SINGAPORE, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — A simple, but revolutionary test has been developed to help unravel the mystery of infertility among men who display normal semen parameters.
Infertility affects an estimated one in every six couples worldwide with male factor prevalent in about half of those cases.
For many of those men who have seemingly otherwise healthy sperm the anguish of their condition is deepened by the perplexity of an underlying reproductive dysfunction called CatSper-related male infertility.
In these cases, there are defects in the chemosensory CatSper channels of sperm that allows them to move in a whip-like fashion essential to penetrate the coating of a female egg. If penetration fails, fertilisation is not possible.
There are many case histories in fertility treatment of couples where conventional IVF and intrauterine insemination (IUI) has failed, but where single sperm injection of an egg – known as intracytoplasmic sperm injection, or ICSI – has resulted in a pregnancy.
The 2025 Congress of the Asia Pacific Initiative on Reproduction (ASPIRE) in Singapore today heard of a breakthrough diagnostic test for CatSper-related male infertility that has delivered remarkable validation results.
Dr Samuel Young, a pathfinding researcher in the Centre of Reproductive Medicine and Andrology at the University Hospital Münster in Germany, said a desire to better understand the role of CatSper in male fertility led to the development of the test as a novel diagnostic tool.
“Sperm generate a powerful swimming behaviour known as hyperactivation. CatSper, a specific calcium channel found exclusively in the tail of sperm, controls this swimming behaviour.
“If CatSper is defective, sperm cannot hyperactivate and the egg remains unfertilised. The man is therefore infertile.
“The CatSper test is a simple procedure with a standard semen analysis. It quickly and reliably determines whether a CatSper defect is present, enabling evidence-based therapy choices for couples with unexplained infertility.
“We used it to screen 2,386 patients as a proof-of-concept study. It showed exceptional sensitivity and specificity of the test with precise assessment of CatSper function.
“It has transformed the CatSper test from a scientific possibility into a diagnostic device for everyday clinical practice.
“For the first time it allows diagnosis of CatSper defect in male infertility potentially preventing couples from embarking on unsuccessful medically assisted reproduction attempts such as IUI and IVF.
“This has the potential to save patient expense and possible adverse effects of hormonal stimulation in IVF for the female partners.
“The time factor of going through cycles of IVF is also an important consideration for couples striving to conceive, especially when almost every day counts among women in their thirties and forties when fertility is in decline.
“The CatSper test can guide clinicians toward more personalised, evidence-based treatment approaches, including ICSI.”
The ASPIRE Congress in Singapore has attracted around 2,000 scientists, clinicians, nurses and counsellors in fertility health to address latest global advances in assisted reproduction.
GUANGZHOU, China, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In an era where niche hobbies are rapidly entering the mainstream, industries once viewed as traditional are undergoing swift and significant transformation. Fishing, long associated with leisurely outings by older generations, has evolved into a vibrant, technology-driven sector. This shift is prompting more manufacturers to expand beyond specialized professional fishing circles and appeal to a broader consumer base. For many, the China Import and Export Fair (Canton Fair) has become the gateway to reaching new markets and global buyers.
At the Sports, Travel, and Recreation Products section of the 137th Canton Fair, held on May 1-5, 2025, buyers discovered far more than just conventional gear. The offerings ranged from basic fishing rods across price tiers to advanced electronic floats and specialized equipment designed for emerging categories like deep-sea and ice fishing. The message was clear: modern angling is about precision, innovation, and delivering a refined outdoor experience.
Taizhou Source One International Co., Ltd. exemplifies this evolution. The company showcased a series of ice fishing products, including electric ice augers capable of drilling clean holes in seconds, even in harsh sub-zero environments. This innovation boosts both efficiency and safety, making ice fishing more accessible to enthusiasts of all levels. “Our ice fishing line is already popular in the U.S., Canada, and Russia,” said Stella Wang, Sales Manager at Source One. “Now, we’re looking to enter the Northern European market, and the Canton Fair is a platform for such opportunities.”
