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China.Hawaii Chamber of Commerce ® "Hawaii-China Guan Xi, We Get Things Done™" - Trade Advocacy Organization
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News Release -
News Archives in
PDF/JPEG Format Do you know our dues paying members attend events sponsored by our collaboration partners worldwide at their membership rates - go to our event page to find out more! After attended a China/Hong Kong Business/Trade Seminar in Hawaii...still unsure what to do next, contact us, our Officers, Directors and Founding Members are actively engaged in China/Hong Kong/Asia trade - we can help! March 18 2008
Among the featured speakers confirmed are
Secretary Mike Leavitt, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Ambassador
Susan C. Schwab, United States Trade Representative; Newt Gingrich, former House
Speaker; David Latimore of the Initiative for a Competitive Inner City; John
Bryant of Operation HOPE, and other prominent business leaders, CEOs and
politicos.
Choi was one of 10 small-business owners and
leaders of small-business support organizations nationwide recognized for their
support of entrepreneurs. The SBA Champion Awards were presented as part of the
annual observance of National Small Business Week.
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Johnson Choi is helping bridge the gap created by cultural and linguistic differences. |
As told to Kyle Galdeira
As president of the Hong Kong-China-Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, (HKCHCC) Choi
serves as a vital link between Hong Kong and Hawaii promoting economic
opportunity and a healthy business climate. In April, Choi received the Small
Business Association’s National Small Business Champion of the Year award for
his work with minority businesses. Choi shared his thoughts about Hawaii’s
ethnic small businesses:
On the most common opportunities for
ethnic small businesses:
Most ethnic businesses focus on food or art and crafts. As a result, you
have seen some of the fusion, merging the cooking and cultures of the East and
West.
On what these businesses means for
Hawaii:
They provide cultural diversity for the state, and the diversity could
provide a cultural experience for local Hawaii residents and visitors alike.
Also, it provides the opportunity to gain first-hand experience for Hawaii
companies by interacting with ethnic owners, i.e. from China, and learn how
business is conducted there before committing serious capital, time and
resources overseas.
On his long-term goals:
Hawaii has become a state so dependent on federal money. Travel-related
businesses have produced relatively low-paying jobs and the brain drain from
Hawaii has continued since 1990. We are hoping to make Hawaii a friendlier place
to do business.
On the most memorable challenge overseas:
For more than 20 years, the way trade promotion was conducted from Hawaii
was wine, dine and hula girls, even when the trade mission was not focused on
the tourist trade. The result is most businesses in Asia look at many of us, who
are serious about trade and business, as coming to Asia just to have a good
time.
Click on the picture for full view
Direct link to online Hawaii Business Magazine
Hawaii Business Magazine online PDF format
Wednesday, April 2 2008: U. S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Hawaii
State winners will be introduced at the Hawaii State Senate when they
convene at 11:30 a.m. An opportunity for an informal greeting the House Chambers
will follow. Please meet District Director Andrew Poepoe and me in the outdoor
Rotunda of the Capitol Building no later than 11:00 a.m. After brief
introductions, we will proceed to the reception area of the Senate Chamber to
meet Debbie from Senator Carol Fukunaga’s staff. She will arrange the seating
and escort the winners onto the floor. After the presentations, there will be
time for photos and greetings before moving to the House floor. Family members,
staff and nominators interested in attending will be able to join me in the
gallery above the chamber to observe the proceedings. From past experience, we
usually finish introductions around 12:30 p.m. or so. We were not able to make
any special arrangements for parking which can be at a premium when the
legislature is in session. Please allow sufficient time to park your vehicles
and meet us in the rotunda. Handicap parking is available in some metered stalls
in the garage below the capitol.
Governor Linda Lingle and Lieutenant
Governor James R Duke Aiona Jr of the State of Hawaii Recognition on April 30
2008 (click on the small picture for full view)
Hawaii State Senate Recognition on April 2
2008 (click on the small picture for full view)
Hawaii State House of Representative
Recognition on April 2 2008 (click
on the small picture for full view)
President George Bush "Proclaim" Small
Business Week 2008 (click
on the small picture for full view)
City and County of Honolulu Recognize
Johnson W. K. Choi (click
on the small picture for full view)
Certificate of Special Congressional
Recognition - Congresswoman Mazie Hirono (click
on the small picture for full view)
Monday, March
31, 2008 - 1:54 PM HAST
Hawaii exec gets top U.S. SBA award Pacific Business News (Honolulu) /Pittsburgh Business Times
The head of a local chamber of commerce that
helps Hawaii small businesses get into international trade with Asian nations
has been named the U.S. Small Business Administration's national minority
small-business champion.
Johnson W. K. Choi, president of the Hong Kong.China.Hawaii Chamber of
Commerce, was the winner of the state's 2008 award, which recognizes
small-business advocates, and was also the regional winner.
"Johnson Choi is very deserving of this honor for his commitment to promote and
encourage economic opportunity for small businesses owned by representatives
from so many ethnic backgrounds," said First Hawaiian Bank Vice President
Naomi Masuno, who nominated Choi for the SBA Award. "He is always willing to
help small businesses in getting started, planning, and finding new customers
through exporting. He shares an amazing wealth of knowledge, particularly with
minority business owners interested in doing business in Asia."
Choi has assisted business owners for 20 years, helping to link import and
export resources, as well as organizing seminars and workshops and developing
Web sites and informational materials for small businesses.
Choi, who is also an active member of the Hawaii Pacific Export Council,
has led three trade missions to Asia. He will be honored, along with the state's
other top small-business winners, at the SBA's annual Small Business Awards
luncheon on April 30 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village Beach Resort & Spa.
