Society
For Hong Kong's first Filipino domestic helper dragon boat team, paddling empowers their community and women
- 2023-12-12
- Society
- By: Jemima BadajosEdited by: Wisha LIMBU
- 2023-12-12
As the Discovery Bay Dragon Boat Gala 2023 kicked off at Tai Pak Beach, it was a homecoming for Filipino Dynamo, Hong Kong’s first Filipino domestic helper dragon boat team, as they were going to compete where they first began. Filipino Dynamo was first founded in January 2018 by Liza Avelino, a Filipino domestic helper, who used to compete in a mixed dragon boat team. She wanted to start a team of her own, composed of female Filipino domestic helpers. When it first started, the team recruited helpers who had little to no experience in paddling. Over the years, Filipino Dynamo has proved itself on a competitive level, recently winning 1st runner-up in the Sinopec Ladies Race at the Gala. Although dragon boating has been around for more than a thousand years, Hong Kong has propelled it forward into a ‘modern sport’. This year, 43 local and international dragon boat races were held, according to the Dragon Boat Hong Kong. The Filipino Dynamo team aims to join at least one race every season. However, dragon boat racing is also an expensive sport. To compete in the Discovery Bay Dragon Boat Gala, the ladies race category alone costs HK$3,800 to register. Without a dragon boat and parking space licence, the group also has to rely on sponsorships and club membership fees to rent out boats for water training. Most domestic helpers have Sundays as their day off, with plenty that can be seen gathering with their friends in public areas. By law, domestic helpers are required to have a 24-hour rest period every week. But for Filipino Dynamo members, they spend their one day-off training for the next race. Their training regime consists of a mix of yoga, circuit, and strength training on land and paddling techniques in water. With “Empowered …
The once-in-a-decade Yuen Long Jiao Festival prays for peace and harmony on its neighbourhood
- 2023-12-12
- Society
- By: Jemima Badajos、Tsz Wing CHANEdited by: Wisha LIMBU
- 2023-12-12
The Yuen Long Jiao Festival carried out its day-long religious ritual as it marked its 100th anniversary. The district-wide festival has been held every 10 years in Yuen Long since its establishment in 1923, celebrating through a series of religious rituals, arts and cultural performances, and competitions.
A glimpse inside Hong Kong’s iconic Choi Hung Estate amidst redevelopment talks
- 2023-12-12
- Society
- By: James Ezekiel Kalaw MODESTOEdited by: Ho Yi CHEUNG
- 2023-12-12
Choi Hung Estate, one of Hong Kong's iconic urban photography spots, is set to undergo phased redevelopment, according to local media. With its construction dating back to the early 60s, Choi Hung Estate stands as one of Hong Kong's largest and earliest public housing estates, situated in the Wong Tai Sin District. The housing complex spans over 5.1 hectares and consists of 11 blocks comprising 7,400 flats that provide homes for more than 17,000 residents. In the past, Choi Hung Estate was visited by members of the Royal Family, including Princess Margaret in 1966 and foreign dignitaries, such as US’s Richard Nixon in 1964 before his assumption as the nation’s leader in 1969. The estate, managed by the city's Housing Authority, attracts both locals and tourists due to its rainbow-coloured buildings. Most notably, the basketball courts within the estate serve as popular backdrops for photos, with their vibrant walls complementing the snapshots taken there. Beyond its colourful exterior walls and “social media-worthy” appeal, Choi Hung Estate buzzes with everyday scenes of people engaged in their daily routines, as well as the vibrant presence of shops and other amenities, mirroring the essence of any residential community.
