International Forum for sustainable development gathered political and commercial leaders

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – To celebrate its 35th Anniversary, Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA) held the 35th Anniversary Forum cum Celebration Ceremony at Ballroom, Level 3, JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong. The Forum in the morning session was officiated by Mr Christopher Hui, GBS, JP, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as the officiating guest, and the celebration ceremony in the afternoon session was officiated by Ms Lillian Cheong, JP, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Mr Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General of the United Nations supported the Forum by becoming the featured keynote speaker.

35 Years of Innovative Advancements, Shaping a Green and Low-carbon Future

“Over the past 35 years, the HKQAA has been a steadfast partner, providing critical quality assurance and helping to uphold rigorous standards for green and sustainable finance. Since the launch of the Government Green Bond Programme in 2019, the HKQAA has played a pivotal role by providing external reviews for each bond issuance, ensuring the credibility and integrity of these instruments. In addition, the HKQAA has introduced a number of certification schemes, further enhancing stakeholder confidence in green finance products. Their dedication to upholding high standards has been instrumental in positioning Hong Kong as a global leader in this space. Looking ahead, we will continue to count on the HKQAA’s expertise as we strive to meet the evolving challenges of sustainable development,” said Mr Christopher Hui, GBS, JP, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury in his opening remarks.

Ir C. S. Ho, Chairman of the HKQAA, said, “Looking ahead, HKQAA will remain committed to continuously innovating while rooting ourselves firmly in Hong Kong, serving the community, contributing to the nation, and bridging to the world. We will work hand in hand with various sectors to shape a green and sustainable future.”

Former UN Secretary-General called for collaborative effort on climate resilience

Sustainable development has become a global topic of concern, receiving significant attention from both the business and financial sectors. Mr Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, who played a crucial role in the ratification of the Paris Agreement on climate change and launched the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals during his tenure, supported the HKQAA 35th Anniversary Forum by becoming the featured keynote speaker. He said in his speech via video, “I’m pleased to address globally-engaged HKQAA Forum participants at a time of great importance for empowering the private and public sectors to accelerate action on the UN climate and sustainable development goals through cooperation and partnership.” Mr Ban remarked that now more than ever, we need global solutions underpinned with cooperation and solidarity to empower the leaders and global citizens of both today and tomorrow to rise to the occasion and ensure a sustainable and resilient future.

The Forum invited local and overseas political and business leaders, experts and academics to share their experiences and insights on sustainable finance, ESG and climate resilience strategies. The league of prominent speakers included Mr Sheng Liurong, Chief Financial Officer, China Construction Bank Corporation; Mr Huang Jixian, Executive Vice President and Secretary General of China Certification & Accreditation Association; Dr Leng Bing, Member of International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB); Ms Ma Wei, Deputy Secretary-General, Director of International Cooperation Department, China General Chamber of Commerce; Mr Michael Wen, Executive Vice President of Cathay United Bank; and Dr Nigel Croft, Chair of ISO Joint Technical Coordination Group for Management System Standards (2020 – 2023) and Member of ISO Strategic Advisory Group on ESG (2021 – 2023).

The event attracted more than 800 senior executives from government departments, regulatory organisations, Chinese and foreign banking and financial institutions, business associations, academic institutions and green groups.

Establishing strategic partnership to promote high-quality economic development in Fujian and Hong Kong

A memorandum of understanding was signed at the Forum by Mr P C Chan, Chief Executive Officer of HKQAA, and Ms Liu Zhengying, Member of Party Leadership Group of Fujian Provincial Administration for Market Regulation (Intellectual Property Office) and Director-General of Fujian Provincial Intellectual Property Development and Protection Centre. This memorandum aims to deepen cooperation in areas including intellectual property, carbon footprint, ESG, sustainable development and conformity assessment, so as to support enterprises going overseas, foster collaboration, and promote high-quality economic development in Fujian and Hong Kong.

Recognising units, enterprises and financial institutions that promote sustainable development

The presentation ceremony of the “Hong Kong Green and Sustainable Finance Awards 2024” was held on the event. The Awards aims to encourage organisations to promote green and sustainable finance, carbon neutrality, climate risk disclosure and ESG disclosure for the sustainable development of businesses and society, and recognise their efforts and contributions. This year, more than 70 units, corporate, banks and financial service institutions from Hong Kong, Mainland China and overseas were awarded. Three Mainland local governments, namely, Department of Finance of Guangdong Province, Department of Finance of Hainan Province and Shenzhen Finance Bureau, were recognised for the “Outstanding Award for Green and Sustainable Bond Issuer”.

Connecting the ESG ecosystem, sharing practical experiences

As the pioneer in promoting social responsibility culture, HKQAA launched the “ESG Connect Program” to encourage different types of organisations to build an ESG ecosystem together. This initiative encourages participants to harness their strengths to contribute to the sustainable development of both the industry and the community, and provides support to social enterprises and startups.

Representatives of the Mentor Organisations of the HKQAA ESG Connect Program – Mr Joe Lok, Head of Business Training of Beijing Waterdrop Technology Group Co., Ltd.; Mr Cheng Ka Ho, General Manager of Business Development of Lee Kee Group; and Ms Joe Cheung, Senior Converation Advocacy Manager of the Ocean Park Hong Kong – shared and exchanged ESG experiences at the event. There was also a product exhibition on-site with a focus on sustainable development, showcasing products that incorporate sustainability concepts. All exhibitors were organisations participating in the ESG Connect program.