蔡永強獲州參院少數族裔小企業首獎 (本報夏威夷訊)
蔡永強（中）獲夏州參議院頒發獎牌，獎勵其獲得2008年少數族裔小型企業年度首獎，後排為參議員。周光世攝
夏威夷州參議院於4月2日（星期三）上午十一時半在其會期開始前頒發獎牌給2008年夏威夷州小型企業優秀獎得主。香港中國夏威夷商會(Hong Kong China
Hawaii Chamber of Commerce)創會會長蔡永強 (Johnson W. K. Choi)
因獲得夏威夷州“2008年少數族裔小型企業年度首獎” (2008 Minority Small Business Champion of the
Year)，也受邀前往領獎。
這個獎項是由“全美國小企業行政署”(SBA)設立的。主要是在獎勵傑出的小型企業領袖，表揚他們對小型企業的支持，並能完成協助諾言者。蔡永強獲得了區域和夏威夷州獎。
3月23日，美國小企業行政署(SBA)正式宣布，蔡永強更上層樓，獲得“2008年少數族裔小型企業年度首獎”。消息傳來，此間中英媒體均紛紛報道，其政商學界友人也均紛紛登門致賀，非常風光。蔡永強預訂於4月21日至23日前往華盛頓首府領獎。
蔡永強表示非常感激此間第一夏威夷銀行及其副總裁 Naomi Masuno
協助其辦理獎項申請手續，也感謝香港中國夏威夷商會所有理事職員與會員的支持，因為沒有他們在太平洋和夏威夷兩岸的共同努力，他無法獲得此項最高榮譽。
蔡永強強調，“香港中國夏威夷商會”是美國第一個與少數族裔商業團體合作來促進夏威夷、北美洲、香港和中國的商業機會的商會。此為其能獲得少數族裔小型企業年度首獎的主要原因之一。
蔡永強也感謝其父母的培養和典範，才有今日的成就。也對其移民夏威夷第一位雇主Mrs. Carolyn Tong
Chee（1955年水仙花皇后）和其夫婿Percival Chee醫生，鼓勵其自立創業表示感謝。
當然也不能忘了夏威夷大學旅遊學院前院長Chuck Gee做其良師，夏威夷大學商業管理學系的教授們授其有關國際貿易的知識。Hketo SF的Annie
Tang、美國上海商會會長 Brenda Foster, Chuck Gee 院長、Hyatt Regency 副總裁 Paul
Tang…等等的支持和鼓勵，蔡永強夫人Carmen 的諒解和支持，致上衷心的感謝。
4月2日夏州參議院的頒獎典禮，由參議會議長Hanabusa主持，挭陪arol Fukunaga提案，全部參議員通過決議，獎勵夏州小型企業優秀獎得主。夏州小型企業署長Andrew
Poepoe和Jane Sawyer等在旁觀禮。
夏州小型企業署(SBA)計劃於4月30日在希爾頓夏威夷鄉村大酒店舉辦一場慶祝午餐會，祝賀當天得獎小型企業家們。
蔡永強（右）接受表揚後，蒙檀市長韓納曼（左）召見，感謝其對小型企業的支持和貢獻。周光世攝
香港中國夏威夷商會創會會長蔡永強(Johnson W. K. Choi)
於4月16日（周二）上午9時在檀香山市議會再度接受表揚，之後並蒙檀香山市長韓納曼在其市長辦公室接見，以獎勵其對小型企業的支持和貢獻。
每年美國小企業行政署(SBA)夏威夷區辦事處均頒發獎牌給夏威夷州最優秀的小企業家和領導者。這些小企業家在島嶼經濟種種困境中，仍能克服萬難，創造商業生機，對社會貢獻良多。
蔡永強和香港中國夏威夷商會是獲得聯邦、夏州和檀香山市的“2008年少數族裔小型企業首獎”頭銜(2008 Minority Small Business
Champion of the Year)，他將於4月21日前往華盛頓首府領獎。
4月16日在檀香山市議會的會期中，首由譚鴻章市議員提案和報告蔡永強與香港中國夏威夷商會對小型企業的貢獻，於是眾位議員無異議通過接納譚鴻章議員的報告，即席頒發市議會獎牌給蔡永強。眾位議員並輪流上前與蔡永強握手致賀，然後一起拍照留念。
譚鴻章市議員說，做為香港中國夏威夷商會的總裁，蔡永強無私地貢獻其時間和努力在促進少數族裔小型企業家們的商業機會，其重點放在推動夏威夷、香港、中國和其鄰近區域的商業、貿易專業知識和科技的交流，期能達到經濟成果和生意來往。
蔡永強曾經主持超過40次的商業論壇，邀請亞洲和北美洲地區的商業領袖人物參會，並與許多國際機構和代表處建立良好關係，促成了三次成功的商務交流訪問活動。
市議會頒獎當天，夏威夷州小型企業署署長Andrew Poepoe 和助理 Jane Saner 也在現場觀禮。
夏州小型企業署計劃於4月30日（周三）上午11時在希爾頓夏威夷鄉村大酒店舉辦一場慶祝午餐會，祝賀今年所有的小型企業獎得主們。
Helping build
Isles' trade with China By Curtis Lum, Advertiser Staff Writer
Johnson W. K. Choi, president of the Hong Kong-China Hawai'i Chamber of
Commerce, was recently honored as Minority Small Business Champion of the Year.
Photos by REBECCA BREYER | The Honolulu Advertiser
JOHNSON W. K. CHOI
Age: 52
Title: President
Organization: Hong Kong-China Hawai'i Chamber of Commerce
Born: Hong Kong
High School: Rosaryhill High School, Hong Kong
College: University of Hawai'i-Manoa, School of Travel Industry Management;
Chaminade University, MBA
Breakthrough job: Working for Carolyn Tong Chee to manage her hotel rental in
Waikiki
Mentor: Chuck Gee, emeritus dean, UH School of Travel Industry Management
Major challenge: Not knowing anyone in Hawai'i; most of my college classmates
left Hawai'i for Asia or the Mainland after graduation
Hobbies: Tennis, table tennis, good food
Books recently read: "Blue Ocean Strategy: How to Create Uncontested Market
Space and Make Competition Irrelevant," by W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne
Choi says his day usually starts at 4 a.m. and doesn't end until 6 or 7 p.m. —
and "that typically runs six days a week."
Q. What kinds of local companies do well in
Asia?
A. It's an interesting question because Hawai'i has a very good brand worldwide.
But sometimes it's a bit more challenging for a Hawai'i company that has not
ventured out of Hawai'i. I know there is a lot of effort to try and go to places
like China. But China is a huge country and the other issues are the rule of law
and the language barrier, so it's a little difficult for Hawai'i companies to
use China as the first entry port into Asia. A good entry port would be both
Hong Kong and Singapore. Hong Kong is a great entry point because it's smaller
than the island of Kaua'i, but its population is 7 million and it has a high per
capita income.
Q. Why are companies hesitant to do more exporting?
A. I think it has something to do with how the state has been conducting
business. Hong Kong is almost like doing business in New York. You come to Hong
Kong, you tell us what you have to offer, and if it matches we'll do business.
There is not a lot of wining and dining and sightseeing. They discourage
companies from bringing government officials. In a lot of ways a lot of small
companies in Hawai'i tend to follow government type of strategy and it doesn't
work in places like Hong Kong and Singapore.
Q. In what ways do you help local businesses?
A. We look at the type of products and services a Hawai'i company offers. If
they have something unique that the businesses or the government in Asia want,
and if the company is small but they have something unique, then we would try to
pair them up with a larger company on the West Coast of the United States and go
together to increase their size and also give more resources to the Hawai'i
company.
Q. How long have you been with the chamber?
A. The chamber is seven years old and I'm one of the founding members. There are
a lot of chamber of commerces in Hawai'i. Our chamber is a little different than
the others. Our chamber's focus is to help Hawai'i companies to collaborate with
companies outside of Hawai'i, primarily on the West Coast and the East Coast of
the United States, to increase the size of Hawai'i companies and to look at Asia
opportunities.
Q. Is it more of a trade organization?
A. It's more or less a trade organization, so we don't have the usual
installation banquet and cocktail functions. We have events when there are
people from the community who can offer advice or people who can help the local
companies to expand their business.
Q. You and the other founding members have extensive backgrounds in Hong Kong
and China?
A. I was originally from Hong Kong. I came to Hawai'i when I was 18 years old
and went to the University of Hawai'i. I've been doing business with Asia since
1985, so I've been very active and we do have a small office in Hong Kong and
Shanghai, as well as in San Francisco.
Q. You're involved in other organizations, as well as your own business?
A. I run a business taking care of clients in terms of accounting, investment
and other things. We're doing business under First Hawaiian Capital. That is my
basic line of business. But for the last 13 years I've also helped clients from
Asia, so I find opportunities for them or they help me with different
opportunities in Asia. More and more of my business is connecting Hawai'i with
Asia.
