Media OutReach
HKCSS Releases Inaugural Data on Caring Business Practices in Hong Kong
3,500 Companies Recognized; Support for Working Caregivers Emerges as New Benchmark for Friendly Workplaces
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 22 January 2026 – 22 January 2026 – The Hong Kong Council of Social Service (HKCSS) held the 2024/25 Caring Company Scheme Recognition Ceremony today at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. Mr. Chris SUN Yuk-han, JP, Secretary for Labour and Welfare of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, attended as the Guest of Honour. This year, a total of 3,500 caring companies and organisations were recognised.
From left：Hon Grace CHAN Man-yee, Chief Executive Of HKCSS
Mr. CHAN Tsz Ming, Director, Analysts at Level 1, Department of Social Affairs, Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the HKSAR
Mr. Chris SUN, JP, Secretary for Labour and Welfare
Revd Canon Hon Peter Douglas KOON Ho Ming, SBS, JP, Chairperson of HKCSS
Mr. CHAN Charnwut, Bernard, GBM, GBS, JP, Vice-chairperson of HKCSS
Ms. CHAK Tung Ching, Yvonne, Vice-chairperson of HKCSS
For the first time, HKCSS released the major findings from the Caring Business Achievements Overview, providing an in-depth look at corporate trends in addressing social issues such as population ageing, workforce challenges, and climate change across four key pillars: Partnership, Social, Economic, and Environmental Sustainability.
Mr. Chris SUN Yuk-han, JP, Secretary for Labour and Welfare of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, congratulated the businesses and organizations recognized by the Caring Company Scheme. He emphasized that building a compassionate society requires collaboration with the business community, which plays a vital role alongside government and non-governmental efforts. By prioritizing employee welfare, employers not only uplift families but also drive growth, attract talent, and foster mutual benefits. Mr. SUN called upon the business sector to engage more proactively in this initiative, fostering a collective commitment to building a more caring society for all.
24 Years of Deep-Rooted Partnership: 28% of Collaborations Last 10 Years or More
The Caring Company Scheme has been running for 24 years. The Revd Canon the Hon. Peter Douglas KOON, SBS, JP, Chairman of HKCSS, stated in his speech: “The Scheme underwent a significant revamp recently to localise international sustainability frameworks. Through our inaugural data analysis, we can observe the business sector’s overall performance in tackling challenges like population ageing and climate change. We hope these trends will guide companies to transform a culture of care into concrete business decisions.”
Data indicates that business-social partnerships have built a solid foundation. Over 70% of companies have maintained partnerships with community partners for three years or more, while 28% have sustained collaborations for over a decade, reflecting a commitment to long-term stability in cross-sectoral collaboration.
New Frontier in the Workplace: Support for Working Caregivers Emerges as a Key Focus
Corporate performance in supporting caregivers has become a focal point. Data reveals that over 80% of companiess have popularised flexible work arrangements, and 104 companies received special “Caregiver-Friendly” commendations for their outstanding support measures this year.
Hon Grace CHAN Man-yee, Chief Executive of HKCSS, observed several innovative cases: “Some companies have implemented eight weeks of fully paid adoption leave, five days of leave for only-child caregivers, and even ‘Grandchild Leave’. Others provide patient companion service. Supporting caregivers does not necessarily require massive financial investment; as long as it starts from the employees’ needs, the possibilities for caring business are endless.”
Five Key Recommendations: From “Ad Hoc Actions” to “Policy Integration”
While companies excel in charitable donations and active participation, there is room for improvement in environmental data tracking (currently at approximately 30%) and workplace diversity. Consequently, HKCSS proposes five key recommendations:
- Deepen Caring Standards: Treat the Caring Company Scheme indicators as operational benchmarks to establish a systematic socially responsible business model.
- Promote Professional Sharing and Responsible Procurement: Encourage management to join NGO boards as volunteers to provide professional support and integrate NGO products into corporate procurement supply chains.
- Build Diverse and Inclusive Workplaces: Actively employ disadvantaged groups to tap into new talent pools and implement flexible work to support working caregivers.
- Sustain Investment in Talent Development: Recognize talent as a driver of economic growth, enhance staff training, and strengthen mental health support.
- Initiate Data-Driven Management: We recommend that companies immediately start tracking data related to sustainability performance to ensure that social initiatives are measurable and sustainable.
In 2024/25, the Caring Company Scheme received over 4,300 applications. Ultimately, 3,500 companies and organisations were recognised the Caring Company and Caring Organisation logos, comprising large corporations (42%), SMEs (51%), and organisations (7%). HKCSS emphasised that the data release aims to establish a long-term mechanism to guide the business sector in finding room for improvement and addressing future social challenges through collaboration.
