Tag Archives: Hong Kong

Hong Kong: Cycle tracks and associated facilities in Tseung Kwan O gazetted

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The Government published a notice in the Gazette today (November 13) on works on cycle tracks and associated facilities along the seafront at Town Centre South, Tseung Kwan O. The project aims to provide a comprehensive cycle track network connecting the planned cycle tracks under other public works projects in Tseung Kwan O district.

The proposed works include construction of sections of cycle tracks of approximately 1.6 kilometres at the waterfront of Town Centre South, Tseung Kwan O; construction of cycle track underpasses, cycle parking area, footpaths and landscaping areas associated with the proposed cycle tracks; and ancillary works including civil, geotechnical, landscaping, drainage and water works, construction of retaining walls and provision of signage and street lighting.

The plans and scheme are available for public inspection at the following places during office hours:

(i) Central and Western District Office, Public Enquiry Service Centre, Unit 5, The Center, 99 Queens Road Central;
(ii) Sai Kung District Office,Tseung Kwan O Sub-office, Public Enquiry Service Centre, 1st floor, King Lam Neighbourhood Community Centre, King Lam Estate, Tseung Kwan O; and
(iii) District Lands Office, Sai Kung, 3rd floor, Sai Kung Government Offices, 34 Chan Man Street, Sai Kung.

Any person who wishes to object to the proposed works or the use, or both, should write to the Secretary for Transport and Housing, 16/F, Murray Building, Garden Road, Hong Kong, on or before January 12, 2010.

Hong Kong: Results of study on impact of weather on senior citizens (with photos)

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The Hong Kong Observatory (HKO) and the Senior Citizen Home Safety Association today (November 12) announced the findings of a joint study on the impact of cold and hot weather on the health of senior citizens in Hong Kong.

The study analysed the daily number of users activating the Personal Emergency Link Service (PE-Link) and requiring subsequent hospitalisation (hospitalised users) as well as the weather data recorded at HKO Headquarters from 2004 to 2008.The results indicated that besides air temperature, relative humidity also affected the health of senior citizens.Dry and cold weather had a particularly significant health impact on them.

When the minimum temperature was below 22 degrees Celsius, the number of hospitalised users increased as the temperature dropped.The figures were more than 10% higher when the temperature fell below 12 degrees Celsius.When the maximum temperature was higher than 30 degrees Celsius, the number of hospitalised users increased as temperature rose.The figures were more than 7% higher when the temperature reached 34 degrees Celsius or above (Figure 1).

Dry weather had a greater impact on senior citizens in cool seasons (Figure 2).During the study period, a high number of hospitalised users was recorded in about half of the cold and dry days (relative humidity at 70% or below).

Executive Director of the Senior Citizen Home Safety Association Mr Ma Kam-wah said the study results would help the association establish measures for cold and hot weather conditions.For example, the association would strengthen the manpower of the Call and Care Service Centre in response to changes in air temperature and relative humidity, and send recorded voice messages through the Caring Message Service (see Note below) to remind PE-Link users of the expected weather changes to minimise the impact on their health.

Director of the Hong Kong Observatory Dr Lee Boon-ying said the collaboration between the Observatory and the Senior Citizen Home Safety Association enhanced the understanding of the impact of weather on senior citizens, in particular the impact of dry weather in cool seasons.

We will continue our co-operation to contribute towards the safety of senior citizens, Dr Lee said.

As winter approaches, the Observatory and the Senior Citizen Home Safety Association are co-operating to promote the awareness of senior citizens of the need to prepare for the cold weather.With the Caring Message Service, a Senior Scientific Officer of the Observatory will, through recorded voice messages, remind about 70,000 PE-Link users to keep warm when cold surges arrive or in persistently cold weather.

Note: The Caring Message Service is provided by the Senior Citizen Home Safety Association through an interactive voice response system with autodial function. It delivers greetings, reminders and the latest information to Personal Emergency Link Service users on a regular basis, to help them keep in touch with the community.

Hong Kong: Expert Group on Hong Kong/Guangdong Financial Co-operation holds first meeting (with photo)

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The Expert Group on Hong Kong/Guangdong Financial Co-operation today (November 12) held its first meeting in Guangzhou.

Co-chaired by the Permanent Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury (Financial Services), Miss Au King-chi, and the Director General of the Financial Affairs Office, Peoples Government of Guangdong Province, Mr Zhou Gaoxiong, the meeting was also attended by representatives from the Guangdong provincial and HKSAR governments; regulators of the securities, insurance and banking industries, and Hong Kong Exchanges and Clearing Limited and the Shenzhen Stock Exchange.

During the meeting, the Expert Group exchanged views on the strengthening of co-operation in areas including the securities, banking, renminbi and insurance businesses.The representatives also discussed proposals for more policies and measures that would be mutually beneficial to the development of financial industries in Hong Kong and Guangdong, by leveraging on CEPA, the model of early and pilot implementation and other channels.

A spokesman for the Government said: One of the focuses of the discussion is how to leverage on the model of early and pilot implementation to achieve mutually beneficial results.We want to facilitate the going out of the Mainlands financial industry while ensuring national financial security, by playing a role as a testing ground of the Mainlands financial reform.We also want to advance financial industry development and the structural change in the economy of Guangdong Province through the framework of Hong Kong/Guangdong financial co-operation.

The representatives of both sides also discussed the way forward of the Expert Group.Financial regulators of both sides will follow up the discussion and formulate plans on various areas of co-operation in due course.

Since the announcement of the Outline of the Plan for the Reform and Development of the Pearl River Delta by the National Development and Reform Commission in January this year, Hong Kong and Guangdong have rolled out co-operation in various financial areas.Both sides signed an agreement in the Hong Kong/Guangdong Co-operation Joint Conference in August to form an expert group for the study and promotion of co-operation in areas including financial institutions, markets, business and talent, with the aim of facilitating a more convenient flow of financial resources in the region.

Hong Kong: Forty good citizens awarded for helping Police fight crime (with photo)

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Forty citizens who helped the Police fight crime were commended at the Good Citizen Award (GCA) Presentation Ceremony today (November 12).

The Award, presented twice a year, is organised by the Police Public Relations Branch with sponsorship from the Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce (HKGCC).

Two of the awardees received the Good Citizen of the Year Award (GCYA), while the others received the GCA. With their help, more than 40 people were arrested for a variety of offences including murder, robbery, burglary, theft, indecent assault, deception and arson.

Mr Leung Ting-ki and his son Mr Leung Ka-chu, winners of GCYA, helped Police arrest a robber.

In June 2009, a culprit took a taxi on Yen Chow Street, Sham Shui Po. On the way, he suddenly strangled the taxi-driver¦s neck with a nylon rope and declared robbery. Mr Leung Ting-ki who was driving past the scene with his son, Mr Leung Ka-chu, witnessed the incident and assisted in subduing the culprit. Subsequently, the two Mr Leungs, both injured, subdued the culprit who was then arrested by the Police.

Mr Leung Ting-ki and Mr Leung Ka-chu were presented with a plaque and each a cash award of $3,000. All other GCA winners each received a certificate and a cheque of $2,000.

