‘True artist’: China delivery worker plays flute between orders, praised for spreading joy
By Fran Lu
A delivery rider in China has inspired many after videos of him playing the flute during his deliveries went viral.
The delivery worker was frequently spotted on the streets of Shanghai, playing the flute while sitting on his electric bike in between orders or waiting at traffic lights.
Many praised his carefree spirit, likening him to ancient Chinese literati such as Li Bai, who often recited poetry spontaneously.
The man, Zhao Yue, in his 30s, has worked for China’s largest food delivery company, Meituan, for four years.
Zhao shared that he had been learning to play the traditional Chinese transverse flute from a teacher and through online tutorials for seven months. He picked up this hobby out of a deep interest in traditional Chinese culture and as a means to enrich his inner world.
He mentioned needing to practise for at least 90 minutes each day. He worked daily from 7am to 1.30pm and from 5pm to 8pm, so in addition to his leisure time, he utilised what he called “fragmented time” for practice.
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By Fran Lu
A delivery rider in China has inspired many after videos of him playing the flute during his deliveries went viral.
The delivery worker was frequently spotted on the streets of Shanghai, playing the flute while sitting on his electric bike in between orders or waiting at traffic lights.
Many praised his carefree spirit, likening him to ancient Chinese literati such as Li Bai, who often recited poetry spontaneously.
The man, Zhao Yue, in his 30s, has worked for China’s largest food delivery company, Meituan, for four years.
Zhao shared that he had been learning to play the traditional Chinese transverse flute from a teacher and through online tutorials for seven months. He picked up this hobby out of a deep interest in traditional Chinese culture and as a means to enrich his inner world.
He mentioned needing to practise for at least 90 minutes each day. He worked daily from 7am to 1.30pm and from 5pm to 8pm, so in addition to his leisure time, he utilised what he called “fragmented time” for practice.
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Malaysia and Thailand seek to revive border area with bridge and rail upgrade
By Joseph Sipalan
The prime ministers of Thailand and Malaysia agreed on Monday to build bridges, roads and rail links in an attempt to spur economic growth and revive communities living in their restive border zone.
For years, insurgents, drug traffickers and smugglers have carried out illegal activities in the forested areas at the border.
Malaysia has mediated talks between Thailand and the Malay-Muslim insurgents, who have fought a bloody 20-year rebellion seeking autonomy from the Thai state. Thailand colonised the southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani over a century ago, forcing the majority-Muslim population in the region to assimilate into the country.
Bangkok has asked Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to revive the peace process through economic development of Thailand’s impoverished southern region, where many share close family and cultural ties with Malaysia’s northern states of Kelantan and Kedah.
Both countries have proposed building new roads, rail lines and bridges to help drive trade and tourism.
“We will do whatever is necessary for the dialogue process with the southern border provinces of Thailand to materialise, and to then resolve towards a joint comprehensive plan towards peace,” Anwar told a press conference in Putrajaya alongside his Thai counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Monday.
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By Joseph Sipalan
The prime ministers of Thailand and Malaysia agreed on Monday to build bridges, roads and rail links in an attempt to spur economic growth and revive communities living in their restive border zone.
For years, insurgents, drug traffickers and smugglers have carried out illegal activities in the forested areas at the border.
Malaysia has mediated talks between Thailand and the Malay-Muslim insurgents, who have fought a bloody 20-year rebellion seeking autonomy from the Thai state. Thailand colonised the southernmost provinces of Narathiwat, Yala and Pattani over a century ago, forcing the majority-Muslim population in the region to assimilate into the country.
Bangkok has asked Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim to revive the peace process through economic development of Thailand’s impoverished southern region, where many share close family and cultural ties with Malaysia’s northern states of Kelantan and Kedah.
Both countries have proposed building new roads, rail lines and bridges to help drive trade and tourism.
“We will do whatever is necessary for the dialogue process with the southern border provinces of Thailand to materialise, and to then resolve towards a joint comprehensive plan towards peace,” Anwar told a press conference in Putrajaya alongside his Thai counterpart Paetongtarn Shinawatra on Monday.
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Over 30 North Korean soldiers killed, wounded in Russia’s Kursk, says Ukraine
By Agence France-Presse
Ukraine said on Monday that its troops killed or wounded at least 30 North Korean soldiers who had been deployed by Russia to its western Kursk region, where Ukraine has seized territory.
