preliminary data released by the Census and Statistics Department on Tuesday showed that movements in the unemployment rate in different industry sectors varied for the October to December period, but the magnitudes were generally small. The underemployment rate rose slightly by 0.1... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3340544/hong-kongs-jobless-rate-holds-steady-38-economy-consumption-improves?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3340544/hong-kongs-jobless-rate-holds-steady-38-economy-consumption-improves?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 20 Jan 2026 08:58:39 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Hong Kong authorities have identified 1,600 at-risk elderly households in public housing, but analysts have said the figure fails to reflect the scale of this group of vulnerable residents and urged the government to speed up search efforts. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said on Saturday that authorities had identified high-risk cases by reviewing Housing Department data from more than 800,000 households in public housing. “These 1,600 households could become the hidden,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340274/hong-kong-flags-1600-risk-elderly-households-experts-say-figure-tip-iceberg?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340274/hong-kong-flags-1600-risk-elderly-households-experts-say-figure-tip-iceberg?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Jan 2026 13:59:31 +0000 Vivian Au Vivian Au Hong Kong authorities will expedite updates to safety guidelines for elevated work platforms and launch a large-scale inspection campaign after three workers died in accidents involving work at height or lifting devices. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han on Saturday expressed grave concern over the string of industrial fatalities, vowing that the government would take follow-up action. “We will expedite updates for the guidelines for elevated work platforms, such as highlighting... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340262/hong-kong-fast-track-safety-guideline-updates-after-3-work-height-deaths?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340262/hong-kong-fast-track-safety-guideline-updates-after-3-work-height-deaths?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Jan 2026 10:29:26 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Hong Kong authorities may remove building maintenance contractors from a government list if homeowners are dissatisfied with their performance, as part of measures to combat bid-rigging following the deadly Tai Po fire, the city’s No 2 official has said. Chief Secretary Eric Chan Kwok‑ki said on Saturday that the government aimed to improve the Urban Renewal Authority’s “Smart Tender” scheme by establishing a preselected list of qualified contractors. The scheme provides support to owners’... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340251/hong-kong-contractors-rated-poorly-homeowners-face-removal-after-tai-po-fire?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340251/hong-kong-contractors-rated-poorly-homeowners-face-removal-after-tai-po-fire?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 17 Jan 2026 07:25:35 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong’s new Legislative Council held its first meeting on Wednesday, with lawmakers focusing on follow-up work after last November’s deadly fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, which claimed the lives of 161 people and displaced nearly 5,000 residents. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu and government officials outlined priorities including rehousing the displaced residents, reforming industry practices and holding those responsible for the tragedy accountable. The Post looks into the measures... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340027/bid-rigging-clamp-smoke-free-construction-sites-hong-kongs-legco-gets-cracking?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3340027/bid-rigging-clamp-smoke-free-construction-sites-hong-kongs-legco-gets-cracking?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 15 Jan 2026 10:15:10 +0000 Oscar Liu Oscar Liu Hong Kong’s unemployment rate remained unchanged at 3.8 per cent over the past three months, although both the labour force and total employment fell slightly. Preliminary data released by the Census and Statistics Department on Tuesday showed that movements in the unemployment and underemployment rates in different sectors varied in the September to November period, but the changes were not large. The underemployment rate also remained unchanged at 1.6 per cent. The jobless rate remains at its... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3336627/hong-kong-jobless-rate-unchanged-38-back-solid-economic-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3336627/hong-kong-jobless-rate-unchanged-38-back-solid-economic-expansion?