WHEN OFF-DUTY fireman Chiu Shun-on went missing last month after trying to rescue a drowning teenager in rough seas off Sai Kung, his 13-year-old son prayed for him on the shore and was proud of his father's heroism. Many Hong Kong people were touched by the firefighter's courage. The boy he tried to save, Wong Wing-nam, also drowned. But the 15-year-old's parents were full of praise for Chiu, describing him as a hero who had been prepared to sacrifice his life in a bid to save their son.
Paying his last respects to Chiu on Thursday, the night before the fireman's funeral, Wong's father, Wong Kam-bo, said: 'Hong Kong has fewer and fewer good men like Mr Chiu.'
The senior fireman joins the ranks of Hong Kong people who have demonstrated heroism and self-sacrifice. Other recent examples include two teachers who helped students escape the Pat Sin Leng fire in 1996 and a man who saved two drowning brothers in a nullah at Quarry Bay in 1998.
But what role do heroes play in Hong Kong society, where people are often regarded as being selfish and concerned only with their own interests? How are heroes treated, and what can we learn from their deeds?
Educators say such local heroes play an important role in society, by setting a good example to others. The Government is also keen to recognise their courage. Chiu was given the honour of being buried at Gallant Garden, Wo Hop Shek, normally reserved for civil servants who die in the line of duty. An SAR flag was draped over his coffin.
There has also been talk of the fireman being given a posthumous award. Since the 1997 handover, 32 people have received Medals for Bravery awarded by the SAR Government. There have been awards of seven gold medals, seven silver and 18 bronze.