Tung Chee Hwa, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and former Hong Kong chief executive, is awarded with Hong Kong's highest honor -- Grand Bauhinia Medal (GBM), according to the 2006 Honors List gazetted on Saturday.

Hong Kong Chief Executive Tung chee-hwa gestures during a press conference at the Central Government Offices (CGO) building in Hong Kong, 10 March 2005 announcing his resignation. Hong Kong's leader Tung Chee-hwa submitted his resignation March 10, citing health reasons for stepping down early. [AFP]

Saturday is the ninth anniversary of Hong Kong's returning to the motherland and the list is the ninth of its kind since 1997. A total of 277 are awarded with different levels of medals.

Tung is awarded with GBM in recognition of his selfless dedication to Hong Kong. Throughout his service as the Chief Executive, Tung has devoted himself wholeheartedly to the job of governing Hong Kong, with an enormous sense of commitment and responsibility, said a Hong Kong government press release.

Tung ensured Hong Kong's stability during his term of office, successfully implemented the "One Country, Two Systems" principle, led Hong Kong to overcome the Asian financial crisis and promoted the economic synergy between the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong, the release said.

Two other Hong Kong celebrities also have won the GBM.

Lee Yeh-Kwong, member of the Executive Council, is awarded the GBM for his wide range of distinguished public service, in particular, his significant contribution as an Executive Council member, to the development and promotion of the securities market in Hong Kong as well as the setting up and development of the Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme Authority.

Lee Tung-hai is awarded the GBM for his remarkable contribution to community and charitable service and promoting the community's understanding of the motherland. He has also made exemplary efforts in promoting the Basic Law and the implementation of the " One Country, Two Systems" principle in Hong Kong.

Six other Hong Kong celebrities are winners of the Gold Bauhinia Star (GBS). They are Bernard Charnwut Chan, Lo Yiu-ching, Chau How-chen, Yu Kwok-chun, Lee Lai-kuen, Mong Man-wai. They are awarded for significant contribution to charity and community service or distinguished service to the government.

The Gold Medal for Bravery goes to three policemen in recognition of their utmost bravery in fighting against assailants while performing duties. One of them had been shot dead and another became paralyzed after being stabbed in the neck by an assailant.

According to the government, this year's recipients are from all walks of life. They have been given an honor of award in recognition of their significant contribution to Hong Kong or for their dedicated public and community service.

The presentation ceremony for the awards will be held later this year, tentatively in October.