Alibaba mourns former independent director Tung Chee-hwa, hails his global vision
SCMP · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
Alibaba Group Holding has mourned the death of Tung Chee-hwa, the company's former independent director who served from 2014 to 2022. The e-commerce giant praised his invaluable contributions and global vision that helped Alibaba expand internationally while staying rooted in China. Tung, who died on Tuesday at age 89, was Hong Kong's first postcolonial chief executive and later served as a vice-chairman of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference.
Key Points
- Tung Chee-hwa joined Alibaba Group's board as an independent director in 2014, shortly after the company's initial public offering in New York, and served until 2022
- He passed away on Tuesday at the age of 89, with Alibaba issuing a statement on Friday expressing deep sorrow and paying tribute to his legacy
- Alibaba described Tung as a "visionary leader, steadfast patriot and also an elder of noble character, humility and kindness" who placed Hong Kong's and the nation's development at heart
- The company highlighted his global perspective as helping Alibaba "stay rooted in China while expanding globally" during his tenure
- Tung was a long-time proponent and facilitator of Sino-US relations, with Alibaba citing his extensive experience as a business and government leader
Why It Matters
Tung's passing marks the end of an era for business diplomacy between China and the international community. His contributions to Alibaba's board during a critical growth period underscore the importance of experienced governance in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes for Chinese companies expanding globally .
Tung's passing marks the end of an era for business diplomacy between China and the international community. His contributions to Alibaba's board during a critical growth period underscore the importance of experienced governance in navigating complex geopolitical landscapes for Chinese companies expanding globally .