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 16 Dec 2025 08:58:33 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial The cause of the deadly Wang Fuk Court fire and contributing factors will be considered by the official investigation. But there is one fire-safety issue about which there is no dispute, irrespective of whether a direct link is established with the city’s deadliest blaze in decades. That is smoking on construction or renovation sites. It is, therefore, welcome news that it will soon be banned outright. Residents of the Tai Po estate had long complained about smoking among site workers. There is... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3335696/snuffing-out-smoking-hong-kong-construction-sites-will-boost-safety?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3335696/snuffing-out-smoking-hong-kong-construction-sites-will-boost-safety?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 09 Dec 2025 22:45:08 +0000 Lam Ka-sing Lam Ka-sing Members of 13 households at the Hong Kong estate destroyed in an inferno remain uncontactable more than 10 days after the blaze, with the city’s labour and welfare chief not ruling out that all may have died. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said the blaze at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po had prompted the government to consider expediting legal amendments to ban smoking at construction sites within about two months and to introduce a fixed penalty ticket system for the offence,... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3335507/welfare-chief-can-not-rule-out-deaths-13-missing-households-hong-kong-blaze?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3335507/welfare-chief-can-not-rule-out-deaths-13-missing-households-hong-kong-blaze?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 07 Dec 2025 09:56:09 +0000 Leopold Chen Leopold Chen Fire safety risks persist at building sites across Hong Kong following the deadly blaze in Tai Po last week, the Construction Industry Council has warned, after a scaffolding worker at a major subsidised estate was sacked for smoking. Council chairman Thomas Ho On-sing on Saturday criticised companies for failing to have “learned a lesson” from the tragedy. “I have been inspecting construction sites recently and found that many still have styrofoam boards and volatile paint. They also continue... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3335444/lesson-not-learned-watchdog-says-fire-risks-persist-hong-kong-construction-sites?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3335444/lesson-not-learned-watchdog-says-fire-risks-persist-hong-kong-construction-sites?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 06 Dec 2025 05:22:48 +0000 SCMP Editorial SCMP Editorial The integral role of domestic helpers in Hong Kong society has been cast in sharp focus by the heroism and sacrifice displayed by foreign workers caught up in the city’s deadliest fire in decades. Their contributions should be honoured by ensuring they receive the same care and attention as other victims of the tragedy. More than 200 foreign workers were employed and living with families in Tai Po’s Wang Fuk Court before the housing complex became an inferno on November 26. Of the at least 159... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3335037/domestic-helpers-deserve-praise-heroism-tai-po-fire?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/comment/article/3335037/domestic-helpers-deserve-praise-heroism-tai-po-fire?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 03 Dec 2025 22:45:08 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying Lo Hoi-ying Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has ordered the setting up of a judge-led independent review committee on the blaze that engulfed a Tai Po residential estate while formally announcing that the Legislative Council election will go ahead on Sunday as scheduled. The death toll from the inferno that swept through seven of the eight blocks of Wang Fuk Court last Wednesday rose to 156 after five more bodies were found on Tuesday. Of the total, 127 victims have been identified, while about... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3334962/judge-led-panel-probe-deadly-blaze-hong-kong-goes-ahead-election?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3334962/judge-led-panel-probe-deadly-blaze-hong-kong-goes-ahead-election?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Dec 2025 16:13:26 +0000 Matthew Cheng Matthew Cheng A deadly Hong Kong blaze that claimed the lives of several domestic helpers will not deter Filipinos from working in the city, the Philippines’ migrant workers minister has said, adding that the city has always been a “safe haven”. Speaking to the Post during a visit to Hong Kong on Tuesday, Hans Leo Cacdac, secretary for the Philippines’ Department of Migrant Workers, said his government would provide financial assistance to affected helpers and support for their children. He also touched on... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3334958/hong-kong-fire-will-not-deter-filipino-helpers-working-city-minister?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3334958/hong-kong-fire-will-not-deter-filipino-helpers-working-city-minister?