Hong Kong prepares for state funeral of former leader Tung Chee-hwa

Hong Kong is preparing for the state funeral of its first Chief Executive, Tung Chee-hwa, who passed away on September 8, 2026, at 89.

As a former vice-chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, Tung is being honored with a state funeral, an honor previously accorded to only two other figures since 1997.

The ceremonies will begin with a vigil on September 19 at the Hong Kong Funeral Home, followed by a formal memorial and procession on September 20.

Tung, a former shipping tycoon, took office during the 1997 handover, guiding the city through the Asian Financial Crisis and SARS.

Although he resigned in 2005, he remained a prominent elder statesman, actively promoting US-China dialogue and public policy research.

His funeral will follow national protocols, including the draping of the national flag over his coffin, marking a final tribute to a foundational leader in Hong Kong's post-colonial history.