Hong Kong grants HK$6.15 million to family of firefighter killed in Tai Po blaze

The Hong Kong government has announced a significant financial grant of HK$6.15 million (approximately US$831,246) to support the family of firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who lost his life in the line of duty during the catastrophic Tai Po fire. Secretary for Labour and Welfare Chris Sun Yuk-han, who chairs the committee responsible for the grant, formally approved the assistance, stating it represents the government's recognition of Ho's 'gallantry and selflessness of the highest order.' Ho died on November 26 during a search and rescue mission at Wang Fuk Court, part of a blaze that stands as Hong Kong's deadliest in seven decades.

The grant follows new relief measures introduced by the banking industry for residents affected by the tragedy, which resulted in 168 fatalities and displaced nearly 5,000 people. In his tribute, Secretary Sun emphasized that Ho 'demonstrated exceptional courage... to save and protect the lives of others, which commands our greatest respect.' The funding is provided through a government body specifically tasked with offering financial support to families of individuals who die while saving others, formalizing a posthumous honor for the firefighter's ultimate sacrifice during one of the city's most severe modern disasters.