In light of the implementation, Ms. Lai has advised people who want to decline unsolicited commercial electronic messages, also known as spam, to list their phone or fax numbers on three do-not-call registers.

As there are over 14 million fax and phone numbers in Hong Kong, the three registers have been launched in phases to ensure smooth operation.

The first is for faxes and has been accepting registration with immediate effect. Registration for short messages and pre-recorded phone calls will open January 8 and 25. Protection will start from the 10th working day after the registration date.

Office of the Telecommunications Authority Assistant Director So Tat-foon stated registration can be done easily through an automated telephone system. The public can register their fax numbers onto the do-not-call register for fax by calling the registration hotline, using the fax machine of the number they want to register.

He added that there is no need for people to rush, as there is no registration deadline.

The Telecommunications Director-General has revealed that with the ordinance's full launch, the existing interim measures to tackle unsolicited electronic messages will be withdrawn.

Those who have registered their numbers on the office's existing not-to-call list for rejecting junk faxes will have to register their numbers onto the do-not-call register for fax. People can also make unsubscribe requests direct to individual message senders.