Q. How did you become an expert in exporting?
A. Back in 1984 I was with the first group of business people that went with the
City Council to Hainan Island, which is on the southern tip of China, and signed
a sister city agreement. From there on, I started to be exposed to more and more
people in Asia and most of my clients are Chinese from Asia. So I just slowly
increased my business exposure in Asia. It kind of fell into place for the last
15 to 20 years. No one is an expert in China. China is such a huge country.
Sometimes I joke with my clients that if anyone tells you they're an expert on
China the first thing you should do is pack up and leave. We only try to be good
in certain areas, like Shanghai, Beijing, Quanzhou, because those three big
cities have more than 78 million people, so for most Hawai'i companies that is a
big piece for them to swallow.
Q. How did you wind up at the University of Hawai'i?
A. In the ancient Chinese society, you listen to your parents. At that time, the
School of Travel Industry Management under the leadership of Dean Chuck Gee was
a very good program. The reputation both here and also in Asia started kicking
up some dust and people noticed it. My father said, "Maybe you should study
hotel and restaurant management." At age 18 I didn't know what I should be doing
anyway.
Q. Why did you stay?
A. I graduated from the TIM school, but unfortunately the pay for the service
industry was not that great. After I finished college I got married and soon had
children and got a mortgage and a car loan. I found that the service industry is
a very tough business. So I decided, with the encouragement of my first boss,
Carolyn Tong Chee, she said, "Johnson, what do you have to lose? Start your own
business. If you fail, I'll hire you back."
With that assurance, I charged ahead, not knowing it was going to be very tough.
I stuck it out, but it was tough because I'm not from here and I didn't have a
lot of friends and family that I could go to. I basically had to start from
scratch, which was not easy.
Q. You have a business and run the chamber. How do you manage your time?
A. It's not easy. My typical day I wake up at 4 in the morning, in my office by
5. My day usually doesn't end until 6 or 7 at night and that typically runs six
days a week. I do enjoy a challenge. I go to work every day not knowing what to
expect. Sometimes I go to work and I'm on crisis management every day. It's
challenging, but interesting. I spend 40 percent of my time on nonprofit work.
Besides the chamber, I also spend time with the U.S. China Peoples Friendship
Association, as well as the Hawai'i Chinese Association and the School of Travel
Industry Management alumni board. I'm also with the Rotary Club of Honolulu. I
do believe in giving back to the community.
Q. You were recently honored by the Small Business Administration locally and
nationally as the Minority Small Business Champion of the Year. What do those
awards mean to you?
A. Of course it gives me some publicity and recognition, especially in the
Chinese community, because the SBA award was covered by the four major Chinese
news media in Hawai'i. It's a tremendous exposure for me. I didn't expect to go
all the way to the top. Sometimes when you don't expect it you get it. When I
got it, I did not believe it and I faxed the letter to the local SBA office to
verify that it wasn't a joke.
Breaking News/Updates Updated at 1:47 p.m., Wednesday, April 2, 2008
Choi honored with national small business award
Johnson Choi, president of the Hong Kong.China.Hawai'i Chamber of Commerce,
has been honored with a national award by the U.S. Small Business
Administration.
Choi was named the SBA Hawai'i District's 2008 Minority Small Business Champion
and this week was selected as the SBA's national winner. He competed with
winners from nine SBA regions across the country.
For 20 years, Choi has provided advice to small business owners, organized
business seminars and workshops, linked export and import resources, and
developed Web sites and materials to disseminate to all types of small
businesses.
Naomi Masuno, business banking officer with First Hawaiian Bank, nominated Choi
for the SBA award and said he is deserving of the honor.
"He is always willing to help small businesses in getting started, planning and
finding new customers through exporting," Masuno said. "He shares an amazing
wealth of knowledge, particularly with minority business owners interested in
doing business in Asia."
Choi and the other winners of the local SBA awards will be honored at the annual
luncheon April 30 at the Hilton Hawaiian Village.
Honolulu Hawaii USA March 24 2008
Bev Gannon, owner of Hali'imaile General
Store and Joe's Bar on Maui, has been chosen Hawai'i's Small Business Person of
the Year by the Small Business Administration. Gannon launched her
entrepreneurial career more than 20 years ago with a catering business run out
of her garage. She began with three workers in 1985, and now employs about 130.
One of the 12 founders of Hawaii Regional Cuisine, Gannon prepares her
award-winning dishes in an old plantation store in Makawao.
Johnson Choi, who was recognized as the state Minority Small Business
Champion, also won at the Western regional level and was named the national
award winner in the category.
Choi, president of the Hong Kong-China-Hawai'i Chamber of Commerce, works with
many Asian immigrants to start businesses, particularly in the area of
exporting.
Hawai'i had three other regional winners.
Bill Spencer, head of the Hawaii Venture Capital Association, won in the
category of Financial Services.
Pam Tumpap, of the Maui Chamber of Commerce, won in the category of Small
Business Journalist.
David Fell, of Hawaiian Sunshine Nursery, won in the category of Small Business
Exporter.
Other state winners:
Rex Matsuno, president of the Hilo, Hawai'i-based seafood company Suisan Co.,
received the Entrepreneurial Success Award;
Thomas Park, owner of Leather Soul, was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year;
Joann Seery, owner of BNI Hawaii, was named Women in Business Champion;
Jonathan Ota, fourth-generation owner of Tip Top Care & Bakery in Lihu'e, Kaua'i,
won in the category of Family Owned Small Business.
蔡永強榮獲少數族裔小企業獎 (本報夏威夷訊)
香港中國夏威夷商會 (Hong Kong.China.Hawaii Chamber of Commerce (HKCHcc)) 創會會長蔡永強 (Johnson
W. K. Choi) 最近接獲美國小企業行政署(SBA)通知，他獲選為“2008年少數族裔小企業年度首獎”(2008 Minority Small
Business Champion Of The Year)。
喜訊傳來，此間政商學界人士及親友均為其高興，紛紛登門致賀。
蔡永強預訂於四月二十一日至二十三日前往華盛頓首府領獎。蔡永強曾經獲得夏威夷及太平洋區域的少數族裔小企業獎，此次再接再厲，更上層樓獲得聯邦政府頒發的首獎，擊敗全美國五十洲和關島的參選者，脫穎而出，實為華人之光。美國小企業行政署
(United States Small Business Administration (SBA))
計劃於四月三十日（星期三）在此間希爾頓夏威夷鄉村大酒店為其舉辦一場慶祝午餐會，詳情日後將會宣布。
蔡永強為鴻利國際財經顧問公司總裁，其公司創立於一九八三年，提供各種不同的財經服務，專業於提供全面的保險，個人稅務策劃及財經顧問服務。
December 13 2007 Foshan Guangzhou China
Dr
Roberta Wong Leung Awarded Foshan Government (Guangzhou China) "Friendship
Award"
Every three
years the Foshan Government awards a Friendship Award to outstanding foreign
experts who have contributed to the development of Foshan. For the first time,
an educator and woman from the University of Hawaii, USA, Dr Roberta Wong Leung,
Dean and Professor of Shunde Polytechnic, Department of Hotel, Tourism, and
Cuisine Management was awarded the Foshan Government Friendship Award on
December 13, 2007. Dr. Wong is the 1993 distinguished alumni of the School of
Travel Industry Management, University of Hawaii at Manoa; Member and Advisory
Board Member of Hong Kong.China.Hawaii Chamber of Commerce (HKCHcc) with more
than 15 collaboration partner and 20,000 members worldwide.
