*******************************************************
The Secretary for Home Affairs, Mr Tsang Tak-sing, today (December 8) awarded a Certificate of Commendation to late Hong Kong volunteer Mr Andy Tsang Man-kit, for his acts of profound benevolence and distinguished services to the needy and unfortunate. The certificate was received by Mr Tsang's wife, Ms Maggie Ma.
At the presentation ceremony, held at the Office of the Government of the HKSAR in Beijing, Mr Tsang praised Mr Andy Tsang for his empathy for others and his devotion in working for the welfare of poor children in the Mainland.
"In October this year, Mr Tsang lost his life in a car accident on the way to transport winter necessities together with his colleagues to the children in the quake-ravaged areas in Yushu, Qinghai Province. His deeds touched the hearts of many, and his courage and determination to defy hardship and selfless love is exemplary and commendable," he said.
Mr Tsang extended his condolences to Ms Ma and praised her for pursuing her husband's wish to help those in need.
Mr Tsang added that the HKSAR Government would set up a "Service Corps", and recruit and subsidise young people to offer services to underprivileged areas in the Mainland. He hoped the brave deeds of Mr Tsang would inspire more people to take part in voluntary work.
At the ceremony, the Chairman of the Hong Kong Volunteers Association, Mr Adrian Yip Chun-to, also presented a souvenir to Ms Ma in tribute to Mr Tsang's benevolence in providing voluntary services.
The "SHA Commendation Scheme" was set up in 2002 to recognise personalities who excel in community building, social services, sports and recreation, and arts and cultural areas.
Ends/Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Issued at HKT 17:57
NNNN
