Hong Kong authorities are increasing autonomous vehicle (AV) tests and road availability. Baidu showcased its sixth-gen AV, preparing for remote-controlled operations. The government has issued seven pilot licenses for 63 AVs, with speed limits raised to 50km/h.
A 1,219-room hotel complex on Lantau Island, operated by Marriott and developed by Shimao Group, is being put up for tender by Savills. The property failed to sell despite price cuts and was seized due to the developer's financial issues.
Hopewell Holdings' 90-year-old founder, Wu, expresses caution on investing in Hong Kong's Northern Metropolis project, citing the need for government to first resolve land ownership and transport issues. He also advocates for large-scale reclamation off Lantau to address future population growth.
Asian countries including Hong Kong, South Korea, China, Singapore, Japan, Vietnam, Indonesia, and Nepal are enhancing border screening and quarantine measures in response to the Ebola outbreak in Central Africa. While no cases are confirmed in Asia, authorities are preparing for potential arrivals.
Hong Kong Disneyland Resort reported a 36% decline in net profit to HK$536 million (US$68 million) for the financial year ending last September, with revenue down 1.35% to HK$8.69 billion and visitor numbers falling 2.5% to 7.5 million. Managing director Tim Sypko attributed the drop to higher wages, anniversary-related expenses, and depreciation from new attractions including a Pixar-themed water parade. Despite the decline, the resort achieved its second-highest profit in 20 years and became debt-free for the first time.
Researchers from Southeast University in Nanjing have published a study in Nature documenting the 7,000-year history of ganlan, Chinese stilted houses. The research highlights how inter-ethnic interaction, particularly influenced by Han culture, shaped the 'west-to-east' directional evolution pattern of these structures. Tai O fishing village on Lantau Island serves as a premier destination showcasing this architectural heritage.
