Hong Kong citizens on Sunday expressed condolences to the late property tycoon Lee Shau-kee, who passed away peacefully on March 17 at the age of 97.

The large tented memorial area, located at the sports playground opposite the Hong Kong Funeral Home, features a memorial altar measuring 12 meters long and 5 meters high.

The memorial site includes a flower tribute area where visitors can leave written messages, with these condolence cards to be later displayed in a floral installation at the memorial exhibition.

Attendees can also watch a memorial video documenting Lee's life journey as well as read letters of condolence from prominent figures, with commemorative booklets provided.

A citizen named Lai shared his journey from living in subdivided housing during childhood to improved living conditions after purchasing a Henderson Land property in the 1980s.

"The property's appreciation helped me overcome financial difficulties when I sold it," he said, adding that he now lives comfortably and enjoys a secure retirement.

He described Lee as a self-made tycoon who not only propelled Hong Kong's real estate development but also cared for ordinary citizens, praising him as "an exemplary elder worth learning from."

Meanwhile, a long-term employee of Henderson Land Development surnamed Tsoi considers Lee approachable and humble, praising the company's employee-centric welfare policies.

He expressed sorrow about Lee’s passing, describing him as "a role model for both Hong Kong and our company."

Another employee named Tsoi, who served at the company for over a decade, characterized Lee as “an excellent boss” who is kind-hearted, generous, and principled.

Tsoi added that he benefited from Lee's tradition of giving "newborn red packets" to staff after he became a grandparent.

The memorial exhibition organized by Henderson Land Development -- “A Light Among Us – Memorial Exhibition of Dr. Lee Shau Kee” -- will be held from May 1 to 5 at the rooftop ballroom Cloud 39 located at The Henderson.

Admission to the exhibition is free, and the public can now reserve tickets online.

(Judy Cui)

Hongkongers pay tribute to late property tycoon Lee Shau-kee at memorial service