Cheung said it has been his true honor and privilege to have served Hong Kong for such a long time in various positions, including taking the office as the Chief Secretary of Hong Kong for four and a half years since 2017.

He also thanked Beijing and the past three Chief Executives he had served under for their trust and support over the years.

Cheung clarified this morning that he is not retiring, also dismissed rumors of him having health problems.

He said he would gladly welcome any opportunity for him to continue serving the Hong Kong society outside the government structure.

He also added that throughout his four and a half years as Chief Secretary and 10 years as the labor chief, he had not applied for any sick leave or annual leave, stressing that he is perfectly alright and is dedicated to his work.

Cheung joined the Government in 1972, was appointed as the Secretary for Labour and Welfare in July 2007 and as the Chief Secretary for Administration in January 2017.