Thousands of troops from North Korea have come to reinforce Russian forces, including in the Kursk border region where Russia has been clawing back territory after a surprise offensive from Ukrainian forces this summer.
“On December 14 and 15, army units from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) suffered significant losses near the villages of Plekhovo, Vorozhba, Martynovka in the Kursk region of Russia – at least 30 soldiers were killed and wounded,” Ukraine’s military intelligence said.
The units are “being replenished with fresh personnel” from North Korea, which Western officials estimate has sent at least 10,000 soldiers to help Moscow.
Russia and North Korea have boosted their military ties since Moscow’s invasion.
Russia has begun deploying “a noticeable number” of North Koreans in assaults to push Ukrainian troops out of the Kursk region, Zelensky said on Saturday.
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By Agence France-Presse
Ukraine said on Monday that its troops killed or wounded at least 30 North Korean soldiers who had been deployed by Russia to its western Kursk region, where Ukraine has seized territory.
Thousands of troops from North Korea have come to reinforce Russian forces, including in the Kursk border region where Russia has been clawing back territory after a surprise offensive from Ukrainian forces this summer.
“On December 14 and 15, army units from the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) suffered significant losses near the villages of Plekhovo, Vorozhba, Martynovka in the Kursk region of Russia – at least 30 soldiers were killed and wounded,” Ukraine’s military intelligence said.
The units are “being replenished with fresh personnel” from North Korea, which Western officials estimate has sent at least 10,000 soldiers to help Moscow.
Russia and North Korea have boosted their military ties since Moscow’s invasion.
Russia has begun deploying “a noticeable number” of North Koreans in assaults to push Ukrainian troops out of the Kursk region, Zelensky said on Saturday.
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South China Sea: why Philippines’ new legal case against Beijing may fall flat
By Sam Beltran
The Philippines is reportedly planning to file a new arbitration case before the United Nations regarding its maritime conflict with China, but analysts have questioned the necessity of the move, pointing to existing issues in a 2016 ruling that Beijing rejected.
They argue that Manila should have taken immediate steps to clearly define boundaries after its tribunal victory, instead of letting Beijing set the terms in the disputed South China Sea.
Andres Centino, the Presidential Assistant on Maritime Concerns, was quoted in a Financial Times report last week saying the Philippines was preparing a new arbitration case against China over alleged violations of international maritime law.
Tensions between Manila and Beijing have increased in the past year, with the emergence of new flashpoints in the South China Sea and several clashes between Philippine servicemen and Chinese coastguard personnel, including an incident in June where a Filipino sailor lost a thumb.
In November, Manila’s Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said China was “stepping up pressure on the Philippines to concede its sovereign rights in the South China Sea”, adding that his country was a “victim of Chinese aggression”.
Teodoro’s statement came after Beijing’s foreign ministry published baselines around the contested Scarborough Shoal, shortly after Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jnr signed two maritime laws defining the country’s maritime zones and sea lanes.
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By Sam Beltran
The Philippines is reportedly planning to file a new arbitration case before the United Nations regarding its maritime conflict with China, but analysts have questioned the necessity of the move, pointing to existing issues in a 2016 ruling that Beijing rejected.
They argue that Manila should have taken immediate steps to clearly define boundaries after its tribunal victory, instead of letting Beijing set the terms in the disputed South China Sea.
Andres Centino, the Presidential Assistant on Maritime Concerns, was quoted in a Financial Times report last week saying the Philippines was preparing a new arbitration case against China over alleged violations of international maritime law.
Tensions between Manila and Beijing have increased in the past year, with the emergence of new flashpoints in the South China Sea and several clashes between Philippine servicemen and Chinese coastguard personnel, including an incident in June where a Filipino sailor lost a thumb.
In November, Manila’s Defence Secretary Gilberto Teodoro said China was “stepping up pressure on the Philippines to concede its sovereign rights in the South China Sea”, adding that his country was a “victim of Chinese aggression”.
Teodoro’s statement came after Beijing’s foreign ministry published baselines around the contested Scarborough Shoal, shortly after Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos, Jnr signed two maritime laws defining the country’s maritime zones and sea lanes.
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Concocting a plan: Starbucks hires chief growth officer in China to reignite sales
By Bloomberg
Starbucks hired its first-ever chief growth officer in China, tasked with luring back young coffee drinkers as the US chain struggles with cheaper local rivals in its biggest international market.
Tony Yang, who has been on board since November, will pursue a strategy of brokering tie-ins with entertainment franchises and pop culture icons to market itself to consumers, Starbucks China said on Monday.
