Raymond Ch'ien has been selected Chairman (designate) of the post-merger Mass Transit Railway Corporation, and Chow Chung-kong Chief Executive Officer (designate). The Financial Services & the Treasury Bureau said the appointments will take effect on the day selected by the Secretary for Transport & Housing by notice in the Gazette.

Mr Ch'ien said he is honoured to be appointed and looks forward to working with MTRC staff to build the world's best rail company. Mr Chow said it is a privilege to be appointed and that he will work with colleagues to provide the highest-quality service to Hong Kong.

Post-merger chiefs: Raymond Ch'ien has been selected Chairman (designate) of the post-merger Mass Transit Railway Corporation, and Chow Chung-kong Chief Executive Officer (designate). (Pic: MTRC)

Acting Financial Secretary Frederick Ma hailed the appointees' experience and professionalism.

"The strong leadership and outstanding management abilities of Mr Ch'ien and Mr Chow will ensure that the merged corporation will continue to provide quality services to the public," he said.

Mr Ch'ien is the MTRC Chairman. He has been a member of the board of directors since 1998, and was appointed Chairman in July 2003.

Mr Chow joined the MTRC as Chief Executive Officer in December 2003.