梁王巧云博士（美国） （顺德职业技术学院酒店与旅游管理系教授）
梁王巧云博士2005年7月被聘为顺德职业技术学院酒店与旅游管理系总监。
她具有20年的国际酒店从业经验和16年酒店专业任教经验。她为顺德职业技术学院酒店及旅游管理系介绍国际酒店业和酒店管理专业发展情况，引进国际酒店业职业资格标准，积极参与酒店及旅游管理系的建设和发展。
2006年初，梁王巧云博士为酒店及旅游管理系毕业生的实习工作出谋划策，2004级113名毕业生在港澳及内地的13家五星级酒店和9家旅行社进行实习。在学生实习过程中，她多次到实习点看望和指导学生。
2006年7月，梁王巧云博士参与联系澳大利亚教育机构BOXHILL TAFE和美国饭店协会，促成顺德职业技术学院与澳大利亚教育机构 BOXHILL TAFE
和美国饭店协会等就师资专业技术培训及学生获取美国饭店协会职业资格证书达成了合作意向。她还积极联络，促成学院与香港、英国等多所大学达成合作意向。
2006年10月，顺德职业技术学院承办“第十六届中国厨师节暨岭南美食文化节学术报告会”。梁王巧云博士参与此次报告会的联络工作，邀请了来自美国、加拿大、瑞士、新加坡等10多个国家的旅游业酒店专家及厨艺名家到会并做了专题讲座，出色地完成了任务。
*我院外籍专家梁王巧云博士荣获"佛山友谊奖" ***
2007年12月13日晚，"佛山友谊奖"颁奖仪式在佛山市政府迎宾馆怡园举行，佛山市市长陈云贤、常务副市长周天明出席了颁奖仪式并讲话，我院科技处副处长刘晓顺、外事办郭永生老师参加了颁奖仪式。市长陈云贤向获得"佛山友谊奖"的10位外国专家颁发了证书，我院外籍专家梁王巧云博士获此殊荣。
"佛山友谊奖"是由佛山市政府专门针对在佛山发展建设中有突出贡献的外国专家设置的奖项，每3年评选一届，每届10人。评选程序是外籍专家所在单位申报，各区组织部门审议推荐，由佛山市市长办公会议审定。
自1999年以来，"佛山友谊奖"已经评选了5届，共有50名外籍专家获奖，前4届获奖人员全部来自企业界，我院的梁王巧云博士是"佛山友谊奖"开设以来唯一来自教育系统获此殊荣的外国专家。
December 13, 2007
To: Communications Director/President,
Hong Kong.China.Hawaii Chamber of Commerce
From: Economic Census, U.S. Bureau of the Census
The time is upon us! Next week, starting December 17, more than 4 million
American businesses, including 14,000 businesses in Honolulu County, will
receive 2007 Economic Census forms. Businesses that do not receive a form
(typically very small) are not required to do anything, but those businesses
that receive a form are required by law (Title 13, U.S. Code) to complete and
return it. The due date is February 12, 2008.
Many businesses may not recall the last census 5 years ago, and the form may
come as a surprise. They may not realize how important their timely and accurate
responses are to effective public policy, to their industry, or to your chamber.
The Web site www.business.census.gov
tells your members about the Economic Census, and provides statistics they can
use to assess and grow their business operations. Added to the site today are
graphic "Industry Snapshots" for more than 1,000 industries.
www.business.census.gov/media
suggests ways you can help get the word to your members - in your publications,
in your e-mails, on your website, even in your presentations. The page presents
resources for your communications in each month.
December 2007: Your Economic Census form is coming to your business in late
December. It's important.
January 2008: Complete your Economic Census form. Your community is counting on
you.
February 2008: Economic Census forms are due February 12.
Many thanks if the Hong Kong.China.Hawaii Chamber of Commerce has already sent a
notice about the Economic Census to your members. Now is a good time to send
another to reinforce the message.
If you need more information about the 2007 Economic Census, or would like to
arrange an interview, please contact Robert Marske, Laurie Torene, or Paul
Zeisset at 1-877-790-1876, or e-mail us at econ2007@census.gov
Thank you for helping your members get ready for the 2007 Economic Census.
November 12, 2007
嘉賓雲集 非常盛況 少年孫中山銅像揭幕典禮 (本報夏威夷訊)
少年孫中山銅像揭幕禮禮成後，左起：韓納曼市長，中山市副市長馮煜榮，孫中山基金會副會長陳燕，香港著名雕塑家朱達誠在銅像前合影。周光世攝
檀香山市長慕非‧韓納曼於十一月十二日（星期一）上午十時在華埠夏威夷劇院旁邊的公園主持了一項非常有意義的活動，就是“孫中山公園”正式命名儀式及少年孫中山銅像揭幕典禮，並歡迎檀香山姊妹市中山市人民政府副市長馮煜榮率領的代表團蒞臨檀市參加締結友好城市十周年紀念。
"孫中山公園”之命名於去年已經檀香山市議會同意，這公園的位置在荷梯厘北街與拔圖街交界處，即夏威夷劇院的左側地區，原名為 "Gateway
Park”。韓納曼市長於正式命名儀式上特別感謝夏威夷孫中基金會對這個公園的修建所付出的辛勞。
市長講話中緬懷孫中山先生少年時代在檀香山市的意奧蘭尼學校和普納荷學校讀書以及青壯年時代在此建立革命組織策動建立民主的中國，居功至偉，後人永遠紀念這位世紀偉人。市長說，檀香山市是一個偉大的城市，它以與中國偉大歷史人物孫中山有著歷史淵源而感到無比榮耀。
由於孫中山先生係於13歲時抵達檀香山求學。夏威夷孫中山基金會會長陸關琪特別邀請香港著名雕塑家朱達誠先生製作了一座少年孫中山13歲時的銅像，安置於新命名的“孫中山紀念公園”內，以供遊客及檀香山市民敬仰和紀念。該座銅像亦於當日同時揭幕。
揭幕典禮上，市府與孫中山基金會特別邀請了孫中山先生在檀島就讀的兩間著名的私立學校意奧蘭尼學校和普納荷學校的學生演奏音樂及發表讚辭。普納荷學校校長James
K.Scott博士並親臨致讚辭，表示少年孫中山是年青人的楷模。
孫中山先生曾說：“這是我的夏威夷......我在這裡長大和受教育。在這裡，我開始懂得甚麼是現代，文明政府，這樣的政府意謂著甚麼。”這句名言被刻在少年孫中山銅像旁邊的石碑上，供人思考和學習。
當天與會貴賓除檀市府各部門主管官員及孫中山基金會領導人物外，尚有孫中山先生的曾孫孫國雄和Peggy
Sun，中山市人民政府副市長馮煜榮所率領的代表團，雕像家朱達誠伉儷，夏州眾議員程慧蘭及卡爾羅茲，檀市議員譚鴻章及Ann
Kobayashi，中華總會館主席陳明，中華總商會會長貝英華及多個僑團領導人，檀市主要中英媒體均到場採訪，嘉賓雲集，非常盛況。
慶祝與中山締結姐妹城市十周年 - 檀島孫中山誕辰141周年紀念
(本報夏威夷訊)
為慶祝孫中山先生誕辰141周年和中山市與檀香山市締結姐妹城市關係10周年，夏威夷孫中山基金會於十一月十二日(星期五)晚上六時假座威基基希爾頓鄉村大酒店舉辦慶祝晚宴，協辦單位為中華總會館與中華總商會。
主客來賓三百餘人，包括政府官員，社團領袖，各界代表，還有來自故鄉的中山市人民政府代表團，駐洛杉磯總領事張雲送來賀信，上海宋慶齡基金會送來花籃，使晚會益增榮寵。
晚宴現場主辦單位安排有珍藏的孫中山先生親筆題詞“志在沖天”及其他歷史文物展出。孫中山先生曾就讀的意奧蘭尼學校弦樂團也在現場演奏音樂助慶。六時半許晚宴司儀李天文宣佈節目開始，請出揚德醒獅團三頭瑞獅上場，由檀香山市長慕非‧韓納曼和中山市人民政府副市長馮煜榮採青接獅，會場充滿喜樂氣氛。隨後，司儀請中華總會館主席陳明醫生上台致歡迎詞，並介紹主桌貴賓有檀香山市長韓納曼伉儷，中山市副市長馮煜榮，夏威夷孫中山基金會主席陸關祺伉儷，會長Steven
Ai，中華總會館主席陳明醫生伉儷，中華總商會會長貝英華，孫中山先生的曾孫孫國雄和Peggy Sun，少年孫中山銅像雕塑家朱達誠伉儷等。
晚宴菜餚非常豐富，眾皆大快朵頤，席間鋼琴家Colin Fong演奏樂曲娛眾。韓納曼市長、馮煜榮副市長和陸關琪主席一起逐席向賓客敬酒問候，隨和親切，氣氛融洽。
餐後，司儀委請馮煜榮副市長上台講話，馮副市長指出，檀香山與中山市由於孫中山先生的歷史文化淵源將兩座城市緊密地聯繫在一起，1997年10月13日，兩市正式締結為國際友好城市，至今已十年。十年來，兩市不斷加強交流合作，先後互派訪問團近40批，人數達千餘人次。交往遍及經貿、旅遊、環保、醫療、衛生、教育、文化等領域。上個月，韓納曼市長曾率領代表團訪問中山，與中山市共同慶祝雙方結好十周年，此行來檀即為回訪，在檀市共慶十周年締結友好關係紀念。韓納曼市長也上台重申檀香山市對發展兩市友好關係的承諾，進一步加強雙方已存在的友好關係。陸關琪主席上台感謝少年孫中山銅像的模型捐款者，公布名單並贈送少年孫中山銅像的模型給韓納曼市長和馮煜榮副市長及所有捐款者留念。孫中山基金會會Steven
Ai向大眾敬酒，中華總商會會長貝英華致謝詞。九時許晚會順利結束，眾皆盡歡而散。
Friday, June 15, 2007 -
PRESS RELEASE: Representative Louise M. Slaughter, Chairwoman, House Committee
on Rules - Representing New York ’s 28th District
MEDIA CONTACT: Frank Benenati (202) 225-2888 or John Santore (202) 225-2888