Hashtag: #TheHongKongCouncilofSocialService #HKCSS #theCaringCompanyScheme #Caregiver-Friendly
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Media OutReach
From Mexico to Hong Kong, Jose Manuel Cervantes Sanchez is Building Bridges Through Media at CUHK
Hong Kong: A Strategic Hub for Global Media
Currently enrolled in CUHK’s Global Communication programme, Jose is part of a growing wave of international students choosing Hong Kong for its strategic role as a cultural and commercial gateway between East and West. Long fascinated by Asian culture and influenced by family ties to the city, he was drawn to its unique position as a bridge between cultures. “I wanted to become a local with time and create bridges between Mexico and Hong Kong,” he said.
A school adviser first introduced him to CUHK as a strong option, and while he also considered universities in Canada and the United Kingdom, Hong Kong remained his first choice. Receiving the CUHK University Admission Scholarship confirmed his decision.
Academic Excellence and Creative Exploration
Jose’s experience in the Global Communication programme has met his expectations and more. What stands out most to him are the creative courses, which give students hands-on access to professional media equipment and the freedom to experiment. “Being encouraged to explore creativity by some professors has led me to discover new sides of myself,” he noted.
Outside the classroom, Jose has embraced life in Hong Kong with enthusiasm. From cultural events and student society gatherings to exploring local food streets, he has found the city lively and inspiring. The campus MTR station also makes it easy to travel to Shatin, Hong Kong Island, and even the Shenzhen border, adding to the convenience of student life.
A Creative Career Taking Shape in Hong Kong
Looking ahead, Jose hopes to take part in a semester exchange and a media production internship to further strengthen his practical skills. His post-graduation plans remain open, with possibilities in both Mexico’s rapidly growing entertainment industry and Hong Kong’s dynamic market.
For international students considering their options, Jose’s message is clear: CUHK offers academic quality, financial support, and a valuable foothold in one of the world’s most dynamic cities.
CUHK’s Global Communication Programme
CUHK’s Global Communication programme prepares students for an evolving media landscape by combining communication studies with a guaranteed overseas exchange and a curriculum built around real-world experience.
- Cutting-Edge Facilities: Access to a 4K-UHD Virtual Set Studio, Digital Radio Studio, and VR Lab.
- Guaranteed Global Exchange: One semester at a partner university in Asia, Europe, or North America.
- Hands-On Learning: Real-world experience through journalism projects and overseas study tours.
- International Classroom: A 1:1 ratio of international to local students with all courses taught in English.
For more information about CUHK’s Global Communication programme, visit https://admission.cuhk.edu.hk/programme/gcomn/
Hashtag: #CUHK
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Media OutReach
Singapore’s Largest Pet Event Returns Bigger Than Ever with Singapore Pet Festival 2026
Featuring Cesar Millan’s Singapore Debut, Over 300 Exhibitors, 800+ Brands, International Competitions, and Four Halls of Pet Experiences
SINGAPORE – Media OutReach Newswire – 24 July 2026 – Pet lovers can look forward to the return of SG Pet Festival 2026, Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, happening from 31 July to 2 August 2026 at Marina Bay Sands Convention Centre, Halls A, B, C & D.
Spanning across four exhibition halls, this year’s festival promises its biggest edition yet, bringing together over 300 exhibitors representing more than 800 local and international brands. Visitors can expect an exciting three-day celebration filled with shopping, education, competitions, interactive experiences, exclusive launches, and entertainment for pets and their families.
“Singapore Pet Festival has always been about bringing the pet community together while creating opportunities for brands, businesses, and pet lovers to connect. As the festival continues to grow, we are committed to raising industry standards, supporting education, and introducing new experiences that benefit both consumers and businesses. This year’s festival is our biggest and most exciting edition yet, and we look forward to welcoming everyone to Marina Bay Sands,” said Angie Lim, Managing Director of Citrus Media.
Event Highlights
Shop, Save & Win
Visitors can enjoy:
- $30,000 worth of Cash Rebates & Lucky Draw Prizes
- Exclusive event-only product launches, promotions, and deals
- Official TikTok LIVE shopping sessions featuring exclusive festival promotions and participating exhibitors
- Complimentary Limited Edition Singapore Pet Festival Tote Bag (while stocks last)
- Complimentary themed photobooth print-outs for qualifying spenders
- Exclusive giveaways and brand activations throughout the festival
Singapore’s Largest Pet Marketplace
With over 300 exhibitors showcasing 800+ brands, visitors can explore the latest products and services for dogs, cats, birds, small animals, aquatics, and more.
A specially curated Food Street featuring 18 food booths will also offer a delicious selection of food, refreshing beverages, and indulgent desserts, giving visitors plenty of dining options throughout the festival.