Mr Tse Yin-tak, a GCA winner, assisted Police in the detection of a murder case.

A sixteen-year-old girl was reportedly missing in April 2008. Mr Tse then received a phone call from his friend who stated that he had strangled a girl and dismembered her body. Mr Tse suspected his friend of being in connection with the missing girl case and thus made a report to the Police. Acting on the information provided by Mr Tse, Police arrested his friend who was subsequently convicted of murder and preventing the lawful burial of a body, resulted in a sentence of life imprisonment.

Speaking at the ceremony, Deputy Commissioner of Police (Operations), Mr Yam Tat-wing, commended and thanked the awardees for their bravery. He believed that the GCA scheme helped promote the spirit of mutual help in the community and would inspire more people to join the Police in the fight against crime, keeping Hong Kong one of the safest cities in the world.

Member of Manpower Committee, HKGCC, Mrs Virginia Ma, and member of the Fight Crime Committee, Ms Sylvia Yau Siu-fee, also attended the ceremony.

Mrs Ma said that while Hong Kong Police was widely recognised as a professional and efficient disciplined service, the protection of lives and properties of the public relied on the collaboration of different parties. The HKGCC would continue to support the GCA scheme and encourage the public to join hands with the Police in fighting crime.

Police Report No.2

Hong Kong: Warning about slimming product with undeclared drug ingredients (with photo)

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Members of the public are urged not to buy or consume a slimming product labeled as Xi Zhi Su as it was found to have contained undeclared western medicine that may cause serious side effects, a spokesman for the Department of Health (DH) said today (November 12).

The appeal was made after the investigation into an incidental finding of sibutramine and phenolphthalein in the product.

Laboratory tests on the product sample showed the presence of the above two undeclared Western drugs ingredients.

The spokesman said sibutramine is a Western medicine used as an appetite suppressant. Its side effects include increased blood pressure and heart rate, psychosis and possibly convulsion. People with heart problems should not take it.

Phenolphthalein was once used for treating constipation but has been banned for its cancer-causing effect.

A product containing sibutramine must be registered before it can be sold in Hong Kong. It can be sold only on a doctors prescription and dispensed under the supervision of a pharmacist.

The spokesman said sale of unregistered pharmaceutical products was an offence under the Pharmacy and Poisons Ordinance. The maximum penalty is a fine of $100,000 and two years imprisonment.

People should stop using the product immediately and they should see a doctor if they feel unwell after taking the product.

They should destroy and dispose of the product or submit it to the department¦s Pharmaceutical Service at 3/F, Public Health Laboratory Centre, 382 Nam Cheong Street, Kowloon, during office hours.

The spokesman said, Weight control should be achieved through good diet and appropriate exercise. They should consult healthcare professionals before using any medication for weight control.

China Selects Infineon’s Security Chips for Electronic Passports

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Neubiberg, Germany – The Chinese government is using security microcontrollers of Infineon Technologies AG (FSE: IFX / OTCQX: IFNNY) for its new electronic passports. Infineon today announced that it recently started deliveries to the Chinese electronic passport project which volume-wise is one of the world’s two biggest electronic passport projects. As of the first quarter of 2010, all new Chinese passports will be issued as electronic passports. The Chinese government estimates that, beginning in the first full year of the roll-out, about 6.5 million electronic passports will be handed out annually to citizens, diplomats and government workers. In total, there are currently more than 30 million passports in circulation in China, which are usually valid for ten years.

In China, two ministries are involved in electronic passport programs: The Ministry of Public Security is responsible for citizens, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for diplomats and government workers. Infineon is the only semiconductor supplier delivering into both of China’s electronic passport projects.

All Chinese electronic passports include a security microcontroller in the back cover that stores, securely encrypted, the same information about the bearer’s identity that is printed on the document, such as the bearer’s name, date of birth, and photo, and the passport’s validity period and number.

Special Administration Regions Hong Kong and Macao also use Infineon’s security microcontrollers

Both China Special Administration Regions, Hong Kong and Macao, trust in Infineon and it’s almost 25 years of expertise in security and contactless technology. Infineon is sole chip supplier for their electronic passport programs. Hong Kong, with its approximately nine million inhabitants, annually issued about 1.2 million electronic passports since 2007. And Macao, with its population of about 300,000, handed out about 100,000 electronic passports per year since the beginning of 2008. In addition, Infineon also exclusively supplies the security microcontrollers for Hong Kong’s and Macao’s National electronic Identity Cards issued to citizens as well as permanent and non-permanent residents since 2004. These identity cards enable identification and other services such as automatic border control and e-government.

“We are deeply honored by the trust awarded to Infineon by the Chinese Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as well as both the Hong Kong and Macao Special Administration Regions to be the silicon partner for their electronic passport programs,” said Dr. Helmut Gassel, President of the Chip Card & Security Division at Infineon Technologies. “Security being a key area for Infineon we feel confirmed in our efforts to provide high-quality, superior security products that successfully passed the world’s most stringent security tests.”

Infineon ranks number one in chips for card and security applications

Roughly every second electronic Government ID document (not including the China National ID card project) issued in 2008 incorporated a security chip of Infineon. Government ID applications include electronic documents, such as passports, national ID, health cards, drivers licenses and social security cards. Today, Infineon’s products are used in the public domain of about one third of the 192 UN member states, which represent a total population of more than three billion people.

Infineon is the world’s number one chip card semiconductor vendor, already for the twelfth year in a row. According to the US market research company Frost & Sullivan Infineon holds a 25.5 percent market share of the overall chip card IC (integrated circuit) market that totaled about US $2.4 billion in 2008.

Technical details on Infineon’s security chip used in Chinese passports, the SLE 66CLX800PE

Specifically designed for use in electronic passports, identity cards, e-government cards and other high-security applications, the SLE 66CLX800PE security microcontroller features a crypto-coprocessor and provides advanced performance and high execution speeds of up to 848 kbits/s even if elevated encryption and decryption operations have to be calculated. The SLE 66CLX800PE features 80 kilobytes (kb) of EEPROM, 240 kb of ROM, and 6 kb of RAM. With its tailored set of EEPROM/ROM and RAM memory sizes, the SLE 66CLX800PE adheres to the ICAO requirements for the secure storage of the biometric and personal data in travel documents.

The SLE 66CLX800PE is certified according to Common Criteria EAL 5+ high (BSI-PP-0002 protection profile) security certification. Infineon’s security microcontrollers build on underlying hardware-based integral security, with data encryption, memory firewall system and other security mechanisms to safeguard the privacy of data.

For more information on Infineon’s semiconductor product portfolio for chip card and security applications, please go to www.infineon.com/security
About Infineon
Infineon Technologies AG, Neubiberg, Germany, offers semiconductor and system solutions addressing three central challenges to modern society: energy efficiency, communications, and security. In the 2008 fiscal year (ending September), the company reported sales of Euro 4.3 billion with approximately 29,100 employees worldwide. With a global presence, Infineon operates through its subsidiaries in the U.S. from Milpitas, CA, in the Asia-Pacific region from Singapore, and in Japan from Tokyo. Infineon is listed on the Frankfurt Stock Exchange (ticker symbol: IFX) and in the USA on the over-the-counter market OTCQX International Premier (ticker symbol: IFNNY).

