Latest news with #Chow
HKFP
3 hours ago
- Politics
- HKFP
Detained Hong Kong activist Chow Hang-tung to launch 36-hour hunger strike on Tiananmen crackdown anniversary
Hong Kong barrister-activist Chow Hang-tung has announced that she will launch a 36-hour hunger strike in prison on Wednesday to mark the 36th anniversary of the 1989 Tiananmen Square crackdown in Beijing. The 39-year-old activist, who has been detained since September 2021 pending trial under the national security law, said in a Patreon post on Sunday that she would commemorate June 4 and 'reaffirm our commitment' by fasting for 36 hours. This is the third year that Chow has planned a hunger strike behind bars to mark the anniversary of the Tiananmen crackdown. She began a 34-hour hunger strike on June 4, 2023, and vowed to extend her fast by one hour each year. 'I believe we all will have our own ways to remember the day,' read the post shared by Chow's Patreon account, which is managed by the activist's family and friends. Chow is the former vice chairperson of the Hong Kong Alliance in Support of Patriotic Democratic Movements of China, which organised Hong Kong's annual Tiananmen vigils. She is facing trial for incitement to subversion alongside the group and its two former leaders, Lee Cheuk-yan and Albert Ho. According to the Judiciary's website, Chow, Lee, and Ho are set to appear in court on August 4 for a second pre-trial review. Chow is also expected to make an application for quashing her indictment on November 3, a week before the 75-day trial is scheduled to begin on November 11. For three decades, the alliance organised an annual candlelight vigil to commemorate the victims of the Tiananmen crackdown, which occurred on June 4, 1989. It is estimated that hundreds, perhaps thousands, died when the People's Liberation Army quashed a student-led pro-democracy movement in Beijing. The vigil in Victoria Park has been banned since Beijing imposed a security law on the city in June 2020. The Alliance voted a year later to disband after its former leaders were prosecuted. In the Patreon post, Chow also reflected on winning an appeal at the city's top court in March, which quashed her conviction and those of two other former Alliance members for failing to comply with a national security police data request. The three were jailed for four and a half months each in August 2023 and had completed their term before winning the final appeal. The case was a 'manifestation of justice and the rule of law' for those implicated, she said. However, there is still a need to reflect on 'how such injustice has occurred,' she added. Chow accused the Department of Justice and the court of concurring with 'false accusations' made by the national security police that the Alliance had been a foreign agent. She said the 'actual crime' in the case was the 'smearing and prosecution of citizens.' 'Indeed, the criticism for this so-called technical victory should have focused on the lenient treatments of these evildoers,' she wrote. Chow added she had demanded that Secretary for Security Chris Tang apologise after the top court's ruling, but she was 'not certain' about how long it would take for the apology to come. 'History tells us that it will likely take a very long time – The Tiananmen Mothers have been waiting for 36 years and still have not received an apology. However, they have not given up on holding the government accountable,' she wrote. Beijing inserted national security legislation directly into Hong Kong's mini-constitution in June 2020 following a year of pro-democracy protests and unrest. It criminalised subversion, secession, collusion with foreign forces and terrorist acts – broadly defined to include disruption to transport and other infrastructure. The move gave police sweeping new powers and led to hundreds of arrests amid new legal precedents, while dozens of civil society groups disappeared. The authorities say it restored stability and peace to the city, rejecting criticism from trade partners, the UN and NGOs.
The Star
5 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Fort Cornwallis western moat restoration ready in July
The new Astaka replaces the former food court, offering improved facilities while respecting Fort Cornwallis' historical features. TWO major projects in George Town – the reinstatement of the moat at Fort Cornwallis and redevelopment of Astaka Kota Selera food court nearby – are close to completion. Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said work on the western moat was ongoing, with completion expected by July. He said the southern moat at Fort Cornwallis was restored in July 2024. 'The restored moat uses traditional building methods and materials. 'Built on-site within a modular grid, it is designed for long-term stability,' Chow said during a site visit. 'The completed southern and western moats now form a 4,000sq m water basin, 0.9m deep, and can hold about 3,600 cubic metres of water. (From left) Chow, Wong, H'ng, Hamdan and representatives of various agencies checking on the progress of the restoration work at Fort Cornwallis. — Photos courtesy of Buletin Mutiara 'Its ecological concept incorporates a mechanical sand filter within the moat basin and a vegetated bio-retention swale between the moat edge and outer glacis wall. 'The entire project cost RM23.4mil, of which the Penang government funded RM15.3mil, with additional support from Think City and Hasanah Foundation,' he said. Also present were state executive councillors Wong Hon Wai, Lim Siew Khim, Jason H'ng Mooi Lye, Datuk Seri Sundarajoo Somu, Think City managing director Hamdan Abdul Majeed and Chief Minister Incorporated general manager Datin S. Bharathi. State publisher Buletin Mutiara quoted Chow as saying that the project also aligned with United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in the areas of sponge city model, ecological biodiversity, climate adaptation environmental awareness, and community engagement. On the Astaka Kota Selera redevelopment costing RM4mil, Chow said it would be launched on June 2. He said the project was closely linked to the western moat's reinstatement as the previous food court was constructed directly over part of the moat's original alignment. 'To allow for archaeological excavations and the moat's reconstruction, the food court was relocated slightly westward. 'During this transitional phase, vendors were temporarily accommodated at a nearby playground area to ensure minimal disruption to their operations,' he said. He added that the new Astaka had replaced the former food court. Improved facilities had been thoughtfully designed into the premises while respecting the historical context of Fort Cornwallis, said Chow. 'It accommodates 26 hawker stalls arranged along the perimeter of a spacious central court, providing clear visibility across stalls and seating areas. 'The space can seat up to 224 patrons and includes dedicated amenities such as a surau, public toilets, and facilities for people with disabilities including ramps and barrier-free access. 'The upgraded Astaka Kota Selera stands apart from typical food court developments, setting a benchmark for the sensitive insertion of new architecture within a historical urban fabric,' added Chow.