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Dec 2025 14:37:48 +0000 Lo Hoi-ying,Leopold Chen,Themis Chen Lo Hoi-ying,Leopold Chen,Themis Chen Families of domestic workers who died in the Tai Po fire will each receive nearly HK$800,000 (US$102,718) in condolence and compensation payments, Hong Kong’s labour chief has said. As of 5pm on Tuesday, 10 domestic workers were among the 156 residents confirmed dead in last week’s blaze at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, while the fate of 30 others remained unclear. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han on Tuesday said families of the deceased workers would receive more than HK$500,000... https://www.scmp.com/news/article/3334914/families-domestic-helpers-killed-hong-kong-blaze-get-nearly-hk800000?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/article/3334914/families-domestic-helpers-killed-hong-kong-blaze-get-nearly-hk800000?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 02 Dec 2025 09:34:10 +0000 Willa Wu Willa Wu Hong Kong authorities have ramped up efforts to drive voter turnout for the coming Legislative Council election, releasing a video featuring a bomb disposal chief urging members of ethnic minority groups to cast their ballots. Raymond Suryanto Chin-chiu, head of the explosive ordnance disposal bureau, made the appeal in Indonesian in the video released on Sunday via Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung Ho Poi-yan’s social media account. “Dear Indonesian friends in Hong Kong, if you are a... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3333839/bomb-disposal-chief-urges-indonesian-residents-vote-hong-kong-legco-poll?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3333839/bomb-disposal-chief-urges-indonesian-residents-vote-hong-kong-legco-poll?utm_source=rss_feed Sun, 23 Nov 2025 08:01:35 +0000 Letters Letters Feel strongly about these letters, or any other aspects of the news? Share your views by emailing us your Letter to the Editor at letters@scmp.com or filling in this Google form. Submissions should not exceed 400 words The Hong Kong Jewish Film Festival played in town this past week. Several people protested at the festival’s opening night, holding placards calling for the rejection of “cultural hasbara” (“hasbara” is Hebrew for explanation) and claiming that the festival represented... https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3333187/why-boycott-art-when-it-connects-us-common-humanity?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3333187/why-boycott-art-when-it-connects-us-common-humanity?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 19 Nov 2025 03:30:09 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Male carers looking after their fathers need greater help in Hong Kong, a study of a large-scale project has revealed, with researchers calling for efforts to bridge the gender gap in offering support. The University of Hong Kong researchers on Tuesday shared the results of an analysis covering 6,777 carers receiving services under the Jockey Club Carer Space Project. Their findings showed that 8.2 per cent of adults taking care of their parents were classified as high-need carers – those in... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3333309/male-carers-looking-after-fathers-need-greater-help-hong-kong-study?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3333309/male-carers-looking-after-fathers-need-greater-help-hong-kong-study?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 18 Nov 2025 14:49:22 +0000 Matthew Cheng Matthew Cheng Hong Kong’s unemployment rate dipped to 3.8 per cent over the past three months, the first drop since mid-2023, with authorities crediting the decline to steady improvements in business sentiment and a gradual recovery in consumer confidence. But economists said it was too early to conclude that the jobless rate had peaked. They said that the improvement was driven by an influx of mainland Chinese tourists over the National Day “golden week” holidays and the lead-up to the year-end peak season... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3333281/hong-kong-unemployment-rate-dips-38-business-sentiment-improves?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3333281/hong-kong-unemployment-rate-dips-38-business-sentiment-improves?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 18 Nov 2025 10:38:10 +0000 Leopold Chen Leopold Chen Hong Kong authorities will offer a one-time HK$20,000 (US$2,570) subsidy to more than 200 community centres serving the elderly and disabled to help more voters cast their ballots in the coming Legislative Council election, expanding on an arrangement in place during a previous citywide poll two years ago. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han said on Tuesday that the subsidies would be used to provide transport arrangements to elderly residents and people with disabilities, as well... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3332325/hong-kong-offer-hk20000-subsidies-help-elderly-and-disabled-voters?