Source: WEBWIRE

Hong Kong: Cultural feast to celebrate East Asian Games

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Cultural performances from around the region are set to provide a spectacular backdrop to the Hong Kong 2009 East Asian Games (EAG) with a variety of dynamic and world-renowned events taking place across the city.

Under the theme Cultural EAG, performing groups from the Mainland, Korea, Japan, Guam, Taiwan, Macau as well as Hong Kong will present an exciting programme in the build-up to, and during the EAG.

The EAG provides a wonderful opportunity to showcase the cultural vibrancy that our region has to offer, Director of Leisure and Cultural Services Mrs Betty Fung said.

This programme of cultural events will add a fresh dimension to the EAG and raise the profile of performing arts in East Asia.

The National Dance Company of Korea begins the Cultural EAG programme with its traditional repertoire Korean Fantasy – Scent of Spring. Performances, from November 20-22, feature highlights from various traditional dances.

Internationally renowned Opera singer Tian Haojiang stars in the full production of contemporary Chinese composer Guo Wenjings opera Poet Li Bai on December 4 and 6. The opera has won international critical acclaim and played to full houses during its premiere in the US in 2007.

From the City of Mount Fuji in Japan, the Za Ondekoza drum group celebrates its 40th Anniversary with its energetic performance titled Ki Kon Ichi Da on December 11 and 13.

Taiwans U Theatre presents another rhythmic display called Sound of the Ocean featuring bells, gongs and drums on December 11.

Four experienced local artists have come up with an innovative way to celebrate the EAG with a production called Passion of Body Art from December 10-13 and December 17-21. The mini drama series takes a look at sports culture of our time.

No cultural display in Hong Kong would be complete without Cantonese Opera, which was recently added to UNESCOs Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, making it the first item of the world intangible cultural heritage of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macau.

Cantonese Opera Day, now in its seventh year, takes place on November 29 providing an opportunity for the public to experience the unique genre and even meet the stars.

A EAG Cultural Extravaganza will be held at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre on December 12, featuring a wide variety of lively and traditional performances from around the region.

The Cultural EAG will help to promote friendship and cultural exchanges that will become a lasting legacy of the Games, Mrs Fung said.

Tickets are available at URBTIX outlets (except Cantonese Opera Day and EAG Cultural Extravaganza). For programme details and information about various discount schemes, please refer to programme leaflets or visit www.lcsd.gov.hk/cp

For programme enquiries, call 2268 7321 (music)/ 2268 7323 (dance and extravaganza)/ 2268 7325(theatre and Chinese Opera); for ticketing enquiries and reservations, call 2734 9009; for credit card telephone bookings, call 2111 5999; for internet bookings, visit www.urbtix.hk

Hong Kong: WSD conveys concern about drought in Guangdong (with photos/video)

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The Director of Water Supplies, Mr Ma Lee-tak, and the Advisory Committee on Quality of Water Supplies visited the Dongjiang from Monday to today (November 9 to 11). They met officials of the Department of Water Resources of Guangdong Province (DWRGP). Mr Ma conveyed to them the concern of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government about the drought in Guangdong.

The DWRGP said it appreciated Hong Kongs concern. It was confident that the water supply to cities and towns alongside the Dongjiang and Hong Kong was secure with the regulation of the storage of the three reservoirs in Guangdong – Xinfeng Jiang, Fengshuba and Baipenzhu.

Mr Ma told DWRGP officials that Hong Kong would closely liaise with them and comply with their scientific regulation to tackle the droughtwithout affecting the water supply to Hong Kong. Hong Kong could readily reduce its intake if such a need was established.Hong Kong will also actively co-operate with the Guangdong authorities if they make other suggestions.

Hong Kongs annual intake of Dongjiang water of up to 820 million cubic metres (MCM) is just 3% of the rivers average annual flow volume. The present storage of Hong Kong reservoirs stands at about 480 MCM and is able to cater for Hong Kongs water demand.

The DWRGP has devised and implemented a winter-spring Water Quantity Regulation Plan that makes use of the three reservoirs to meticulously regulate the flow in the Dongjiang to ensure that the water supply to cities and towns along the Dongjiang and Hong Kong will not be affected.

According to the Guangdong authorities, the rainfall within the Dongjiang areas this year is about 1,255 mm, which is 26% below average.The present total storage of the Xinfeng Jiang, Fengshuba and Baipenzhu Reservoirs in Guangdong is about 7,000 (MCM), which is 25 % less than normal.

Mr Ma appealed to the public to conserve water.

The water storage in Hong Kong is sufficient. Together with the reliable supply from the Dongjiang, Hong Kong people can enjoy a stable water supply. However, there is no room for complacency.To cater for uncertainties of drastic climatic changes and lower rainfall, and to enhance the partnership of Hong Kong with other cities in the Pearl River Delta, Hong Kong should make its contribution in water conservation, he said.

The Water Supplies Department (WSD) implemented the total water management strategy in October 2008. A wide range of promotional activities on water conservation have been launched, including roadshows at schools. A programme to retrofit government buildings and schools with 23,000 water saving devices has been implemented. So far 1,200 devices have been installed.

In September, the WSD launched the voluntary Water Efficiency Labelling Scheme for shower heads. Suppliers are invited to apply for registration of showers with the scheme. Currently, suppliers have 12 models of showers being tested in preparation for applying for registration.

The Water Supplies Department will step up publicity and education to promote water conservation.

To better understand the water quality of the Dongjiang and to get an update on related water supply facilities, the Advisory Committee on Quality of Water Supplies conducts annual visits to Guangdong. During the trip this year, members of the committee visited reservoirs in Guangdong – Xinfeng Jiang, Fengshuba and Baipenzhu- as well as the Taiyuan Pumping Station.

deVere Group announces strong Q3 results

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For immediate release
London, United Kingdom – 11th November 2009
The deVere Group, the world’s largest independent financial consultancy group announced today strong Q3 results driven by an increase its client base, improved customer service levels and has introduced many innovative new services as a result of the company’s ongoing global expansion.
The group which announced strategic expansion plans earlier this year acquired a number of companies and opened new offices worldwide throughout 2009. deVere ensures that ongoing training and adequate support is provided to new and existing offices, thereby providing them with the right tools and knowledge from the start. New alliances such as the strategic partnership with Jupiter Asset Management, who provide in-house training to deVere consultants, add to the company’s strength. The infrastructure set up by deVere has enabled the teams to offer better service to their clients and delivered sound financial results in Q3.
“Building on momentum from the second quarter, most of our operations posted higher results than anticipated for Q3” commented Nigel Green, CEO deVere Group. “We are extremely pleased with our latest figures. The third quarter is typically the building block for a fourth quarter and we now have a very solid foundation to build on”.
deVere Group has its head office in Zurich, Switzerland and opened a recruitment office in London earlier this year. The group recently confirmed the opening of a new office in Central London, reinforcing the company’s commitment to meet its clients’ demand and provide them with professional advice and local expertise.
About deVere Group
deVere Group is the world’s largest independent international financial consultancy group. International investors and expatriates employ us to find financial services products that suit their medium to long term requirements for investments, savings and pensions. With in excess of US$7 billion of funds under administration and management, deVere has more than fifty thousand clients in over a hundred countries. Our independence and ability to offer financial products that are tailor-made to fit an individual’s needs are behind our success. As a result we now have offices in over forty countries. You can find us in Abu Dhabi, Brussels, Dubai, Geneva, Hong Kong, Johannesburg, London, Mexico, Moscow, Shanghai, Tokyo and Zurich, amongst others.
Please visit http://www.devere-group.com for more information about deVere Group.

