Christmas party at Government House

The weather is getting cold, but Government House has been filled with warmth today.

This afternoon, my wife Regina, my youngest daughter Chung-yan and I had an early Christmas celebration here with friends from five sheltered workshops operated by the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, the Po Leung Kuk and the Hong Chi Association.

Under the thoughtful arrangements made by my colleagues, the participants were first taken on a tour of Government House. They then learnt to make Christmas hats with their own designs, following the guidance of an instructor. While having fun in the process, they also created unique Christmas gifts for themselves.

Highlights of the party also included a magic show and carol singing. Regina and I gave each of the participants a gift set. One of the items in the set was a heat insulation cup lid with a yellow duckling on top, which I bought this morning at a charity sale booth at the Hong Kong Brands and Products Expo.

Since taking office, I have regularly organised activities at Government House to share the warmth of festive occasions with people with different needs and backgrounds, including people with intellectual disabilities, ethnic minorities, children and the elderly. Through these activities, I hope to promote the message that "all 7 million people in Hong Kong are one big family", and together with all Hong Kong people create a caring society in which all members can feel love and warmth among them and love Hong Kong, our home, even more.

December 14, 2013