Fujian Doofar Outdoor Sporting Goods Co., Ltd., a manufacturer of yachts and water sports equipment, is also riding the wave of the fishing boom. Its focus this year is on fishing kayaks, featuring two models at the Fair: a durable hard-shell kayak and an inflatable pedal-powered version. Both offer simplified steering and seating systems, ensuring an effortless user experience. “Fishing should be about enjoyment, not complexity,” said Sales Manager Daniel Shen. “While our primary markets are the U.S. and Australia, the Canton Fair allows us to connect with broader customer bases and high-profile buyers, helping us tap into new regions.”
Guangdong Boatman Electronics Co., Ltd, made its Canton Fair debut this session. The company traditionally focused on the European market and usually participated in specialized fishing trade shows. Looking to expand into Belt and Road Initiative countries, Boatman uses the Fair to reach distributors in emerging regions. Its featured products, a series of bait boats, demonstrated the Fair’s effectiveness in spotlighting niche innovations. On just the first day, the product attracted dozens of buyers and generated sample requests from customers in Germany, Australia, and Mauritius.
As niche products gain traction globally, the Canton Fair has proven itself to be a powerful platform for manufacturers looking to scale beyond traditional boundaries. By connecting brands with a wide spectrum of international buyers, the Fair helps emerging segments, like advanced fishing gear, find new buyers, enter new markets, and navigate the evolving landscape of global consumer demand.
SEOUL, South Korea, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — May is a time to celebrate love and appreciation in Korea, with Children’s Day (May 5) and Parents’ Day (May 8) reminding us to cherish family. To honor the spirit of the season, Roborock is launching a limited-time promotion on Gmarket, offering its most advanced washer-dryers at special prices from May 7 to 13—thoughtfully designed to care for delicate fabrics and the people you love most.
Ahead of the promotion, from May 1 to 7, Roborock will launch a consumer survey, with 10,000 Naver Points awarded to participants. Customers who purchase on Gmarket on May 7 will receive an additional 20,000 Naver points as a thank-you reward.
At the heart of Roborock’s innovation is the Zeo-cycle™ moderate-temperature drying technology, a breakthrough that gently protects delicate fabrics—from babywear to silks—while preserving shape, softness, and color. Paired with TÜV-certified hygiene programs that eliminate allergens, bacteria, and mites, every cycle is designed to deliver deep cleanliness and peace of mind for families of all ages.
Promotion Period: May 7 – May 13, 2025
H1 (Premium) :₩1,699,000 → ₩1,499,000
Roborock’s top-tier model features the world’s first Zeo-cycle™ moderate-temperature drying, the RR Seafarer™ algorithm, and a full touchscreen panel for an intuitive, modern experience. It’s designed for users who expect precise care, advanced tech, and seamless laundry control.
H1 Lite (Standard):₩1,399,000 → ₩1,149,000
This standard all-in-one model delivers Zeo-cycle™ moderate-temperature drying and intelligent wash-dry features with a streamlined interface. It provides reliable, fabric-friendly performance for everyday laundry, making it a practical choice for households seeking smart care and strong value.
M1 (Compact):₩749,000 → ₩499,000
Designed for small loads and compact spaces, M1 features 20+ fabric-specific programs, TÜV-certified hygiene care, self-cleaning, and smart dosing. Perfect as a second washer for babywear, undergarments, or allergy-sensitive clothing.
Designed for Family. Built for Comfort.
From delicate children’s clothes to your parents’ everyday essentials, Roborock washer-dryers deliver smarter, safer, and more hygienic care with every cycle. Honored with the 2025 iF Design Award and CES Innovation Award, Roborock is redefining how technology supports home life.
Make this May a celebration of care—choose Roborock and bring comfort home. Available on Gmarket from May 7 to 13.
AVPN’s landscape report, AI for All: Building an AI-Ready Workforce in Asia-Pacific, reveals the opportunities for AI across the region with an inclusive AI Just Transition
Trends uncovered include how young workers are future-proofing their careers with AI, a wide AI skilling awareness gap, and an MSME mismatch in the region.
