The Government announced today that Assistant Director of the Hong Kong Observatory Chan Pak-wai will take up the post of Director of the department on March 13 when serving director Cheng Cho-ming starts his pre-retirement leave.

Secretary for the Civil Service Ingrid Yeung said Mr Chan is a competent and dedicated officer with exceptional strength in meteorology as well as scientific study and research, noting that he has solid scientific knowledge and technical expertise as well as strong leadership qualities.

She is confident that Mr Chan will be able to lead the Hong Kong Observatory to meet the challenges ahead and continue to deliver quality service to the community.

At the same time, the civil service chief praised Dr Cheng for serving with professionalism and dedication in the civil service for 34 years, having led his team in enhancing the standard and professionalism of the weather forecast and warning services.

He has actively participated in the work of the World Meteorological Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization to establish and maintain Hong Kong's presence in the regional and international meteorological community, Ms Yeung added.

She also wished Dr Cheng a fulfilling and happy retirement.