Consumer watchdog bids farewell

The Consumer Council announced on Tuesday (May 6) the departure of its Chief Executive, Gilly Wong Fung-han, as her term comes to a close.

The Council is currently conducting a recruitment exercise for the position and will disclose the selection results and appointment schedule in due course. In the meantime, Francis Ho Ying-foo, the current Deputy Chief Executive, will serve as Acting Chief Executive.

12 years of contributions and achievements

Serving as the Chief Executive since 2012, Wong has dedicated herself to fulfilling the Council's statutory functions in promoting and protecting consumer rights and interests. 

Apart from leading the Council's digital transformation to ensure its continued relevance in the digital economy, Wong served as Vice President of the Board of Trustees for Consumers International, where she actively supported the worldwide consumer protection movement.

Reflecting on her 12-year journey, Wong expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead and thanked stakeholders for their support. She noted that this experience not only allowed her to contribute to consumer advocacy but also provided valuable opportunities for personal growth.

Addressing challenging disputes 

Wong's time in office included handling high-profile consumer disputes, such as the absence of football star Lionel Messi from a Hong Kong exhibition match and the classification issues with "Nongfu Spring" water.

She also managed over 5,300 complaints related to the closure of the local fitness chain, Physical Fitness, involving more than HK$190 million.

Looking ahead to a new life

Following the successful celebration of the Council's 50th anniversary in 2024, Wong revealed that it is an appropriate moment to step down, coinciding with the completion of the strategic plan for the next three years. She looks forward to embracing a new pace of life in the coming months.

Wong expressed deep gratitude for the trust and support from all stakeholders and looks forward to staying in touch, wishing the Council continued success in embodying the 50th anniversary theme—"Smart Consumption, Fuelling the Economy."

Council Chairman Chan Kam-wing praised Wong’s forward-thinking mindset in an ever-changing consumption environment, sincerely thanking her for her efforts and wishing her success in future endeavors.

Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Algernon Yau Ying-wah, also expressed gratitude for Wong's proactive role in safeguarding consumer rights and commended her efforts to adapt to the rise of online shopping and enhance consumer education, particularly for the elderly.

(Phoebe Poon)