Media OutReach
Policy Address by Hong Kong SAR’s Chief Executive John Lee: Creating a vibrant cultural, sports and tourism hub with global appeal
The Government will consolidate Hong Kong’s position as the East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange. Under the theme of “Tourism is Everywhere” the Government will also enhance the development of tourism products and initiatives with local and international characteristics. “We will actively explore new visitor sources, improve visitor arrival arrangements, enhance immigration experience, and develop the yacht economy,” Mr Lee said.
Strategies include attracting high-end tourists, developing a premium arts trading hub and promoting local cultural and creative industries.
With Hong Kong being among the world’s top three arts trading centres, the Government will step up efforts to build a global premium arts trading hub, attracting more international auction houses, galleries, and professionals to establish a presence in the city.
Measures include developing an arts ecosystem at the Airport City to host arts studios, galleries, and dealers under one roof, supported by large‑scale arts storage and related facilities.
The West Kowloon Cultural District will also take forward the development of the arts trading ecosystem, including initiatives to attract more arts trading enterprises, including galleries, insurance companies, and family offices, and lease space in the Artist Square Towers, scheduled for completion in 2026‑27.
For premium visitors, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) will collaborate with the travel trade to offer tailor‑made luxury tours targeted at high‑spending visitors, and work with the industry to offer sophisticated itinerary planning, concierge services, and premium experience.
Speaking at a press conference (September 21), the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law, said high-spending visitors are often looking for “private, tailor-made experiences”, including their method of travel, which could be by private jet or yacht. The Government is co-ordinating with the HKTB, the Airport Authority and other operators to ensure seamless facilitation.
“With 1,180 kilometres of shoreline and 263 islands, Hong Kong is well‑positioned to become a yacht hub in Asia,” Mr Lee said. “We will enhance amenities for the yacht industry and promote prime yacht tourism.”
Mr Lee said the Government would provide approximately 600 additional yacht berths at different locations and promote the development of the yacht bay at the Airport City, providing more than 500 additional berths, including berths for superyachts over 80 metres in length. The Government would also promote the systemic development of the Guangdong‑Hong Kong‑Macao individual travel scheme for yachts, and co‑operate with the Guangdong Provincial Government on facilitation measures for the northbound travel of yachts from Hong Kong and southbound travel for yachts from the Mainland.
Regarding Middle East and ASEAN tourism source markets, Mr Lee said: “To further promote Muslim tourism, we will strengthen our strategy of ‘accreditation, education, and promotion’, encouraging the industry to provide more Muslim‑friendly facilities and food options.”
The HKTB launched a funding scheme (September 17) through the end of 2026, by providing a half‑rate certification fee subsidy, capped at HK$5,000 (US$643), for restaurants that have acquired Halal certification.
Miss Law said the number of certified Halal restaurants in the city has almost doubled since early 2024, rising from about 100 to more than 190 by end August this year.
With the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) in March this year, the Government has announced the enhancement of the positioning of various performance venues.
“The KTSP plays a pivotal role in promoting sports mega events and developing sports as an industry. We will leverage its strengths to drive ‘sports + mega events’ development,” Mr Lee said, adding that the Government would review the positioning of the Hong Kong Stadium to complement the KTSP and support sports development.
The KTSP will stage several events of the 15th National Games (NG) in November as well as the National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the National Special Olympic Games (NGDSO) in December, to be co-hosted for the first time by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao.
“We will spare no effort in staging the competitions to be held in Hong Kong, and work with Guangdong and Macao to make the 15th NG and NGDSO a success,” Mr Lee said. “We have collaborated with the industry to roll out various tourism products related to the Games, and have also arranged for local free television broadcasts to relay the competitions, allowing the public to cheer on the athletes.”
To attract more world‑class players to compete in Hong Kong, the Government has agreed on a multi‑year partnership arrangement with LIV Golf, one of the most important golf tours in the world.
And, with next year being the Year of the Horse in the Chinese zodiac, the Hong Kong Jockey Club will organise celebrations and performances under the equestrian theme to promote horse‑racing tourism.
Mr Lee said the Government would “press ahead with the integrated development of culture, sports and tourism, enabling the people of Hong Kong to live in a community with thriving economy and vibrant culture.”
