In a match held at the Harbin Ice Hockey Arena on Feb. 9, the Hong Kong team defeated Turkmenistan 5-1 in the C Group of the Asian Winter Games.
However, post-game, a fierce conflict erupted, resulting in several Hong Kong players being beaten and knocked to the ground. Three players from Turkmenistan were penalized for their involvement in the brawl.
On Feb. 10, the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong issued a statement strongly condemning the deliberate attack on their athletes by Turkmenistani players, which led to injuries. The statement highlighted that the association, in collaboration with the Hong Kong Ice Hockey Association, reviewed video footage to understand the situation. The head of the Hong Kong delegation, Fok Kai-kong, promptly contacted the International Ice Hockey Federation, the Olympic Council of Asia, and relevant event organizers to demand disciplinary action to ensure the safety of all participating athletes.
The association noted that the two injured players were assessed by the team doctor and local hospital, and their conditions were stable with no serious injuries. They also expressed pride in the Hong Kong men's ice hockey team's restraint during the incident, upholding the Olympic spirit.
Govt proposes legislation to ban flavored smoking products including waterpipes
The government plans to legislate a ban on flavored traditional smoking products, including waterpipe smoking.
Reports suggest that this move could reduce spending in local bars. In response, the Food and Health Bureau clarified that all indoor areas of food establishments, including bars, are legally designated smoke-free zones. Waterpipe smoking in these areas is illegal and has been enforced for years. Currently, only about 10% of bars have outdoor areas where patrons can legally smoke, indicating that the ban on flavored cigarettes and water pipes will have a minimal impact on bars. The government may consider a grace period before the new legislation takes effect to allow time for compliance.
Regarding claims that neighboring regions lack similar measures, a spokesperson noted that places like Singapore have implemented more stringent regulations, such as banning the import and sale of all waterpipes since 2016, without negatively impacting their tourism industry.
The spokesperson urged bar and restaurant owners to refrain from assisting in any violations of smoking regulations and warned that the Department of Health will closely monitor and enforce these laws, targeting illegal smoking activities in bars.
223 couples register marriage in Lantern Festival with Tseung Kwan O Marriage Registry full booking
Today, Feb. 12, marks the Lantern Festival, and many couples have chosen this day to register their marriages. Reports indicate that a total of 223 couples registered to marry at marriage registries across Hong Kong. The Tseung Kwan O Marriage Registry was particularly busy, fully booked with 23 couples.
The Immigration Department also hosted a "Wedding Stories in Archives" traveling exhibition, showcasing the history of marriage in Hong Kong over the years. The event featured performances by the Immigration Department's band.
One couple, who have been together for seven years, mentioned that they quickly reserved their spot as soon as the marriage registry opened appointments last November. They expressed their hopes of supporting each other throughout their lives together. The bride, Mrs. Chan, noted that the Lantern Festival has historically been a romantic day for couples, and marrying today adds a special touch to their union.
Another couple, who have been dating for about five years, also chose today (Feb. 12) to get married. The groom remarked that it was a perfect opportunity to unite with his partner and expressed hopes of continuing their loving relationship after the wedding.
Taobao partners with local platform to open first offline furniture store in HK
Taobao has partnered with local one-stop home repair platform Papabo to open its first offline furniture and home goods store in Hong Kong. The store is located on the 2nd floor of China Hong Kong City in Tsim Sha Tsui and is set to officially open on Feb. 22.
Co-founder and CEO of PapaHome introduced the store's innovative Online-Merge-Offline (OMO) operating model, which aims to enhance the shopping experience for local consumers. Customers can physically explore products in-store and scan QR codes for detailed information and exclusive discounts. Once they've selected their desired items, they can complete purchases directly on the Taobao platform.
Comment