House Votes to Delay Implementation of WHTI Until June 2009
Washington, DC – Rep. Louise M. Slaughter (D-NY-28), Chairwoman of the House
Rules Committee, today announced that the House overwhelmingly voted to prohibit
the implementation of Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative (WHTI) anytime before
June 2009. The FY 2008 Homeland Security Appropriations Bill passed by the House
of Representatives today by a vote of 268 to 150.
In addition to delaying WHTI, the bill also included language authored by Rep.
Slaughter to withhold $100 million from the funds required by the Department of
Homeland Security to implement WHTI until DHS has determined if driver's
licenses can be enhanced to meet the WHTI’s requirements. The Slaughter language
also requires DHS to fully test its proposed passport card before making it
publicly available and develop a plan for land implementation that will be
shared with the public. Finally, Rep. Slaughter's provision requires that DHS
submit a report to Congress on the success of the driver's license pilot
program, and reveal its overall WHTI roadmap before being allowed to put the
proposed WHTI documentary requirements into place.
“After over two and a half years of fighting against WHTI, I am pleased to see
that Congress overwhelmingly rebuked the Administration today by delaying the
implementation of the flawed program until mid-2009,” said Rep. Slaughter. “We
sent a clear signal that we don’t trust the Administration to get WHTI done
right.” “Travel and trade which cross the northern border every day between
America and Canada are critical to our economy and to northern economic
security, and we must never sacrifice our relationship with Canada in a
misguided attempt to increase border security. I have long said that economic
security and physical security are not mutually exclusive. We can, and must,
have both.”
United States House of Representatives, 2469 Rayburn House Office Building •
Washington , DC 20515; (202) 225-3615 phone • (202) 225-7822 fax •
www.louise.house.gov
John V. Santore, Communications Director, Rep. Louise M. Slaughter, 202-225-7300
(office), 202-580-9459 (mobile),
john.santore@mail.house.gov (email)
April 3, 2007
Asia's film hub shines with
talent
Hong Kong movie star Tony Leung is excited by his home city's emerging creative
talent. Celebrated Hong Kong actor Tony Leung set the scene for the Hong Kong
Trade Development Council's (HKTDC) Entertainment Expo (EE) in March. Flushed
with pride after watching the Oscars success of The Departed – a remake of Hong
Kong's Infernal Affairs, a film in which he starred – the actor declared before
the EE began that the local film industry was entering a vibrant new age. Mr
Leung then met with local and international journalists in town to cover the
expo. He was quick to point out that, with a rash of Hollywood remakes now on
the cards, the world's focus had returned to Hong Kong as a regional hub of
creative talent. "We are entering an exciting time," Mr Leung said. "We are all
proud of Infernal Affairs and that it was picked up by Hollywood. People are
looking to Hong Kong for inspiration once again."
Movies in the making - Mr Leung's words ring true when you consider negotiations
are currently underway between Hong Kong studios and their Hollywood
counterparts for the remake rights to Andrew Lau and Alan Mak's Confessions of
Pain and Johnnie To's Exile. Oxide and Danny Pang's The Eye is currently being
reworked by an American studio into a blockbuster starring Jessica Alba. The
fact that Hong Kong has in recent years strengthened its position as the leading
force in the Asia entertainment world was reflected through a survey conducted
at both the Hong Kong International Film & TV Market (FILMART) and the Hong
Kong-Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF). Both events came under the umbrella of
HKTDC's Entertainment Expo and attracted thousands of entertainment industry
representatives from all over the world. A total of 332 industry reps were
interviewed during the course of the two events and were asked questions
relating to industry and market trends. The survey was carried out by an
independent research company commissioned by the HKTDC.
Rich source of content - Overall, over half of the respondents said they had
acquired entertainment content from Hong Kong during 2006. Trailing behind Hong
Kong were the Chinese mainland, Japan, Korea and Thailand. A walk through the
fairground at FILMART showed vendors were firm in the belief that Hong Kong was
the place to do business. "This is the third year we have attended FILMART. This
year, we had 10 sales companies on the stand, some of whom have attended in
previous years," said Lisa Tremble, Head of Communications for the UK Film
Council. "FILMART provides an ideal platform to meet new buyers and cement
existing relationships, and this year was no exception. All of the companies
feel they have made worthwhile contacts which will hopefully develop into long
standing business relationships over the coming months."