Source: WEBWIRE

Sentiment towards commercial real estate shows signs of improvement RICS Global Commercial Property Survey Q3 2009

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Rental expectations remain negative; Capital value expectations turn positive for first time in over a year; Yields fall although at a slower pace than in Q2

November 11, 2009 /India PRwire/ — The latest RICS Indian Commercial Property Survey published today (11th November) suggests that sentiment in India is still fairly subdued although there are noticeable improvements compared to the second quarter report. Importantly, the turnaround in commercial property is relatively evenly spread across the three major sectors (office, industrial and retail).

Confidence in the outlook for lettings activity over the next three months has edged up although rents are still expected to decline, albeit more modestly. A net balance of 15% more surveyors are reporting negative rather than positive rental expectations. This was also a significant improvement from expectations in the previous quarter when the net balance was 44%. In addition, the survey also shows that sentiment in India is less downbeat than other major economies, such as the US, UK and Japan.

Highlights of RICS Indian Commercial Property Survey Q3 2009:

  • Rental expectations remain negative
  • Capital value expectations turn positive for first time in over a year
  • Yields fall although at a slower pace than in Q2

Moreover, RICS Global Property Survey Q3 2009 is noticeably more upbeat than the second quarter report both in terms of the lettings environment and investment activity. Confidence in the outlook for tenant demand over the next three months is either less negative or more positive than was previously the case in every region of the world. This better tone has, significantly, also begun to filter through into rental expectations. Latin American and Asian countries have the most favourable readings when it comes to the outlook for rents with Hong Kong enjoying a particularly big swing in sentiment. In the second quarter of the year, a net balance of 67% of respondents from Hong Kong expected rents to fall further; by contrast in the latest survey, a net balance of 16% of respondents suggest rents are likely to rise over the next three months

Peru, Columbia and Brazil also reported positive net balances on rental expectations while South Korea, China, Thailand and India were only moderately negative. Australia, UAE and the UK also saw rental expectations become less negative over the quarter but the weak results from the US and Japan were not far from the lows touched in the second quarter report. Interestingly, a number of European countries including Ireland, France and Spain have the worst readings on the rental outlook.

The mood amongst real estate investors also appears to have perked up according to the survey with capital values expected to increase in a number of countries including Brazil, Hong Kong, South Korea, China and India. This more positive mood has also been reflected in activity indicators with number of investment bidders per property picking up sharply not just in Asia and Latin America but also in a number of European countries. This is consistent with the latest data from Real Capital Analytics (see page 2 of the RICS survey) which shows either a steadying or a modest increase in transaction levels around the globe.

Sentiment towards capital values in the US is, however, still very negative with 53% more surveyors expecting further declines (rather than increases) in the run-up to Christmas. In the UK, the net balance on capital values expectations is still in negative territory although only marginally so and there has been a noticeable increase in transaction activity.

RICS chief economist Simon Rubinsohn said:

“The rebound in Asian economies is clearly being reflected in the more positive responses to both rental and capital value expectations throughout the region. By way of contrast, the relatively sluggish economic revival though much of Europe and the US is consistent with the more downbeat results for these regions.”

“This contrast could become even more pronounced through 2010 as any unwinding of the monetary and fiscal stimulus presents a further challenge to the tentative recoveries being experienced in most western economies.”

RICS India MD and Country Head Sachin Sandhir said:

“With this survey, RICS has endeavoured to provide a quarterly guide to developing trends for the Indian commercial property investment and occupier market. The results mirror market sentiments which are reflected in the improving outlook especially for the office sector as investment activity picks up to and tenant demand continues to strengthen.”

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Notes to Editor

About the Global Property Commercial Survey

RICS’ Global Commercial Property Survey is a quarterly guide to the developing trends in the commercial property investment and occupier market. This edition details market conditions for the 2nd quarter of 2009 based on information collected from leading international real estate organisations and local firms.

About RICS

RICS is the world’s leading qualification when it comes to professional standards in land, property and construction. In a world where more and more people, governments, banks and commercial organisations demand greater certainty of professional standards and ethics, attaining RICS status is the recognised mark of property professionalism.

Over 100 000 property professionals working in the major established and emerging economies of the world have already recognised the importance of securing RICS status by becoming members.

RICS is an independent professional body originally established in the UK by Royal Charter. Since 1868, RICS has been committed to setting and upholding the highest standards of excellence and integrity – providing impartial, authoritative advice on key issues affecting businesses and society. RICS is a regulator of both its individual members and firms enabling it to maintain the highest standards and providing the basis for unparalleled client confidence in the sector.

For more information, please contact:
Neha Khatter (Senior Executive) (L) 011 – 46523400

Hong Kong: Customs foils a drug trafficking attempt at airport (with photo)

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Hong Kong Customs yesterday (November 9) foiled a drug trafficking attempt at the airport and arrested a 40-year-old man suspected of trafficking some 920 grams of cannabis resin with an estimated market value of $90,000.

Yesterday afternoon, Customs officers of the Airport Command intercepted a male passenger arriving from India via Bangladesh at the Hong Kong International Airport for Customs clearance. Two slabs of suspected cannabis resin, about 920 grams in total, were found concealed underneath the insoles of the sports shoes he was wearing. Officers of the Customs Drug Investigation Bureau took over the case for follow-up investigations.

The man, who claimed to be a businessman, was charged with one count of trafficking in a dangerous drug and will appear at the Tsuen Wan Magistrates Courts tomorrow (November 11).

Under the Dangerous Drugs Ordinance, drug trafficking is a serious offence. The maximum penalty is up to life imprisonment and a fine of $5 million.

Hong Kong: Red tides sighted

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Red tides had been sighted in Hong Kong waters over the past few days, an inter-departmental red tide working group reported today (November 10).

Staff of the Leisure and Cultural Services Department observed a red tide at Middle Bay Beach on November 8.More red tides were sighted today at Clear Water Bay First and Second Beach, Silver Mine Bay Beach, Lo So Shing Beach, Hung Shing Yeh Beach, Cheung Chau Tung Wan Beach, Kwun Yam Beach, Repulse Bay Beach, South Bay Beach, Chung Hom Kok Beach and Silverstrand Beach. Red flags were hoisted immediately. The red tides still persist.

