Cantonese opera master Pak Suet-sin was presented with the highest honour at last night's Hong Kong Arts Development Awards.
The honorary award, in recognition of the opera legend's contribution to the local arts, was the first handed out by the organisers, the Arts Development Council. It coincided with the government's budget in which it was announced that HK$120 million had been allocated for the conversion of the Yau Ma Tei Theatre into a Cantonese opera centre.
Chief Executive Donald Tsang Yam-kuen, who presented the award, praised Pak's contribution to the development of Cantonese opera for the past 60 years. After handing Pak the award, Mr Tsang gently kissed the back of her hand as the audience rose to a standing ovation.
Mui Suet-see, one of the opera legend's disciples, said that Pak was delighted with the honour.
Arts Development Council chairman Ma Fung-kwok hoped that the awards could raise the social status of distinguished artists and arts groups as well as encourage community support.
Eighteen awards in five different categories were handed out last night.
Renowned treble choral conductor Leon Tong Shiu-wai, veteran painter Kong Kai-ming, DanceArt Hong Kong's resident choreographer Andy Wong Ting-lam, xiqu musician Wong Siu-hop and theatre director Tang Shu-wing were honoured for their achievements in the arts.