Three to get top medal, fallen firefighter honoured

Three people will receive the SAR’s highest award while a firefighter who lost his life in the deadly Wang Fuk Court fire is posthumously honoured in the 2026 Honours List.

The three to receive the Grand Bauhinia Medal this year include executive councillor and former lawmaker Chan Kin-por, who was praised for his public service and valuable suggestions to the government.

The government added that Chan has had distinguished achievements in the insurance industry for over 35 years, and demonstrated exceptional leadership when serving as the chairman of the Legislative Council’s Finance Committee.

Economist and former Chinese University vice-chancellor Lawrence Lau will also receive the highest medal for his role in boosting the competitive edge of Hong Kong’s financial services.

Lau’s insights have also helped Hong Kong respond to financial challenges, the government said.

Another Grand Bauhinia Medal recipient is banker Lam Kwong-siu, who has more than 60 years of experience in the industry.

The government praised Lam for assisting Hong Kong and overseas enterprises in forging partnership with the mainland, saying he has contributed to consolidating the SAR’s status as an international financial centre.

Meanwhile, firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who made the ultimate sacrifice in the Wang Fuk Court blaze in November last year, is posthumously awarded the Medal for Bravery (Gold).

Chief Executive John Lee said Ho merited the highest honour and respect.

“In the course of performing his duty, notwithstanding the extreme heat and fierce blaze, he continued his rescue work and risked his life to save others,” Lee said.

“Mr Ho displayed unwavering dedication, utmost bravery and selfless devotion to the public.”

Eight people will receive the Gold Bauhinia Star, including lawmaker Gary Chan, head of the Chinese University of Hong Kong Dennis Lo and Hospital Authority chairman Henry Fan.

Nineteen others will receive the Silver Bauhinia Star while 40 made the Bronze Bauhinia Star list.

A total of 466 people have been awarded in this year’s Honours List.

Edited by Edmond Fong ...