The red tide at Silverstrand Beach was formed by Trichodesmium erythraeum while others were formed by Phaeocystis globosa.Both species are seldom found in Hong Kong waters and they are non-toxic. Though Trichodesmium erythraeum might cause itching and burning upon contact with the skin as reported elsewhere, no such reports have been recorded in Hong Kong, a spokesman for the working group said.

The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) immediately alerted mariculturists at Lo Tik Wan, Sok Kwu Wan, Po Toi, Cheung Sha Wan, Ma Wan, Leung Shuen Wan, Tai Tau Chau, Kai Lung Wan, Kau Sai, Ma Nam Wat, Po Toi O and Tung Lung Chau and urged them to monitor the situation closely.No associated death of fish has been reported so far.

Early detection and warning will give mariculturists sufficient time to take necessary measures. The AFCD will closely monitor the possible spread of the red tides to other areas and has also stepped up the monitoring of all fish culture zones. Water samples have been collected for analysis.

Red tide is a natural phenomenon. The AFCDs proactive phytoplankton monitoring programme will continue monitoring red tide occurrences to minimise the impact on the mariculture industry and the public.

Hong Kong: Welcome home ceremony for Hong Kong SAR delegation to 11th National Games (with photo)

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The Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) delegation won a total of seven medals, consisting of two gold, one silver and four bronze, at the 11th National Games, the highest number of medals Hong Kong has ever scored at the Games.

In honour of the Hong Kong athletes for their encouraging results in the Games, the Government hosted a welcome home ceremony at the Hong Kong Cultural Centre, Tsim Sha Tsui, this evening (November 10).

Speaking at the ceremony, the Secretary for Home Affairs and the head of the HKSAR delegation to the 11th National Games, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, said that competing against top athletes from other provinces and cities, Hong Kong athletes achievement in the Games was remarkable. Hong Kong took pride in their good results. They have also set a good example to the younger generation, he said.

Mr Tsang said that the National Games was the countrys highest-level sports event. Competition in some of the events was as stiff as in those of the Asian Games and even the Olympic Games. It was encouraging that in competing with elite athletes from other provinces and cities, Hong Kong athletes had done their best and were among the top eight best performers in a number of sports events.Five new Hong Kong records in athletics and swimming were also set.

HKSAR has sent a delegation to the National Games since 1997 when the 8th National Games was held, and then the 9th and 10th National Games in 2001 and 2005 respectively. Having achieved one gold medal in the 8th National Games, the Hong Kong delegation recorded more outstanding results with two gold, two silver and one bronze medal in the 9th National Games. The Hong Kong team took one gold and three bronze medals in the 10th National Games.

Six of the medals at the 11th National Games were scored by Wong Kam-po, Patrick Lam, Chan Chun-hing, Alex John Hunter, Daniel Lee Chi-wo and Kenneth Cheng in the cycling, equestrian and triathlon events. An equestrian team formed by Patrick Lam, Samantha Lam, Kenneth Cheng and Jacqueline Lai won another medal in the jumping team event. (See Annex 1 for the medal results of the HKSAR delegation at the 11th National Games.)

A total of eight athletes broke the Hong Kong records in swimming events: the mens 100-metre butterfly; mens 200-metre butterfly; mens 200-metre freestyle; and mens 4x100m medley relay and 4 x 100 metres athletics relay. (See Annex 2 for sport events that broke Hong Kong records.)

Hong Kong athletes were also among the top eight best performers in the following sports: athletics, badminton, cycling, fencing, gymnastics, hockey, windsurfing, swimming, wushu (taolu), tennis and table tennis.

Looking forward, Mr Tsang said Hong Kong athletes would participate in various international sports events including the 2010 Asian Games in Guangzhou and the 2012 London Olympics. He said he believed that they would continue to do their utmost in meeting the challenges ahead and strive for the best results.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the HKSAR to the 11th National Games, Mr Timothy Fok, said as the hosts of the 5th East Asian Games (EAG), the Hong Kong athletes outstanding performance at the 11th National Games was no doubt a great encouragement to them. He said he believed that they would attain more remarkable results in the EAG.

Also officiating at the ceremony was the Director of Leisure and Cultural Services and deputy head of the HKSAR delegation to the 11th National Games, Mrs Betty Fung. The three officiating guests presented commendation certificates to athletes achieving outstanding results at the 11th National Games.

Held every four years, the National Games is the highest-level multi-sports event held in the country. The 11th National Games were held in Shandong Province between October 16 and 28. About 230 Hong Kong athletes took part in 25 sports events, comprising swimming, water polo, athletics, badminton, baseball, boxing, canoeing, cycling, equestrian, fencing, gymnastics, handball, hockey, judo, sailing, windsurfing, shooting, table tennis, taekwondo, tennis, triathlon, weightlifting, wushu (taolu), short track speed skating and figure skating.

GIGABYTE Charts Ambitious 2011 Roadmap for India

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Targets 2 million Sales figure by 2011 at MACAU Channel Meet

November 10, 2009 /India PRwire/ — GIGABYTE INDIA, a leading manufacturer of motherboards and graphics cards, held its grand GIGAGBYTE Annual Channel Meet in Hong Kong and Macau from 5 – 7 November 2009. The meet saw participation from more than 140 GIGABYTE channel partners from all over the country.

GIGABYTE India announced its ambitious plan of touching 2 million sales figures by the year 2011. The company plans also included increasing focus on upcountry markets and touching maximum number of small cities in the next year. Having established its mark in the South and West markets, GIGABYTE will now concentrate on the North and East markets in the coming year. These steps are aligned towards taking the GIGABYTE market share in the country from the current >20% to 25% in the next year. Having invested in excellent post-sales network in 2009 with touching almost 100+ locations for service & establishing TOLL FREE technical helpline, the focus will be on creating more brand value & visibility during 2010 to reach & meet new customers. The focus would be to create more informed segments in DIY markets.

Key GIGABYTE officials present at the meet were Mr. Henry Kao, Vice President—- Service & Sales Marketing Centre, Mr. Arthur Liu, Supervisor— Asia Sales Division, Mr. P. Vyas, Country Head, GIGABYTE India and Mr. Rajan Sharma, General Manager, Sales & Marketing – MB BU- GIGABYTE India

Speaking at the occasion, Mr. Henry Kao, President—- Service & Sales Marketing Centre said, “We are proud of the team in India and the sales figures achieved in the current year. Encouraged by this performance, we now look forward to invest more in brand building and post sales infrastructure. We plan to undertake focused steps to reach our aim of 2 million sales by 2011″.

“The year 2009 was good as we touched base with many new locations and partners. In 2010 we plan to keep our focus on upcountry markets and touch maximum number of small cities especially those in the North and East regions. Our aim is to further increase our market share and take it to 25% in 2011,” said Mr. Rajan Sharma, General Manager – Sales & Marketing – MB BU – GIGABYTE India.