Partners found - The survey also showed Hong Kong was known as the best place
from which companies could explore co-productions with the mainland and other
regions of Asia, and it was also the best place to meet buyers. For exhibitors,
FILMART in particular gives overseas production houses a chance to share their
products – and introduce their upcoming productions – with the Asia region.
"We'll be back next year. FILMART offers a wonderful opportunity to show all
aspects of French films," said Christine Pernin, Unifrance's representative for
the greater China region, who brought acclaimed French director Luc Besson to
Hong Kong this year. Her thoughts were echoed by Kim Behrendt of the German Film
Service. "This is my second time at FILMART," she said. "It's a good opportunity
to display German films and to build contacts with Asian film-makers." Overall,
the FILMART survey reflected the growth of the burgeoning digital entertainment
sector with around 90 per cent of respondents saying digital entertainment had
the greatest growth potential, followed by television (78 per cent) and film (68
per cent). Lloyd Chao, Director of Business Development and Marketing for Hong
Kong's Shaw Studios, said that overall the Entertainment Expo reflected the
reputation the city had both throughout Asia and all over the world. "Hong Kong
has long been an industry leader," he said. "And you can see that industry
leaders are acknowledging the city as a centre for development in the region and
as a way they can break in and become part of the Asian entertainment industry
as a whole."
February 6, 2007
Hong Kong.China.Hawaii
Chamber of Commerce has been working with Hawaii State Legislators to support
the establishment of the "Asian Lunar New Year Commemoration Week". Right now it
is moving through the Legislative Process. The following is a sample of the
bill.
Report Title: Chinese New Year; Commemoration
Description: Establishes the Asian Lunar New Year Commemoration Week.
HAWAII
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and HAWAII STATE SENATE
H.B. NO. 1103 and S.B. NO. 247
TWENTY-FOURTH LEGISLATURE, 2007
STATE OF HAWAII
A BILL FOR AN ACT
RELATING TO ASIAN LUNAR NEW YEAR COMMEMORATION.
BE IT ENACTED BY THE LEGISLATURE OF THE STATE OF HAWAII:
SECTION 1. Chinese New Year is the preeminent day of commemoration of culture
and arts for more than one quarter of the world's population. A special Chinese
calendar is used to determine festivals. Various Chinese communities around the
world use this calendar, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and South East
Asian countries such as Thailand, Vietnam, and
Laos.
The beginnings of the Chinese calendar date back to the fourteenth century B.C.
The Chinese calendar is the exact astronomical observations of the longitude of
the sun and phases of the moon, which indicates that the Chinese calendar is
heavily influenced by the same principles of modern astronomy. Determining the
exact date of each Chinese New Year requires a number of astronomical
calculations. Historically, the Chinese New Year Day has practically been
regarded as the only day of the year when China's hard-working peasants allowed
themselves to rest. Although celebrations of the Chinese New Year vary, the
underlying message is one of peace and happiness for family members and friends.
The legislature finds that the prominence of Hawaii's Chinese population and the
emphasis on promoting tourism from China warrants an official commemoration of
Chinese New Year.
The purpose of this Act is to designate the Asian Lunar New Year as a week of
commemoration.
SECTION 2. Chapter 8, Hawaii Revised Statutes, is amended by adding a new
section to be appropriately designated and to read as follows:
"Asian Lunar New Year Commemoration Week. The one week period following the day
of the Chinese New Year shall be known and designated as the "Asian Lunar New
Year Week of Commemoration in Hawaii". This week shall not be construed as a
state holiday."
SECTION 3. New statutory material is underscored.
SECTION 4. This Act shall take effect upon its approval.
2/27/2007 - Hawaii State Senate - The
committee(s) on TSG recommend(s) that the measure be PASSED, WITH AMENDMENTS.
The votes in TSG were as follows: 3 Aye(s): Senator(s) Nishihara, Kim, Trimble;
Aye(s) with reservations: none ; 0 No(es): none; and 1 Excused: Senator(s)
Tsutsui.
2/28/2007 - Hawaii State House of Representative The committees on INT
recommend that the measure be PASSED, UNAMENDED. The votes were as follows: 7
Ayes: Representative(s) Cabanilla, Tokioka, Belatti, Mizuno, Rhoads, Shimabukuro,
Awana; Ayes with reservations: none; 0 Noes: none; and 4 Excused:
Representative(s) Bertram, Green, Takai, Ward.
Testimony by Dean Emeritus Chuck Gee (Feb 16, 2007)
Representative Yamane, Representative
Cabanilla and House Speaker Say:
In view of the shortness of time before the hearing(s) of HB 1103 & SB 247,
I am writing to offer my individual support by email for these two House Bills
pertaining to the Observation of the Asian Lunar New Year.
As a Chinese-American who grew up in San Francisco with its large population of
Asian-Americans, I have experienced the importance of the Lunar New Year in that
city. Not only is the lunar new year period a significant part of the history
and cultural life of the diverse Asian-American community, but it makes a major
contribution to the economy of San Francisco itself.
Over the eight days of the celebration of the lunar new year, for example, San
Francisco's Chinatown--the largest of any city in the USA, the City of San
Francisco, the Chinatown Merchants' Association, Chinatown restaurants, grocery
stores, and retail outlets and many others contribute to the activities. The
entire community comes alive as flower vendors and food sellers set up street
stalls to serve the interest of locals and visitors alike who come to buy
branches of cherry blossoms, pots of red azaleas and sweetmeats for observing
the lunar new year at home. It is a happy time for everyone in the community as
the air is permeated with the sweet scent of narcissus and flavors of delicious
food. As in the old country, the lunar new year is a time to settle debts
honorably and of promise and hope for a good year ahead, for success personally
and in business ventures.
The culmination of the Chinese new year ends with a major parade, which is
televised on a mainstream channel. Once with only local participants in the
parade, today there are floats and marchers from other parts of the USA and
outside of the USA as well. Visitors travel to San Francisco from everywhere to
join in the lunar new year celebration, and the economic benefits extend beyond
Chinatown to San Francisco's downtown hotels and businesses in other districts.
While neither HB 1103 and SB 247 provides funding for the lunar new year
celebration, unlike the City of San Francisco which provides significant
financial support for Chinese New Year as part of its tourism promotion, I
believe that these bills do provide useful symbolic support and can encourage or
spur action on the part of the various Honolulu Chinese cultural and business
organizations, as well as interested individuals, that may result in a weeklong
event to nearly rival San Francisco's Chinese New Year celebration and to help
further diversify our tourism attractions in Hawaii. I, therefore, strongly
support the HB 1103 and SB 247.
Chuck Yim Gee
Dean Emeritus
School of Travel Industry Management
University of Hawaii-Manoa
Testimony by Judy Liu, Past President, Hawaii Chinese Association
Dear Chairman Yamane:
Asian communities in Hawaii would very much appreciate an official state
observance of the Asian Lunar New Year. It is a centuries-old major cultural
tradition that we celebrate every year with re-dedication, special foods and
ceremonies. Your favorable consideration would be most appreciated.
