The Government has appointed Sophia Kao as the Women's Commission chairperson, and named 10 new members to the body, with effect from January 15 for a term of two to three years.

The 10 new members are:

* Dr Miranda Chan;

* Jacqueline Cheng;

* Fong Man-ying;

* Ruth Gee;

* Dr Sharmila Gurung;

* Stella Kun;

* Betsy Lau;

* Prof Daniel Shek;

* Prof Maria Tam; and

* Prof Grace Tang.

For their brief biographies, click here.

Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow said Ms Kao has actively participated in women's organisations for many years and has served as a commission member since its establishment in 2001.

He said Ms Kao has made remarkable contributions and showed dedication in promoting the interests and well-being of women in Hong Kong.

"I am certain under Ms Kao's able leadership, the commission would continue to play a catalytic role in championing women's interests and mobilising various sectors for the development and advancement of women," Dr Chow said.

The new members possess knowledge and extensive experience from their professions - including business, academic, medical and social services - and would strengthen the commission's work.

Dr Chow also thanked outgoing chairperson Sophie Leung, and the outgoing members Prof Fanny Cheung, Dr Susan Fan, Dr Joseph Kwok, Peggy Lam, Dr Judith Mackay, Diane Wilcoxson, Margaret Wong, Dr Agnes Yeung, and Eva Cheng, who have served on the commission since its establishment.

"In the past five years, the commission has made significant progress in promoting the well-being and interests of women in Hong Kong, and enabling women to fully realise their due status, rights and opportunities in all aspects of life," Dr Chow said.

"In pursuing this goal, the commission has maintained close liaison with local and international women's organisations, and mobilised the joint collaboration of different sectors in advancing the interests of women," he said. 

"This would not have been achieved without the strong and unparallel leadership of Mrs Leung, and the valuable contribution and dedication of the members during their term of office," Dr Chow added.

The commission was set up on January 15, 2001 as a high-level central mechanism which takes a strategic overview of women's issues. Comprising 18 non-official members and four ex-officio members, it plays a strategic role in advising Government on policies and initiatives which are of concern to women.