SCST Celebrates Opening of CAVALLUNA - Gate to the Otherworld

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):

The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, Photo source: reference image

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.

CAVALLUNA - Gate to the Otherworld, Photo source: HKJC

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.

The opening ceremony of CAVALLUNA - Gate to the Otherworld, Photo source: HKJC

Government announces subscription and allocation results of Silver Bond

The Government announced today (September 11) the subscription and allocation results of the new batch of Silver Bond.

According to the subscription information submitted by the Placing Banks and the Designated Securities Brokers, as at the close of the subscription period on September 4, 2026, a total of 476,703 valid applications were received by the Government for a total of HK$119,306,240,000 in principal amount of bonds.

The final issuance amount of the Silver Bond will be HK$55 billion, higher than the target issuance amount of HK$50 billion. Allocation is conducted by the Government in accordance with the mechanism set out in the Issue Circular. All valid applications received have been allocated bonds up to a maximum of 13 units (with each unit being HK$10,000). For the 88,422 applications seeking 12 or fewer units, they will be allocated the full amounts applied for. The remaining 388,281 applications applying for more than 12 units will be allocated 12 units each and then entered into a ballot. Of these applications, 97,396 applications will be allocated one additional unit.

The Silver Bond will be issued on September 15, 2026 under the retail part of the Infrastructure Bond Programme. Notifications on individual allocation results, applicable subscription moneys and refunds of application moneys in excess of the allocated portion will be sent to applicants.

The Financial Secretary, Mr Paul Chan, said, "The number of applicants and the subscription amount for this batch of Silver Bond have reached new record highs again, demonstrating that Silver Bond continues to be widely welcomed by senior citizens as a safe and steady investment option. The proceeds from this batch of bonds will be used on capital works projects for pushing ahead Hong Kong's infrastructure and urban development, as well as enhancing people's quality of life. We will keep the Silver Bond scheme under review, taking account the investor response, market conditions and other relevant considerations."

Source: AI-found images