A recognition of both Tung Chee-hwa and the city he led
- Hong Kong’s first chief executive has been nominated for the national titles of honour after helping lay the foundation for the city to tread the unprecedented path of ‘one country, two systems’
Being the only Hongkonger on the list also has a special meaning. It signals the city’s unique place in the country. Tung is among a batch of 28 to be nominated for honorary titles. Another eight are to be given the Medal of Republic, China’s highest honour. This is the first time national honours have been given to commend exemplary contributors from different sectors to the construction and development of the People’s Republic of China. The recognition is as much for Hong Kong as it is for Tung.
The tributes are reminders of our eventful past. There were achievements and setbacks in early years, some of which were arguably beyond Tung’s control, and many deep-seated issues are still being tackled today. But the ups and downs are inevitable as we tread the unprecedented path of one country, two systems. But a firm foundation for further development has been laid, a contribution that Tung and the city can be proud of.