Fok was an outstanding public figure, renowned patriot, famous businessman, and close friend of the Communist Party of China, an official obituary said.

The Hong Kong business tycoon served three terms as vice chairman of the National Committee of the CPPCC, the country's top advisory body. He was also honorary president of the Chinese General Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong.

Public figures and political parties in Hong Kong yesterday extended their condolences on the death of Fok.

Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Donald Tsang said he was deeply saddened to learn of Fok's death.

"The passing away of Mr Fok is a sad loss to the country and to Hong Kong," the chief executive said. "On behalf of the HKSAR government, I extend my deepest condolences to Mr Fok's family."

Fok had worked with singular devotion on the opening up of China's economy as well as for the prosperity and stability of Hong Kong, Tsang said.

"We all owe him a debt of gratitude for his invaluable contribution to Hong Kong's return to the motherland," the chief executive said. "He will be dearly missed by his family and friends."

Patrick Ho, Hong Kong's secretary of home affairs and also member of the CPPCC's National Committee, said he felt very sad at hearing of Fok's death.

Commenting on Fok's great donation to the development of culture, sports and education in Hong Kong and China's mainland, Ho said Fok was energetic but kept a low profile and led a simple life himself. "Fok deserved our great respect," Ho said.

Hong Kong's Sunday Morning Post said Fok had been suffering from cancer.

Fok died at Peking Union Medical College Hospital on Saturday evening, the Post said.

Born in 1923 in Panyu, Guangdong Province, Fok rose from humble roots to become one of the city's wealthiest and most powerful men.

This year, Forbes magazine ranked him the 181st wealthiest man in the world, with an estimated net worth of US$3.7 billion. His business empire includes property, ports, and casinos in Macau.