This much awaited annual meet, provided a great platform for all channel partners to meet the company official face to face and plot the road map for the coming year. On this occasion GIGABYTE also showed its appreciation for the best performing and loyal partners. 2 best performing partners from each region, North, South East, West and Mumbai, were selected for awards from GIGABYTE.

“It’s great to see all our partners in India attending this annual meet. It’s a true representation of strength of the bond between GIGABYTE and its partners all over the country. I believe this is the ideal platform for all parties to come together and share their visions, ideas, and chart the roadmap to grow business”, said Mr. P Vyas, Managing Director, GIGABYTE India.

Availability

GIGABYTE products are distributed in India by Avnet (India), Ingram Micro, Redington (India) and Neoteric Infomatique Ltd

Source: Press release distribution via India PRwire

Notes to Editor

About GIGABYTE Upgrade Your Life

GIGABYTE, headquartered in Taipei, Taiwan, is known as a global leading brand in the IT industry, with employees and business channels in almost every country. Founded in 1986, GIGABYTE started as a research and development team and has since taken the lead in the world’s motherboard market. On top of motherboards and graphics accelerators, GIGABYTE further expanded its product portfolio to include notebook and desktop PCs, digital home entertainment appliances, networking servers, communications, mobile and handheld devices, servicing every facet of people’s lives at home or business. Everyday GIGABYTE aims to “Upgrade Your Life” with the most innovative designs and impeccable quality and services. Visit www.GIGABYTE.in for more information.

For more information, please contact:

  • Shaili Jani
  • Account Manager

Novotel goes from green to greener!

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Novotel announced today that 32 hotels and resorts throughout Asia Pacific have achieved Green Globe Sustainable Tourism Certification and a further 40 hotels have attained benchmarking status – the first significant step towards certification.

“Having 32 hotels certified and a further 40 in Asia Pacific region well on their way towards certification, is a notable achievement” says Evan Lewis – Vice President Communications for Accor Asia Pacific. “Certification is achieved hotel by hotel, requiring each hotel to be individually committed to the program and able to demonstrate environmental out performance. The pace at which the program has been adopted by each of the hotels is particularly pleasing, and resonates well with Accor’s overall environmental commitments.

The most recent hotels to achieve certification are Accor’s three Novotel’s located in Hong Kong: Novotel Hong Kong Century, Novotel Hong Kong Nathan Road and Novotel Hong Kong Citigate.

The Green Globe certification takes place in two stages; first an assessment of the environmental performance according to a benchmarking audit and then the establishment of environmental management system to improve each hotels performance with respect to sustainable development policies. Following this each hotel is externally audited for compliance to Green Globe standards.

Green Globe is an international organisation that provides certification for Sustainable Tourism, originally established in 1992 by the World Tourism and Travel Council and based on Agenda 21 (priorities of the 21st century for the planet).

“Travelers are increasingly seeking hotels that are able to demonstrate a commitment to the environment and Green Globe Certification provides visibility and the assurance of this commitment. Accor is committed to having the Asia Pacific network of Novotel hotels and resorts committed to the program by the end of 2009.” added Lewis

All details concerning Novotel’s commitment to Green Globe are available online at youandusforearth.com Here you will find general information, latest press releases, interview requests and press kit on the initiative.

Hong Kong: EAG preparatory work going smoothly (with photos)

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Preparations for the East Asian Games (EAG) are progressing smoothly and satisfactorily. The Games are now entering their 26-day countdown.

The 2009 East Asian Games (Hong Kong) Limited and government departments involved in the EAG held a press briefing today (November 9) to give an update on the preparation work.

Speaking at the press briefing, the Permanent Secretary for Home Affairs, Mrs Carrie Yau, said that the Hong Kong Jockey Club International BMX Park which opened on October 31 had already been tested and used for holding international events, and had been warmly welcomed by all parties.All the EAG venues were now ready for the competitions, she said.

She added: Temporary overlay works and thematic design and decorations are being done at various competition venues.They are expected to be completed this month.

Other arrangements such as transport, security, medical and anti-doping, food safety, hospitality, accommodation and media arrangements have all been set.

Mrs Yau said the success of the Games depended on solidarity and co-operation from all stakeholders, stressing that without a good audience, no games in the world could claim to be a success. She appealed to the public to help disseminate information about the EAG to make the Games a success.

The Chief Executive Officer of 2009 East Asian Games (Hong Kong) Limited, Mr Johnny Woo, said at the press briefing that the number of athletes taking part in the EAG was about 2,300, including 53 Beijing Olympics medallists and 83 Doha Asian Games medallists.

He said the opening ceremony of the Games will take place on a floating stage on Victoria Harbour against the impressive Hong Kong skyline.It will be put together by the team that produced the opening ceremony of the Beijing Olympics.A boat parade by more than 40 vessels and a spectacular fireworks show will add colour to the ceremony.The closing ceremony will be held at the Hong Kong Coliseum where the EAG flag and flame will be handed over to the next EAG host city, Tianjin.

Regarding the preparatory work, Mr Woo said that the EAG organiser had laid down house rules for maintaining order at the venues so as to ensure that the competitions would be held in a safe and smooth manner.

On accommodation, 11 hotels and a recreation centre will provide accommodation, catering services and conference facilities/services to all participating VIPs, delegations, athletes and referees.

On catering, caterers have been appointed to provide catering services at the competition venues and the Media Centre for VIPs, athletes, team officials, referees, workers, volunteers and media. The Food and Environmental Hygiene Department has been working closely with the EAG Company by conducting visits and giving advice to the appointed caterers on menu design and implementation of appropriate food safety management systems to ensure food safety and the provision of quality food for EAG participants.

Mr Woo said that the EAG organiser was working with the Hospital Authority, Fire Services Department, Auxiliary Medical Services and St. John Ambulance Brigade to provide medical and emergency services including at the competition venues and other venues.

On ticket sales, more than 60% of the tickets have been sold. Of the 22 sports events, tickets for 10 have been sold out, including diving, swimming, bowling, cue sports, BMX, indoor cycling, dancesport, judo, taekwondo and wushu.Tickets for athletics and shooting were sold out last Wednesday and today respectively.There are limited tickets left for the opening ceremony and badminton events.People wishing to watch the games at the venues should grab the chance to get the tickets.

The Director of Leisure and Cultural Services, Mrs Betty Fung said that apart from promoting sports, the EAG also provided a good opportunity to promote the culture and arts of the EAG participating countries/regions. To enhance public interest and sense of participation, there will be a variety of cultural programmes to highlight the Cultural EAG, including dance performances, drumming, dramas and carnivals with the performers coming from various participating countries/regions of the Games.

Mrs Fung said that in order to foster cultural exchange and friendship with the countries/regions participating in the EAG, the EAG Company will hold a Cultural Night during the Games period.

A cultural extravaganza will also be held between midday and 10pm on December 9, 10 and 11 when Chinese Taipei Night, Korea Night and Japan Night are to be held respectively to showcase the culture, cuisine and handicraft of the three places. Members of public are welcome to join and admission is free.

The Chief Superintendent of the Police Public Relations Branch, Mr David Ng, said Police were well prepared for the security arrangements of the EAG.

