The Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, sent a letter of condolence today to express sorrow for the passing of Mr Ma Man Kei, and deep appreciation for his lifetime contribution to Macao. The full text of the letter is as follows:

I am deeply shocked and saddened to be informed of the passing of Mr Ma Man Kei. I solemnly represent the Macao SAR Government, and in a personal capacity, to express the most sincere condolences to his family members and relatives.

Mr Ma was an eminent Chinese leader, politician, entrepreneur and philanthropist in Macao. Since residing in Macao in the 1940s, he experienced the days and nights of Macao, and witnessed its ups and downs over time. During almost every important event in Macao's history, he proactively and bravely took a leading role. With his wisdom and morality, he resolved difficult problems and disputes, and introduced new ideas to replace old ones. He contributed and achieved countless outstanding and recognised accomplishments in the continuous social improvement and development of Macao and enhancement of people's livelihoods.

From 70 years ago, Mr Ma actively participated in business, education, sporting and charitable social activities. His endeavours brought him great success and a high reputation. He was Director, Vice Chairman and Chairman of the Board of Kiang Wu Hospital Charitable Association; Director, Vice President, Vice Chairman and Chairman of Macao Chamber of Commerce; Director, Vice Chairman and Honorary Advisor of the China Education Association; Chairman of the Basketball and Volleyball Club, the Table Tennis Association, the Swimming Association and the Chess Association; Chairman of the Board and President of the Consulting Committee of the University of East Asia, Macao; and Council Chairman of Hou Kong Middle School, Pooi To Middle School, Seong Fan Evening College, Kwong Tai Middle School, Escola Ilha Verde and Keang Peng School.

From 1976, Mr Ma was member of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th and 5th Legislative Assembly of Macao. With his passion for Macao and its people, he was a generous donor and actively participated in charity to promote harmonious development of society and enhancement of charitable work.

As a young man, Mr Ma had strong passion for his country. Early in wartime, he devoted himself to the war against the Japanese and establishment of the country regardless of his personal safety and property. He created a unique and glorious memory in his life.

After the establishment of modern China, he was always aware of building and developing the country and dedicated to advocate patriotism in Macao. In a time of reform and opening up, he was one of the pioneers of Macao and Hong Kong investments in mainland China, in response to central government policy, and participated in the reform, opening and modern construction of mainland China. He made a considerable contribution to the country's economic and social development.

Mr Ma was member of the 5th CPPCC National Committee, the 6th CPPCC Standing Committee, the 8th, 9th, 10th and 11th CPPCC Vice Chairman, representative of the 6th and 7th National People's Congress, and member of NPC Standing Committee.

In 1988, Mr Ma became Deputy Director of the Macao Basic Law Drafting Committee. In 1998, he was Deputy Director of the Preparatory Committee for the Macao SAR. During Macao's reunification with the motherland, stormy establishment of the SAR and implementation of the principle "One country, two systems", Mr Ma, regardless of his old age and weariness, contributed to the successful Handover of Macao and initial construction of the SAR. He devoted untold effort and energy, foresight and firm beliefs to lay a solid foundation for the prosperity and stability of present-day Macao, making a historic contribution.

In 2001, the Macao SAR government presented medals for the first time. Mr Ma Man Kei received the highest award, the "Grand Lotus Medal of Honour".

Mr Ma loved traditional Chinese culture and was an expert in poetry. His works are firmly built and plain, filled with love for the country and the passion to repay the nation.

Mr Ma had a glorious life. His loyalty to the country, dedication to Macao, integrity, endeavours and morality make him a lasting role model for us all.

Mr Ma's name will be always remembered and praised!