Hong Kong's political leaders mourned the death of the city’s inaugural chief executive Tung Chee-hwa, praising his contributions to the city’s economy, livelihoods, technology, culture and other fields.

Tung passed away peacefully at Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital late Tuesday at the age of 89, surrounded by his family, according to his office. The office called him "a man of integrity and principle, devoted to his country and Hong Kong, and dedicated himself fully to public service", and said his noble character and exemplary spirit "will live on forever."

Leung Chun-ying, vice-chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference and also a former chief executive of the special administrative region, expressed his condolences via social media.

READ MORE: HKSAR’s first chief executive Tung Chee-hwa dies at 89

Leung said Tung steered Hong Kong through the establishment of the SAR and its government, upholding the principles of "one country, two systems", "Hong Kong people administering Hong Kong" and a high degree of autonomy, earning the high trust of the nation.

Tung had demonstrated foresight in charting the course for the city’s long-term development and actively tackled deep-rooted livelihood issues, he said, describing Tung as "kind‑hearted and persuasive through reason, a true example for the younger generation."

Tam Yiu-chung, secretary-general of the Hong Kong Coalition and a seasoned former lawmaker, said Tung “had devoted himself wholeheartedly” to Hong Kong's development.

Describing Tung as kind, approachable and far-sighted, he recalled that Tung had a keen grasp of the political landscape, particularly on China-US relations.

Tam also noted that Tung placed great emphasis on people's livelihoods, including education, welfare and housing.

The former leader also had a strong focus on people's ageing issue, having instructed authorities to prepare for it well in advance, Tam said, adding that these concerns reflected his people‑centered approach and commitment to putting the people first.

Turning deficit into surplus

Henry Tang Ying-yen — a member of the Standing Committee of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, the nation’s top political advisory body — offered his deep condolences on Tung’s passing.

He called Tung an outstanding leader who had successfully led Hong Kong back to the motherland and ushered in a new chapter in the development of “one country, two systems”. The former chief executive's contributions to Hong Kong, he said, were truly monumental.

Tang, who joined the HKSAR government in 2002, served as the city’s third financial secretary from 2003 to 2007 — a tenure that overlapped Tung’s final two years as Hong Kong’s leader. He recalled having worked alongside Tung and personally witnessed his profound affection for Hong Kong, as well as his unyielding spirit in the face of adversity.

READ MORE: Tung Chee-hwa honored for advancing US-China cultural ties

The former financial chief noted that following the handover in 1997, the city was hit by the dotcom bubble burst, as well as the Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome outbreak, with the SAR government mired in its first massive fiscal deficit. With Tung’s leadership and support, the city successfully turned the deficit into a surplus and regained new momentum for development.

Tang also praised Tung for helping to transform Hong Kong from a “cultural desert” into a “cultural hub” after the handover.

Contact the writer at amberwu@chinadailyhk.com