I refer to the letter from Jeffry Kuperus headlined 'Pension fund gambling a dangerous game' (Sunday Morning Post, November 25), responding to my letter to these columns on November 18, on the Mandatory Provident Fund (MPF) scheme. We fully recognise the importance of investor education, so that MPF scheme members can make informed decisions when selecting their MPF investment funds. Indeed, we have made it one of our priority tasks this year. Apart from utilising the mass media, we have also organised seminars, workshops and talks to increase public understanding of fund investment. Regarding investment choices, the latest figures show that nearly half (45 per cent) of the aggregate net asset values of the MPF funds have been invested in balanced funds, which invest in both equities and bonds. The remaining net asset values have been invested in guaranteed funds (22 per cent), short-term money market funds which include capital preservation funds (16 per cent), equity funds (16 per cent), as well as bond funds (one per cent). These statistics can be found at our Web site, www.mpfahk.org in our Quarterly Statistical Digest. As for individual scheme members, they will receive at least one benefit statement from their trustees each year which shows, among other things, the value of their accrued benefits. HEIDI KWAN External Affairs Division Mandatory Provident Fund Schemes Authority
