Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu has awarded 466 persons in this year’s Honours List for their significant contributions to Hong Kong, including the late firefighter Ho Wai-ho, who died battling the deadly blaze in Tai Po last year.

Ho was posthumously awarded the Medal for Bravery (Gold) for giving his life in the line of duty during the No 5 alarm fire at Wang Fuk Court that killed 168 people.

“In the course of performing his duty, notwithstanding the extreme heat and fierce blaze, he continued his rescue work and risked his life to save others,” Lee said.

“Mr Ho displayed unwavering dedication, utmost bravery and selfless devotion to the public. He merited the highest honor and respect, and is posthumously awarded the Medal for Bravery (Gold)."

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Lee awarded the Grand Bauhinia Medal to Non-official Member of the Executive Council Chan Kin-por, economist Lawrence Lau Juen-yee, and banker Lam Kwong-siu.

Eight persons received the Gold Bauhinia Star, 19 were awarded the Silver Bauhinia Star, while 40 got the Bronze Bauhinia Star.

Lee thanked all the awardees for their significant contributions to Hong Kong, urging them to continue to excel in their own fields while serving the community.

The presentation ceremony for the awards will be held later this year.