Blog
Care and Compassion for Fire Victims
To mourn the victims who tragically lost their lives in the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, a moment of silence was observed yesterday morning at the forecourt of the East Wing of the Central Government Offices (CGO). Flags were flown at half-mast across all Government buildings. At the condolence points set up by the Home Affairs Department in all 18 districts, members of the public came in a continuous stream to sign condolence books, each expressing their deep sorrow in their own ways. The city was in grief, with a deep sense of loss and pain felt across the community.
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| The Chief Executive, together with principal officials, Non-Official members of the Executive Council and civil servants, observed a three-minute silence yesterday morning at the CGO to solemnly mourn those who lost their lives in the tragic fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po, and flags at all government buildings were flown at half-mast. |
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| Observing a moment of silence for those who tragically lost their lives in the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. |
Amidst intense flames and thick smoke, brave and resolute firefighters risked their lives to enter the most perilous areas of the blaze, doing everything they could to save lives. Paramedics gave their all in caring for the affected residents. These scenes remain deeply etched in our minds. Firefighter Ho Wai-ho died heroically in the line of duty.
During these difficult days, the support from the Central Government, along with the outpouring of compassion from all sectors of the society, have brought people together and strengthened our collective solidarity. An elderly man in his eighties volunteered to assist in relief efforts, while children asked their families to take them along to make donations for the victims. The neighbourly spirit within the community, the empathy shared among people, and the deep sorrow felt by all have ignited a profound sense of unity. Government departments have been actively involved in providing assistance, while social organisations and businesses have generously contributed funds and supplies. The society as a whole has responded swiftly, in the hope of bringing comfort, care and support to the victims and the injured.
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| Signing the condolence book at the CGO to mourn those who tragically lost their lives in the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po. |
The entire team of the SAR Government, including various departments such as the Home Affairs Department and the Social Welfare Department, is fully committed to providing comprehensive support to meet the needs of affected residents. This includes assigning a dedicated social worker to each household to follow up on their individual circumstances and help them cope with challenges during this difficult period. I also convened a special coordination meeting with financial regulators to strengthen efforts in mobilising banks, insurance companies and Mandatory Provident Fund trustees. They will adopt more flexible and compassionate service arrangements to support those affected. (For details, please refer to the relevant Government press release and Hong Kong Monetary Authority press release.)
Yesterday, I visited two transitional housing units in Tai Po which provide emergency accommodation for people affected by the fire. I met with the displaced residents to better understand their needs and future housing arrangements. The Government is fully committed to managing the aftermath of this incident and ensuring the proper resettlement of those impacted. Our immediate priority is to provide residents with stable and secure living conditions during the winter months. After that, we will continue to offer comprehensive support throughout the transition period and beyond.
It is equally important to identify the cause of this fire, in order to prevent similar tragedies from happening again. The inter-departmental Fire Investigation Task Force established by the Government has convened its first meeting and will proceed with the investigation at full speed. Any unlawful conduct uncovered in the process will be rigorously punished in accordance with the law.
November 30, 2025