The China product development, R&D, and marketing departments will all report to Yang, a former user development executive at Geely Holding Group-backed electric vehicle maker Jiyue Auto. His role will also focus on coffee product innovation and improving customer experience.
China is “an important growth engine for the future”, the company said.
Starbucks was once seen as largely infallible in a China where flush consumers flocked to Western brands high in prestige. But it has struggled as the economy slows, with cash-strapped diners pulling back on pricier drinks in favour of cheaper local upstarts whose coffees can cost just a third of a Starbucks cup.
Key rival Luckin Coffee surpassed the Seattle-based company in annual China sales for the first time last year, and Starbucks is exploring options for its mainland operations, including the possibility of selling a stake in the unit, Bloomberg has reported.
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By Bloomberg
Starbucks hired its first-ever chief growth officer in China, tasked with luring back young coffee drinkers as the US chain struggles with cheaper local rivals in its biggest international market.
Tony Yang, who has been on board since November, will pursue a strategy of brokering tie-ins with entertainment franchises and pop culture icons to market itself to consumers, Starbucks China said on Monday.
The China product development, R&D, and marketing departments will all report to Yang, a former user development executive at Geely Holding Group-backed electric vehicle maker Jiyue Auto. His role will also focus on coffee product innovation and improving customer experience.
China is “an important growth engine for the future”, the company said.
Starbucks was once seen as largely infallible in a China where flush consumers flocked to Western brands high in prestige. But it has struggled as the economy slows, with cash-strapped diners pulling back on pricier drinks in favour of cheaper local upstarts whose coffees can cost just a third of a Starbucks cup.
Key rival Luckin Coffee surpassed the Seattle-based company in annual China sales for the first time last year, and Starbucks is exploring options for its mainland operations, including the possibility of selling a stake in the unit, Bloomberg has reported.
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If Japan is on the cusp of a new era, what’s on the cards for property?
By Nicholas Spiro
In the land of the rising sun, there are signs of a new dawn. For most of the last three decades, Japan suffered from a toxic combination of deflation, stagnation and fading global relevance. In 2013, the late Shinzo Abe, the country’s longest-serving prime minister, launched a bold three-pronged programme of ultra-loose monetary policy, flexible fiscal policy and structural reforms.
The central goal of “Abenomics” was an inflation target of 2 per cent. Eleven years after Abe famously urged traders at the New York Stock Exchange to “buy my Abenomics”, it is clear that the first arrow of his plan has finally hit the target. Inflation has been above 2 per cent every month since April 2022. Other key measures, including corporate governance reforms and greater openness to trade and investment, have also begun to pay dividends.
Morgan Stanley says “Japan’s policymakers have for over a decade now followed the most coherent, credible and consistent policy mix of any major economy.” The bank believes the thrust of Abenomics will continue under future governments “for the very simple reason that the policy mix has worked”.
This is questionable given the weakness of the economy. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development predicts Japan will be the only major economy to contract this year. The yen has been in free fall since early 2022. Moreover, Japan’s acute structural problems, which include a demographic crisis and a huge public debt burden, are still present.
However, Japan has broken free of the deflation that dogged the country since the bursting of the asset bubble in the early 1990s. In March, the Bank of Japan increased interest rates for the first time since 2007. Companies are more confident about passing on higher costs to consumers while workers have secured the biggest salary increases in more than 30 years. As the working age population shrinks, exacerbated by post-pandemic labour shortages, the battle for talent is intensifying.
The implications of higher prices and wages, with potentially further rises in borrowing costs, are profound. Behavioural shifts among companies and employees increase the scope for far-reaching changes in corporate culture, while sustained reflation and increased productivity bode well for corporate profitability and asset prices.
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By Nicholas Spiro
In the land of the rising sun, there are signs of a new dawn. For most of the last three decades, Japan suffered from a toxic combination of deflation, stagnation and fading global relevance. In 2013, the late Shinzo Abe, the country’s longest-serving prime minister, launched a bold three-pronged programme of ultra-loose monetary policy, flexible fiscal policy and structural reforms.
The central goal of “Abenomics” was an inflation target of 2 per cent. Eleven years after Abe famously urged traders at the New York Stock Exchange to “buy my Abenomics”, it is clear that the first arrow of his plan has finally hit the target. Inflation has been above 2 per cent every month since April 2022. Other key measures, including corporate governance reforms and greater openness to trade and investment, have also begun to pay dividends.
