

Hong Kong Today
Description:
RTHK's morning news programme. Weekdays 6:30 - 8:00
Presenter:
Janice Lo and Matthew Ngai2025-07-18
Friday
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Selected audio segments:
Outbreak of chikungunya fever concerns authorities
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The public has been urged to take precautions - especially during hot and rainy weather - after imported cases of a mosquito-borne disease caused an outbreak in Guangdong's Shunde city. The Centre for Health Protection says more than 220,000 cases of chikungunya fever have been recorded in 14 countries and regions as of early June. As Hailey Yip reports, there have been about 80 deaths during that period.
HKMA highlights importance of preventing mosquito bites
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The president of the Hong Kong Medical Association, Cheng Chi-man, says self-containment is essential to limit further transmission of chikungunya fever. He spoke to Hailey Yip.
Hong Kong's jobless rate remains stable
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Official figures have revealed that Hong Kong's jobless rate remained stable in the three-month period ending June. Aaron Tam reports.
Horse-racing betting turnover rises three percent
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The betting turnover for horse races has risen by three percent to nearly HK$140 billion in the latest season that ended on Wednesday night. As Frank Yung reports, the city's gaming operator called the increase "a very encouraging return to growth".
Push to build more barrier-free fitting rooms
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An organisation has introduced an initiative to make fitting rooms more accessible for people with disabilities and other mobility needs. The Hong Kong Physically Handicapped and Able-Bodied Association partnered with the Vocational Training Council (VTC) as well as a retail brand in launching the project. The scheme aims to address challenges faced by those with disabilities when it comes to using changing rooms. The association's executive director, Alvina Chau, spoke to Sophie Cheung about what could be a better design.
Nvidia CEO praises China's AI progress
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Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang has described China's supply chain as a "miracle" and he highlighted the nation's deep capabilities in artificial intelligence and computer science. Speaking in Beijing, he also said China's supply chain was the world's largest and most complex. Sophie Hui reports.
New AI imaging tool cuts radiation by 99 percent
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The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) has developed an AI medical imaging tool that can show a patient’s bone structure in 3D with just two to four X-ray images within a minute. The technology helps doctors who are planning for surgery and spares patients from needing to undergo CT scans, thus greatly reducing their radiation exposure. Li Xiaomeng, an assistant professor at the university’s Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering, spoke to Lauren Kee about how the new technology makes medical checks safer and more convenient.
Book fair shines spotlight on Macanese culture
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A dedicated craft market at this year's Hong Kong Book Fair is spotlighting Macanese culture. It aims to enhance the visibility of brands from the neighbouring SAR and expand their reach within the Greater Bay Area. Located at the new Cultural and Creative Products Zone, the Macau craft market showcases 40 creative brands, selling items ranging from lifestyle products to accessories. Graphic designer Ailsa Tang is selling her handmade postcards and stickers at the fair. She spoke to Matthew Hung.
Massive fire engulfs new shopping centre in Iraq
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More than 60 people have died in a massive fire at a hypermarket in southern Iraq with a reported 11 others missing. An initial police report suggests the blaze broke out on a floor where perfumes and cosmetics were sold. The country's prime minister has ordered an immediate investigation to "uncover any shortcomings" while the provincial governor has declared three days of mourning. Jamie Clarke reports.
US House sends bill regulating stablecoins to Trump
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US lawmakers have passed a bill to create a regulatory framework for US-dollar-pegged cryptocurrency tokens known as stablecoins. The Congress vote is seen as a watershed moment for the digital asset industry which has been pushing for federal legislation for years. It also paves the way for broader use of the technology in everyday finance. Republican House representative Bryan Steil spoke after the vote.
Britain lowers voting age to 16
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Britain has announced plans to lower the voting age from 18 to 16 before the next election. It's part of government efforts to boost democratic participation. Britain will join what's a short list of countries where the voting age is 16, alongside the likes of Austria, Brazil and Ecuador. Jamie Clarke reports.
AI joins fight against mosquito-borne diseases
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The World Health Organisation estimates that roughly half of the world’s population is at risk of dengue fever. It represents a serious public health burden, which is growing. According to the WHO, last year there were more than 14 million dengue cases reported globally, surpassing the historic milestone of seven million from the year before. But now artificial intelligence is joining the fight against mosquito-borne diseases. Tony Sabine reports.
Research finds that when plants talk, insects listen
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Researchers in Israel say they've found evidence that plants and insects can interact through sound. The findings build on previous research by the group which revealed that plants emit ultrasonic sounds when under stress. As Jamie Clarke reports, the new research opens a new frontier in the study of acoustic communication in nature.