Building on this momentum, the Fund is expanding with an additional USD 10 million from Google.org to further AI skilling initiatives and introduce a dedicated track for MSMEs in the Southeast Asia region
SINGAPORE, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — AVPN, the largest network of social investors in Asia, today announced the recipients for funding from the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia Pacific, a USD 15-million initiative supported by Google.org and the Asian Development Bank (ADB). The organisations are receiving support to address the unique challenges faced by workers in the AI work era, providing access and opportunities from the evolving job market. The 49 organisations will receive financial support and expert guidance through the initiative, serving as a unique “ecosystem multiplier lever” of the three-year program as part of the “Train the Trainer” component of AVPN’s initiative, while leveraging their deep-rooted expertise in workforce development to train various groups of workers across Asia Pacific.
AI Skilling Awareness Gap: Out of the 3,000 respondents surveyed, only 15% have engaged in AI skilling programmes, while more than half (57%) remain unaware that these resources even exist.
The AI Advantage: Young workers are embracing AI as a means to future-proof their careers in an AI driven future, with 1 in 5 younger workers engaged in AI skilling programmes. Meanwhile, mature workers (aged 50-65) were 1.6 times more likely to indicate concerns about AI trustworthiness and language barriers, indicating the importance of local language outreach and general awareness-building about AI.
The MSME Mismatch: 96% of Asia-Pacific’s companies are Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), yet many struggle with AI skill development due to systemic barriers such as limited training accessibility, lack of access to digital infrastructure, and constrained financial resources—limiting their ability to adopt AI effectively and remain competitive in an AI-driven economy.
As the world shifts towards an AI-driven future, with the potential to create 97 million new jobs, certain roles are likely to evolve in response to automation. The initiative’s aim is to ensure workers in Asia Pacific are prepared to benefit from these opportunities.
To address this gap in Asia-Pacific’s AI work transition, selected organisations will be trained by AVPN’s strategic partners, including organisations such as Seoul National University, KORIKA, AI Singapore, AI Education (Vietnam), and Wadhwani AI. Following which, selected organisations will then directly reach and train various groups of workers, including migrant workers, informal workers, women and gender minorities, and persons with disabilities. The full list of the organisations is available here. Amongst the organisations receiving funding are:
JAIS (India), which works with rural women solopreneurs (often MSMEs) to enable business growth by equipping them with the right digital skills.
BAOBAB Inc. (Japan), which works with refugees and individuals with disabilities, including their caregivers, who all face unique barriers in accessing workforce development opportunities in AI.
TagTeam (Singapore), which reaches Singapore’s migrant domestic workers and construction workers, equipping them with AI skills in preparation for new employment opportunities when they return to their home countries.
Naina Subberwal Batra, CEO of AVPN, said: “There is a pressing need to bridge critical skills gaps in communities with unmet needs across Asia Pacific. Our funded organisations are at the heart of this important component of the AI Work Transition, and they bring expertise and a profound commitment to addressing the unique challenges faced by these communities. Through their innovative approaches and dedication to reach and include those who may be otherwise left behind, the AI Opportunity Fund initiative will pave the way for inclusive growth, ensuring that all segments of society can participate in and benefit from technological advancements, fostering a more equitable future for all.
Sanjay Gupta, President, Asia-Pacific, Google, said: “AI has the potential to transform economies and unlock new opportunities, but its benefits must be accessible to everyone. That’s why Google is proud to support the AI Opportunity Fund: Asia-Pacific initiative, which is equipping workers across the region with the skills and tools they need to thrive in an AI-powered future. This initiative ensures that more people can participate in—and benefit from—the growing AI economy. We remain committed to helping build a workforce that is ready to harness AI’s full potential for a more equitable future.”
Antonio Zaballos, Director, Digital Sector Office, ADB, said: “Bridging the digital divide requires more than skills training—it demands strong digital infrastructure, affordable connectivity, and inclusive access to AI-driven opportunities. As AI reshapes industries, communities with unmet needs across Asia and the Pacific must have the tools to participate in and benefit from this transformation. ADB is committed to amplifying initiatives like the AI Opportunity Fund initiative to ensure that AI-powered growth is both inclusive and sustainable.”