Morgan Stanley says “Japan’s policymakers have for over a decade now followed the most coherent, credible and consistent policy mix of any major economy.” The bank believes the thrust of Abenomics will continue under future governments “for the very simple reason that the policy mix has worked”.
This is questionable given the weakness of the economy. The Organisation for Economic Cooperation and Development predicts Japan will be the only major economy to contract this year. The yen has been in free fall since early 2022. Moreover, Japan’s acute structural problems, which include a demographic crisis and a huge public debt burden, are still present.
However, Japan has broken free of the deflation that dogged the country since the bursting of the asset bubble in the early 1990s. In March, the Bank of Japan increased interest rates for the first time since 2007. Companies are more confident about passing on higher costs to consumers while workers have secured the biggest salary increases in more than 30 years. As the working age population shrinks, exacerbated by post-pandemic labour shortages, the battle for talent is intensifying.
The implications of higher prices and wages, with potentially further rises in borrowing costs, are profound. Behavioural shifts among companies and employees increase the scope for far-reaching changes in corporate culture, while sustained reflation and increased productivity bode well for corporate profitability and asset prices.
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Hong Kong parents able to check if self-employed tutors have sex offence record
By Oscar Liu
Hong Kong parents will be able to check whether self-employed tutors and coaches have been convicted for sex offences under a newly expanded scheme.
A government spokesman said on Monday the update to the Sexual Conviction Record Check scheme, which is voluntary for employers, aimed to further strengthen protections for children and people with mental disabilities.
“Prospective self-employed persons include, but are not limited to, private tutors, music teachers, sports coaches and persons providing door-to-door services,” he said.
The spokesman added the scheme remained voluntary for employers, allowing them to decide whether they thought a check was necessary.
Launched in 2011, the scheme allows employers, such as organisations or enterprises, to conduct the checks.
Parents and guardians are now considered eligible applicants as employers, following the change implemented on Monday.
The checks cover the hiring of individuals in positions involving children or mentally disabled people. The process allows employers to see whether prospective workers, contract renewal staff and individuals assigned by outsourced service providers have prior criminal records linked to sex offences such as rape, indecent assault and voyeurism.
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By Oscar Liu
Hong Kong parents will be able to check whether self-employed tutors and coaches have been convicted for sex offences under a newly expanded scheme.
A government spokesman said on Monday the update to the Sexual Conviction Record Check scheme, which is voluntary for employers, aimed to further strengthen protections for children and people with mental disabilities.
“Prospective self-employed persons include, but are not limited to, private tutors, music teachers, sports coaches and persons providing door-to-door services,” he said.
The spokesman added the scheme remained voluntary for employers, allowing them to decide whether they thought a check was necessary.
Launched in 2011, the scheme allows employers, such as organisations or enterprises, to conduct the checks.
Parents and guardians are now considered eligible applicants as employers, following the change implemented on Monday.
The checks cover the hiring of individuals in positions involving children or mentally disabled people. The process allows employers to see whether prospective workers, contract renewal staff and individuals assigned by outsourced service providers have prior criminal records linked to sex offences such as rape, indecent assault and voyeurism.
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Face corruption head-on to stop interest groups ‘preying’ on party, says Chinese leader
By Yuanyue Dang
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on cadres to confront corruption head-on so that interest groups cannot “prey on” the Communist Party.
He made the comments in a speech in January, but some of the contents were only made public on Sunday in an article published in the Central Committee’s theoretical magazine Qiushi.
Xi was speaking at January’s plenary session of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), the top anti-corruption body, where he said all party members must “deeply promote the party’s self-revolution” – referring mainly to the fight against corruption.
“If we don’t avoid criticism and don’t whitewash mistakes, and if we promptly identify and solve our own problems, we can effectively combat the preying and erosion of all interest groups, powerful groups and privileged classes,” Xi said.
Xi added that all party members must be able to sense potential dangers, saying: “As the situation and tasks change, as the external environment changes and as the party itself changes, it is inevitable that various conflicts and problems will arise within the party.
“We must have the courage to turn the knife inwards and promptly eliminate all negative influences to ensure that the party remains full of vitality and vigour.”
State media has previously reported that Xi told anti-corruption officials at the meeting that China’s fight against corruption is “severe and complex” and that “no mercy” should be shown in eradicating the problem.
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By Yuanyue Dang
Chinese President Xi Jinping has called on cadres to confront corruption head-on so that interest groups cannot “prey on” the Communist Party.