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3332325/hong-kong-offer-hk20000-subsidies-help-elderly-and-disabled-voters?utm_source=rss_feed Tue, 11 Nov 2025 08:06:55 +0000 Willa Wu Willa Wu Hong Kong’s labour chief has dismissed suggestions that newly arrived talent are exploiting admission schemes to give birth in the city, saying no evidence or data supports such claims. He called on society to treat the professionals with respect, as they had gone through stringent vetting procedures. “Based on the numbers of newborns in the past two years, as well as our exchanges with different organisations, we did not see such things happening,” Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3329157/no-evidence-talent-abused-schemes-give-birth-hong-kong-labour-chief?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/politics/article/3329157/no-evidence-talent-abused-schemes-give-birth-hong-kong-labour-chief?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 15 Oct 2025 14:10:49 +0000 Elizabeth Cheung,Willa Wu Elizabeth Cheung,Willa Wu The family of a child who was allegedly abused by a babysitter in Hong Kong has said they will soon run out of the money raised to pay for her treatments at a time when the severely brain-damaged girl is finally making improvements after daily intensive therapies. The child, known affectionately as “Little Suet-yee” and now 2½ years old, came to the public’s attention after she was suspected of being abused in late January last year by a 33-year-old babysitter recruited under a government-funded... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3328269/hong-kongs-little-suet-yee-recovering-medical-funds-nearly-gone?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3328269/hong-kongs-little-suet-yee-recovering-medical-funds-nearly-gone?utm_source=rss_feed Wed, 08 Oct 2025 12:53:52 +0000 Ng Kang-chung Ng Kang-chung Technology capable of detecting when a flat or refrigerator door opens could help Hong Kong authorities remotely check on whether all is well with elderly residents living alone, a minister has said. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han also said on Saturday that the government was testing using wearable devices as part of early detection measures for high-risk cases. He raised the idea just days after another elderly resident was discovered dead in their home, the latest in a... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3327103/can-fridge-door-sensors-help-hong-kong-authorities-check-elderly-living-alone?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3327103/can-fridge-door-sensors-help-hong-kong-authorities-check-elderly-living-alone?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 27 Sep 2025 11:17:28 +0000 Fiona Sun Fiona Sun Hong Kong’s labour minister has ruled out legislating the arrangements for suspending work during times of adverse weather, saying the move would hinder the functioning of society and the early return to normality. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han rejected the call on Thursday as some lawmakers urged authorities to better protect workers during inclement weather, after Super Typhoon Ragasa wreaked havoc across the city. Sun said different industries and jobs were... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326819/hong-kong-minister-rejects-work-suspension-legislation-adverse-weather?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3326819/hong-kong-minister-rejects-work-suspension-legislation-adverse-weather?utm_source=rss_feed Thu, 25 Sep 2025 08:31:05 +0000 Emily Hung Emily Hung With Hong Kong leader John Lee set to deliver his annual policy address on September 17, the Post examines key topics the chief executive is expected to focus on, including a mega infrastructure project near the border, new economic drivers and livelihood issues. In the last of a seven-part series, Emily Hung looks at the systemic issues plaguing unemployed workers, elderly carers and young people that Lee is expected to address in the second last policy blueprint of his first term. Click here... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325405/how-will-hong-kongs-john-lee-help-jobless-unhappy-old-and-young?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/society/article/3325405/how-will-hong-kongs-john-lee-help-jobless-unhappy-old-and-young?utm_source=rss_feed Sat, 13 Sep 2025 00:30:25 +0000 Cannix Yau Cannix Yau With Hong Kong leader John Lee set to deliver his annual policy address on September 17, the Post examines key topics the chief executive is expected to focus on, including a mega infrastructure project near the border, new economic drivers and livelihood issues. In the sixth of a seven-part series, Cannix Yau examines the economic challenges and political expectations to be addressed in Lee’s second last policy blueprint of his term. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu will have to confront a... https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3325200/one-city-two-realities-how-will-hong-kongs-john-lee-respond-policy-address?utm_source=rss_feed https://www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/hong-kong-economy/article/3325200/one-city-two-realities-how-will-hong-kongs-john-lee-respond-policy-address?utm_source=rss_feed Fri, 12 Sep 2025 00:30:08 +0000