In response to the strong interest in skill development for AI, Google.org is providing an additional USD 10 million to AVPN to further AI skilling initiatives this year. This expansion, in collaboration with ASEAN Foundation, will introduce a dedicated track focused on supporting MSMEs in Southeast Asia—a crucial segment for regional economic growth—alongside continued efforts to empower workers across Asia-Pacific. Together with the initial USD 15 million funding from Google.org, AVPN’s initiative aims to support training for 720,000 workers across Asia Pacific and 100,000 MSMEs across the Southeast Asia region.
About AVPN
AVPN is the largest network of social investors in Asia, comprising over 600 funders and resource providers across 33 markets. Our mission is to increase the flow and effectiveness of financial, human, and intellectual capital in Asia by enabling members to channel resources towards impact. As an ecosystem builder, AVPN enables its members to connect, learn, act, and lead across key pillars and improve the effectiveness of deployed capital, bringing local field needs, regional expertise, and policy insights to the forefront. For more information about AVPN and our work, please visit our website and read our latest Annual Review 2023/24.
About Google.org
Google.org, Google’s philanthropy, brings the best of Google to help solve some of humanity’s biggest challenges combining funding, product donations and technical expertise to support underserved communities and provide opportunity for everyone. We engage nonprofits, social enterprises and civic entities who make a significant impact on the communities they serve, and whose work has the potential to produce scalable, meaningful change.
SYDNEY, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Thomson Reuters Corporation (TSX/Nasdaq: TRI), a global content and technology company, today announced it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire TimeBase, a leading provider of Australian legislative solutions, for $6.5 million cash.
Founded in 1994, TimeBase is a leading provider of Australian legislative information, offering a comprehensive platform for legal professionals to find, search, track, and understand legislation. TimeBase has 11 employees, and its solutions are used by hundreds of customers, including corporate legal teams, government departments, academic institutions, and more than half of Australia’s top law firms.
“Thomson Reuters is committed to serving its customers with cutting-edge technology, trusted content, and human expertise needed to elevate the way professionals work. And, at the core of legal professionals’ ability to confidently make complex decisions is access to the most current and accurate content,” said Vishal Bali, managing director of Asia and Emerging Markets. “We believe the acquisition of TimeBase will accelerate and expand our market potential for these offerings for customers in Australia.”
“For the last thirty years, TimeBase has prided itself in being an innovative, trusted provider of Australian legislative solutions, delivering extraordinary services that give our customers the edge in their legislation research,” said Vanessa Morris, CEO of TimeBase. “By joining Thomson Reuters, it will allow us to advance our mission by providing our best-in-class content to their customer base, while exploring new opportunities to integrate generative AI capabilities at a greater pace for our customers.”
Closing of the transaction is subject to regulatory approval and customary closing conditions and is anticipated to occur in the second half of 2025.
Thomson Reuters Thomson Reuters (TSX/Nasdaq: TRI) informs the way forward by bringing together the trusted content and technology that people and organizations need to make the right decisions. The company serves professionals across legal, tax, accounting, compliance, government, and media. Its products combine highly specialized software and insights to empower professionals with the data, intelligence, and solutions needed to make informed decisions, and to help institutions in their pursuit of justice, truth, and transparency. Reuters, part of Thomson Reuters, is a world-leading provider of trusted journalism and news. For more information, visit tr.com.
TimeBase TimeBase has been the relied upon source for Australian legislative information for three decades by equipping customers with the tools and information necessary to navigate the complex and dynamic legal and regulatory landscape in Australia and New Zealand.
SPECIAL NOTE REGARDING FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS, MATERIAL RISKS AND MATERIAL ASSUMPTIONS
Certain statements in this news release are forward-looking, including but not limited to the expected closing date for the proposed transaction. The word “anticipate” and similar expressions identify forward-looking statements. While the company believes that it has a reasonable basis for making forward-looking statements in this news release, they are not a guarantee of future performance or outcomes and there is no assurance that any of the other events described in any forward-looking statement will materialize. Forward-looking statements are subject to a number of risks, uncertainties and assumptions that could cause actual results or events to differ materially from current expectations. Many of these risks, uncertainties and assumptions are beyond our company’s control and the effects of them can be difficult to predict. You are cautioned not to place undue reliance on forward-looking statements which reflect expectations only as of the date of this news release. Except as may be required by applicable law, Thomson Reuters disclaims any obligation to update or revise any forward-looking statements.
