It is with profound sadness that the Trustees, Directors and staff of the Hong Kong Maritime Museum (HKMM) note the passing of our first Honorary Patron, The Honourable Tung Chee-hwa GBM. Mr. Tung passed away peacefully on 8 September 2026 at the age of 89.

 

Mr. Tung dedicated his life to the maritime industry and public service to the nation. As the eldest son of C.Y. Tung, one of Hong Kong's prominent shipowners, Tung Chee-hwa graduated from the University of Liverpool with a Bachelor of Science degree in Marine Engineering. He helped build shipping companies Chinese Maritime Transport, Island Navigation and OOCL, which became one of the giants in the container industry. He developed deep expertise and influence within the global maritime community, making an outstanding contribution to establishing Hong Kong as an international shipping and logistics hub.

 

In 1997 Mr. Tung was elected as the first Chief Executive of the HKSAR, later serving as Vice Chairman of the 10th to 13th National Committees of the CPPCC. Throughout his life, he remained steadfast in his devotion to the nation and Hong Kong, working tirelessly to promote the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong as well as national development.

 

Guided by his lifelong passion for maritime heritage and a strong sense of social responsibility, Mr. Tung championed the preservation and promotion of Hong Kong maritime culture. In 2003, together with the Hong Kong Shipowners Association and key leaders of the shipping industry, he aided the establishment of the HKMM, serving as its first Honorary Patron. During its preparatory phase, Mr. Tung actively secured support and resources from both the Government and the community, leading to the museum's successful opening at Murray House in Stanley in 2005. With the strong support of Mr. Tung and the broader community, the museum relocated in 2013 to Central Pier 8, establishing itself in the heart of Victoria Harbour as a landmark celebrating Hong Kong's vibrant maritime culture and seafaring history.

 

The Tung family and the C.Y. Tung Foundation have generously donated a significant collection of precious nautical charts, ship models, and historical documents, forming a core foundation for HKMM’s collection. In recent years, the Tung family has maintained a deep and enduring interest in the Museum’s development. Under the Tung family’s visionary guidance and continued support, HKMM has broadened its educational outreach and digital experiences, reaching wider audiences and strengthening public appreciation of Hong Kong’s maritime heritage.

 

We extend deepest condolences to Mr. Tung's family.

 

Hong Kong Maritime Museum

10 September 2026