The Star
6 days ago
- Business
- The Star
Golden chance to lead regional trade
Chow (centre) with Chiah (left) and exhibition organising chairman Datuk Law Chin Hooi at the opening ceremony. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star PENANG can become a centre for regional gold trade, says Federation of Goldsmiths and Jewellers Association of Malaysia (FGJAM) president Datuk Chiah Hock Yew. 'Its deep-rooted legacy of goldsmiths paired with modern innovation have made Penang a powerful force in the global jewellery landscape. 'We welcome delegates from around the world to negotiate and do business here,' he said, adding that the state was the country's gold manufacturing hub. Chiah was speaking at the opening ceremony of the Malaysia Gold and Jewellery Trade Exhibition 2025 held at the Setia SPICE Convention Centre in Bayan Lepas. 'In recent years, international gold prices have reached record highs and the market environment continues to evolve rapidly. With challenges, come opportunities. 'For the industry to continue advancing, we must constantly improve our technology and craftsmanship, enhance our products and services, and accurately grasp market trends. 'Only by designing more exquisite gold jewellery can we win long-term consumer trust,' he said. Chiah highlighted Penang's significant role in Malaysia's gold industry, noting that the state accounts for approximately 80% of the nation's gold factories and gold jewellery manufacturing output. 'These are the manufacturers driving the industry toward greater heights. 'According to Statistics Department (DOSM), the total export value of gold-related products in Q1 2025 reached RM2.34bil, a 9.76% increase from RM2.132bil in the same period last year. Jewellery modelled at the exhibition reflecting Penang's legacy of goldsmiths pairing heritage with innovation. 'These encouraging figures reflect Malaysia's potential in the global gold market,' he said. The trade show that hosted 150 exhibitors was organised by Province Wellesley Gold and Silver Ornament Merchants Association and by the Malaysia Gold Association. Guest of honour Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow said this year's exhibition was timely due to global economic tide shifts driven by geopolitical and tariff tensions. 'We find ourselves in a new and uncertain global landscape, but where some see volatility, we, in Penang, see opportunity. 'There has been a surge in global gold prices, which recently topped US$3,000 (RM12,693) per ounce. 'This is not just market fluctuation but a signal that gold is proving its timeless value as a secure and reliable investment, especially during economic turbulence,' he said. Chow shared DOSM data showing that jewellery imports reached RM1.519bil in the first two months of 2025, an 18.39% increase from the same period last year. 'Exports are up by 14.75% to RM1.478bil. These figures not only reflect robust demand, they reaffirm Malaysia's growing role in the global jewellery supply chain,' he said.