Experience Sharing on Sustainable Finance, ESG and Climate Resilience

China Construction Bank (Asia)

As the flagship of CCB Group’s overseas business, China Construction Bank (Asia) (“CCB (Asia)”) holds a variety of licenses and provides a wide array of banking services including retail banking services, commercial banking services, corporate banking services and treasury business etc., along with its industry-leading advantages in RMB services, FinTech, cross-border services and green finance. CCB (Asia) has been contributing to the Hong Kong economic and social development for decades, and is a witness and contributor of the financial industry in Hong Kong.

In response to the national and Hong Kong’s “dual carbon” goals, CCB (Asia) continues to explore ways to enhance its capability for sustainable economic and social development by integrating green concepts into its development strategies, operational management and corporate culture. Leveraging its leading position in infrastructure financing, CCB (Asia) has increased credit lending in areas such as energy conservation and emission reduction, clean energy, clean transportation and pollution prevention. In recent years, CCB (Asia) has provided over HKD70 billion in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) loans and has underwritten green bonds totaling more than HKD19 billion. CCB (Asia) has successfully arranged several landmark ESG loan transactions and received numerous market-recognized sustainable finance awards. CCB (Asia) has a professional green finance team to support corporate clients in achieving sustainable development transformations, striving to become a pioneer and leader in sustainable finance. To fulfill its corporate social responsibilities, a series of ESG-themed activities and seminars focusing on small and medium-sized enterprises were held to promote ESG concepts in youth education and inclusive finance to advocate sustainable development in Hong Kong.

In the face of the historic opportunities arising from the domestic and international “dual circulation” and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, CCB (Asia) will continue to leverage on the strong support from CCB Group and the unique geographical advantage. It will also actively seize development opportunities and create core capabilities to strengthen its international competitiveness and support Hong Kong to further enhance and elevate the status as an international financial center. Riding on its solid foundation, CCB (Asia) will adhere to the purpose of serving the country and benefiting the society, actively serving the national strategy, striving to support five priorities of technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance, and promoting the integration of Hong Kong into the overall national development plan.

Cathay United Bank Co., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch

Cathay United Bank (CUB), a subsidiary of Cathay Financial Holdings, a leading financial institution in Taiwan, is the first signatory in Taiwan to the Equator Principles and the first bank in Taiwan to announce its voluntary compliance with the United Nations’ Principles for Responsible Banking. In support of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, CUB has been actively involving in solar and wind power project financing. The bank aims to reduce credit facility for the coal industry to zero by the first quarter of 2027 and to achieve a green loan balance and a sustainability-linked loan balance of more than NT$100 billion by 2030. In terms of operations, the bank has also committed to using 100% renewable energy across all CUB locations worldwide to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

CUB has long been a proponent of green finance, with the scale of its domestic and overseas credit and the amount of green deposits continuing to grow. This increase reflects the bank’s expertise and dedication to promoting green finance, which has been well-recognized by its corporate customers. CUB’s commitment to green finance is not only reflected in its investment and financing efforts but also in its active engagement works and support for corporations in completing their carbon disclosure. In 2022, CUB took the lead among financial institutions in Asia to join the “Commercial Bank Project” launched by CDP, an international carbon disclosure organization. It became the only non-governmental organization advisory expert to collaborate with CDP for its “SME Corporate Questionnaires” in Asia. This year, CUB also became the first financial institution to launch the innovative product “Sustainability-Linked Payroll” to promote green finance from a fresh perspective.

In 2022, Cathay United Bank Co., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch (CUBHK), one of CUB’s branches, signed a MOU with Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA) to jointly assist its customers in creating suitable ESG financing solutions to accelerate their low-carbon transition. In recent years, CUBHK has helped various customers in Hong Kong and the mainland develop customized sustainability-linked loan products. Hong Kong has now become CUB’s second-largest sustainable loan market.

In 2024, CUBHK was recognized for the third consecutive year at the “Hong Kong Green and Sustainable Finance Awards” organized by HKQAA, winning six green finance-related awards. CUBHK will continue to facilitate customers in their low-carbon transition journey, driving the development of green finance in our society.

BEAM Society Limited

BEAM Society Limited (BSL) is a public and non-profit organisation based in Hong Kong, China. In 2010, BSL launched BEAM Plus, a comprehensive set of green building assessment tools that are highly regarded in the industry. BEAM Plus aims to promote green building practices and then achieve the”dual carbon”goals. Currently 7 BEAM Plus assessment tools are available, with over 2,500 registered projects and 1,800 certified. BSL is also dedicated to building capacity by providing training for green professionals. BSL now has more than 2,000 members and 7,000 BEAM Practitioners qualified to conduct BEAM Plus assessment.

Industrial Bank Hong Kong Branch

Industrial Bank is a pioneer of green finance in China. Relying on the professional green finance advantages of Headquarter, Industrial Bank Hong Kong Branch actively expands green finance business overseas, and builds a window for the world as well as an important platform for green finance development of Industrial Bank Group. By the end of June 2024, the outstanding green finance loans accounted for more than 25% of corporate finance loans of branch, and the number of green and sustainable bonds underwriting covered more than 50% of Chinese corporate issues in Hong Kong, effectively serving the green economic development of Hong Kong and the Belt and Road region.