International & Industry Highlights
Singapore Pet Festival continues to strengthen its position as a leading regional pet event by welcoming exhibitors and industry professionals from across Asia.
Highlights include:
- International exhibitors from across Asia, including the Japan Pavilion and Korea Pavilion
- Singapore’s first International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC) Grooming Certification & Competition
- The 8th TICA Cat Show, featuring pedigreed cats and renowned breeders
- National Dog Obedience Competition, featuring Singapore’s top obedience teams in a live showcase of skill and teamwork supported by Pets Enterprises & Traders Association Singapore (PETAS)
- International judging panels and industry experts
Dedicated Experiences for Every Pet Lover
Visitors can enjoy:
- A dedicated Hall D for Cats & Small Animals, showcasing curated brands, activities, and live animal displays, including birds, guinea pigs and chinchillas
- Interactive pet-friendly activities and experiences
- Exclusive themed pet photo shoot experiences
Education & Community
Beyond shopping, Singapore Pet Festival aims to educate and connect the pet community through:
- Educational talks, workshops, and live demonstrations
- Meet-and-greet opportunities with veterinarians, trainers, groomers, and industry professionals
- Animal welfare groups hosting on-site adoption drives, giving rescued animals the opportunity to find loving forever homes while promoting responsible pet adoption
- A platform connecting pet owners, businesses, and animal lovers across the region
Exclusive Media Preview
Ahead of the public opening, invited media representatives, content creators, VIP guests and industry partners will enjoy exclusive early access to Singapore Pet Festival 2026 during the VIP Preview Session on Friday, 31 July, from 10:00 AM.
The preview offers creators a first-hand shopping experience, early access to new product launches and exclusive deals, opportunities to create content before the crowds arrive, and networking with brands and fellow creators.
Hashtag: #clubpets #sgpetfestival #petevents #petexpo #petfair
https://www.clubpets.com.sg/
https://www.facebook.com/CLUBPETS
https://www.instagram.com/clubpets.sg/
https://www.tiktok.com/@clubpets
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About Singapore Pet Festival
Organised by Citrus Media, Singapore Pet Festival is Singapore’s largest pet exhibition, bringing together pet owners, businesses, brands, professionals, and animal lovers under one roof. Through education, innovation, community engagement, and meaningful collaborations, the festival continues to promote responsible pet ownership while supporting the growth of the regional pet industry.
About Citrus Media
Citrus Media Pte Ltd is a Singapore-based events and media company dedicated to connecting communities through innovative exhibitions, digital media, and lifestyle platforms. The company is the organiser of flagship events including Singapore Pet Festival (SGPF), Singapore Cat Carnival, Blissful One-Stop Wedding Show (BOWS), and operates the Clubpets ecosystem, comprising Clubpets Marketplace, VIPaws Membership Programme, and digital media channels. Citrus Media is committed to creating meaningful experiences that bring together consumers, brands, and industry partners.
Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SwgVyMKMj2M
Spectacular Mountain Scenery, Nature‘s Air Conditioner
From the dazzling urban energy of Guiyang’s Qingyun Market to the starry nightscape of Xijiang Qianhu Miao Village, and from the majestic Huangguestu Waterfall to the sky-high Huajiang Canyon Bridge—the “world’s highest bridge”—every corner of Guizhou is a masterpiece worth pausing for.
“Guizhou’s summer feels like natural air conditioning,” shared a young Vietnamese travel influencer. “The seamless blend of daytime nature and vibrant city life made our journey incredibly exciting and fulfilling”
Link: https://www.guizhoutravel.com/feature/list
Immersive Culture & Play your way Through Guizhou
During their trip, the influencers dressed in exquisite traditional Miao costumes for stunning social media photos against the backdrop of historic wooden stilt houses. They also explored urban landmarks like Qingyun Market and Colorful Guizhou Town, experiencing the fusion of local heritage and modern trends amidst neon lights and bustling night markets. Food-wise, local delicacies like sour fish soup, beef rice noodles, and Siwawa (veggie wraps) continuously delighted their palates, offering a perfect mix of cultural depth and trendy adventures.
Pack your bags and go: Effortless Travel to Your Next Getaway
With direct flights now operating from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Guiyang—taking just over three hours—traveling to Guizhou has never been easier. Supported by China’s 240-hour visa-free transit policy and a safe, welcoming environment, Guizhou is becoming the ideal and ultimate “summer escape” destination for young Vietnamese travelers.
Guizhou is actively building a world-class tourism product system tailored for the international market, centering on the core themes of “Summer Escape + Eco-tourism + Cultural Experience.”
Pack your bags this summer and embark on your own adventure to mystical Guizhou!
Discover more of mystical Guizhou: www.guizhoutravel.com
Hashtag: #Guizhou #Vietnam #SummerEscape
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