Chief Executive John Lee, speaking on behalf of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Government and all citizens of Hong Kong, extended the city’s heartfelt gratitude for the condolences, care and assistance received by the city from the Chinese Mainland and around the world since the fire at Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po a month ago.

Mr Lee said: “Fire shows no mercy, but the love of people abounds. This care, transcending geographical boundaries, reflects the spirit of solidarity and mutual support.

“We will continue to face challenges with resilience and love, transforming sorrow into strength and assisting those affected in returning to normal life as soon as possible.”

Mr Lee also expressed his gratitude to all sectors of Hong Kong society for their generous donations and active participation in relief efforts in areas including accommodation, medical care, mental health, finance and transport. These contributions have provided essential resources and support for post-disaster reconstruction and social recovery, he added.

In the wake of the fire, numerous charitable organisations and funds swiftly allocated donations to assist residents. The Government also established the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po in order to provide emergency financial support to people affected by the fire, including all residents, families of deceased victims, hospitalised casualties, students, domestic helpers, workers, flat owners and tenants.

Donations received by the support fund stand at about $3.8 billion, bringing its total capital to about $4.1 billion when added to the $300 million in startup funding from the Government,

In addition, many members of the public and organisations donated supplies to address the immediate needs of affected residents. In response, the Government and the information technology sector collaborated to establish an online platform for such donations.

After assessing residents’ actual needs, various government bureaus and departments, working in partnership with service organisations, promptly distributed food, beverages, clothing, personal care items, bedding, and electrical appliances to residents.

The Hong Kong SAR Government expressed its gratitude to provincial and municipal governments on the Chinese Mainland, foreign governments, diplomatic missions, international organisations, consulates-general, honorary consulates, and other officially recognised bodies in Hong Kong for their condolences and support for those affected by the fire.

It added that it will continue to unite different sectors and to lead the community with steadfast determination in its recovery and reforms, in order to build a safer and better Hong Kong.