GDL Causes Massive Train Service Disruptions in Germany
- 2023-12-12
- Society
- By: Tsz Yau CHANEdited by: Wisha LIMBU
- 2023-12-12
Germany's GDL train drivers' union has announced a strike from Thursday afternoon until Friday evening, impacting both freight and passenger trains. The strike, a result of an ongoing wage dispute with Deutsche Bahn, will commence at 6pm local time for freight traffic and 10pm for passenger trains, concluding on Friday at 10pm. Travelers with planned journeys during this period faced significant disruptions and cancellations. The GDL strike prompted the Deutsche Bahn to implement extensive restrictions, affecting services from Thursday evening until Friday. Freja Olsson, a 22- year-old student had to book a hotel in a hurry as her train from Prague to Hamburg was canceled, spending over EUR$85 (HK$700) for a hostel in Dresden Germany. “There had been multiple strikes in Germany this year and it had affected my traveling plans as they were all announced in a rush,” Olsson said. According to the Deutsche Bahn’s website, affected travelers have the option to postpone their journey without any time limit, use valid tickets even if the route changes, cancel seat reservations for free, or receive a full refund without deductions for complete journey cancellations due to the GDL strike. Another traveller, William Anderson, 35, is planning to spend the night at the train station till midnight until the train returns to normal service. “I have gotten used to the strikes, it’s just normal to me,” Anderson said calmly. The GDL, in its pursuit of better working conditions, is demanding a reduction in working hours from 38 to 35 hours per week for shift workers without salaries being cut, which Deutsche Bahn has refused. Additionally, they seek an increase of EUR$555 (HK$4,675 ) per month and a one-off inflation compensation bonus of EUR$3,000 (HK$25,271). Deutsche Bahn has said it made an offer that amounts to an 11 per cent raise. Negotiations …
Budapest's Advent Basilica Secures Fourth Consecutive Win as Best Christmas Market in Europe
- 2023-12-12
- Society
- By: Tsz Yau CHANEdited by: Wisha LIMBU
- 2023-12-12
Budapest's Advent Basilica has clinched the title of Best Christmas Market in Europe for the fourth consecutive year, as declared by European Best Destinations. The market, featuring 150 exhibitors showcasing Hungarian crafts and culinary delights, welcomes visitors until Jan 1. European Best Destinations organised the extensive vote, with over 590,000 travellers from around the world participating in the selection process. Advent Basilica's win attests to its universal appeal, enchanting visitors with its festive charm and cultural richness. Advent Basilica, themed "Where love takes your hand," is open to the public from November 17 to January 1 in front of St. Stephen's Basilica. This year's festivities maintain the market's 13-year tradition, offering a charming atmosphere with an estimated 100 domestic craft exhibitors, traditional Hungarian dishes, an ice-skate rink, and musical programs. Connie Corvet, a 27-year-old tourist from the UK, expressed her delight while savouring a warm cup of hot chocolate in the freezing weather, “This is one of the best Christmas markets I've ever been to. The atmosphere, light shows, and food are all amazing.” Mm Mark, a 20-year-old entrepreneur, and his father set up a stall selling hot beverages. Mark shared, “We chose to set up a stall here since this is one of the most popular Christmas markets in Europe.” The exceptional achievement of triumphing four times as the best European Christmas market underscores the Advent market's enduring appeal and widespread popularity. Its unique blend of Hungarian crafts, delectable culinary offerings, and a festive ambiance has consistently outshone competitors, making it a standout destination. Advent Basilika, organiser of Budapest Christmas Market, has high hopes for this year’s Christmas. “2023 will also be a year of miracles, as the beauty of the holiday will move to Szent István Square in Budapest.”
Hong Kong’s unsung heroes awarded in recognition of Hong Kong’s Spirit
- 2023-12-02
- Society
- By: Yau To LUMEdited by: Tsz Yin HO
- 2023-12-02
Eight unsung heroes were awarded the Spirit of Hong Kong Award 2023 in recognition of their efforts to Hong Kong and representing the city's spirit for this year. Established in 2013, the campaign aimed to shine a light on the city’s unsung heroes and honour their achievements. The 11th edition of the annual campaign was co-organised by the South China Morning Post and property developer Sino Group. The award winners were announced at a ceremony on Friday evening at the Conrad Hong Kong Hotel. A panel of judges selected seven for their remarkable accomplishments in the perseverance, community, culture, innovation, teamwork and youth categories, with a new Spirit of Sustainability Award category. The eighth winner was chosen by SCMP’s readers and won the Lion Rock People’s Choice Award. Lee Hoi-wu, 52, who took over her family’s decades-old restaurant in Hong Kong in 2014, won the Lion Rock People’s Choice Award. “I will continue to make good milk tea, I will strive to use it to tell the good stories of Hong Kong,” she said. “I hope that people will continue to pay attention to Hong Kong and like Hong Kong,” She added. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu congratulated the winners at the ceremony, saying that their different cultural backgrounds and upbringings represent the spirit of the city. “They are ordinary people but also heroes. Each in their own shining and singular way, they represent the spirit of Hong Kong,” Lee said. Hong Kong has had a difficult few years, particularly since 2019, according to Lee. “Nonetheless, the people of Hong Kong have persisted. Throughout, the Hong Kong spirit has prevailed,” Lee added. The city leader praised their selfless contribution in areas spanning technology, medicine, education, culture, sports, community service and more. “They make a profound difference,” Lee said. “For the …
The HKFYG Leadership Institute Open Day
- 2023-11-29
- Society
- By: Sze Kei WONG、Ka Man WongEdited by: Noah Tsang
- 2023-11-29
The Hong Kong Federation of Youth Groups hosts an open day in Fanling. It’s leadership institute is housed in what was once Fanling Magistracy.