Hashtag: #hongkong #brandhongkong #policyaddress #culture #sports #tourism
https://www.brandhk.gov.hk/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/brand-hong-kong/
https://x.com/Brand_HK/
https://www.facebook.com/brandhk.isd
https://www.instagram.com/brandhongkong
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
Media OutReach
New Battery-Operated Bluetooth® Controller Enables Truly Mobile, Plug-and-Play Access
Powerful Performance from Just Four AA Batteries
Powered by only four AA batteries, the controller delivers over two years of operation when driving a 12VDC latch, dramatically reducing maintenance compared to typical battery-powered systems. Its high-efficiency internal buck/boost technology ensures optimal power delivery while using fewer batteries than conventional approaches.
Redundant Power for Critical Access
When batteries eventually require replacement, Southco has designed built-in redundancy to avoid downtime. A power override port—compatible today with a 9V battery and adaptable for future power inputs—provides temporary power so users can unlock the enclosure, replace batteries, and restore full operation quickly.
Smart Monitoring Through the Keypanion® App
Battery health is continuously monitored through Southco’s Keypanion® App, which alerts users well before battery replacement is needed, reducing the likelihood of emergency access situations.
For Original Equipment Manufacturers building their own mobile apps, Southco also offers a Software Development Kit (SDK), enabling seamless integration between the controller and customers’ existing digital ecosystems.
Designed for Real-World Enclosures
A removable battery pod allows fast, frustration-free battery changes—especially valuable in tight, hard-to-reach installations. Users can slide out the cartridge, load all batteries at once, and reinsert it without navigating cramped enclosure spaces.
The controller also features true plug-and-play installation. Simply insert the four AA batteries, plug in the latch, and the system is ready to operate—no wire splicing, no external power, and no additional electronics required.
Mobile Access Without Security Infrastructure
With the Keypanion® App, users can activate, manage, and share access directly from a mobile device. There is no server setup, no IT overhead, and no wiring required. Permissions can be granted or revoked instantly, replacing physical keys with secure digital control.
New Possibilities for Remote and Unpowered Applications
This combination of self-contained power, Bluetooth® connectivity, and mobile access expands what designers can do in environments once considered too challenging for electronic access. Ideal applications include:
- Remote and public installations without external power
- Retrofit upgrades for existing unpowered enclosures
- Critical infrastructure such as fiber optic boxes requiring secure, monitored access
By eliminating the need for solar panels, power drops, or complex security systems, Southco’s Battery-Operated Bluetooth® Controller reduces material costs and gives OEMs far greater design freedom.
A Flexible, Future-Ready Solution
Beyond immediate use cases, the power override port helps engineers address mechanical override considerations by providing a reliable method to restore power and gain entry when traditional power sources fail—a major benefit noted by early customer feedback.
The Battery-Operated Single Output Bluetooth® Controller provides a strong foundation for the next generation of remote access solutions, delivering convenience, efficiency, and security in one streamlined device.
For more information, please visit www.southco.com or email Southco’s 24/7 customer service team at in**@*****co.com.
Hashtag: #Southco
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About Southco
Southco, Inc. is the leading global designer and manufacturer of engineered access solutions. From quality and performance to aesthetics and ergonomics, we understand that first impressions are lasting impressions in product design. For over 80 years, Southco has helped the world’s most recognized brands create value for their customers with innovative access solutions designed to enhance the touch points of their products in transportation and industrial applications, medical equipment, data centers and more. With unrivalled engineering resources, innovative products and a dedicated global team, Southco delivers the broadest portfolio of premium access solutions available to equipment designers throughout the world.
Southco Asia Limited
2401, Tower 2, Ever Gain Plaza
88 Container Port Road, Kwai Chung
Hong Kong
Media OutReach
OTIC Hearing Unveils New Audiological Milestones In Hong Kong: Launching The Award-Winning Oticon Zeal And The Pediatric Oticon Play SI Platforms
Developed to mimic natural brain sound processing, these platforms represent a major leap forward in treating hearing loss across all ages. Together, the Oticon Zeal and Oticon Play SI lines bring the next evolution of BrainHearing™ technology to Hong Kong. Headlining this release is the custom-molded Oticon Zeal, which recently won the 2026 Red Dot Design Award—one of the world’s most prestigious international seals of design quality and innovation. By introducing these dual systems, OTIC Hearing effortlessly bridges the gap between invisible aesthetics for image-conscious adults and robust learning support for developing children.