Zhongyu Energy Holdings Limited

As a leading integrated energy service provider in China, Zhongyu Energy is committed to promoting sustainable development in the energy sector. The company regards the safety red line as its lifeline, continuously increasing investment in safe operations, improving the quality of safety personnel, and accelerating the pace of digital upgrades in project operations, achieving zero production safety accidents for consecutive years. At the same time, the company continuously improves its ESG system construction, flexibly setting ESG topics and commitment indicators based on market changes, effectively enhancing its international ESG rating, and continuously participating in green finance cooperation to contribute to sustainable social development.

Hashtag: #HKQAA

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

International Forum for sustainable development gathered political and commercial leaders

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – To celebrate its 35th Anniversary, Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA) held the 35th Anniversary Forum cum Celebration Ceremony at Ballroom, Level 3, JW Marriott Hotel Hong Kong. The Forum in the morning session was officiated by Mr Christopher Hui, GBS, JP, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region as the officiating guest, and the celebration ceremony in the afternoon session was officiated by Ms Lillian Cheong, JP, Under Secretary for Innovation, Technology and Industry of The Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Mr Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General of the United Nations supported the Forum by becoming the featured keynote speaker.

35 Years of Innovative Advancements, Shaping a Green and Low-carbon Future

“Over the past 35 years, the HKQAA has been a steadfast partner, providing critical quality assurance and helping to uphold rigorous standards for green and sustainable finance. Since the launch of the Government Green Bond Programme in 2019, the HKQAA has played a pivotal role by providing external reviews for each bond issuance, ensuring the credibility and integrity of these instruments. In addition, the HKQAA has introduced a number of certification schemes, further enhancing stakeholder confidence in green finance products. Their dedication to upholding high standards has been instrumental in positioning Hong Kong as a global leader in this space. Looking ahead, we will continue to count on the HKQAA’s expertise as we strive to meet the evolving challenges of sustainable development,” said Mr Christopher Hui, GBS, JP, Secretary for Financial Services and the Treasury in his opening remarks.

Ir C. S. Ho, Chairman of the HKQAA, said, “Looking ahead, HKQAA will remain committed to continuously innovating while rooting ourselves firmly in Hong Kong, serving the community, contributing to the nation, and bridging to the world. We will work hand in hand with various sectors to shape a green and sustainable future.”

Former UN Secretary-General called for collaborative effort on climate resilience

Sustainable development has become a global topic of concern, receiving significant attention from both the business and financial sectors. Mr Ban Ki-moon, former Secretary-General of the United Nations, who played a crucial role in the ratification of the Paris Agreement on climate change and launched the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals during his tenure, supported the HKQAA 35th Anniversary Forum by becoming the featured keynote speaker. He said in his speech via video, “I’m pleased to address globally-engaged HKQAA Forum participants at a time of great importance for empowering the private and public sectors to accelerate action on the UN climate and sustainable development goals through cooperation and partnership.” Mr Ban remarked that now more than ever, we need global solutions underpinned with cooperation and solidarity to empower the leaders and global citizens of both today and tomorrow to rise to the occasion and ensure a sustainable and resilient future.

The Forum invited local and overseas political and business leaders, experts and academics to share their experiences and insights on sustainable finance, ESG and climate resilience strategies. The league of prominent speakers included Mr Sheng Liurong, Chief Financial Officer, China Construction Bank Corporation; Mr Huang Jixian, Executive Vice President and Secretary General of China Certification & Accreditation Association; Dr Leng Bing, Member of International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB); Ms Ma Wei, Deputy Secretary-General, Director of International Cooperation Department, China General Chamber of Commerce; Mr Michael Wen, Executive Vice President of Cathay United Bank; and Dr Nigel Croft, Chair of ISO Joint Technical Coordination Group for Management System Standards (2020 – 2023) and Member of ISO Strategic Advisory Group on ESG (2021 – 2023).

The event attracted more than 800 senior executives from government departments, regulatory organisations, Chinese and foreign banking and financial institutions, business associations, academic institutions and green groups.

Establishing strategic partnership to promote high-quality economic development in Fujian and Hong Kong

A memorandum of understanding was signed at the Forum by Mr P C Chan, Chief Executive Officer of HKQAA, and Ms Liu Zhengying, Member of Party Leadership Group of Fujian Provincial Administration for Market Regulation (Intellectual Property Office) and Director-General of Fujian Provincial Intellectual Property Development and Protection Centre. This memorandum aims to deepen cooperation in areas including intellectual property, carbon footprint, ESG, sustainable development and conformity assessment, so as to support enterprises going overseas, foster collaboration, and promote high-quality economic development in Fujian and Hong Kong.

Recognising units, enterprises and financial institutions that promote sustainable development

The presentation ceremony of the “Hong Kong Green and Sustainable Finance Awards 2024” was held on the event. The Awards aims to encourage organisations to promote green and sustainable finance, carbon neutrality, climate risk disclosure and ESG disclosure for the sustainable development of businesses and society, and recognise their efforts and contributions. This year, more than 70 units, corporate, banks and financial service institutions from Hong Kong, Mainland China and overseas were awarded. Three Mainland local governments, namely, Department of Finance of Guangdong Province, Department of Finance of Hainan Province and Shenzhen Finance Bureau, were recognised for the “Outstanding Award for Green and Sustainable Bond Issuer”.