Aloha,
Judy Liu
1114 Punahou St Ste 2B Honolulu HI 96826
Past President - Hawaii Chinese Association
Testimony in favor of HB 1103 and SB
247, Director, TIM International Inc - Alumni Association of UH School of Travel
Industry Management
I strongly support HB 1103 and SB 247 and Observing the Asian Lunar New Year in
Hawaii. Your favorable consideration would be most appreciated.
Aloha,
Laszlo Ravasz
1053 Maunanani Street
Honolulu, HI 96825
Testimony by Clyde G. Min, CHA,
Vice President, Asset Management, Host Hotel and Resorts
Aloha Kalani,
Hawaii is a great place to be from and to yearn to return some day, because of
our great cultural diversity and the cultural/social benchmark we set for the
rest of our country. My career has given me the opportunity of living in many
Asian countries and in several states on the Continent. I first learned and
experienced my Chinese ancestry thru my “Apo” or maternal grandmother in Hawaii,
but did not fully understand or appreciated what she gave us as celebration food
items until I actually lived in Southeast Asia and experienced similar foods by
the Chinese communities celebrating various festivals and especially Lunar new
year. I was able to better learn and understand my Chinese ancestry and to now
share that by celebrating the Lunar new year while I was living in Florida ,
Virginia , and now Maryland . We always gather friends together during that time
of the year and celebrate! When I visit home I can now appreciate the shops in
Chinatown Honolulu and be a better shopper of Asian food products, but I am also
a better “neighbor” because I understand more of the cultures of Vietnam ,
Singapore , Hong Kong , Korea , Taiwan , etc. These are just some of the Asian
cultures that celebrate the Luna New Year.
I hope to catch up with you again … perhaps in Hana…
All the best,
Clyde
Clyde G. Min, CHA
Vice President, Asset Management
Host Hotels and Resorts
6903 Rockledge Drive, Suite 1500
Bethesda, MD 20817
T 240.744.5295
C 301.370.8432
F 240.744.5795
clyde.min@hosthotels.com
Testimony in favor of HB 1103, Barbara Marumoto, Hawaii State House of Representative on March 6 2007
ASIAN LUNAR NEW YEAR IN HAWAII – HB 1103
According to testimony there are about 100,000 people in Hawaii that celebrate
the Asian Lunar New Year. That is why I support this measure and why I
introduced a similar bill. For 3500 years Asian families have gathered for
traditional ceremonies and cuisine, first in China, then in all of Asia and
throughout the world.
Favorable testimony on this measure arrived from Johnson Choi of the
China-Hawaii Chamber of Commerce, the Hong Kong-Hawaii Chamber, as well as the
Hong Kong China Hawaii Chamber.
It is well that we observe this important cultural holiday and a testament to
the many Asian people who have worked to build a better Hawaii. From the Chinese
who were one of the first immigrant groups brought over to work the sugar
plantations to the more recent Southeast Asian ethnic immigrants, all have added
to the rich tapestry that is contemporary Hawaii. We owe much to these vibrant,
productive peoples, and this official observance of the Asian New Year is a
great way to say "mahalo" to each and all of them.
January 16, 2007
Hong Kong's economy
still the world's freest: survey
Hong Kong has remained the world's freest economy for 13 consecutive years,
according to a new study released on Tuesday. Among 10 areas assessed in the
2007 Index of Economic Freedom, the territory ranked first in four: trade
freedom, investment freedom, financial freedom and property rights.
The study, compiled by the Washington DC-based Heritage foundation and The Wall
Street Journal, assessed the degree of economic freedom of 157 world economies.
Hong Kong has topped the list every year since it was published in 1995.
In the 2007 list, Singapore ranked second and Australia third.
The report said Hong Kong had low tax rates, simple business regulations, a
flexible labour market, and few restrictions on foreign capital.
It also praised Hong Kong for having an extensive, transparent banking and
services industry; and an independent judiciary that could protect property
rights.
Welcoming the results, Financial Secretary Henry Tang Yen-yang said: "We will
study the report carefully and will strive to preserve fervently those strong
aspects of our economic freedom, whilst enhancing those other aspects where
there is room for further improvement."
He said the government remained committed to maintaining Hong Kong as a free
economy, with maximum scope being accorded to the private sector.
"We see the role of the government as that of a facilitator. We provide a
business-friendly environment where all firms can compete on a level-playing
field and establish an appropriate regulatory regime to ensure integrity and
smooth functioning of a free market," Mr Tang said.
According to the foundation, the methodology for this year's assessment had been
substantially changed.
December 22, 2006
Hong Kong: Our Advantage is
You and the ICAC (Independent Commission Against Corruption), says ICAC chief
ICAC Commissioner Fanny Law Fan Chiu-fun says in her web column that the ICAC
and the community must continue to adopt a "zero tolerance" attitude towards
corruption so as to maintain Hong Kong's reputation as a corruption-free city
and a level playing field for businesses, and to preserve Hong Kong's
competitive edge internationally.
In her first article in the Commissioner Online column uploaded onto the ICAC
website, Mrs Law says over the past weeks since joining the ICAC as the
Commissioner, she has visited colleagues at various departments.
"What impressed me most are their professionalism and intense commitment to
fighting corruption," says Mrs Law.
In her article entitled "Hong Kong: Our Advantage is You and the ICAC", the
Commissioner notes that ICAC staff has unfailingly displayed exceptional
enthusiasm toward their duties, and achieved remarkable results.
"Braving difficulties and challenges, they strive to safeguard justice and
uphold the rule of law in Hong Kong."
Mrs Law says while Hong Kong is recognized worldwide as a clean metropolitan
city, the ICAC must continue its sustained efforts in investigation, corruption
prevention and education.
"Despite a continual decline in corruption reports, rapid advancement in
information technology and accelerated globalization have made corruption crimes
increasingly complex in nature, posing more difficulties for our investigators,"
she says.
She looks forward to the completion of the new ICAC headquarters building next
fall, which will provide a better working environment and improved training
facilities for ICAC staff and help enhance operational efficiency.
On the law enforcement front, Mrs. Law says this year turns out to be fruitful
and rewarding for the Operations Department, with a case-based conviction rate
reaching a record 88% in the first eleven months.
"Corruption is inherently a secretive crime and difficult to investigate.
Successful prosecutions require that investigators must be able to collect solid
and strong evidence through meticulous planning and in full compliance with
stringent procedures. On top of all these, they must be able to withstand the
rigorous challenges in court," she says.
The Corruption Prevention Department has provided professional advice to
government departments to improve operational procedures and plug possible
loopholes to corrupt practices or misconduct. Its work covers a wide spectrum of
functional areas, including tendering, procurement, allocation of funds and
other work procedures.
Working in parallel, the Community Relations Department has been partnering with
the Civil Service Bureau to promote a probity culture in the civil service. Mrs
Law also reveals that the Department is now making a new television drama series
"ICAC Investigators", to present to the public the "human face" of
investigators. The new series is expected to be broadcast next fall.
In the past two months, Mrs Law has also attended meetings of advisory
committees established to oversee all aspects of ICAC's work, and affirms that
the Commission is subject to very stringent monitoring both in letter and
spirit.
"The committee system ensures the ICAC conducts all its work in the interest of
the community.
"Under such a meticulous and stringent system of checks and balances, there is
absolutely no leeway for any individual to exert undue influence over the
outcome of ICAC investigations," she adds.
