Hong Kong, China – The devastating No. 3 alarm fire at New Lucky House in Jordan has left the city mourning the tragic loss of life and injuries. Chief Executive Mr. John Lee expressed deep sadness over the multiple deaths and injuries resulting from the fire, extending heartfelt condolences to the affected families.
Mr. Lee emphasizes the gravity of the incident, issuing instructions for the Hospital Authority to prioritize care for the injured. Additionally, he has tasked the Hong Kong Police Force and the Fire Services Department with investigating the cause of the fire and the significant casualties. The Home Affairs Department and Social Welfare Department have also been directed to ensure proper aftermath management and offer necessary assistance to the affected families and residents.
In a recent development, cross-border QR payments between Hong Kong and Thailand have been revolutionized, facilitating seamless financial transactions for travelers from both regions. This initiative, known as the FPS x PromptPay Link, enables individuals to make retail payments by scanning specified QR codes using mobile payment applications.
The Hong Kong Monetary Authority (HKMA) and the Bank of Thailand collaborated to launch this innovative payment connectivity initiative in December of last year. The system allows travelers to conduct transactions at various merchant locations in Thailand and Hong Kong through designated mobile payment platforms, enhancing convenience and efficiency.
The implementation of the FPS x PromptPay Link has seen an increase in the number of Thai merchants accepting relevant payment methods, with transactions covering a wide range of goods and services. Both authorities are actively encouraging more participation from merchants in both regions to further enhance the cross-border payment experience.
Moreover, the initiative has garnered positive reception among Hong Kong visitors in Thailand, reflecting a growing interest in utilizing the efficient cross-border payment service. To promote wider adoption, the HKMA has launched targeted promotional campaigns and incentives, including cash rebates and special offers from participating financial institutions.
As efforts continue to expand the reach and utilization of the FPS x PromptPay Link, organizations in both Hong Kong and Thailand are collaborating to ensure a seamless and secure cross-border payment experience for travelers. Through ongoing promotion and education efforts, the initiative aims to establish itself as a convenient and reliable payment solution for individuals crossing borders between the two regions.