Speeches and Transcripts

16 January 2012

Bayview Ballroom, 1/F, The Hong Kong Country Club

Chairman Sun and dear friends,

Good evening. First of all, let me express sincere thanks to the Association of Past & Present Directors of The Tung Wah Group of Hospitals for arranging this event, which is a great reunion for dear old friends.

I would like to congratulate all members who have received Hong Kong SAR awards. I am also grateful to my dear friends who have always supported me over the years, and I feel honoured to be decorated with the highest honour of the Hong Kong SAR.

Every person presents here has shown a commitment to community care, devoting his or her time and energy to serve our society and advance the development of Tung Wah’s good work, while also encouraging people from all walks of life to take part in community welfare programmes.

Tung Wah has served the people of Hong Kong for over 140 years. From the provision of free medical treatments and medicines for the underprivileged, to disaster relief and free education, Tung Wah has helped and benefited countless citizens. In this big family, we share the same mission that have underpinned Tung Wah’s work for more than one century - to heal the sick and save the endangered, to take care of the elderly, to nurture people through education, and to guide the children and the youth - and we remain committed to making concerted efforts in community care and mutual aid.

As for myself, I have been involved with Tung Wah for more than 30 years. I served as chairman in 1981. At that time, my business was growing and I faced a few tricky issues, so I was seriously considering whether I should assume the chairmanship after all. I discussed this with an official and he strongly advised me not to give up. I considered the matter for two weeks and eventually agreed to take up the position. Serving Tung Wah has been an invaluable experience, and it has been such an honour to work with friends who share this wonderful enthusiasm and compassion.

Today, “Tung Wah” has become a household brand for social service in Hong Kong, forged over a long history of presence in the territory as a symbol of the loving kindness that prevails in our community. Long may this heartwarming spirit persist, so that our society will always be blessed by the goodness of charity.

Thank you.