标签： Asia

A catastrophic fire engulfed the Wang Fuk Court housing complex in Hong Kong’s Tai Po district on Wednesday, claiming at least 36 lives and leaving hundreds unaccounted for. The blaze, which rapidly spread across eight blocks, forced over a thousand residents to evacuate, with many seeking refuge in temporary shelters. The cause of the fire remains unknown, but it is believed to have been fueled by bamboo scaffolding surrounding the buildings, which were undergoing renovations. Witnesses described scenes of chaos and despair as flames consumed the high-rise structures, with some residents watching helplessly as their homes burned. Local councillor Mui Siu-fung reported receiving numerous distress calls from families searching for missing relatives. Among the affected was Harry Cheung, a 66-year-old resident of block two, who recounted hearing a loud noise before witnessing the fire erupt in a nearby block. “I don’t even know how I feel right now,” Cheung said, expressing uncertainty about his immediate future. Another resident, Jason Kong, shared his devastation, stating, “I am devastated. There are so many neighbours and friends. I do not know what is going on anymore.” Criticism has been directed at the government’s response, with some residents questioning the lack of immediate action. Ms. Poon, a resident in her sixties, voiced her disappointment, noting the proximity of the fire station and the rapid spread of the flames. Despite the ongoing efforts to contain the fire, officials have not provided a timeline for its complete extinguishment. Hong Kong Chief Executive John Lee assured that government departments are assisting affected residents, but many expressed frustration and heartbreak over the tragedy. The community has rallied to support victims, with local residents donating supplies such as blankets and heat packs. As the investigation into the fire’s cause continues, the focus remains on preventing further casualties and providing aid to those displaced by the disaster.

After fifteen years of unwavering participation, Selvaraj Vijayananth, a 50-year-old Indian national from Chennai, has achieved his dream by winning $1 million in the Dubai Duty Free Millennium Millionaire draw. The life-changing event occurred on Wednesday, November 26, 2025, at Dubai International Airport’s Concourse D.

Vijayananth, a senior engineering manager in the software industry and father of one, purchased his winning ticket (number 1346) online on November 13. His persistent participation in the promotional lottery for over a decade and a half finally yielded the monumental victory. “Winning has always been a dream of mine and now that it has finally come true, I am deeply grateful,” expressed the elated millionaire.

The celebration extended beyond Vijayananth as Atul Dinkar Rao, an Indian expatriate residing in Dubai, also claimed a $1 million prize in the Millennium Millionaire Series 522 with ticket number 2242. Rao, another long-time participant, received his ceremonial check from Dubai Duty Free senior management, stating, “I feel grateful and thankful for this win. I have always had faith and participated for a long time.

Following the millionaire announcements, the Finest Surprise draw awarded two luxury motorbikes to additional winners. Samer El Achkar, a 58-year-old Lebanese businessman and Dubai resident since 1991, won a BMW F 900 GS motorbike after twenty years of participation. Jaya Devan, a 38-year-old Indian storekeeper based in Ras Al Khaimah, secured a BMW S 1000 XR motorbike despite only participating for approximately one year. “I’m still in disbelief but feeling lucky,” Devan remarked.

Notably, Indian nationals represent the most significant demographic among ticket purchasers for these draws, with Vijayananth becoming the 266th Indian citizen to claim the $1 million prize in the promotion’s history.

In a heartwarming display of integrity, a young girl named Shaimaa Ali has been honored by Ajman Police for her honesty after she returned a sum of money she found in a public place. The incident occurred when Shaimaa discovered the money and immediately requested her elder sister to accompany her to the Musherif Police Station to hand it over to the authorities. The police station hosted a special ceremony to recognize her commendable act, where officers posed with Shaimaa and her father, celebrating her positive attitude. At the event, Shaimaa was presented with a certificate of appreciation and a gift, acknowledging her honesty. Brigadier General Al Muhairi, who attended the ceremony, praised Shaimaa’s actions, emphasizing that such behavior reflects good upbringing and social awareness. He highlighted the importance of promoting a culture of returning lost items and protecting public property. This incident is not isolated in the UAE, as similar acts of honesty have been frequently reported. For instance, in September, Dubai Police honored a student for returning a lost wallet containing cash and a cheque valued at Dh200,000, and in April, a citizen was recognized for returning a lost passport and money. These acts underscore the UAE’s commitment to fostering values of honesty and community responsibility.