Hong Kong holds a 2-2 Draw against Turkmenistan in Intense World Cup Qualifier
- 2023-11-28
- Society
- By: Ben Rong LiEdited by: Aruzhan ZEINULLA、Ming Min AW YONG
- 2023-11-28
Hong Kong faced Turkmenistan last Tuesday in a crucial match for the 2026 FIFA World Cup Asian qualifiers in the second round at Hong Kong Stadium. Hong Kong tied 2-2 despite trailing twice. Ranked just nine places lower than their opponents, Hong Kong fielded a strong lineup, including the Kitchee combination of Chan Shinichi and Azevedo Pedreira Fernando Augusto on the left flank. Everton Camargo, making a return, played in the centre alongside striker Udebuluzor Michael Chibuikem, while An Wing-Kwan started on the bench. Hong Kong captain Yip Hung-fai guarded the goal, with Leung Nok Hang and Lo Kwan Yee in central defence. The midfield featured Wong Wai, Chan Siu-Kwan, and Chan Chun-lok for the attack. 6,601 supporters chanted inspiring slogans from the stands. Among them were approximately 20 Turkmenistan fans. Early in the game, Hong Kong conceded a goal in the 4th minute when Turkmenistan capitalised on a defensive vulnerability. Ruslan Kamilyevich Mingazov, Turkmenistan midfield chipped the ball over the goalkeeper, putting Turkmenistan in the lead. However, Hong Kong equalised in the eighth minute through Wong Wai's header from Yu Chun Nam's cross. The team then gained momentum and launched a fierce attack. In the 21st minute, Wong Wai's free-kick found Chen Zhaojun, who scored with a header, but the referee decided it was offside despite protests from the home crowd. Turkmenistan also had an offside goal in the first half. In the 36th minute, Mamedov outjumped Yu Chun-nam to head the ball into the net, giving Turkmenistan a 2-1 lead. Hong Kong had opportunities to level the score, with Everton's shot was blocked and Chan Chun Lok hitting the crossbar from a corner kick. Coach Anderson brought on An Wing-kwan to strengthen the attack, and in the 65th minute, Wong Wai's free-kick found An Wing-kwan, whose header was …
World's first Frozen-themed land opens at Hong Kong Disneyland
- 2023-11-27
- Society
- By: Yee Ling TSANG、Wai Sum CHEUNGEdited by: Tsz In Warren LEUNG
- 2023-11-27
Hong Kong Disneyland unveiled its new playland based on the theme of the movie, Frozen. It is the first and only playland on this theme among the world’s Disneyland Resorts.
Midland Realty and subsidiaries face commission manipulation allegations
- 2023-11-17
- Society
- By: Xiya RUI、Hanzhi YANGEdited by: Ming Min AW YONG、Noah Tsang
- 2023-11-17
The Competition Commission filed a lawsuit yesterday accusing Midland Realty. Holdings and its two subsidiaries over alleged sales commission fixing. The Competition Commission alleges that Midland Holdings and its subsidiaries instructed agents to charge a minimum net commission rate of 2 percent for first-hand residential properties, starting from December 2022. Some members of the public have given their support to further address unethical practices in the real estate industry. "I am very grateful to the Competition Commission for strictly supervising this matter," said Hurry Lee, 42 years old, a buyer who bought a home at Midland Realty in February. "The price-fixing in the real estate industry is deeply concerning," Lee said, "It means that homebuyers like me may have been paying inflated prices due to collusion. I paid nearly HK$200,000 in agency fees, but that could potentially be lower if there is fair competition." According to the data from The Land Registry, since the alleged commission manipulation artificially increased the rate to 2% in December 2022, the number of sale and purchase agreements of building units for that month hit its lowest point of the year at 3,565. Furthermore, last month witnessed a decline of 33.9% compared to October last year. "I also wish for lower agency fees, because it would make it easier for us to attract potential buyers when selling properties," said Galong Wong, a staff member at Midland Real Estate Agency. "Our salary is composed of a base salary and commissions earned for each transaction completed. While the entire real estate industry has collectively increased the commission rates to 2%, allowing the company to earn more money, our individual commission for selling a property has not seen a corresponding increase," Wong said. According to the investigation by the Hong Kong's Competition Commission, Midland had conspired with Centaline …