He made the comments in a speech in January, but some of the contents were only made public on Sunday in an article published in the Central Committee’s theoretical magazine Qiushi.
Xi was speaking at January’s plenary session of the Central Commission for Discipline Inspection (CCDI), the top anti-corruption body, where he said all party members must “deeply promote the party’s self-revolution” – referring mainly to the fight against corruption.
“If we don’t avoid criticism and don’t whitewash mistakes, and if we promptly identify and solve our own problems, we can effectively combat the preying and erosion of all interest groups, powerful groups and privileged classes,” Xi said.
Xi added that all party members must be able to sense potential dangers, saying: “As the situation and tasks change, as the external environment changes and as the party itself changes, it is inevitable that various conflicts and problems will arise within the party.
“We must have the courage to turn the knife inwards and promptly eliminate all negative influences to ensure that the party remains full of vitality and vigour.”
State media has previously reported that Xi told anti-corruption officials at the meeting that China’s fight against corruption is “severe and complex” and that “no mercy” should be shown in eradicating the problem.
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China warns citizens in Philippines of safety risks amid surge in robberies and scams
By Cyril Ip
In its second safety advisory in 10 days, the Chinese embassy in the Philippines urged citizens to remain vigilant amid a surge in armed robberies, drug-facilitated thefts, currency exchange scams and other crimes.
The embassy’s “solemn” reminder on Sunday followed an advisory on December 5 warning Chinese nationals about “prominent” public security risks in the Southeast Asian country involving robbery and personal injury.
“Recently, the public security situation in some parts of the Philippines has been unstable, and many cases of armed robbery, [drug-facilitated] robbery, currency exchange fraud and theft involving Chinese citizens have occurred, causing serious damage to the personal and property safety of the parties involved,” the Sunday statement said.
“In view of this, the [embassy] once again solemnly reminds Chinese citizens in the Philippines to raise their awareness of self-preservation.”
It advised Chinese nationals to avoid high-risk areas, travel in groups, and minimise nighttime outings. It warned against accepting drinks, food or cigarettes from strangers and urged vigilance in crowded areas.
Tourists were also advised to safeguard travel documents such as passports. If they lose their documents, they should be wary of calls from unknown people claiming to have found their passport and demanding a fee for its return.
The embassy also advised avoiding displays of wealth – especially cash, watches and jewellery – and urged citizens to use legitimate currency exchange channels.
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By Cyril Ip
In its second safety advisory in 10 days, the Chinese embassy in the Philippines urged citizens to remain vigilant amid a surge in armed robberies, drug-facilitated thefts, currency exchange scams and other crimes.
The embassy’s “solemn” reminder on Sunday followed an advisory on December 5 warning Chinese nationals about “prominent” public security risks in the Southeast Asian country involving robbery and personal injury.
“Recently, the public security situation in some parts of the Philippines has been unstable, and many cases of armed robbery, [drug-facilitated] robbery, currency exchange fraud and theft involving Chinese citizens have occurred, causing serious damage to the personal and property safety of the parties involved,” the Sunday statement said.
“In view of this, the [embassy] once again solemnly reminds Chinese citizens in the Philippines to raise their awareness of self-preservation.”
It advised Chinese nationals to avoid high-risk areas, travel in groups, and minimise nighttime outings. It warned against accepting drinks, food or cigarettes from strangers and urged vigilance in crowded areas.
Tourists were also advised to safeguard travel documents such as passports. If they lose their documents, they should be wary of calls from unknown people claiming to have found their passport and demanding a fee for its return.
The embassy also advised avoiding displays of wealth – especially cash, watches and jewellery – and urged citizens to use legitimate currency exchange channels.
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Hong Kong’s Jimmy Lai admits Apple Daily was ‘too radical’ towards authorities
By Brian Wong
Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai Chee-ying admitted his now-defunct tabloid newspaper had been “too radical” towards Beijing and Hong Kong authorities, adding he required editorial staff to be “more creative” in covering sensitive topics after the city’s adoption of the national security law.
Lai, 77, also told his high-profile trial on Monday he believed he and Apple Daily stood “on the right side of history” and that they could “beat our time” without a direct confrontation with those in power.
On the 18th day of his oral testimony at West Kowloon Court, Lai was asked to respond to a series of remarks he made after he was arrested and detained for more than 40 hours for questioning by national security police in August 2020.
