Government to distribute free reusable masks

Chief Executive Carrie Lam Cheng Yuet-ngor announced today the government will distribute reusable face masks to Hongkongers for free.

In a press briefing today, she admitted that people were dissatisfied with the government's handling of face masks shortage at the beginning of the coronavirus epidemic.

Lam said the reusable face masks are called "CuMask," with "Cu" being the symbol of the chemical element copper or meaning "I really want to see you," and they are developed through local research.

All holders of a valid Hong Kong Identity Card can register online from tomorrow to June 6 and the masks will be delivered by Hongkong Post.

The government will also distribute 30 million single-use face masks to all families starting from the end of June. A packet of 10 face masks will be delivered by the Hongkong Post and no registration is required.