Patriot dedicated to Hong Kong: business heavyweights remember Tung Chee-hwa
This weekend, Hong Kong mourns the loss of former chief executive and elder statesman Tung Chee-hwa. The shipping tycoon who became the city’s first leader after its transfer of sovereignty to China in 1997 died on September 8 at the age of 89, leaving a legacy of determined stewardship and dedicated public service. This weekend, a state funeral will be held to honour Tung, who was also a former…
Hong Kong is mourning the loss of former Chief Executive and esteemed statesman, Tung Chee-hwa. The shipping magnate, who became the city's first leader after its transfer to China in 1997, passed away on September 8 at the age of 89. A state funeral will be held to honor Tung, who was also a former vice-chairman of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC).
A vigil will be held on Saturday, followed by a memorial on Sunday, with condolence books open for public viewing from Friday to Sunday. The South China Morning Post is publishing a commemorative supplement on Saturday, featuring reflections from those who knew Tung personally. This article presents tributes from business leaders.
Joe Tsai, Alibaba Group's chairman, remembers Tung fondly as a mentor and a man of honour, integrity and leadership. Tsai, who co-founded the China-United States Exchange Foundation with Tung, praised his tireless efforts to build trust and understanding between China and the United States. Robert Ng Chee Siong, a former chairman of Sino Group, highlights Tung's dedication to stable Sino-US relations.
Mr Tung invited Ng to his home multiple times and facilitated dialogue between US Members of Congress and mainland officials. Mr Tung served as an independent director of Alibaba Group for eight years and served on the Trade Development Council during his tenure as Hong Kong's chief executive.
Peter Woo Kwong-ching, a neighbour and former chairman of Wheelock Holdings and The Wharf, recalls Tung as a man with a big heart and a lifelong patriot. As Hong Kong's first Chief Executive, Tung implemented "one country, two systems" with tireless dedication and made significant contributions to the government's initiatives. Woo's tribute also mentions Tung's work with the Chinese History, Culture and Education Foundation for Youth, an NGO he supported which aimed to nurture patriotism and a commitment to serve Hong Kong among younger generations.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