SYDNEY, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Victoria has rolled out significant new rules designed to keep the energy grid stable as solar adoption continues to rise. Having taken effect on 1st October, 2024, the state’s Emergency Backstop Mechanism mandates all new and upgraded solar installations be network connected and communicate with a designated server, enabling grid operators to limit or temporarily halt solar energy exports when there is overproduction.
While these requirements bring complexity to homeowners and installers, FranklinWH energy management and storage system stands apart, simplifying retrofit installations under these rules.
The Exceptionally Easy Solution for the Emergency Backstop Mechanism
The new regulations require solar systems to have continuous network connectivity and pass rigorous Common Smart Inverter Profile (CSIP-Aus) certification tests, ensuring compatibility with remote grid management commands. Systems failing these tests risk costly delays or even disqualification from grid connection.
The FranklinWH System is a unique AC-coupled energy management system agnostic to and independent of all solar inverter models. With a configuration separate from the preexisting PV inverter, the FranklinWH System avoids the need for any modifications of original setups and the need for any emergency backstop mechanism.
Efficient Installation in Minutes
FranklinWH prioritizes ease of use and rapid deployment, drastically reducing installation and commissioning times. It features plug-and-play simplicity and avoids the need for connectivity request to the new mechanism. Commissioning the system typically takes installers around 15 minutes, eliminating lengthy delays. By contrast, traditional solar + battery systems under the new regulation may be subject to lengthy registration and compliance testing processes, sometimes taking several days or even a week to finalize.
Challenges of DC-Coupled Systems under New Rules
DC-coupled battery systems paired with hybrid inverters face substantial new hurdles in retrofitting scenarios. The regulations impose rigorous certification requirements, increasing complexity and potentially lengthening installation timelines significantly.
Additionally, during mandated curtailments or emergency shutdowns, when the grid operators remotely instruct built-in hybrid inverters to limit solar power feeding, the DC-coupled systems risk losing sufficient solar generation capacity, leaving batteries partially charged and homeowners more dependent on expensive grid power.
The FranklinWH System effectively avoids these pitfalls, ensuring homeowners maintain uninterrupted energy storage and utilization. It offers unparalleled reliability and operational simplicity as it does not require any on site emergency backstop testing. To learn more about FranklinWH’s innovative home energy management solutions, visit www.franklinwh.com/au/
MALÉ, Maldives, May 5, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Maldives Government and MBS Global Investments are to create an US$8.8bn Maldives International Financial Centre (MIFC) – a wholly sustainable, Financial Freezone in Malé, Maldives, designed for and created to attract global financial institutions, fintech pioneers, and global digital Nomads.
THE GOVERNMENT OF THE MALDIVES AND MBS GLOBAL INVESTMENTS PLEDGE $8.8 BILLION TO CREATE THE MALDIVES INTERNATIONAL FINANCIAL CENTRE
Allowing the Maldives to diversify beyond tourism, it will attract the future of finance and position Malé as the premier global business and financial hub in the Indian Ocean through an integrated, mixed-use urban district.
MIFC will offer no corporate tax, tax-free inheritance, ownership as per the constitution of the Maldives, and privacy. Combined with no residency requirements, it’s set to attract digital nomads, entrepreneurs, and wealth creators seeking freedom without borders.
Residents will benefit from multi-currency banking and access to offshore private banking. Future-ready regulations will support digital assets, and green finance – making MIFC not just a financial hub, but a destination for those investing in the legacy of future generations.
Due to be completed by 2030, it will be easily accessible from any part of the world and the aim is to notably increase the country’s GDP within four years with projected revenue to be well over US $1bn by the fifth year.
The centrepiece of MIFC is a state-of-the-art conference centre with capacity for 3,500 people. The multi-purpose convention venue will host leading global conferences, cultural events and innovation-driven hackathons establishing Male as leading assembly hub, driving all year round engagement in the Maldives and further supporting the wider, already established hospitality industry
The plan includes three iconic residential and office towers designed for international HQs and regional offices, high-end, sea front branded residences, world-renowned hotel brands, vibrant and one-of-a-kind retail experience, Oceanographic Museum, Mosque, and leading education facilities including an International School.
