Hong Kong has bid a solemn farewell to a firefighter who lost his life battling the city's most devastating fire in over seven decades. Senior Fireman Ho Wai-ho, 37, was one of 160 people killed in the catastrophic blaze that engulfed a housing complex in late November.
A City Pays Its Final Respects
On Friday, mourners gathered outside the Universal Funeral Parlour, offering flowers and bowing in tribute. The ceremony was attended by top officials, including Hong Kong's leader John Lee. Ho's coffin, draped with the Hong Kong regional flag, was carried from the parlour as dozens of his colleagues raised a final salute.
An array of wreaths lined the venue, accompanied by thank-you cards from grateful residents. Before the service, black-clad locals laid flowers at a dedicated mourning area, with one woman overcome with emotion and a man offering a salute.
"It's heartbreaking. Although we have never met, it has saddened every Hong Konger," said resident Andy Fong, who brought yellow flowers. Retiree Tse Pak-yin praised Ho's bravery, noting poignantly, "He still hasn't got married and it's such a pity." Ho is survived by his parents, two brothers, and his fiancée.
The Tragic Fire at Wang Fuk Court
The financial hub's deadliest fire since 1948 broke out on November 26 at Wang Fuk Court in the northern suburban district of Tai Po. The massive inferno ripped through seven buildings of the housing estate, which was undergoing renovation and covered in bamboo scaffolding and green netting.
Authorities have indicated that substandard plastic nylon netting and foam boards installed on windows contributed to the fire's terrifyingly rapid spread. The tragedy has left thousands of affected residents displaced, forced to move into transitional homes, hotels, and hostels as they grapple with the loss of family and homes they spent years to acquire.
Investigation and Lasting Impact
In the wake of the disaster, concerns have been raised about government oversight of building maintenance projects. The government responded last week by announcing a judge-led independent committee to probe the cause of the fire. It is expected to conclude its work within nine months and will introduce new requirements for checking safety netting standards.
The Fire Services Department posthumously awarded Ho the rank of Senior Fireman, describing him in a statement as an "industrious, polite and dedicated" member who was deeply respected. Following the funeral, his hearse travelled to Wang Fuk Court, the scene of the fire, for a further ceremony before proceeding to his fire station for final tributes from colleagues.
Ho Wai-ho was laid to rest at Gallant Garden, the burial ground reserved for civil servants who die in the line of duty. As the city continues to mourn, the profound loss has ignited urgent questions about safety regulations and the legacy of a firefighter hailed as a hero.