Connecting the ESG ecosystem, sharing practical experiences

As the pioneer in promoting social responsibility culture, HKQAA launched the “ESG Connect Program” to encourage different types of organisations to build an ESG ecosystem together. This initiative encourages participants to harness their strengths to contribute to the sustainable development of both the industry and the community, and provides support to social enterprises and startups.

Representatives of the Mentor Organisations of the HKQAA ESG Connect Program – Mr Joe Lok, Head of Business Training of Beijing Waterdrop Technology Group Co., Ltd.; Mr Cheng Ka Ho, General Manager of Business Development of Lee Kee Group; and Ms Joe Cheung, Senior Converation Advocacy Manager of the Ocean Park Hong Kong – shared and exchanged ESG experiences at the event. There was also a product exhibition on-site with a focus on sustainable development, showcasing products that incorporate sustainability concepts. All exhibitors were organisations participating in the ESG Connect program.

Experience Sharing on Sustainable Finance, ESG and Climate Resilience

China Construction Bank (Asia)

As the flagship of CCB Group’s overseas business, China Construction Bank (Asia) (“CCB (Asia)”) holds a variety of licenses and provides a wide array of banking services including retail banking services, commercial banking services, corporate banking services and treasury business etc., along with its industry-leading advantages in RMB services, FinTech, cross-border services and green finance. CCB (Asia) has been contributing to the Hong Kong economic and social development for decades, and is a witness and contributor of the financial industry in Hong Kong.

In response to the national and Hong Kong’s “dual carbon” goals, CCB (Asia) continues to explore ways to enhance its capability for sustainable economic and social development by integrating green concepts into its development strategies, operational management and corporate culture. Leveraging its leading position in infrastructure financing, CCB (Asia) has increased credit lending in areas such as energy conservation and emission reduction, clean energy, clean transportation and pollution prevention. In recent years, CCB (Asia) has provided over HKD70 billion in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) loans and has underwritten green bonds totaling more than HKD19 billion. CCB (Asia) has successfully arranged several landmark ESG loan transactions and received numerous market-recognized sustainable finance awards. CCB (Asia) has a professional green finance team to support corporate clients in achieving sustainable development transformations, striving to become a pioneer and leader in sustainable finance. To fulfill its corporate social responsibilities, a series of ESG-themed activities and seminars focusing on small and medium-sized enterprises were held to promote ESG concepts in youth education and inclusive finance to advocate sustainable development in Hong Kong.

In the face of the historic opportunities arising from the domestic and international “dual circulation” and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, CCB (Asia) will continue to leverage on the strong support from CCB Group and the unique geographical advantage. It will also actively seize development opportunities and create core capabilities to strengthen its international competitiveness and support Hong Kong to further enhance and elevate the status as an international financial center. Riding on its solid foundation, CCB (Asia) will adhere to the purpose of serving the country and benefiting the society, actively serving the national strategy, striving to support five priorities of technology finance, green finance, inclusive finance, pension finance, and digital finance, and promoting the integration of Hong Kong into the overall national development plan.

Cathay United Bank Co., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch

Cathay United Bank (CUB), a subsidiary of Cathay Financial Holdings, a leading financial institution in Taiwan, is the first signatory in Taiwan to the Equator Principles and the first bank in Taiwan to announce its voluntary compliance with the United Nations’ Principles for Responsible Banking. In support of the United Nations’ sustainable development goals, CUB has been actively involving in solar and wind power project financing. The bank aims to reduce credit facility for the coal industry to zero by the first quarter of 2027 and to achieve a green loan balance and a sustainability-linked loan balance of more than NT$100 billion by 2030. In terms of operations, the bank has also committed to using 100% renewable energy across all CUB locations worldwide to achieve net zero emissions by 2050.

CUB has long been a proponent of green finance, with the scale of its domestic and overseas credit and the amount of green deposits continuing to grow. This increase reflects the bank’s expertise and dedication to promoting green finance, which has been well-recognized by its corporate customers. CUB’s commitment to green finance is not only reflected in its investment and financing efforts but also in its active engagement works and support for corporations in completing their carbon disclosure. In 2022, CUB took the lead among financial institutions in Asia to join the “Commercial Bank Project” launched by CDP, an international carbon disclosure organization. It became the only non-governmental organization advisory expert to collaborate with CDP for its “SME Corporate Questionnaires” in Asia. This year, CUB also became the first financial institution to launch the innovative product “Sustainability-Linked Payroll” to promote green finance from a fresh perspective.

In 2022, Cathay United Bank Co., Ltd. Hong Kong Branch (CUBHK), one of CUB’s branches, signed a MOU with Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency (HKQAA) to jointly assist its customers in creating suitable ESG financing solutions to accelerate their low-carbon transition. In recent years, CUBHK has helped various customers in Hong Kong and the mainland develop customized sustainability-linked loan products. Hong Kong has now become CUB’s second-largest sustainable loan market.

