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Following is the translation of a speech by the Chief Executive, Mr Tung Chee Hwa, at the "Coming of Age" ceremony today (May 4) :

It gives me great pleasure to join you at today's Coming of Age Ceremony. Addressing a gathering of young people reminds me that today is the anniversary of our Youth Day. It also reminds me of the scramble for national treasures we saw at the two auctions held in Hong Kong earlier in the week. And, I would like to take this opportunity to share with you some of my thoughts on this and other issues.

Why should the auction in Hong Kong of four national antiques from the late Qing dynasty have such strong repercussions in our society? I believe not only is it a fact that the four artefacts belonged to our country, but above all else because the way they were removed from the country became a symbol of Chinese national humiliation. The strong reaction of Hong Kong people towards the auctions demonstrates our patriotic sentiments, and expresses our hope that such misfortunes will never again befall our country or the Chinese people.

This history of humiliation teaches us an important truth : that the fate of an impoverished and backward country lies in the hands of others. A people who cannot stand on their own feet will hardly thrive and prosper. It was against this background that the famous May Fourth Movement emerged. Ever since then, the spirit of this movement has been an inspiration to countless Chinese youths. It has driven them to erase this national humiliation and make China more wealthy and powerful. They have contributed their efforts and talents in different fields and in many places.

Over a period of 50 years in the second half of the 20th century, our country has made remarkable progress in industry, agriculture, technology, national defence and education. Through these advances, our country has raised the standard of living of the people and the status of China in the international arena has been enhanced. I believe every Chinese takes pride in the development of our nation and is proud of being Chinese. However, there is still a long way to go for our country to be truly modernised and Chinese people to be re-invigorated. The realisation of this goal will depend on the continued efforts and dedication of the generations to follow.

As I look around me this evening at the young people who are about to reach adulthood and become the pillars of tomorrow, some old Chinese sayings come to mind:

"

Explore things,

Broaden your knowledge,

Be sincere,

Have a pure heart,

Be an upstanding person,

Be disciplined in caring for your families,

Govern your country properly,

Ensure peace and order are maintained."

There is a simple and obvious truth in these sayings. But to follow them and follow them well is not at all easy. "Explore things and broaden your knowledge" means we must have a profound and thorough understanding and perception of everything in the world. "Be sincere and have a pure heart" means we must have an honest and truthful mind and a right path to follow. This can be best illustrated by the pioneers of the May Fourth Movement, who devoted themselves whole-heartedly to the patriotic cause of serving the country. "Be an upstanding person" means we must make an effort to develop noble virtues and raise our moral standards. "Be disciplined in caring for your families", in the Chinese tradition, is a microcosm of how society should behave. Having accomplished all these virtues, we must integrate with the rest of the community and contribute to the well being of our country, to promote peace and order internationally.

On this meaningful day, you are proceeding to adulthood. These few sayings have been chosen as a token of encouragement for you to become your own masters for the future. I hope that with these engraved on your hearts, you will tread the right path and enjoy a rich and rewarding life. As you strive to improve and succeed, you will also be making valuable contributions to the prosperity of Hong Kong, to the development of our country and to the re-invigoration of Chinese people everywhere.

Thank you.

Photo:Picture shows Mr Tung with other officiating guests cutting a birthday cake to celebrate young participants who have just reached the age of 18.

End/Thursday, May 4, 2000

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