ENG-2017 — Page 29

Calendar of Events

2017

28

29

30

31

The Fraser Institute once again recognises Hong Kong as the freest economy in the world in its Economic Freedom of the World: 2017 Annual Report.

The IA launches two pilot initiatives, Insurtech Sandbox and Fast Track, to promote the use of new technologies in Hong Kong's insurance sector. The former facilitates pilot runs of innovative insurtech applications by authorised insurers, while the latter provides a dedicated queue for new authorisation applications from insurers using solely digital distribution channels.

The allowable minimum wage for foreign domestic helpers rises from $4,310 to $4,410 per month under job contracts signed on or after this day. The monthly food allowance given in lieu of free food increases by $16 to not less than $1,053.

The city wraps up the warmest September on record with a monthly average temperature of 29 degrees, 1.3 degrees above normal.

October

1

3

7

10

11

12

21

22

23-27

The Chief Executive addresses the National Day reception held by the HKSAR Government, which she attends in the capacity of Chief Executive for the first time. She says she has been deeply impressed by the strength bestowed upon Hong Kong by the country and the immense opportunities lying before the SAR.

Ms Liu Xuxu, Ms He Jianxin, Ms Zheng Tianhui and Ms Chen Suijin win a total of five golds at the World Wushu Championships in Kazan, Russia.

Mr Rex Tso prevails over Mr Kohei Kono of Japan at the Clash of Champions 3 in Hong Kong, retaining his WBO international super flyweight title while extending his winning streak to 22 victories.

Self-service Smart Departure e-Channels are introduced at the airport for visitors aged 11 or above holding eligible electronic travel documents. The system uses facial recognition technology to verify identities. It is extended on 18 December to the control points at Lo Wu, Lok Ma Chau Spur Line, Hung Hom, Shenzhen Bay, Lok Ma Chau, Man Kam To, Sha Tau Kok, China Ferry Terminal, Hong Kong-Macao Ferry Terminal, Tuen Mun Ferry Terminal and Kai Tak Cruise Terminal.

The Chief Executive delivers her first Policy Address. Themed 'We Connect for Hope and Happiness, the Policy Address explains the philosophy of governance for various policies and puts forward innovative measures with new perspectives to solve economic and livelihood issues of public concern.

The territory lives through the last of a record 41 hot nights, when the mercury drops no lower than 28 degrees.

Mr Wong Kar-wai receives the Lumière Award in Lyon, France, the first Chinese filmmaker to be so honoured since the award's inception in 2009.

Ms Tse Ying-suet and Mr Tang Chun-man become Hong Kong's first badminton mixed doubles champions in the Denmark Super Series Premier, established in 2007.

Ms Ng Mui-wui sweeps seven golds in the World Table Tennis Championships of the International Federation for Athletes with Intellectual Impairments in Hradec Králové, Czech Republic.

xiii