The Force has drawn up comprehensive operational strategies, including security arrangements, crowd and traffic management and contingency plans.We have also provided training and exercises for frontline officers and maintained close liaison and collaboration with the EAG Company, relevant Government departments and stakeholders to ensure the safe and smooth running of the EAG, Mr Ng said.

We have also formulated effective resources allocation plans to ensure flexible deployment of officers to provide the overall support of the security arrangements for the EAG, while continuing to provide day to day police services to the public and a capability to professionally respond to any major incidents that may occur.The Force has confidence, capability, expertise and appropriate planning to ensure that the EAG can be held in a safe and smooth manner, he added.

Principal Transport Officer (Urban) of the Transport Department, Mr Albert Su, said the Transport Department (TD), the Police, the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD) and the EAG Company have visited all competition venues and hotels of the EAG and formulated traffic and transport plans to facilitate the holding of the Games.

Mr Su said that temporary traffic and transport arrangements, including road closures and adjustments in public transport services would be implemented on December 5, 6, 10, 12 and 13 to facilitate the smooth operation of the EAG.

The event organiser, the LCSD and TD consulted the relevant District Councils on their concerns and views on the traffic and transport plans to be implemented during the EAG.The Transport Department has also briefed the major public transport operators and the representatives of transport trades of the traffic and transport arrangements.The operators and trade representatives indicated their full support to facilitate the holding of the EAG.

In addition, the TD is now preparing information leaflets for distribution to passengers who will be affected by the road events and outlying islands ferry passengers who will be affected by the opening ceremony so that they may plan in advance for the day.

Contingency plans have been formulated to handle any possible incident at the venues. Moreover, the TD participated in the drills and exercises organised by the event organiser and other government departments.The department will closely monitor the traffic situation and enhance information dissemination during the EAG, Mr Su added.

Mr Su appealed to motorists and public transport passengers to watch out for the latest news of the EAG and detailed information to be announced later as well as to refer to TDs homepage and leaflets for information.

Hong Kong: Speech by SCED at GS1 Hong Kong Supply Chain Management Excellence Summit (English only)

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Following is a speech by the Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mrs Rita Lau, at the GS1 Hong Kong Supply Chain Management Excellence Summit 2009 today (November 10) (English only):

Mr (Joseph) Phi, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

Good morning. It is my honour to be here with you at the 9th GS1 Hong Kong Supply Chain Management Excellence Summit 2009. To our guests from overseas and the Mainland, I would also like to extend my warmest welcome and hope that you will have a most pleasant and fruitful stay in Hong Kong.

This year GS1 Hong Kong celebrates its 20th anniversary. It gives me great pleasure to congratulate the organisation on its achievements over the years. GS1 has been a leading advocate for technological innovation, and has played a key role in pushing the development and usage of innovative solutions in supply chain management, including barcodes and RFID. Working in close collaboration with various governments, as well as its domestic and global partners, GS1 has actively contributed to the formulation of technology and business standards that have been adopted across a wide range of industry sectors.

Hong Kong is one of the worlds leading trade and logistics hubs. One of our key success factors is our industries vigorous pursuit of technology to enhance business efficiency and customer value along the global supply chains. The Government has built the necessary infrastructure and provided research funds to facilitate the development. In the area of supply chain management, the Government has established the Hong Kong Logistics and Supply Chain Management Enabling Technologies R&D Center (LSCM) and has also supported industry-led organisations like GS1. These organisations help industry to improve operational efficiency, particularly through the use of RFID technology. During the period from 2004 to 2008, the Government has supported more than 20 RFID projects, involving a total funding of over 150 million Hong Kong dollars.

On top of our continuous support for research and development (R&D) projects, the Government has been driving wider application and more extensive utilisation of R&D results through commercialisation. For example, ezTRACK (easy-track) emerged from the EPC Network Infrastructure for End-to-End Supply Chain Visibility project. This now provides more than 80 subscribers with real-time visibility of goods from the point of origin all the way through to the point of sale. Another such project, the Product Authentication Solution enables consumers to authenticate products after purchase. The Government will continue its effort to support commercialisation of R&D projects in the field of supply chain management.

With Hong Kongs geographic location and historical ties, we are uniquely placed to facilitate trade between the Mainland and its many partners. I understand that GS1 and LSCM have joined the RFID standards research projects led by the Guangdong Radio-wave Monitoring Station. This will allow Hong Kong to play an active role in the development of RFID standards in one of the worlds largest market places. I am also delighted to learn that GS1 has jointly initiated a Pan-Asia RFID regional cooperation with RFID organisations in Malaysia and Guangdong. This kind of cooperation is important as it will help create more business opportunities in Hong Kong, the Mainland and regionally.

Innovative thinking and creativity, together with the ability to adopt technology for fruitful use, are skills that we must cultivate in our younger generation. I am delighted to see that participation in The Hong Kong RFID Awards this year has been extended to young talent in local universities and education institutes. Such encouragement for our next generation of creative talent is essential to ensure we can continue the advancement of our supply chain management.

While the world is slowly starting to emerge from the worst effects of the economic turmoil, the need to make the best use of technology to maintain competitiveness is more important than ever. This conference provides a great opportunity for the industry to look ahead, to exchange knowledge and ideas so that you are ready to seize the opportunities ahead. I hope you all have a fruitful day of discussion as well as an enjoyable experience in Hong Kong.

Thank you very much.

Hong Kong: SCED to attend APEC meetings in Singapore

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The Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Mrs Rita Lau, will leave for Singapore today (November 10) to attend the 2009 Asia-Pacific Economic Co-operation (APEC) meetings.

Mrs Lau will attend the 21st APEC Ministerial Meeting tomorrow and Thursday (November 11 and 12) during which ministers will exchange views on measures to strengthen the multilateral trading system, accelerate regional economic integration, foster inclusive and sustainable economic growth, and strengthen APEC. She will also accompany the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, to attend the APEC CEO Summit.

On Friday (November 13), Mrs Lau will host a reception for Hong Kong businessmen and prominent local interlocutors in Singapore. The Chief Executive will also attend the reception.

While in Singapore, Mrs Lau will take the opportunity to hold meetings with her ministerial counterparts to exchange views on bilateral trade relations and issues of mutual interest.

She will return to Hong Kong on Saturday (November 14).

