6th September 2023 – (Hong Kong) Super Typhoon Saola, brought a Signal No.10 hurricane warning, causing extensive damage due to fallen trees in various areas. One of the affected locations is Kwun Yam Shrine in Repulse Bay, where the iconic statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Kwun Yum) was severely damaged by a fallen tree, with broken fingers and torn robes. The shrine is a popular tourist attraction and serves as the headquarters of The Hong Kong Life Saving Society.
The HKLSS expressed their concern over the historical significance of the damaged Kwun Yam Shrine and stated that an assessment of the repair details would be made once the Leisure and Cultural Services Department clears the fallen trees. The estimated cost for the restoration is expected to be substantial, and the society may seek assistance from the government to cover the expenses.
The damaged statue of the Goddess of Mercy suffered injuries to its head, hands, and robes. The HKLSS headquarters, which was established on 19th October, 1964, boasts an impressive Chinese palace-style architecture designed to attract visitors from around the world. It has become one of Hong Kong’s prominent landmarks.
The HKLSS stated that they had heeded the government’s call and implemented preemptive measures to protect their headquarters. However, the force of this particular typhoon proved to be too strong, and the fallen tree that caused the damage was beyond the society’s jurisdiction and capabilities to handle. The area has been cordoned off to prevent pedestrians from approaching the site.
Once the Leisure and Cultural Services Department removes the fallen tree, the HKLSS will engage contractors to propose a restoration plan. Considering the anticipated significant cost of the repair project, as a nonprofit organization, the society will seek advice and explore possibilities of government support or assistance.