Lai said in an exclusive interview with his tabloid that he had no regret even if he was eventually thrown into prison, vowing that Apple Daily would “hold on till the end” and that he would accept any potential consequences.
He was also quoted as advising Apple Daily staff to “be a bit more prudent and be a bit more creative in doing things”.
Lai denied in court he had encouraged his now-closed newspaper to continue its operation in an illegal manner under the national security law, saying it had to adapt to “changing circumstances”.
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By Brian Wong
Apple Daily founder Jimmy Lai Chee-ying admitted his now-defunct tabloid newspaper had been “too radical” towards Beijing and Hong Kong authorities, adding he required editorial staff to be “more creative” in covering sensitive topics after the city’s adoption of the national security law.
Lai, 77, also told his high-profile trial on Monday he believed he and Apple Daily stood “on the right side of history” and that they could “beat our time” without a direct confrontation with those in power.
On the 18th day of his oral testimony at West Kowloon Court, Lai was asked to respond to a series of remarks he made after he was arrested and detained for more than 40 hours for questioning by national security police in August 2020.
Lai said in an exclusive interview with his tabloid that he had no regret even if he was eventually thrown into prison, vowing that Apple Daily would “hold on till the end” and that he would accept any potential consequences.
He was also quoted as advising Apple Daily staff to “be a bit more prudent and be a bit more creative in doing things”.
Lai denied in court he had encouraged his now-closed newspaper to continue its operation in an illegal manner under the national security law, saying it had to adapt to “changing circumstances”.
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‘Copycat tax’: China KOL presents lavish gifts to pop star he imitates, expresses gratitude
By Zoey Zhang
Chinese Mandopop star Lu Han received lavish gifts valued at 66,000 yuan (US$9,000) from his impersonator during a live-stream, igniting widespread discussion online about the phenomenon of celebrity lookalikes.
Lu, who was once a prominent member of the internationally acclaimed K-pop boy band EXO, showcased his talents as the main dancer and vocalist. After departing from the group at the end of 2014, he successfully transitioned into a solo artist.
The singer and actor, 34, boasts an impressive following of 63 million on Weibo.
On November 29, during a live-stream, Lu appeared to be in a “slightly tipsy” state, speaking somewhat unclearly, which led many viewers to speculate about his well-being and even question the authenticity of his presence on camera.
Seemingly frustrated by these doubts, Lu challenged his impersonator to call in and provide proof of his identity.
Shortly thereafter, his impersonator, Ling Dale, joined the live-stream, presenting 22 lavish gifts valued at 3,000 yuan each, and quickly became the top fan.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By Zoey Zhang
Chinese Mandopop star Lu Han received lavish gifts valued at 66,000 yuan (US$9,000) from his impersonator during a live-stream, igniting widespread discussion online about the phenomenon of celebrity lookalikes.
Lu, who was once a prominent member of the internationally acclaimed K-pop boy band EXO, showcased his talents as the main dancer and vocalist. After departing from the group at the end of 2014, he successfully transitioned into a solo artist.
The singer and actor, 34, boasts an impressive following of 63 million on Weibo.
On November 29, during a live-stream, Lu appeared to be in a “slightly tipsy” state, speaking somewhat unclearly, which led many viewers to speculate about his well-being and even question the authenticity of his presence on camera.
Seemingly frustrated by these doubts, Lu challenged his impersonator to call in and provide proof of his identity.
Shortly thereafter, his impersonator, Ling Dale, joined the live-stream, presenting 22 lavish gifts valued at 3,000 yuan each, and quickly became the top fan.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
Next stop, Nigeria: China cement giant Huaxin’s African expansion spree
By Jevans Nyabiage
For about four years, China’s Huaxin Cement has been acquiring or building manufacturing operations in six African countries – part of an overseas expansion spree to hedge against shrinking profit margins at home.
The next stop is Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, where Huaxin is set to buy an 84 per cent stake in Swiss building materials maker Holcim’s shares in Lafarge Africa, in a deal worth US$1 billion.
Lafarge Africa operates four cement plants in Nigeria, with a combined capacity of 10.35 million tonnes per year.
According to data from this year’s Global Cement Directory, Huaxin has 10 cement plants in sub-Saharan Africa with a production capacity of about 18 million tonnes per year.
The Nigerian deal will position Huaxin as sub-Saharan Africa’s second largest cement producer, but it will be up against a well-established local giant – Dangote Cement, the biggest in Africa, with a capacity of 52 million tonnes per year across 10 countries.