Business Times
7 days ago
- Business
- Business Times
StanChart steps up as Asean's gateway to the Gulf as Islamic finance matures
[SINGAPORE] Capital, trade and wealth flows are washing onto the shores of South-east Asia and the Middle East, and Islamic finance stands out as a promising frontier poised to capture investments well beyond the trillions. As an international bank whose footprint spans markets that are home to nearly three-quarters of the world's Muslims, Standard Chartered can act as a 'super-connector between the East and West', said its head of banking and coverage for Singapore and Asean, corporate and investment banking, Chow Wan Thonh. Standard Chartered's head of banking and coverage for Singapore and Asean, corporate and investment banking, Chow Wan Thonh, believes the lender can act as a 'super-connector between the East and West'. PHOTO: STANDARD CHARTERED Islamic finance refers to banking systems and financial transactions that adhere to its religious law, or Sharia, and operate on several key principles of interest-free lending, risk-sharing and halal investments that avoid the alcohol, tobacco and gambling sectors. What was once a niche alternative financial choice is rapidly gaining traction in today's world, noted the veteran banker. Having charted consistent growth over the past several years, the Islamic finance landscape is forecast to maintain its upward trajectory with total assets expected to surpass US$7.5 trillion by 2028, she cited. 'There is growing acceptance of Islamic banking products in many of the key markets we operate in, such as Bangladesh, Brunei, Bahrain, Saudi Arabia, United Arab Emirates (UAE), Malaysia and Pakistan,' said Chow. A NEWSLETTER FOR YOU Friday, 8.30 am Asean Business Business insights centering on South-east Asia's fast-growing economies. Sign Up Sign Up 'We are already responding to this growing demand, be it investing in our human capital development or introducing innovative tailor-made financial solutions.' Bridging the Gulf Malaysia's Asean chairmanship this year stands as an opportunity for the bank to further develop its Asean-Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) corridor, said Chow. The GCC – comprising the six Arab countries of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and UAE – is a political and economic alliance whose clout has been growing as the Middle East actively expands its trade networks beyond traditional oil and gas mainstays. She highlighted that Malaysia and UAE are home to StanChart's regional hubs. The lender began offering Islamic banking products in 1993, before Standard Chartered Saadiq was incorporated in 2008 as a full-fledged Islamic banking subsidiary serving both retail and corporate clients. The ribbon-cutting ceremony for the official opening of the first StanChart Islamic banking branch in Kuala Lumpur in 2008 with (from left) former chairman of Standard Chartered Bank Malaysia Mohd Sheriff Mohd Kassim; former Malaysian prime minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi; and the bank's then managing director and chief executive Julian Wynter. PHOTO: NEW STRAITS TIMES PRESS 'Malaysia is a leader in the Islamic finance space whether in Asean or internationally,' continued the banking and coverage chief. 'Its Islamic banking sector is expected to sustain its momentum in 2025 with assets worth more than US$260 billion and asset growth of 8.6 per cent, outpacing the 4.1 per cent growth of the overall banking industry in 2024.' All things considered, the bank is 'well-positioned' to drive cross-border growth between the two regions, she told The Business Times. 'This helps to bridge the trade finance gap and make global trade more transparent, sustainable and equitable, and also means that we are naturally diversified as those dynamic corridors of globalisation are growing at a fast pace.' Reading the coffee grounds As far as Chow is concerned, Asean and the GCC remain bright spots in 2025, boasting healthy growth potential despite an overcast global economic outlook. She expects healthy growth in South-east Asia that continues outpacing other regions, and resilient growth in the GCC stemming from robust non-oil pillars – as the region's focus on long-term transformation continues to shield it from global economic challenges. 'We are seeing a redefinition of the corridors of globalisation,' concluded Chow. 'The key development themes across Asean and the GCC lie in trade and investment, as well as digitalisation and sustainability, where we see the most potential for growth.'
Global News
7 days ago
- Global News
Toronto renews festival safety funding in wake of in wake of Lapu-Lapu Day attack in Vancouver
The City of Toronto will allocate $2.1 million this year to help festivals stay secure, after 11 people were killed in a vehicle ramming at Vancouver's Lapu Lapu Day festival last month. Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow announced the renewal of a special events funding program at an event on Monday that gathered about 150 festival organizers and security experts to discuss safety. Chow said what happened in Vancouver at the festival organized by Filipino BC was heartbreaking. 'We mourned,' she said. 'Our spirit is strong, the spirit that comes from working together, the spirit that comes from all the thousands of organizers that organized the most successful festivals, from all over the world.' She said people in Toronto must not let fear dictate their lives, and the city will work with festivals to ensure they are successful, safe and 'remain joyous.' Story continues below advertisement Chow said the city will also provide a $100,000 seed grant and technical assistance for festival organizers to create a nonprofit association that can promote their interests. Get breaking National news For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen. Sign up for breaking National newsletter Sign Up By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy The City of Toronto said it will also share new resources to support event planning and delivery. The deadly attack on a Vancouver street festival prompted event organizers across Canada to comb over their security practices in a bid to protect attendees and assure them festivals are safe. Some planners had already begun that process when British Columbia Premier David Eby announced last month he would call an independent commission to investigate how other regions handle festival security, to ensure residents of his province feel confident going to community events this summer. But some say a spate of international attacks in recent years and increased demands from insurance companies meant they were already attuned to the issue — particularly given the rising cost associated with security. Eleven people were killed and dozens more were injured when a man drove an SUV into the crowd at the Lapu Lapu Day festival in Vancouver on April 25. Vancouver Police Chief Steve Rai said a risk assessment was conducted before the event and police had decided no heavy-vehicle barricades were necessary. He said he was confident in the assessment process, but police would review the decision. Story continues below advertisement The festival summit in Toronto on Monday was a success and allowed participants to share knowledge, Chow said. 'We learned a lot about best practices of how we could collectively buy insurance together, what are some of the mitigation effects, how we could work with the emergency services and what kind of things we must do to make sure it's safe,' she said. The money Chow announced Monday will go towards Toronto's Special Events Stabilization Initiative. The city introduced the program last year, offering $2 million to help cover festival expenses in 2024 related to health, safety and security. That included funding for fire and paramedic services and 'hostile vehicle mitigation,' which is meant to lower the threat of a criminal or terrorist attack.
