HK replaces Kevin Yeung as tourism chief

Hong Kong has named former housing director Rosanna Law (pictured right) as its new tourism chief, replacing Kevin Yeung (pictured left).

The decision is made in accordance with the relevant provisions of the Basic Law, following chief executive John Lee's nomination and recommendation by the central people's government, according to the official government statement.

Attending her first official event in her new role at the opening ceremony of DesignInspire on 5 December, Law expressed her pleasure at participating in the event, saying that the exhibition will contribute to establishing Hong Kong as a global leader in design and creativity. Law added that the government will continue to work with a variety of organisations to promote cultural and creative industries. 

Law joined the government in July 1989, initially serving as a labour and trade officer before joining the administrative service in July 1990. She advanced to the rank of administrative officer staff grade A in April 2022 and has worked in various bureaux and departments, including the former Civil Service Branch, City and New Territories Administration, Constitutional Affairs Branch, Chief Secretary for Administration's Office, Trade Department, and Environment, Transport and Works Bureau.

Law was deputy commissioner for tourism from August 2010 to September 2016, deputy secretary for constitutional and mainland affairs from September 2016 to September 2020, commissioner for transport from September 2020 to August 2023 and has been serving as permanent secretary for housing/ director of housing from August 2023.     

In his departure statement, Yeung said he believes that Law will continue to commit to the duties with her team, striving for the betterment and development of Hong Kong's future.

“I am honoured to have served as the first secretary for culture, sports and tourism since 1 July 2022. Knowing that I was charged with a heavy responsibility, I dedicated myself during the two and a half years in service. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all colleagues in the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau for fighting side by side with me,” he added. 

In a separate Facebook post, Yeung expressed gratitude for the concern. “The sky is vast, and I am entering a new chapter of my life,” the post said.

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Yeung faced a number of criticisms during his tenure, particularly regarding the absence of football star Lionel Messi from the exhibition match held in Hong Kong in January. Yeung said that the government's involvement in the event was only to sign a contract with the match organiser. Messi's playing time arrangement was discussed between the organiser and the team Inter Miami.

Back in October, Lee called out Yeung in the Policy Address, stating that he and the bureau "must meet public expectations by achieving the intended results," particularly after the blueprint for arts and culture and creative industries development was not released on schedule.

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