Huaxin, which is listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, says Nigeria “offers attractive growth perspectives” as its domestic market faces thin margins. The transaction is expected to conclude next year, subject to regulatory approvals.
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By Jevans Nyabiage
For about four years, China’s Huaxin Cement has been acquiring or building manufacturing operations in six African countries – part of an overseas expansion spree to hedge against shrinking profit margins at home.
The next stop is Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, where Huaxin is set to buy an 84 per cent stake in Swiss building materials maker Holcim’s shares in Lafarge Africa, in a deal worth US$1 billion.
Lafarge Africa operates four cement plants in Nigeria, with a combined capacity of 10.35 million tonnes per year.
According to data from this year’s Global Cement Directory, Huaxin has 10 cement plants in sub-Saharan Africa with a production capacity of about 18 million tonnes per year.
The Nigerian deal will position Huaxin as sub-Saharan Africa’s second largest cement producer, but it will be up against a well-established local giant – Dangote Cement, the biggest in Africa, with a capacity of 52 million tonnes per year across 10 countries.
Huaxin, which is listed on the Shanghai Stock Exchange, says Nigeria “offers attractive growth perspectives” as its domestic market faces thin margins. The transaction is expected to conclude next year, subject to regulatory approvals.
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Plasticisers in nearly half of desk mats sold in Hong Kong exceed EU standards
By Fan Chen
The level of plasticisers used in nearly half of 15 desk mats tested by Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog have been found to exceed EU standards, with one model registering 222 times the limit.
The Consumer Council on Monday also warned that desk mats should not be used as placemats for dining and children should clean their hands after touching the items.
The council tested 15 desk mats, which are commonly used to protect desktops from cutting, drawing and writing, and found that the levels of four types of phthalate plasticisers in seven models exceeded the limit set by the EU.
Those four types of plasticisers were classified as “reproductive toxicants” and were found to “impair fertility or fetal health and interfere with the endocrine system,” the council said.
The level of reproductive toxicants in one tested writing mat was 222 times that of the EU standard, while three other types of plasticisers allowed under EU standards may also harm young children’s livers, it added.
Council CEO Gilly Wong Fung-han warned that consumers should avoid using desk mats as placemats for dining.
“Instead of buying one for multiple purposes, this test exercise would advise … to separate the usage of mats [for different uses],” Wong said.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By Fan Chen
The level of plasticisers used in nearly half of 15 desk mats tested by Hong Kong’s consumer watchdog have been found to exceed EU standards, with one model registering 222 times the limit.
The Consumer Council on Monday also warned that desk mats should not be used as placemats for dining and children should clean their hands after touching the items.
The council tested 15 desk mats, which are commonly used to protect desktops from cutting, drawing and writing, and found that the levels of four types of phthalate plasticisers in seven models exceeded the limit set by the EU.
Those four types of plasticisers were classified as “reproductive toxicants” and were found to “impair fertility or fetal health and interfere with the endocrine system,” the council said.
The level of reproductive toxicants in one tested writing mat was 222 times that of the EU standard, while three other types of plasticisers allowed under EU standards may also harm young children’s livers, it added.
Council CEO Gilly Wong Fung-han warned that consumers should avoid using desk mats as placemats for dining.
“Instead of buying one for multiple purposes, this test exercise would advise … to separate the usage of mats [for different uses],” Wong said.
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Trump hasn’t met Japan’s new PM yet – but Shinzo Abe’s widow has been over for dinner
By Agence France-Presse
US president-elect Donald Trump hosted Akie Abe, the widow of slain former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, for a private dinner with his wife Melania Trump at their Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida on Sunday.
Trump met Abe, 62, during his first term as president, during which time her husband pursued a close relationship with him.
“It was a privilege to host Mrs. Akie Abe at Mar-a-Lago once again,” Melania Trump said in a post on the social network X.
“We fondly remembered her late husband, former Prime Minister Abe, and honoured his remarkable legacy.”
The post included a photo showing Abe standing between Melania and her husband, with the president-elect doing his characteristic thumbs-up pose.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By Agence France-Presse
US president-elect Donald Trump hosted Akie Abe, the widow of slain former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, for a private dinner with his wife Melania Trump at their Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida on Sunday.
Trump met Abe, 62, during his first term as president, during which time her husband pursued a close relationship with him.
“It was a privilege to host Mrs. Akie Abe at Mar-a-Lago once again,” Melania Trump said in a post on the social network X.
