Alibaba Group Holding has mourned the death of Tung Chee-hwa, who served as an independent director, saying the global perspective of Hong Kongโs first leader helped the e-commerce giant to remain rooted in the country while expanding internationally.
He joined Alibaba Groupโs board as an independent director in 2014 and held the position until 2022. He died on Tuesday at the age of 89.
Alibaba, which owns the South China Morning Post, said on Friday that Tungโs โinvaluable contributions and full supportโ during his tenure had played a vital role in the companyโs development.
โHis global perspective helped Alibaba stay rooted in China while expanding globally,โ it said.
The company described him as a โvisionary leader, steadfast patriot and also an elder of noble character, humility and kindnessโ who always had placed Hong Kongโs and the nationโs development at heart.
โDuring the critical period of Hong Kongโs historical development, he led the city forward with courage and foresight, remaining dedicated to the cityโs long-term prosperity and stability,โ it said.