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The Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Henry Tang, began his duty visit to Singapore today (February 14) by visiting city management facilities and meeting senior Government officials.
In the morning Mr Tang went to the Mandai Columbarium, where he was briefed on Singapore burial policy and the operation of public and private columbariums. This was followed by a tour around the crematorium and columbarium facilities.
In the afternoon, he visited the Tuas South Incineration Plant, where he was advised on waste treatment policy in Singapore and inspected the incineration facilities to gain a better understanding of waste collection and incineration, waste-to-energy technology, and reclamation using incineration ashes.
"Both Singapore and Hong Kong are densely populated cities. Columbarium and waste management are two areas of great public concern that require a proper balance between the provision of facilities and public perception and acceptance. Singapore's experience provides useful reference to Hong Kong in planning for the construction of these two facilities," Mr Tang said.
Mr Tang also attended lunch hosted by the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr Wong Kan Seng. They exchanged views on a wide range of issues including economic and social development of the two places. As Mr Wong is responsible for co-ordinating Singapore's population policy, they also discussed population policy, particularly the challenges posed by an ageing population and approaches to tackle the issue.
This was followed by a call on the Chairman of Singapore's Economic Development Board, Mr Leo Yip, to learn more about the work of the Board in identifying new growth areas and promoting the development of such industries.
Earlier, Mr Tang met Chinese Ambassador to Singapore, Mr Wei Wei.
Tomorrow, Mr Tang will continue his visit to Singapore.
Ends/Monday, February 14, 2011
Issued at HKT 19:22
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