Last Wednesday (November 26), a level 5 fire in Hong Kong’s Tai Po Wang Fuk Court killed more than a hundred people, plunging the entire city into mourning. Singer Angela Hui Xie, a former resident of Wang Fuk Court, expressed her deep sorrow on November 30, revealing that former classmates, elders, and many beloved neighbors had perished in the tragic incident, leaving her heartbroken and lost for words. She stated that it will take several days for her emotions to settle.
Xie reminisced on social media about her time growing up in Wang Fuk Court, which was a significant part of her life from childhood to becoming a singer, right up until before her marriage. She emotionally described the pain of witnessing the homes of her past neighbors, who watched her grow up, cherish her, and care for her, being engulfed by the fire. She bid farewell to her former classmates, respected elders, and numerous good neighbors who had passed away.
She praised the firefighters for their selfless bravery and the medical personnel for their tireless efforts, sending her highest respect and gratitude to all the firefighting and rescue teams. Xie extended her deepest condolences to the family of Mr. Ho Wai-ho, a hero who lost his life in the rescue mission, and earnest well wishes to the firefighters still undergoing treatment in the hospital.
Xie emphasized that while the fire mercilessly destroyed homes, people can still rely on each other for support. She mentioned that even the smallest gestures, such as sharing news updates, offering greetings, sending flowers, bowing in respect, making donations, volunteering when possible, or simply silently sending blessings, all contribute to providing strength and comfort to the affected families and helping them move forward.
“We are all connected to the affected families of Wang Fuk Court and to all the compassionate citizens who have made efforts to help. Let us support each other and face these difficult days together,” Xie said. She urged everyone to not only support others but also take care of themselves, recognizing that everyone grieves differently and allowing oneself to mourn is essential.
As the initial shock of the news fades, Xie pointed out that those who have lost their homes and suffered physically and mentally will still face a long and challenging road ahead. She stressed that support should not be limited to the present moment, calling for a lasting commitment to healing and offering companionship in the journey towards recovery.
In her closing words, Xie sent blessings, stating that “home is not just bricks and mortar; it is also a steadfast vigilance in despair, not giving up on each other. May the departed rest in peace, and may the living stay strong. Together, let us walk the long road ahead. We sincerely hope that the affected families will soon find peace and stability.”
Xie expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support and condolences she received from friends in the past few days, thanking them for remembering her and her family’s time at Wang Fuk Court and appreciating their care and concern.