Oticon Zeal: Setting a New Standard for Invisible Hearing Technology
For many adults experiencing mild-to-moderate hearing impairment, the social stigma of traditional behind-the-ear devices remains a major deterrent to seeking intervention. Oticon Zeal rewrites this narrative with its NXT In-the-Ear (ITE) style.
Individually sculpted to fit deeply within the user’s ear canal, Oticon Zeal achieves absolute invisibility when viewed from a frontal profile, presenting an ultra-compact faceplate only when observed directly from the side. This is achieved via advanced 3D modeling and laser-sculpting technology, which integrates complex components into an exceptionally small shell without compromising on features.
Overcoming a historic limitation of invisible hearing aids, the frequent changing of tiny disposable batteries; Oticon Zeal introduces an integrated lithium-ion rechargeable power cell. The system delivers up to 20 hours of continuous battery life on a single charge. Every device pairs with a desktop SmartCharger that functions as a mobile power bank. For urgent situations, a fast-charging protocol provides four hours of operational power from a brief 15-minute charge.
Deep Neural Network 2.0 Processing
At the core of Oticon Zeal’s processing is an on-chip, second-generation AI engine. Driven by an updated Deep Neural Network (DNN) 2.0 and a SuddenSound Stabilizer, the processor scans and balances the surrounding soundscape hundreds of times per second.
Standard digital hearing systems often rely on narrow, directional microphones that isolate a single speaker while dampening peripheral noise. This artificial restriction deprives the brain of essential contextual audio, creating cognitive strain and mental fatigue.
In contrast, Oticon Zeal’s AI preserves a natural, 360-degree open soundscape. By suppressing sudden background noises by up to 12 decibels while actively enhancing speech clarity by up to 6 decibels, the platform allows the brain to naturally choose which sound source to focus on, even within high-volume environments like corporate meetings or crowded restaurants.
Oticon Play SI: Purpose-Built Pediatric Care for Growing Minds
Alongside the adult-focused Oticon Zeal, OTIC Hearing is introducing Oticon Play SI to deliver specialized auditory care tailored directly to the unique developmental requirements of growing children. The Oticon Play SI family is optimized to deliver a rich, high-fidelity sound stream essential for language acquisition, academic success, and social confidence.
Children live dynamic lives, moving rapidly from quiet homes to noisy classrooms and playgrounds. Oticon Play SI addresses this volatility by becoming the industry’s first pediatric family to combine a second-generation AI processing core with integrated 4D user-intent sensors.
These sensors track physical head movements, body activity levels, and localized acoustic shifts. The system automatically adjusts its processing parameters in real time, ensuring the child remains clearly connected to teacher instructions, parental guidance, and peer interactions.
To withstand childhood adventures, Oticon Play SI features an IP68-certified robust housing, offering maximum protection against dust, moisture, and debris. This fully sealed architecture safeguards delicate internal circuitry from sweat, rain, and accidental spills. Available in versatile miniRITE R and miniBTE R styles, the lineup offers a broad array of 12 expressive color choices, seven colored ear-hook options, and custom decorative stickers, empowering children to wear their devices with personal pride.
Advanced Digital Connectivity
To seamlessly interface with today’s digital environment, both Oticon Zeal and Oticon Play SI feature state-of-the-art streaming protocols. Utilizing advanced Bluetooth® LE Audio technology, both product families deliver low-energy direct audio streaming from smartphones, tablets, laptops, and smart televisions, keeping users connected without draining device batteries.
Hashtag: #OTIC
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About OTIC Hearing
Established in 2005, OTIC Hearing (Otic Hearing & Speech Centre) is one of the largest, most trusted hearing care clinical groups in Hong Kong. Guided by a corporate philosophy of “People First”, OTIC Hearing manages a comprehensive network of eight specialized service centers strategically distributed across Hong Kong Island, Kowloon, and the New Territories. Clinics are located in Central, Causeway Bay, Jordan, Tsim Sha Tsui, Kwun Tong, Shatin, Tsuen Wan, and Yuen Long.
As the exclusive distributor of Oticon A/S in Hong Kong, OTIC Hearing pairs world-leading technology with an elite team of clinical audiologists and technical hearing specialists. Every facility is fully outfitted with advanced diagnostic and testing instrumentation, allowing the clinical team to deliver precise hearing assessments, custom-fitting protocols, and specialized pediatric auditory rehabilitation. OTIC Hearing maintains a strict commitment to ongoing professional training, ensuring that every client receives a supportive, accurate rehabilitation journey designed to restore lifestyle confidence.