President Dr Mohamed Muizzu said, “With the MIFC, we are shaping the Maldives of tomorrow, a beacon of innovation and national pride that will thrive in harmony with nature. The financial centre will be a symbol of economic resilience and will set a new global benchmark that will massively benefit the people of the Maldives for generations to come.”
Minister of Finance for the Maldives said, “This is a momentous project. It offers a great opportunity to diversify our economy beyond tourism in line with our ambitions and will attract the best businesses and visionary entrepreneurs in the world.”
Nadeem Hussain, CEO of MBS Global Investments said, “The financial centre will set a new global benchmark, advancing financial innovation by at least two decades. It is the next evolution of what has been happening in other financial centres around the globe.”
MIFC will have a fully climate-resilient infrastructure, and the architecture and public spaces will be powered exclusively by renewable energy. The upper level of the development will be entirely car-free, with all transport and logistics infrastructure located underground to preserve a pedestrian-friendly, open-air environment.
It will offer a holistic lifestyle rooted in wellness and longevity – designed to be one of the most desirable places to live and work. It will feature world-class sports facilities, cutting-edge longevity and wellness centres, and shaded running and cycling tracks woven through expansive green spaces. Complementing its state-of-the-art office spaces, MIFC will also be home to premium retail, celebrated F&B destinations, and dynamic cultural venues – creating a truly integrated live-work-play environment.
This dynamic mixed-use development has been designed by master planner Architect Gianni Ranaulo, every structure from the overarching master plan to the individual buildings are inspired by the local fauna and marine eco-system. Ranaulo incorporates environmentally conscious practices in all projects. The total size of the development is 780,000 sqm where more than 6,500 people can reside, and an expected daily footfall of 35,000.
HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 May 2025 – From March to April 2025, JCI Victoria conducted an online survey to examine the current situation, barriers, and needs of people with disabilities in Hong Kong regarding sports participation. The survey received responses from 285 participants. Over half of the respondents felt that the current sports resources provided by the government or sports organizations do not meet the developmental needs of people with disabilities in sports.
On May 3, 2025, JCI Victoria held a press conference at Hong Kong Red Cross Margaret Trench School to announce the survey findings. The event featured special guests, including Ms. Ho Yuen Kei, a Paralympic gold medalist in boccia and one of the Ten Outstanding Young Persons in 2023; Mr. Ho Nim Ching, a Deaflympics taekwondo bronze medalist; and two young hearing-impaired athletes from Hong Kong’s first “Deaf-Inclusive Taekwondo Team” (sponsored by JCI Victoria), who recently returned from a training camp in South Korea. The speakers shared their experiences and insights, aiming to raise public awareness of the challenges faced by athletes with disabilities and propose concrete policy recommendations.
Key Survey Findings:
Demographics of Respondents
The survey encompassed a diverse range of respondents in terms of age, gender, and disability type. Approximately 60% of participants were male, while 30% were female, with half of all respondents under the age of 18. The most common disabilities reported included autism spectrum disorder (44%), intellectual disabilities (29%), and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) (27%).
Strong Motivation for Sports Participation – Health and Social Engagement
Despite facing physical limitations, people with disabilities exhibit a strong motivation to engage in sports. Nearly 70% of respondents maintain a regular exercise routine, with running, basketball, and swimming being the most popular activities. Their primary motivations for participating in sports are to improve health (87%), expand social circles (56%), and boost confidence and a sense of achievement (56%).
Lack of Accessibility and Disability-Friendly Facilities
Only 24% of respondents expressed satisfaction with the current sports facilities available in schools or communities, citing issues such as difficulty booking venues (42%), inadequate changing room space (38%), and a lack of accessible facilities and equipment tailored to their needs (29%). Many also highlighted challenges in traveling to sports venues, which discourages them from engaging in physical activity.
Lack of Coach Support for People with Disabilities
Another critical issue is the insufficient support from sports coaches. Many respondents noted that few coaches possess the necessary skills and experience to work effectively with people with disabilities. Key gaps include managing the emotions of children with special educational needs (SEN), providing clear verbal instructions for visually impaired individuals, and using sign language or gestures to guide hearing-impaired participants.
