Erick Tsang named HK immigration head

The Chief Executive (right) poses with the new Director of Immigration

Erick Tsang Kwok-wai, the Deputy Director of Immigration, was sworn in as the new Director of Immigration, according to a press release issued by the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government.

According to the release, the State Council, on the nomination and recommendation made by the Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr CY Leung, approved Tsang's appointment and the removal of Mr Chan Kwok-ki from the Principal Official post. Mr Tsang assumed office April 5 when Mr Chan proceeded on pre-retirement leave after serving for 33 years.

The Chief Executive has been quoted as saying: "Mr Tsang has accumulated nearly 29 years of experience and possesses extensive knowledge, making great strides in enhancing the efficiency and professionalism of the Immigration Department. I am confident that he will rise up to the challenges ahead."

On Mr Chan Kwok-ki, the Chief Executive has been quoted as saying, "Since taking up the post as Director of Immigration in March 2011, Mr Chan has made admirable efforts in ensuring effective entry-exit control and smooth passenger clearance, leading the Immigration Department to become a benchmark for its contemporaries around the globe. We wish Mr Chan a happy and fulfilling retirement.”

Mr Tsang, 52, joined the Immigration Department as an Assistant Immigration Officer in April 1987. He became Assistant Director of Immigration in 2012 and Deputy Director of Immigration in 2014.

Mr Tsang was awarded the Hong Kong Immigration Service Medal for Distinguished Service in 2015.