Tributes to Run Run Shaw

"Sir Run Run Shaw promoted the entertainment industry in Hong Kong for a long time, with prominent achievements. At the same time, he was committed to philanthropy that benefits education in Hong Kong and the mainland, as well as scientific research around the world. He was an elder that we very much respected. I express my sadness at the passing of Sir Run Run Shaw and offer condolences to his family."

Leung Chun-ying, chief executive, Hong Kong SAR

"He especially cared for the development of the nation and made generous donations to education, healthcare, movie and television and disaster relief in the mainland. His contribution was tremendous, and he was well respected."

Zhang Xiaoming, director, Liaison Office of the Central People's Government of the Hong Kong SAR

"Sir Run Run Shaw founded Shaw Brothers (Hong Kong) Limited and gradually established his film empire. He produced more than 1,000 films. His influence reaches Chinese communities worldwide. He has made great contributions to the development of the Chinese film industry."

Gregory So Kam-leung, secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Hong Kong SAR

"Sir Run Run was willing to give. His generous contributions over the years benefited technology, education and many other sectors. Sir Run Run may have left us, but, just like the classic TV programs and films he produced, his positive and persevering spirit will live long in the hearts of the Hong Kong people."

Norman Leung Nai-pang, executive chairman of Television Broadcasts Ltd

"It is a loss for the film industry of Hong Kong. He made great contributions to Hong Kong films and discovered many talents. He laid a sound foundation for Hong Kong films and is unmatched (in his contribution)."

Ng See-yuen, honorary president of the Hong Kong Film Directors' Guild

"There were many achievements, but if I had to choose one it would be the fact that he made Hong Kong film relevant in world cinema and made Hong Kong 'Hollywood East' when he built his film studio. He also, of course, had a major influence on TV with the establishment of TVB and was a great benefactor to education. It's hard to find a university in Hong Kong or the mainland where his name doesn't appear."

Stanley Rosen, professor of Chinese film and director of the East Asian Studies Center at the University of Southern California's College of Letters, Arts and Sciences

"When Mr Shaw visited the Beijing Film Academy in 1991 or '92, some of the teachers and students from the Class of 1990 put on a welcoming show for them. I performed a patter song and Yu Dong (now CEO of Bona Film Group) told a pingshu story. He gave us gift money, in accordance with Hong Kong custom, which we turned over to the school. He was over 80, but in high spirits."

Zhao Ningyu, film director and a professor at China Communications University

"Yifu, which literally means "easy gentleman", belied his true character as an enterprising and creative person, embodying many of the virtues of the Hong Kong people. All the buildings he donated will make future generations remember him, and the movies and TV shows he produced have made this world look better."

Shi Hang, cultural commentator

"He knew when to make an entry and when to exit. He was scrupulous in his business dealings and he relied heavily on Chinese tradition for inspiration."

Wei Junzi, Beijing-based film expert who specializes in Hong Kong cinema