In 2024, CUBHK was recognized for the third consecutive year at the “Hong Kong Green and Sustainable Finance Awards” organized by HKQAA, winning six green finance-related awards. CUBHK will continue to facilitate customers in their low-carbon transition journey, driving the development of green finance in our society.

BEAM Society Limited

BEAM Society Limited (BSL) is a public and non-profit organisation based in Hong Kong, China. In 2010, BSL launched BEAM Plus, a comprehensive set of green building assessment tools that are highly regarded in the industry. BEAM Plus aims to promote green building practices and then achieve the”dual carbon”goals. Currently 7 BEAM Plus assessment tools are available, with over 2,500 registered projects and 1,800 certified. BSL is also dedicated to building capacity by providing training for green professionals. BSL now has more than 2,000 members and 7,000 BEAM Practitioners qualified to conduct BEAM Plus assessment.

Industrial Bank Hong Kong Branch

Industrial Bank is a pioneer of green finance in China. Relying on the professional green finance advantages of Headquarter, Industrial Bank Hong Kong Branch actively expands green finance business overseas, and builds a window for the world as well as an important platform for green finance development of Industrial Bank Group. By the end of June 2024, the outstanding green finance loans accounted for more than 25% of corporate finance loans of branch, and the number of green and sustainable bonds underwriting covered more than 50% of Chinese corporate issues in Hong Kong, effectively serving the green economic development of Hong Kong and the Belt and Road region.

Zhongyu Energy Holdings Limited

As a leading integrated energy service provider in China, Zhongyu Energy is committed to promoting sustainable development in the energy sector. The company regards the safety red line as its lifeline, continuously increasing investment in safe operations, improving the quality of safety personnel, and accelerating the pace of digital upgrades in project operations, achieving zero production safety accidents for consecutive years. At the same time, the company continuously improves its ESG system construction, flexibly setting ESG topics and commitment indicators based on market changes, effectively enhancing its international ESG rating, and continuously participating in green finance cooperation to contribute to sustainable social development.

Hashtag: #HKQAA

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

To Foster Emotional Well-Being Through Art and Technology

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Hong Kong. In addition to improving treatment options for better disease management and survival rates, the medical community is increasingly prioritizing the enhancement of patients’ emotional well-being.

The School of Nursing of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA) jointly launched the Electronic Painting for Breast Cancer (EPBC) platform which seamlessly combines technology and art. With the support from biopharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences, PolyU and GCBCOA are conducting the first citywide study focused on breast cancer patients. Preliminary findings suggest that the EPBC has a significant positive effect on patients’ emotional health, effectively reducing feelings of anxiety and distress.

Unmanaged Emotional Distress in Breast Cancer Patients Can Negatively Impact Mental and Physical Health

In 2021, Hong Kong reported 5,565 new cases of female breast cancer. Thanks to advancements in medical treatment, the five-year survival rate for early-stage breast cancer patients has now surpassed 90%. However, research reveals that over 30% of breast cancer patients begin to experience emotional turmoil following their diagnosis, a condition that can persist throughout their treatment journey.

Furthermore, breast cancer treatments—including surgery, radiation therapy, and medication—can result in side effects such as fatigue, pain, negative self-image, and sexual dysfunction, all of which contribute to increased mental stress. The lingering effects of treatment, along with ongoing concerns about recurrence, also impact patients’ emotional well-being. Additionally, different types of breast cancer present unique challenges; for instance, hormone receptor-positive patients may face the risk of recurrence after extended periods of being disease-free, while HER2-positive breast cancer tends to grow and spread more rapidly. Meanwhile, patients with triple-negative breast cancer often have limited treatment options, all of which can create considerable psychological burdens.

Research from previous large-scale studies has revealed that breast cancer patients experiencing depressive symptoms have a mortality risk approximately 30% higher than their counterparts without such symptoms, underscoring the vital link between psychological and physical health. Dr. Wong Lai-shan, Specialist in Clinical Oncology, emphasized, “If these distressing emotions are not adequately addressed, they can significantly affect not only the patient’s mental well-being but also their physical health, daily functioning, and social interactions.

Actively Exploring Diverse Services to Support Patients’ Emotional Needs

The emotional well-being of breast cancer patients has increasingly come into focus, prompting many organizations to provide a diverse array of comprehensive support services. Among them is the Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA). Led by chairman, Mrs Mary Wong-Hemrajani, a breast cancer survivor, GCBCOA offers profound insights into the physical and emotional challenges patients encounter during their cancer journeys. In addition to delivering valuable educational resources, GCBCOA offers numerous programs and activities tailored to meet the emotional needs of breast cancer patients, ensuring they receive the necessary support without falling into despair.

In June, in collaboration with the School of Nursing at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, GCBCOA launched the EPBC platform to support members experiencing mental distress. This innovative platform enables breast cancer patients to create art using computers or smart devices while also conducting emotional assessments to better understand their emotional health. Furthermore, it includes social features that promote connection and communication among users, fostering a supportive and enriching community.

Research Confirms: Eight-Week Art Program Effectively Reduces Depression

The joint study included 52 breast cancer patients who exhibited signs of anxiety or depression during initial evaluations. Participants were randomly assigned to either an Intervention Group or a Control Group, both of which utilized the EPBC platform for eight consecutive weeks. Emotional assessment scales were administered both before the study began and after its completion, enabling researchers to evaluate the emotional impact of the EPBC platform on the participants.