Asia Pacific Enterprise Software Spending to Grow 10.2 Percent in 2010: Gartner

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Volatile economy affecting application software market more than infrastructure software
Hong Kong – Asia Pacific’s enterprise software market revenue is forecast to reach US$ 22.1 billion in 2010, posting 10.2 percent growth, according to Gartner, Inc. This represents an upturn from the expected 6.6 percent growth in 2009, which is a notable slow down compared to 2008 growth of 13.8 percent. Within the region, the volatile economy is impacting the application software segment more than the infrastructure software segment.
Despite the recent slowdown in growth, Asia Pacific still has a positive outlook over the five-year forecast period from 2008 through to 2013, achieving a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 10.8 percent, the highest of any region worldwide. For the next five years, China, India and Vietnam will continue to register the highest CAGRs (14.6 percent, 12.4 percent and 10.7 percent respectively). Mature markets Australia and Singapore will also have attractive CAGRs, of 9.5 percent and 9.4 percent respectively.
China and India continue to benefit from a large domestic customer base and government stimulus packages, as well as relatively low market penetration. Australia and Singapore’s revenue is supported by a consistent maintenance revenue stream and a strong vendor channel and service infrastructure, as well as positive expectations for end-user software budget increases in 2010[1].
“Asia Pacific will have a more positive outlook compared with other regions such as Europe and North America and as a result, major vendors will continue to target higher-growth markets in the region,” said Yanna Dharmasthira, research director at Gartner. “However business customers continue to have strong bargaining power in the region. Some Asia Pacific markets have been traditionally more price-sensitive, a situation that is even more pronounced in the downturn. We expect to see more intense vendor competition in Asia Pacific, from multinational vendors as well as prominent local country vendors.”
China will continue to lead software demand in the region, with a 12.2 percent growth rate in 2009 and 14.5 percent growth in 2010. Although China’s high dependency on exports is significantly impacting its economic growth in 2009, the government’s stimulus package cushions the negativity.
Australia is the next-largest market with a 5.4 percent growth rate in 2009 and 8.2 percent growth in 2010. Although some mature countries are experiencing a notable recession, Australia’s economic growth in 2009 will experience only slight negative growth before picking up in 2010. Australia also has the advantage of a well-established IT infrastructure and a well-developed sales and service infrastructure.
Despite experiencing the slowest growth in 2009 among the region’s four largest markets at only two percent, South Korea is still the third-largest software market in Asia Pacific. South Korea is a well-developed and IT-savvy market and revenue will come from its large installed base, specifically from maintenance and upgrades. Notable software growth improvement at 6.5 percent is expected for South Korea in 2010.
India is the fourth-largest market in the region with expected growth of 10.1 percent in 2009 and 11.8 percent growth in 2010. While its economy is also impacted by the economic downturn, India has the advantage of being less dependent on exports than China. India’s largely untapped market, combined with a strong pool of IT skills, is expected to uphold local software demand.
“Asia Pacific will continue to have significant positive potential for future IT investment because of its relatively low penetration and is supported by a large base of domestic uses. With the economic slowdown, end-user organizations will prioritize IT as a way to cut costs and enhance their organizational efficiency and competitiveness, which is critical in the current environment,” said Dharmasthira.
Infrastructure software represents 64.4 percent of enterprise software spending in Asia Pacific in 2010. The bulk of infrastructure software spending is made up of operating systems, database and security software segments. Data integration tools and virtualization software will have the fastest CAGRs in the next 5 years.
Although application software spending will have a slower growth rate than infrastructure software spending, during the next five years it is projected to grow at a solid 9.9 percent. ERP and office suites will remain the largest segments throughout the forecast period, while Web conferencing and project and portfolio management (PPM) will have the fastest CAGRs.
Additional information is available in the Gartner report Market Trends: Continued Positive Forecast for Asia/Pacific Software Despite Economic Volatility, 2008 – 2013 The report is available on Gartner’s website at http://www.gartner.com/resId=1204414
[1]User Survey Analysis: Software Base Budget, Asia/Pacific, 2009-2010, 18 August 2009
About Gartner:
Gartner, Inc. (NYSE: IT) is the world’s leading information technology research and advisory company. Gartner delivers the technology-related insight necessary for its clients to make the right decisions, every day. From CIOs and senior IT leaders in corporations and government agencies, to business leaders in high-tech and telecom enterprises and professional services firms, to technology investors, Gartner is the indispensable partner to 60,000 clients in 10,000 distinct organizations. Through the resources of Gartner Research, Gartner Consulting and Gartner Events, Gartner works with every client to research, analyze and interpret the business of IT within the context of their individual role. Founded in 1979, Gartner is headquartered in Stamford, Connecticut, U.S.A., and has 4,000 associates, including 1,200 research analysts and consultants in 80 countries. For more information, visit www.gartner.com.

Source: WEBWIRE

Freelance Writer Launches Ebook Business Solution

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(Kwun Tong, Hong Kong) – Freelance writer, Alan Cheng of Elite Ghostwriters (www.eliteghostwriters), launched a professional ghostwriting package targeting entrepreneurs wanting to sell products such as ebooks online.
Businesses will approach Elite Ghostwriters to hire a freelance writer and a team of professionals to implement the whole ebook business solution.
In order to sell online, businesses need a website, sales copy, payment method, marketing material and a landing page.
Hiring a professional freelance writer is essential for creating a quality product that will sell well online. But we offer much more than that. We provide businesses with the turnkey solution explained Cheng.
The major difference with their ghostwriting services according to Cheng, was that businesses no longer had to deal with several parties to implement the product and get it up and running.
We will provide a complete solution so that everything is done for our clients. As well as writing the ebook, our team will design a website, write the sales copy, write the marketing material and offer advice in online promotion. We offer much more than a freelance writer Cheng remarked.
Companies are busier than ever before, so the ebook business package will be popular for companies who can afford to outsource.
Elite Ghostwriters’ Ebook Business Package is available at http://www.eliteghostwriters.com/infoproducts.html

Source: WEBWIRE

Hong Kong: Police Small Boat Unit celebrates its 30th Anniversary (with photos)

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Over 200 former and serving members of the Small Boat Unit as well as their families today (November 7) attended an open day at Small Boat Division (SBDIV) Headquarters on Stonecutters Island to celebrate its 30th Anniversary.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Management), Mr Tsang Wai-hung, and Regional Commander of Marine, Ms Chang Mo-see, were also present to share the joy with the unit members.

The Small Boat Unit (the present Small Boat Division) was formed in 1979 to help stem the influx of illegal immigrants.In 1990s it worked closely with the Anti Smuggling Task Force to tackle the Daai Feis, high-powered vessels used by smuggling syndicates.Today, the Small Boat Division is widely respected by local and overseas law enforcement agencies on account of its specialized skills, tactics and resources to perform its core role of high-speed pursuit and interception.

Speaking at a ceremony, Mr Tsang pointed out that SBDIV had achieved significant results in enforcement over the years which had contributed positively to the security and law and order situation of Hong Kong waters.

He praised the SBDIV officers for their professionalism, perseverance and courage and encouraged them to keep up their efforts and carry out their duties in a safe and effective manner.

Mr Tsang, proud of the achievements of the division, added that SBDIV would continue the development of its craft, training, tactics and equipment to meet the challenges ahead.

SBDIV, with a strength of over 130, currently operates a fleet of 8 Fast Pursuit Craft (FPC) and 5 High Speed Interceptors (HSI), in support of other units of Marine Region, to primarily perform the highly specialized and potentially hazardous task of high-speed pursuit and interception.

From January 2006 to October 2009, SBDIV seized some HK$ 320 million worth of contraband along with 82 vessels of assorted sizes and 27 assorted vehicles; and between March 2006 and March 2009, it arrested a total of 1045 illegal immigrants.

Police Report No. 4