HONG KONG, June 2 (Xinhua) -- Chuang Shih-ping, a renowned figure in Hong Kong, died of heart failure at the age of 97 early Saturday morning.

    Chuang was Vice-Chairman of All China Federation of Returned Overseas Chinese, a Hong Kong deputy to the 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th and6th National People's Congress (CPC) and a member of the 7th, 8th and 9th Standing Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) National Committee. He was awarded the Grand Bauhinia Medal in 1997 by the government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR).

    HKSAR Chief Executive Donald Tsang said that he was deeply saddened to hear the passing away of Chuang Shih-ping.

    "Mr Chuang was engaged in financial services in his early years and had made tremendous contribution to the banking sector in Hong Kong. Having a record of dedicated public service, Mr Chuang had worked devotedly for the stability and prosperity of Hong Kong. He had also played an important role in the opening up of China's economy," said Tsang.

    Tsang offered his condolences to Chuang's family and expressed gratitude to his contribution to Hong Kong.

    Also on Saturday, Gao Siren, director of the Central People's Government Liaison Office in Hong Kong, went to Chuang's residence and conveyed to his family members condolences of Vice President Zeng Qinghong and other senior central government officials.