Annual Report 2019

33 ANNUAL REPORT 2019 During the year, the four Independent Non-executive Directors (five Independent Non-executive Directors before 5 June 2019) are persons of high calibre, with academic and professional qualifications in the fields of accounting, law, engineering and business management. With their experience gained from senior positions held in other companies, they provide strong support towards the effective discharge of the duties and responsibilities of the Board. Each Independent Non-executive Director has given an annual confirmation of his independence to the Company, and the Company considers these Directors to be independent under Rule 3.13 of the Listing Rules. During the year, 13 full board meetings were held and the attendance of each Director is set out as follows: Name of Director Number of board meetings attended during the Director’s term of office in 2019 Attendance rate Fu Gangfeng** 7/13 53.8% Deng Renjie** N/A N/A Su Jian 12/13 92.3% Xiong Xianliang 12/13 92.3% Bai Jingtao 13/13 100% Ge Lefu* 7/7 100% Wang Zhixian 12/13 92.3% Zheng Shaoping 10/13 76.9% Kut Ying Hay 13/13 100% Lee Yip Wah Peter 13/13 100% Li Kwok Heem John* 4/5 80% Li Ka Fai David 13/13 100% Bong Shu Ying Francis 13/13 100% * Mr. Ge Lefu was appointed as Executive Director of the Company on 5 June 2019. Besides, Mr. Li Kwok Heem John resigned as Independent Non-executive Director and all Committee Members of the Company on the same day. ** Mr. Fu Gangfeng resigned as Executive Director and Chairman of the Company on 13 February 2020. Besides, Mr. Deng Renjie was appointed as Executive Director and Chairman of the Company on the same day. There was no material financial, business, family or other relevant relationship among members of the Board. The Board formulates the overall strategy of the Group, monitors its financial performance and maintains effective supervision over the management. The Board members are fully committed to their roles and have acted in good faith to maximise the shareholders’ value in the long run, and have aligned the Group’s goals and directions with the prevailing economic and market conditions. Daily operations and administration are delegated to the management. At least 14 days’ notice of all regular board meetings is given to all Directors and they can include matters for discussion in the agenda if the need arises. The Company Secretary or his assistant assists the Chairman in preparing the agenda for meetings and ensures that all relevant rules and regulations are followed. The agenda and the accompanying board papers are sent to all Directors at least 3 days before the date of every board meeting so that the Directors have the time to review the documents. Minutes of every board meeting are circulated to all Directors for their perusal prior to confirmation of the minutes at or before the following board meeting. TRAINING AND SUPPORT FOR DIRECTORS Every Board member is entitled to access to board papers and related materials and has unrestricted access to the advice and services of the Company Secretary or his assistant, and has the liberty to seek external professional advice if so required. The Company Secretary or his assistant continuously updates all Directors on the latest development of the Listing Rules and other applicable regulatory requirements to ensure compliance and upkeep of good corporate governance practice. Furthermore, all Directors participated in continuous professional development to develop and refresh their knowledge and skills and to ensure that their contribution to the Board remains informed and relevant.