ENG-2018 — Page 21

Calendar of Events

2018

24-26

30

May

1

14

24

25

31

June

1

The Chief Executive visits Indonesia and meets the President of Indonesia, Mr Joko Widodo.

The Stock Exchange of Hong Kong implements new rules to broaden its listing regime and allow companies in emerging and innovative sectors to apply for a listing.

The Protection of Endangered Species of Animals and Plants (Amendment) Ordinance 2018 comes into force to phase out the local ivory trade and increase the maximum penalties on smuggling and illegal trade in endangered species to a $10 million fine and 10 years' imprisonment.

The Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Finance promulgate provisions on opening up science and technology funding from the Central People's Government (CPG) for application by higher education institutions and research institutions in Hong Kong, in response to an important instruction given by President Xi Jinping that affirms Hong Kong's solid science and technology foundation and large pool of quality technology talent, and recognises the significant contributions made by Hong Kong's science and technology sector to the development of the city and the country. Universities and research institutions may apply for state funding, previously available only to Mainland scientists, and use the funding in Hong Kong under the new arrangement.

The Chief Executive attends the 74th session of the United Nations (UN) Economic and Social Commission for Asia and the Pacific in Bangkok.

Hong Kong ranks second globally in the Swiss-based International Institute for Management Development's World Competitiveness Yearbook 2018.

The EDB announces revised curriculum frameworks for Junior Secondary Chinese History and History to help students develop a holistic understanding of Chinese historical development and to broaden their international perspectives by studying the histories of other places.

Tai Kwun - Centre for Heritage and Arts opens after the revitalisation of the Central Police Station compound, comprising the former Central Police Station, Central Magistracy and Victoria Prison.

The city experiences its warmest May on record with 16 very hot days and six hot nights, registering daily maximum and minimum temperatures of at least 33 and 28 degrees Celsius respectively. The Very Hot Weather Warning is in force for more than 320 hours, the longest since it was introduced in 2000.

The new Commission on Children starts its two-year term, with the Chief Secretary for Administration as Chairman, the Secretary for Labour and Welfare, Dr Law Chi-kwong, as Vice-Chairman, and 21 non-official and nine ex-officio members.

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