Study findings highlight the benefits of the EPBC platform as follows:

1. Improved Emotional Health for Breast Cancer Patients, Particularly in Addressing Depressive Symptoms: The use of the EPBC platform significantly enhanced participants’ emotional well-being, especially in alleviating symptoms of depression. Changes in self-rated emotional assessment scores indicated an overall improvement in emotional health, with negative emotion scores decreasing by approximately 20% and the depression index dropping by nearly 30%.

2. Enhanced Self-Rated Health Assessment: Participants reported significant improvements in their self-assessment of health, reflecting an enhanced quality of life that is likely associated with better personal health conditions.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that art therapy, as a non-pharmacological treatment, effectively alleviates emotional distress. For example, painting has a positive impact on the quality of life, coping skills, and mental health of cancer patients. Throughout the art therapy process, patients are able to recognize and accept their emotions, and this emotional processing may help reduce both depressive symptoms and physical discomfort.

Professor Leung Yee-man, Associate Head (Research) of the School of Nursing at PolyU, observed that previous research has largely focused on traditional art therapies, with relatively few studies exploring the impact of electronic technology in this field. However, the findings of this study demonstrate that using computers or smart devices for artistic expression can significantly reduce depression among breast cancer patients. Professor Leung stated, “In Hong Kong, the prevalence of smart communication devices is exceptionally high, with nearly everyone owning a smartphone. This research shows that artistic expression is no longer constrained by tools, time, or location. Smart devices empower patients to engage in creative activities anytime and anywhere, making it easier to alleviate mental stress.”

She added, “We are thrilled to see that the EPBC platforEPB is effectively helping breast cancer patients manage emotional distress and achieve positive outcomes. Moving forward, we aim to expand this initiative into hospitals and community settings to support even more individuals in need.”

Conclusion
Mrs. Mary Wong-Hemrajani concluded by urging breast cancer patients to prioritize their emotional well-being. She emphasized the wealth of resources available in society to support them, along with the many fellow survivors who are eager to share their experiences and provide companionship. She encourages patients to face their cancer journey with courage and resilience, reminding them not to retreat into isolation or despair.

Hashtag: #BreastCancer #PolyU #GCBCOA #DrCindyWong #MentalHealth #ElectronicPainting

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About The Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance

The Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA) was founded in 2006 by a group of breast cancer survivors and officially registered as a nonprofit organization in 2016. Our mission is to advocate for breast cancer prevention and treatment, promote breast health education, provide patient support, and foster collaboration among Chinese patient organizations worldwide. We aim to enhance the capabilities of breast cancer groups, identify optimal care solutions for Chinese patients, and reduce the impact of breast cancer on women. Through targeted training initiatives, we assist in establishing additional breast cancer support teams globally.

GCBCOA is the first and currently the only charity organization linked to global Chinese breast cancer networks. To date, we have over 90 member organizations spanning regions including Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Hong Kong, Macau, Los Angeles, Taiwan, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.

In 2017, we launched the “Pink Angels Service,” a volunteer support team comprised of trained survivors who provide newly diagnosed patients with a range of complimentary services, including chemotherapy companionship, emotional support, helplines, and online support groups. This comprehensive approach ensures that both patients and their families receive essential assistance. Our volunteer team has grown to over 200 members and has received the “Social Capital Builder Logo Award” from the Labour and Welfare Bureau of the HKSAR Government, recognizing our contributions to the breast cancer community from 2018 to 2024.

To strengthen our engagement with local social services and enhance partnerships within the welfare sector, GCBCOA became a member of the Hong Kong Council of Social Service in 2020. On the international stage, we joined the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) in Switzerland in 2018, advocating for the needs of Chinese patients at global cancer conferences. In 2021, our chairperson, Mrs. Mary Wong-Hemrajani, was nominated to the World Health Organization (WHO) Breast Cancer Advocacy Working Group and received the “Hong Kong Humanitarian Year Award” from the Hong Kong Red Cross in 2023.

To Foster Emotional Well-Being Through Art and Technology

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Hong Kong. In addition to improving treatment options for better disease management and survival rates, the medical community is increasingly prioritizing the enhancement of patients’ emotional well-being.

The School of Nursing of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) and Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA) jointly launched the Electronic Painting for Breast Cancer (EPBC) platform which seamlessly combines technology and art. With the support from biopharmaceutical company Gilead Sciences, PolyU and GCBCOA are conducting the first citywide study focused on breast cancer patients. Preliminary findings suggest that the EPBC has a significant positive effect on patients’ emotional health, effectively reducing feelings of anxiety and distress.

Unmanaged Emotional Distress in Breast Cancer Patients Can Negatively Impact Mental and Physical Health

In 2021, Hong Kong reported 5,565 new cases of female breast cancer. Thanks to advancements in medical treatment, the five-year survival rate for early-stage breast cancer patients has now surpassed 90%. However, research reveals that over 30% of breast cancer patients begin to experience emotional turmoil following their diagnosis, a condition that can persist throughout their treatment journey.

