A fire that ripped through a crowded bar during a New Year's Eve party in the upscale Swiss ski resort of Crans-Montana has killed around 40 people and left another 115 injured. The cause of the blaze, which was initially reported as an explosion, remained unclear but authorities said the fire appeared to be an accident rather than an attack. Cecil Wong has details:

Democrat Zohran Mamdani has been sworn in as the mayor of New York City, vowing to enact an aggressive agenda aimed at making the nation's largest city more affordable for working people. The 34-year-old -- who's sharply critical of Republican President Donald Trump, was elected last November on a campaign heavily focused on cost-of-living issues. Wendy Wong has the story:

The new Legislative Council term officially began on Thursday, with all 90 lawmakers swearing an oath of allegiance at a ceremony officiated by Chief Executive John Lee. Frank Yung has details:

The government's reform of public healthcare charges took effect at midnight on New Year's Day. Health officials say the transition got off without a hitch. Hailey Yip has more.

Inspectors from the Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office have stepped up patrols at new non-smoking areas, after new anti-smoking regulations came into effect on New Year's Day. As Elvis Yu reports, it's all part of an enhanced campaign that will last two weeks.

Also taking effect at the beginning of the new year are tougher penalties for illegal parking and other traffic offences. Some motorists have said they'll be more cautious on the road. Here's Elvis Yu:

A 13-year-old girl has been arrested in connection with an assault on a 15-year-old girl at the Kwun Tong Promenade in the early hours of New Year’s Day. Wendy Wong has more.

Hong Kong has celebrated the arrival of its first newborns of 2026 with a boy arriving at the stroke of midnight on New Year's Day. Hailey Yip reports:

Researchers from Chinese University's medical school may have discovered the key to cardiac regeneration, potentially unlocking new treatments for heart diseases. Following a six-year study, doctors have identified a special protein called M-R-G-fifteen as the possible cure. The protein can boost the level of immune cells in cardiac muscles, and speed up repair and regeneration of the organ. Chemical pathology professor Kathy Lui says the team hopes to one day invent a vaccine to cure cardiovascular diseases. She spoke to Matthew Hung:

The Department of Health has expanded the Community Dental Support Programme starting from January 1, covering more people and providing more services. The programme which launched in May last year, aims to promote prevention, early identification and timely intervention of dental diseases. Doctor Rico Chu, Senior Dental Officer of the Community Dental Service of the Department of Health, told Azam Khan that the programme has already benefited thousands of underprivileged people and teens, and what new services will the programme offer after expansion:

The head of Hong Kong Red Cross says the continuation of financial and mental health support for the victims of the Tai Po fire will be the focus of their relief plan, for years to come. The NGO will also strengthen disaster preparedness of Hong Kong people through training. The Red Cross has raised more than HK$420 million to support residents of Wang Fuk Court. Chief Executive Officer Bonnie So says that mechanisms are in place to assure accountability of the funds. She spoke to Azam Khan and John Bruce on RTHK's Backchat programme:

Palestinians in Gaza are clinging to hope for safety, recovery and the chance to rebuild their lives for the New Year, despite the shadow of war, displacement and loss. Aaron Tam reports:

Pope Leo has led a mass in Vatican City to mark the World Day of Peace on New Year’s Day. He made a plea for peace, singling out particular countries that have been “bloodied by conflict” and families wounded by violence. Todd Harding reports:

In sports...and in the English Premier League, Manchester City have blown their chance to close the gap on leaders Arsenal, as we hear from Raymond Yeung:

Hong Kong’s rich cinematic heritage and tourism are coming together at a historic venue in Yau Ma Tei. As Hailey Yip reports, the launch of a new exhibition at the Yau Ma Tei Police Station is designed to boost cultural engagement and economic activity.