“We fondly remembered her late husband, former Prime Minister Abe, and honoured his remarkable legacy.”
The post included a photo showing Abe standing between Melania and her husband, with the president-elect doing his characteristic thumbs-up pose.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
Hong Kong building law should take reference from UK practice: surveyors’ body
By Lo Hoi-ying
Hong Kong homebuyers should be required to hire a surveyor to check for illegal features on properties that would hold owners liable for severe unauthorised structures under proposed legal amendments, an industry leader has said.
Francis Lam Ka-fai, president of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, said on Monday the proposed legislation should refer to a comparable framework in the United Kingdom, under which a building survey report must be provided by those wanting to buy a property on a mortgage.
Lam said this would ensure that real estate agents and lawyers, who might not have the technical knowledge about illegal structures, would not be unwittingly held liable.
Under the UK’s practice, homebuyers wanting to buy a property on a mortage must hire a building surveyor to submit a report of the construction and condition of the property, detailing its inspections and identifying potential issues, before its valuation.
According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the survey usually costs between £600 to £1000 (US$758-US$1,263), depending on the property.
“In Hong Kong, this [should] extend to whether there are unauthorised works, or if low-load-bearing walls that should not be demolished have been taken down,” Lam told a radio show.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By Lo Hoi-ying
Hong Kong homebuyers should be required to hire a surveyor to check for illegal features on properties that would hold owners liable for severe unauthorised structures under proposed legal amendments, an industry leader has said.
Francis Lam Ka-fai, president of the Hong Kong Institute of Surveyors, said on Monday the proposed legislation should refer to a comparable framework in the United Kingdom, under which a building survey report must be provided by those wanting to buy a property on a mortgage.
Lam said this would ensure that real estate agents and lawyers, who might not have the technical knowledge about illegal structures, would not be unwittingly held liable.
Under the UK’s practice, homebuyers wanting to buy a property on a mortage must hire a building surveyor to submit a report of the construction and condition of the property, detailing its inspections and identifying potential issues, before its valuation.
According to the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors, the survey usually costs between £600 to £1000 (US$758-US$1,263), depending on the property.
“In Hong Kong, this [should] extend to whether there are unauthorised works, or if low-load-bearing walls that should not be demolished have been taken down,” Lam told a radio show.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
5 shampoos sold in Hong Kong found to contain chemicals banned in EU
By Wynna Wong
Five anti-dandruff shampoos sold in Hong Kong contain substances banned in the EU for being potentially harmful to fetuses and reproductive systems, the consumer watchdog has found.
The Consumer Council on Monday urged residents to identify the cause of their dandruff issues and avoid using unsuitable products that might aggravate the problem after it found four of 25 anti-dandruff shampoo brands it tested contained zinc pyrithione (ZPT).
The chemical has been prohibited under the EU Cosmetics Regulation since March 2022.
Two samples, one of which also has ZPT, contained a fragrance substance prohibited in the European Union.
But Kenneth Chan Kin-nin, the watchdog’s publicity and community relations committee vice-chairman, said the tested concentrations of ZPT ranged from 0.19 to 0.95 per cent, which complied with mainland Chinese regulations that limit the substance in “anti-dandruff rinse-off hair products” to 1.5 per cent or less.
“ZPT is an anti-dandruff ingredient with antibacterial properties,” Chan said, adding the substance was known for its effectiveness against Malassezia, the fungus responsible for dandruff.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
By Wynna Wong
Five anti-dandruff shampoos sold in Hong Kong contain substances banned in the EU for being potentially harmful to fetuses and reproductive systems, the consumer watchdog has found.
The Consumer Council on Monday urged residents to identify the cause of their dandruff issues and avoid using unsuitable products that might aggravate the problem after it found four of 25 anti-dandruff shampoo brands it tested contained zinc pyrithione (ZPT).
The chemical has been prohibited under the EU Cosmetics Regulation since March 2022.
Two samples, one of which also has ZPT, contained a fragrance substance prohibited in the European Union.
But Kenneth Chan Kin-nin, the watchdog’s publicity and community relations committee vice-chairman, said the tested concentrations of ZPT ranged from 0.19 to 0.95 per cent, which complied with mainland Chinese regulations that limit the substance in “anti-dandruff rinse-off hair products” to 1.5 per cent or less.
“ZPT is an anti-dandruff ingredient with antibacterial properties,” Chan said, adding the substance was known for its effectiveness against Malassezia, the fungus responsible for dandruff.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