Insufficient Government Promotion – Low Awareness of Sports Resources
Only 30% of respondents had ever applied for sports-related support, such as competitions, public facilities, or funding. While 45% had participated in government or sports organization events for people with disabilities in the past three years, a mere 12% had attended five or more such events. This underscores the need for better promotion and transparency regarding existing programs.
Conclusion & Recommendations
The survey results show that despite physical limitations, people with disabilities remain highly motivated to engage in sports to broaden their social networks and boost self-confidence. However, Hong Kong currently fails to meet their needs due to inadequate facilities and insufficient support, which negatively impacts their sports experience and participation willingness.
While the government and some organizations offer sports resources and support programs, most people with disabilities are unaware of them due to poor promotion and transparency.
Respondents called for the government and sports institutions to take actionable steps, including increasing competition opportunities, enhancing professional training for coaches, improving publicity for disability sports programs, and providing better career planning and funding for elite athletes with disabilities. Such measures would empower them to represent Hong Kong on the international stage and inspire others to pursue their athletic dreams.
Speeches & Highlights from the Event
Ms. Jay Lee, President of JCI Victoria, emphasized that sports serve as a universal language to foster an inclusive and harmonious society. She accompanied taekwondo athletes with disabilities to a training camp in South Korea, describing “Boundless Dreams” as not just an event, but the starting point of a dream—where everyone can work together to achieve limitless possibilities.
Mr. Rafael Wong, National President of JCI Hong Kong China, praised the young leaders for organizing events that encourage sports participation among people with disabilities, including upcoming activities in Singapore. He highlighted the Seven Principles of Human Responsibility: protecting life, serving communities, sustainable futures, pursuing prosperity, teaching oneself and others, respecting individuality, and understanding diverse responsibilities. He stressed that people with disabilities can excel beyond expectations and encouraged greater support for their inclusion in sports.
Mr. Johnny Kwan, Guest of Honor (Member of North District Fight Crime Committee, Past President of JCI Hong Kong, President of GBA Education Development Association Hong Kong), noted that 2025 marks a significant year for sports in Hong Kong, with the opening of the Kai Tak Sports Village as a key venue for the National Games, which will also include Paralympic events. He urged public support, as sports can unite society and drive awareness of diversity issues.
Mr. Ho Nim Ching (Deaflympics Taekwondo Bronze Medalist & Event Ambassador) shared his struggles in securing resources for his athletic career, including self-funded overseas exchanges and difficulties in obtaining coaching qualifications. Despite challenges, his perseverance led to a bronze medal, proving that disabilities do not limit dreams.
Two young athletes from Hong Kong’s first “Deaf-Inclusive Taekwondo Team” shared their experiences from training in South Korea:
Ng Hoi Wang: Compared to Hong Kong, training in Korea was faster-paced and more intensive, involving running, jumping, and kicking drills. He expressed gratitude for the sponsorship and his mother’s support.
Law Pak Kiu: Aspires to become a taekwondo coach to support his family. Despite injuries, he persisted and hopes to pass on the skills he learned in Korea to fellow trainees.
“Boundless Dreams: Achieving Infinite Possibilities” Program Series
Despite Hong Kong’s success in international para-sports, local athletes still face challenges. JCI Victoria’s “Boundless Dreams” initiative, co-organized with Inclusive Sports Foundation and Feng Sheng Taekwondo Hong Kong, aims to break barriers and encourage people with disabilities to pursue sports.
Upcoming Events:
“Boundless Sports Day” (May 31, 2025) – Boccia workshop and exhibition match led by Ms. Ho Yuen Kei.
“Deaf Dream Day” (July 2025) – Table tennis training for hearing-impaired individuals by professional coaches.
JCI Victoria believes that promoting sports for people with disabilities not only advances athletic development but also fosters an inclusive, diverse society.
The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.
About JCI Victoria
Established in 1950, JCI Victoria is the first bilingual and mixed-gender chapter under JCI Hong Kong. As a non-profit organization, it brings together young professionals to develop leadership skills while serving society.