Furthermore, breast cancer treatments—including surgery, radiation therapy, and medication—can result in side effects such as fatigue, pain, negative self-image, and sexual dysfunction, all of which contribute to increased mental stress. The lingering effects of treatment, along with ongoing concerns about recurrence, also impact patients’ emotional well-being. Additionally, different types of breast cancer present unique challenges; for instance, hormone receptor-positive patients may face the risk of recurrence after extended periods of being disease-free, while HER2-positive breast cancer tends to grow and spread more rapidly. Meanwhile, patients with triple-negative breast cancer often have limited treatment options, all of which can create considerable psychological burdens.

Research from previous large-scale studies has revealed that breast cancer patients experiencing depressive symptoms have a mortality risk approximately 30% higher than their counterparts without such symptoms, underscoring the vital link between psychological and physical health. Dr. Wong Lai-shan, Specialist in Clinical Oncology, emphasized, “If these distressing emotions are not adequately addressed, they can significantly affect not only the patient’s mental well-being but also their physical health, daily functioning, and social interactions.

Actively Exploring Diverse Services to Support Patients’ Emotional Needs

The emotional well-being of breast cancer patients has increasingly come into focus, prompting many organizations to provide a diverse array of comprehensive support services. Among them is the Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA). Led by chairman, Mrs Mary Wong-Hemrajani, a breast cancer survivor, GCBCOA offers profound insights into the physical and emotional challenges patients encounter during their cancer journeys. In addition to delivering valuable educational resources, GCBCOA offers numerous programs and activities tailored to meet the emotional needs of breast cancer patients, ensuring they receive the necessary support without falling into despair.

In June, in collaboration with the School of Nursing at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, GCBCOA launched the EPBC platform to support members experiencing mental distress. This innovative platform enables breast cancer patients to create art using computers or smart devices while also conducting emotional assessments to better understand their emotional health. Furthermore, it includes social features that promote connection and communication among users, fostering a supportive and enriching community.

Research Confirms: Eight-Week Art Program Effectively Reduces Depression

The joint study included 52 breast cancer patients who exhibited signs of anxiety or depression during initial evaluations. Participants were randomly assigned to either an Intervention Group or a Control Group, both of which utilized the EPBC platform for eight consecutive weeks. Emotional assessment scales were administered both before the study began and after its completion, enabling researchers to evaluate the emotional impact of the EPBC platform on the participants.

Study findings highlight the benefits of the EPBC platform as follows:

1. Improved Emotional Health for Breast Cancer Patients, Particularly in Addressing Depressive Symptoms: The use of the EPBC platform significantly enhanced participants’ emotional well-being, especially in alleviating symptoms of depression. Changes in self-rated emotional assessment scores indicated an overall improvement in emotional health, with negative emotion scores decreasing by approximately 20% and the depression index dropping by nearly 30%.

2. Enhanced Self-Rated Health Assessment: Participants reported significant improvements in their self-assessment of health, reflecting an enhanced quality of life that is likely associated with better personal health conditions.

Numerous studies have demonstrated that art therapy, as a non-pharmacological treatment, effectively alleviates emotional distress. For example, painting has a positive impact on the quality of life, coping skills, and mental health of cancer patients. Throughout the art therapy process, patients are able to recognize and accept their emotions, and this emotional processing may help reduce both depressive symptoms and physical discomfort.

Professor Leung Yee-man, Associate Head (Research) of the School of Nursing at PolyU, observed that previous research has largely focused on traditional art therapies, with relatively few studies exploring the impact of electronic technology in this field. However, the findings of this study demonstrate that using computers or smart devices for artistic expression can significantly reduce depression among breast cancer patients. Professor Leung stated, “In Hong Kong, the prevalence of smart communication devices is exceptionally high, with nearly everyone owning a smartphone. This research shows that artistic expression is no longer constrained by tools, time, or location. Smart devices empower patients to engage in creative activities anytime and anywhere, making it easier to alleviate mental stress.”

She added, “We are thrilled to see that the EPBC platforEPB is effectively helping breast cancer patients manage emotional distress and achieve positive outcomes. Moving forward, we aim to expand this initiative into hospitals and community settings to support even more individuals in need.”

Conclusion
Mrs. Mary Wong-Hemrajani concluded by urging breast cancer patients to prioritize their emotional well-being. She emphasized the wealth of resources available in society to support them, along with the many fellow survivors who are eager to share their experiences and provide companionship. She encourages patients to face their cancer journey with courage and resilience, reminding them not to retreat into isolation or despair.

Hashtag: #BreastCancer #PolyU #GCBCOA #DrCindyWong #MentalHealth #ElectronicPainting

The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About The Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance

The Global Chinese Breast Cancer Organizations Alliance (GCBCOA) was founded in 2006 by a group of breast cancer survivors and officially registered as a nonprofit organization in 2016. Our mission is to advocate for breast cancer prevention and treatment, promote breast health education, provide patient support, and foster collaboration among Chinese patient organizations worldwide. We aim to enhance the capabilities of breast cancer groups, identify optimal care solutions for Chinese patients, and reduce the impact of breast cancer on women. Through targeted training initiatives, we assist in establishing additional breast cancer support teams globally.

