Secretary for Innovation & Technology Alfred Sit today hosted an online briefing on the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app for the hotel industry to solicit their support to fight the virus.

Joining the session were representatives from the Hong Kong Hotels Association, the Federation of Hong Kong Hotel Owners and other representatives from the trade.

Mr Sit said concerted efforts from public and various sectors are required to combat the virus as the recent emergence of local cases of unknown sources indicates there is sustained silent transmission in the community that covers various districts and people from all walks of life.

"The LeaveHomeSafe mobile app is launched to assist the public in recording visit records when they need to go out, and help Hong Kong fight the virus in a more precise manner.

“Contact tracing will be more effective if individuals with exposure risks can be tested, isolated and treated early.”

The mobile app has more than 270,000 downloads so far and more than 30,000 public and private participating venues. The app can also be used directly in over 18,000 taxis.

“The Government will continue to foster a conducive environment to promote the LeaveHomeSafe mobile app. I appeal to businesses that have yet to join the scheme to file their applications as soon as possible,” Mr Sit added.

The Government has simplified the application arrangement and provided a designated channel for people responsible for catering businesses and scheduled premises to submit an application and download venue QR codes for display instantly.