Mrs. Law's first Commissioner Online article has been posted onto the ICAC
website www.icac.org.hk for public access.
December 19, 2006
Triple Film Attractions for Hong
Kong - Industry Who's Who to Attend - Tony Leung, the internationally acclaimed
film star, will once again be Entertainment Expo's ambassador.
Hong Kong, December 15, 2006 - Film
entrepreneurs and movie fans are in for a treat. Next year, three mega events -
the Hong Kong International Film Festival (HKIFF), the Hong Kong International
Film & TV Market (FILMART) and the Hong Kong - Asia Film Financing Forum (HAF)
will, for the first time, open on the same day in Hong Kong.
The triple-header will kick off March 20, 2007, featuring the latest films from
around the world, along with a who's who of the international movie industry.
Peter Tsi, Executive Director of the Hong Kong International Film Festival
Society and organiser of HAF, points out that HKIFF formerly catered only to
Asian film fans and Hong Kong people, and was not regarded as a global event.
"Next year will be different," he says. "Heavyweight titles that will appeal to
international audiences will make their debut here, boosting Hong Kong's status
as a film-trade and film financing platform."
Raymond Yip, Assistant Executive Director of the Hong Kong Trade Development
Council (TDC), FILMART's organiser, says: "We expect to attract about 450
exhibitors from 30 countries and some 4,000 international industry players to
the mega shows.
"With HKIFF, FILMART and HAF kicking off at the same time, visitors can view and
source a wider variety of films for distribution. At the same time, they can
also consider investing or participating in the film projects on offer."
The three mega events are part of Hong Kong Entertainment Expo, which takes
place March 20 to April 15 next year. International film star Tony Leung Chiu-wai
will, for the third time, serve as Entertainment Expo's ambassador.
December 2, 2006
HK firms warned against
complacency With regional competitors catching up fast, Exco member says
'drifting with the tide' is not an option by AMBROSE
LEUNG
Hongkongers cannot afford to indulge in escapism in today's highly competitive
world, a business leader and executive councillor warned yesterday. Doing so
would distract them from achieving their goals, said Leung Chun-ying. He also
said critics should not seek to discredit the government by airing conspiracy
theories.
Addressing a business leaders' forum, "Economic Summit 2007: Road Map to Hong
Kong Success", Mr Leung warned that major industries in Hong Kong were in danger
of being marginalised and overtaken by competitors. "We should never be
intoxicated by the short-term scene of prosperity in front of us," he said,
pointing to the relatively small size of Hong Kong's economy and the closeness
of its links to that of the mainland.
Mr Leung said hidden problems remained and now was the time to seek solutions to
them. "If we adopt a mentality of escapism, or drift with the tides, we will
become bystanders, not stakeholders. We will lose the reference of Hong Kong
people solving problems for Hong Kong."
Mr Leung said one danger was Hong Kong's relatively high wages, which were not
competitive with those over the border. Unemployment threatened to erode
people's standard of living, he said. If the government could not usher in full
employment, "all economic theories and government visions would become empty
talk". Although the quality of its products and services was a strength, the
city would face midterm and long-term competition from the mainland's container
ports, catering and financial services sectors, he said.
Pointing to Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen's recent comment that
"positive non-interventionism" was no longer the guiding principle of government
economic policy, Mr Leung said the government should play a more proactive role
in the economy. "Market forces can result in both good and evil," Mr Leung said.
He also said no government could address all the viewpoints in society.
"If [people], including opinion leaders, hold stubbornly to their views or seek
to discredit the government with conspiracy theories, it will only result in
failure of the entire society." Addressing the same forum, Mr Tsang warned that
Hong Kong's logistics industry faced challenges. "The rise of Shanghai, and
especially Shenzhen - which is on course to overtake Hong Kong and Singapore in
the next few years - poses a big challenge to Hong Kong's leading position," Mr
Tsang said.
The city's position as Asia's financial centre was also under threat, with
Shanghai, Beijing, Singapore and other cities putting up stiff challenges. "We
cannot take it for granted that mainland corporations will use Hong Kong as a
platform to raise capital, because other financial centres in the region are
rising fast," Mr Tsang said.
He said Hong Kong had to maintain its role as a bridge between the mainland and
other regions. Mr Tsang said the airport and other infrastructure should be
improved to raise competitiveness, and investor-friendly policies, including an
expansion in renminbi business, introduced.
November 29, 2006 Hong Kong SAR
Official Opening: International Business Convention "New Strategies for a Borderless World" - Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center (HKTDC)
Presentation by Mr. Peter Woo, Chairman, HKTDC
Presentation by Honorable Donald Tsang, Chief Executive, Hong Kong SAR
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picture to view picture/video
International Business Convention "New Strategies for a Borderless World" - Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Center (HKTDC)
Keynote Speaker, Mr. Peter Woo, Chairman of
HKTDC
Mr. Stuart Harbinson - Special Advisor,
Office of the Director-General WTO - Global Markets: The World Trade
Organization Dimension
Ms. Viveca Chan, Founder, WE Worldwide Partners - Building Brands in China
November 28, 2006 Hong Kong SAR
Pan-Pearl River Delta - Connecting the World's SMEs by Professor Pui King LAU, Mr. Anthony Lau - Executive Chairman of BALtrans Holding Ltd and Mr. Ronnie Chan - Chairman of Hang Lung Group (Hang Lung Properties reported net profit of US$586 millions in 2006, Owned and Operate Plaza 66 in Shanghai, Mr. Chan among others things was member of Board of Governors of the East West Center in Honolulu Hawaii).
Mr. Ronnie Chan Discussed and Shared with us if you are NOT an International Well Known Brand, not launching your products/services and established name recognition in Hong Kong FIRST will have little chance of success in the China Market. Hang Lung Group operate the Plaza 66 in Shanghai occupied by ALL major World Famous brand has 600,000 of foot traffic per week. US$4 billion to build another 12 world-class commercial complexes like the Plaza 66 in Shanghai will be completed in the coming few years. All major anchor tenants have committed to go where the new world-class commercial complex will be located. Mr. Ronnie Chan is a frequent visitor to Hawaii.
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Mr. Henry Tang, Financial Secretary of the Hong Kong SAR shared with us the success formula as the financial center recognized by Beijing and its continue success. Hong Kong Stock Exchange has raised almost US$60 billion in 2006 placed Hong Kong the 2nd largest IPO Center, overtook the New York Stock Exchange.
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An Ancient Feast in Modern Hong Kong - A Night of "Poon Choi Delights" Special 20+ entrees dinner including the "Jumbo Pot also known as Poon Choi" hosted by the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) at the Super Star Seafood Restaurant, Time Square, well attended by more than 500 guests
November 27, 2006 Hong Kong SAR
AmCham Hong Kong Energy Committee met Chaired by Mr. Colin Tam to discuss various business opportunities in China, Hong Kong and Macau. Presentation was made regarding to the challenges and opportunities current presented in Macau and how to take advantage of it.
Hawaii Women's Business Center hosts Small Business Awards Luncheon on April 30
2008 11:30am - 1:30pm at the Hilton Hawaiian Village
National Champion 
Honolulu Hawaii USA March 24 2008: U.S. Small Business Administration Names
Hawaii’s Best Small Businesses for 2008