GCBCOA is the first and currently the only charity organization linked to global Chinese breast cancer networks. To date, we have over 90 member organizations spanning regions including Beijing, Shanghai, Xi’an, Hong Kong, Macau, Los Angeles, Taiwan, Singapore, and Kuala Lumpur.

In 2017, we launched the “Pink Angels Service,” a volunteer support team comprised of trained survivors who provide newly diagnosed patients with a range of complimentary services, including chemotherapy companionship, emotional support, helplines, and online support groups. This comprehensive approach ensures that both patients and their families receive essential assistance. Our volunteer team has grown to over 200 members and has received the “Social Capital Builder Logo Award” from the Labour and Welfare Bureau of the HKSAR Government, recognizing our contributions to the breast cancer community from 2018 to 2024.

To strengthen our engagement with local social services and enhance partnerships within the welfare sector, GCBCOA became a member of the Hong Kong Council of Social Service in 2020. On the international stage, we joined the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC) in Switzerland in 2018, advocating for the needs of Chinese patients at global cancer conferences. In 2021, our chairperson, Mrs. Mary Wong-Hemrajani, was nominated to the World Health Organization (WHO) Breast Cancer Advocacy Working Group and received the “Hong Kong Humanitarian Year Award” from the Hong Kong Red Cross in 2023.

Up to 18% First Year Premium Discount Complimentary Health Services including Health Check-up, Chinese Medicine Services or Vaccination Services

HONG KONG SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 4 November 2024 – As global life expectancy prolongs and the costs of living continue to rise, it is not easy to properly plan for the future of oneself and his beloved ones. Hong Kong Life understands the needs of customers and announces the launch of Wealth Accelerator Series, to facilitate a comprehensive and sustainable wealth succession solution for customers. This year, Hong Kong Life has further optimized their products by launching the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan, and the Wealth Accelerator Series has also received various awards from local media.

The currency conversion function of Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan allows the change of policy currency to HKD, USD, RMB, AUD, CAD, EUR, GBP, SGD or NZD¹, providing customers with greater financial flexibility for their personalized needs, such as children’s study overseas, foreign property investment and risk management on wealth, while also helping customers seize global market opportunities and enhance their wealth appreciation potentials.

All-round Artist Derek Wong Provides Voice Navigation for the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan Promotional Video
Hong Kong Life has produced a promotional video for the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan, making it easy for the public to understand the main features of the product. They have invited all-round artist Derek Wong to provide voice navigation for the video, leaving a deeper impression of the product on the public. Please visit https://youtu.be/XQtnuEDZ5_U to enjoy this promotional video.

Wealth Accelerator Series is Recognized in the Industry
Received Awards from “Hong Kong Economic Journal” and “CAPITAL Magazine”
Hong Kong Life recently received the “Award of Excellence in Wealth Inheritance Product & Services” at the Hong Kong Economic Journal Financial Services Awards of Excellence 2024 organized by the Hong Kong Economic Journal, and the”Outstanding Wealth Inheritance Award” at the CAPITAL Merits of Achievement in Banking and Finance 2024 organized by CAPITAL Magazine, for their Wealth Accelerator Series.

To encourage customers to plan for the future earlier, from now until 31 December 2024, successful application for the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan can enjoy up to 18% first year premium discount, and also have the chance to enjoy a complimentary health service, including health check-up, Chinese medicine service or vaccination service.

Mr. Jonathan Ko, Chief Marketing Officer of Hong Kong Life, said: “Hong Kong Life is always committed to developing products that cater different needs of customers, and constantly thinking beyond the traditional framework, to facilitate forward-thinking customers to look abroad without limiting their life goals, and to grasp different opportunities in the global environment. Hong Kong Life has specially launched the Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan, which is a long-term savings product that integrates flexible wealth management and forward-looking wealth succession elements, with the features such as Change of Policy Currency Option, Policy Split Option, Wealth Succession Bonus, Flexible Change of Life Insured, Contingent Policyowner and Contingent Life Insured arrangement etc., providing customers with higher potential returns and flexible wealth management options to meet different needs on their wealth planning.”

Details of Wealth Accelerator Multi-Currency Plan:

https://www.hklife.com.hk/en/products/personal-insurance/savings-plan/wealth-accelerator-multi-currency-plan/index.html

Remarks:

1. Availability of the Change of Policy Currency Option is subject to the decisions made by Hong Kong Life at the time of application.

Subject to the relevant terms and conditions. For inquiries, please call the Hong Kong Life customer service hotline at 2290 2882 or visit the Hong Kong Life website at http://www.hklife.com.hk.
Hashtag: #HongKongLife #創富未來多元貨幣計劃 #宣傳短片 #財富傳承 #保費折扣

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The issuer is solely responsible for the content of this announcement.

About Hong Kong Life

Established in 2001, Hong Kong Life Insurance Limited (“Hong Kong Life”) was founded by five local financial institutions including Asia Insurance Company Limited, Chong Hing Bank Limited, CMB Wing Lung Bank Limited, OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) Limited and Shanghai Commercial Bank Limited, which laid their foundations and have been serving people in Hong Kong for more than 50 years in average. Through our extensive network of around 130 distribution points comprising Chong Hing Bank, CMB Wing Lung Bank, OCBC Bank (Hong Kong) and Shanghai Commercial Bank, we offer an integrated one-stop service of insurance and financial planning to customers.