HKETO Jakarta Celebrates Chinese New Year with 400 Guests in Kuala Lumpur, Strengthening Hong Kong-Malaysia Ties.

HKETO Jakarta celebrates Year of Snake in Kuala Lumpur

The Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office, Jakarta (HKETO Jakarta) hosted a Chinese New Year dinner in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, today (February 20) to celebrate the Year of the Snake. Some 400 guests from the local government, business, academic, cultural and media sectors attended the event.

In her welcome speech, the Director-General of the HKETO Jakarta, Miss Libera Cheng, said that Hong Kong and Malaysia share robust and mutually beneficial commercial ties, with both places being a top-10 trading partner of the other. Bilateral trade in goods amounted to US$27 billion last year, marking a significant year-on-year growth of 13 per cent.

"We congratulate Malaysia on assuming chairmanship of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) this year. Hong Kong echoes the themes of Malaysia's chairmanship, and will support relevant projects that would drive ASEAN's inclusivity and sustainability. With the adoption of the Procedures for Accession to the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) Agreement in September 2024, we will also continue to maintain close liaison with ASEAN countries including Malaysia to foster favourable conditions for Hong Kong's early accession to the RCEP."

Miss Cheng added that following the Chief Executive's visit in July 2023 and the visits by the Chief Justice of the Court of Final Appeal and the President of the Legislative Council last year, Hong Kong and Malaysia have forged frequent and comprehensive high-level connections. The Secretary for Justice also led a delegation to promote Hong Kong's legal services in Malaysia in September 2024, witnessing the signing of Memoranda of Understanding between arbitration and dispute resolution bodies of both places. She invited Malaysian enterprises to leverage Hong Kong's advantages as a high value-added supply chain service centre, including the city’s top-notch professional services and well-established financial infrastructures, to deepen and expand their international business.

"On people-to-people ties, the performances by the Hong Kong Chinese Orchestra, Hong Kong Dance Company, Asian Youth Orchestra and other groups in Malaysia last year were well received by the local audience, showcasing our rich culture and outstanding arts talent. Looking ahead, we will bring our cultural exchanges with Malaysia to new heights in accordance with the Blueprint for Arts and Culture and Creative Industries Development promulgated in November 2024."

Dignitaries attending the dinner included the Deputy Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry of Malaysia, Mr Liew Chin Tong; the Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, Mr Ouyang Yujing; the Director of Malaysia of the Hong Kong Trade Development Council, Ms Hoh Jee Eng; the President of the Hong Kong-Malaysia Business Association, Dato' Dixon Chew, and senior representatives from other major local business chambers.

The HKETO Jakarta will host its Chinese New Year celebration in Penang, Malaysia, next Tuesday (February 25).

HKETO Jakarta celebrates Year of Snake in Kuala Lumpur Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKETO Jakarta celebrates Year of Snake in Kuala Lumpur Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

HKETO Jakarta celebrates Year of Snake in Kuala Lumpur Source: HKSAR Government Press Releases

Speech by SCST at opening ceremony of CAVALLUNA - Gate to the Otherworld

Following is the speech by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, at the opening ceremony of CAVALLUNA - Gate to the Otherworld today (September 10):

Deputy Commissioner Hua You (Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Deputy Director-General Lin Nan (Deputy Director-General of the Department of Publicity, Cultural and Sports Affairs of the Liaison Office of the Central People's Government in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region), Mr Martin Liao (Chairman of the Hong Kong Jockey Club), Mr Winfried Engelbrecht-Bresges (Chief Executive Officer of the Hong Kong Jockey Club), Mr Johannes Mock- O' Hara (Chief Executive Officer of Apassionata World GmbH), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Good evening. It is my great pleasure to join you here at the spectacular Kai Tak Arena to celebrate the opening of CAVALLUNA - Gate to the Otherworld.

This extraordinary equestrian show has already captivated millions across more than 30 cities in Europe, enchanting audiences of all ages with its seamless fusion of world-class horsemanship, theatrical storytelling, music, and dance. Tonight, we are privileged to witness its Asian debut - right here in Hong Kong - featuring 54 magnificent horses and an internationally acclaimed cast of riders and performers. We are truly honoured that the organiser has chosen our city as the first stop in Asia, and the successful staging of this large-scale production at the Kai Tak Arena once again affirms Hong Kong's standing as a premier host of world-class events.

In addition, with the support from our Mega Arts and Cultural Events Fund, we are delighted that the organiser has thoughtfully tailored the show to resonate with local audiences and visitors from the Greater Bay Area. From featuring a local singer in the performance to adding English voice-over with Chinese subtitles, these adaptations reflect a genuine commitment to cultural connection. We trust this collaboration marks a promising beginning - and we look forward to many more spectacular shows and mega events like CAVALLUNA making their way to Hong Kong, enriching the cultural tapestry of our community and our friends from around the globe.

In 2026, the Year of the Horse, this production carries profound symbolism. In Chinese culture, the horse embodies strength, vitality, and perseverance - values that echo the spirit of our city. Under the steadfast framework of "one country, two systems", Hong Kong will continue to harness its unique advantages to foster international connectivity, while deepening the world's appreciation of Chinese culture and heritage.

I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the organiser, the Hong Kong Jockey Club, and all collaborating organisations for their invaluable sponsorship and unwavering support. My sincere thanks also go to every artist and team member who has worked tirelessly to bring CAVALLUNA to our shores.

May the production enjoy every success during its run in Hong Kong, and may each of you have a truly memorable and enchanting evening. Thank you.

Source: AI-found images