‘Like a father to me’: Hong Kong bids farewell to Tung Chee-hwa in weekend vigil

Hong Kong is grappling with the loss of its inaugural chief executive, Tung Chee-hwa, who passed away at the venerable age of 89 on September 8. The city has witnessed an outpouring of tributes from political heavyweights, business leaders, and members of the public mourning the loss of a revered figure. Tung's tenure saw Hong Kong navigate through several challenges, including the Asian financial crisis of 1997, the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) outbreak in 2003, followed by a robust economic recovery.

The weekend consisted of commemorative rituals held at the Hong Kong Funeral Home in North Point, with a state funeral scheduled for the subsequent day. Upon further investigation, it has been revealed that Tung will be laid to rest through cremation at Cape Collinson Crematorium in Chai Wan. Due to venue limitations, the previous plan to hold a public memorial service has been revised to allow only those with invitations to attend.

In lieu of large gatherings, those who wish to pay their respects may leave messages in condolence books available at three community halls from September 18 to 20. The South China Morning Post (SCMP) continues to cover the events surrounding Tung Chee-hwa's farewell, with reports contributed by Lo Hoi-ying, Leopold Chen, Lam Ka-sing, Denise Tsang, Emily Hung, and Fiona Sun.