As Hong Kong’s first post-handover leader, Tung Chee-hwa was destined to go down in history. From steering the city through its uncertain early years after its return to Chinese rule to laying the foundations for its later momentous growth, the shipping magnate-turned-inaugural chief executive will be remembered not just for navigating the uncharted waters of “one country, two systems” but for his foresight in maintaining the city’s unique strengths as it integrated with the country for better development.Thanks to Beijing’s trust, his extensive mainland and international ties, and his strong commitment to the country and city, the political novice was plucked out of his business empire to lead Hong Kong in 1997. Essentially, he was tasked with proving that the unprecedented governance formula for the city was practicable and the best way forward, and that the freewheeling financial centre left behind by the British could do even better under Chinese rule.He inherited a population of 6.5 million not quite certain about the future and about how Hong Kong’s capitalist system would function under “one country” as well as a bureaucracy that often made reforms two steps forward, one step back. He also faced growing pressure to tackle an array of deep-seated problems.While Tung was eager to introduce reforms on fronts ranging from education to government efficiency, there was resistance from various sectors and his considerate character was seen by some as being too cautious sometimes. As much as Tung wanted to resolve Hong Kong’s notorious housing problem, the Asian financial crisis which hit the city’s property market hard forced him to shelve the target of building 85,000 housing units a year. Nevertheless, he was the first leader to realise the importance of handling the housing problem and its link to Hongkongers’, especially young people’s, sense of belonging to the city. He later introduced the city’s very first accountability system to boost government efficiency.A major challenge was the severe acute respiratory syndrome outbreak and the July 1 mass protest that led to the shelving of the national security bill under Basic Law Article 23 in 2003. With Tung’s efforts, the central government agreed to allow mainland tourists to visit the city and later approved the Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement for Hong Kong. Tung was attacked by opposition activists, but he was determined to do what he believed was good for Hong Kong.His legacy extends beyond his commitment to the implementation of one country, two systems. He is credited for his foresight in innovation, education and care for the elderly and disadvantaged. His push for closer integration with the mainland, including cross-border transport links, positioned Hong Kong as a gateway between China and the world.