Lam Ping-yan, deputy director of health, will succeed Chan Fung Fu-chun as director of health with effect from Aug. 21, 2003, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) government announced Monday.

Commenting on Lam's appointment, Rebecca Lai, the permanent secretary for the Civil Service, said, "Dr. Lam has proven leadership and administrative skills as well as profound professional experience. I am confident that he will lead the department to face the challenges ahead."

She also thanked Chan for her dedicated and meritorious service during the last 25 years and wished her another successful career with the World Health Organization.

Chan, 56, has been the director of health since June 1994. She will proceed on end-of-agreement leave with effect from Aug. 21, 2003, after 25 years of service with the government.

Lam, 51, was promoted to deputy director of health in June 1996.He is a specialist in community medicine.

(Xinhua News Agency August 19, 2003)