Media OutReach
Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited announces interim results for six months ended June 30, 2026
2026 Interim Results – Financial Highlights
(Figures for the corresponding period in 2025 are shown in brackets)
- Consolidated revenue: HK$593 million (HK$ 636 million)
- Consolidated net loss attributable to equity holders of the Company: HK$189 million (HK$ 249 million)
- Basic loss per share: 9.28 HK cents (12.23 HK cents)
- No interim dividend (No interim dividend)
Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited (“PCPD”, SEHK: 00432) announced its interim results for the six months ended June 30, 2026.
The consolidated revenue of PCPD and its subsidiaries (together, the “Group”) amounted to HK$ 593 million, compared to HK$ 636 million for the corresponding period of 2025.
The Group’s consolidated loss attributable to equity holders of the Company for the first six months of 2026 totalled HK$ 189 million, compared to a net loss of HK$249 million for the corresponding period last year. Basic loss per share for the six months ended June 30, 2026 was 9.28 Hong Kong cents, compared to a loss per share of 12.23 Hong Kong cents for the corresponding period of 2025.
The Board of Directors did not declare an interim dividend for the first half of 2026.
For the first half of 2026, the Group delivered encouraging results as we built on our core strengths and benefited from resilient demand across the markets in which we operate. During the period, we also took steps to enhance our portfolio, including the disposals of two investment assets. These initiatives are expected to strengthen the Group’s financial position and reinforce its long-term growth.
Our operations in Japan performed well despite some moderation in tourism demand, shaped by changes in the composition of international visitors and fluctuations in travel demand. Park Hyatt Niseko, Hanazono, our hospitality business in Niseko, Hokkaido, delivered a stable performance with healthy occupancy and room rates, while our ski operations remained a key contributor to the Group’s results. Earnings from our recreational facilities, ski lifts, equipment rentals, “Hanazono EDGE” (a restaurant and entertainment centre) and Niseko International Snowsports Schoolcontinued togrow year-on-year. We will stay focused on establishing Niseko Hanazono Resort as a world-class, all-season luxury destination and remain optimistic about its long-term development.
On March 16, 2026, the Group announced the sale of its entire interest in Pacific Century Place, Jakarta (“PCP Jakarta”) in Indonesia. The transaction, at a total consideration of US$400 million, was completed on June 8, 2026. Notwithstanding the disposal, the Group will continue to provide property management services in respect of PCP Jakarta.
On February 13, 2026, the Group announced the sale of its entire interest in Midtown Niseko. The transaction, at a total consideration of US$80 million, was completed on May 31, 2026.
The Group formed a strategic alliance with Hotel Properties Limited in Singapore to bring a Four Seasons Resort and Branded Residences to Aquella, a large-scale integrated resort development in Phang Nga. The move represents a significant milestone in PCPD‘s long-term vision of transforming Aquella into an integrated resort destination that effortlessly blends luxury living, recreation and exceptional service.
Central Residence by the Park in Hong Kong was launched for sale in January 2026. As at the end of June, 90.9% of the total available units of the luxury residential project had already been sold. The project will be completed in the latter half of 2026.
Mr. Benjamin Lam, PCPD’s Deputy Chairman and Group Managing Director, said: “The first half of 2026 presented a challenging global environment, characterised by geopolitical tensions including the conflict in the Middle East, inflation, trade uncertainties and concerns over monetary policies. Despite the headwinds, global growth was relatively resilient, while international tourism in many parts of Asia continued to perform steadily. The Group’s core markets in Asia generally remained solid during the period. Tourism demand continued to support Japan and Thailand despite a slightly more measured pace of growth. Improving sentiment in Hong Kong’s property market also provided a more favourable backdrop for our luxury residential development.
In the second half of the year, we will continue to enhance the value of our existing assets while positioning the Group to capitalise on opportunities that support our long-term strategy and create value for our stakeholders.”
Hashtag: #PacificCenturyPremiumDevelopments
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About PCPD
Pacific Century Premium Developments Limited (“PCPD” or the “Group”, SEHK: 00432) is principally engaged in the development and management of premium-grade property and infrastructure projects as well as premium-grade property investments. PCCW Limited (“PCCW”, SEHK: 00008) is the single largest shareholder of the Group.
