AS Watson is proud to announce that Ed van de Weerd, CEO of Health & Beauty Continental Europe of AS Watson, was today presented with the “Good Citizen Award” at the Good Citizen Award Presentation Ceremony 2025, organised by the Hong Kong Police Force. The award recognises his courageous and selfless act in saving a life, as well as his strong sense of civic responsibility and care for the community.
The incident took place last November while Ed was visiting Hong Kong for a business trip. At around 11pm, near the Hung Hom waterfront close to his hotel, Ed witnessed a woman struggling in the sea and calling loudly for help. Although some people had already thrown a life buoy towards her, she was unable to grab hold of it and the situation quickly became critical.
Without hesitation, Ed jumped into the sea, rescued the woman and assisted in bringing her safely back to shore. Emergency personnel subsequently arrived at the scene, and the woman was taken to hospital for treatment.
Reflecting on the incident, Ed said, “I just happened to be passing by when I saw the critical situation. There was no time to think — I acted purely on instinct to help. I firmly believe that anyone who can swim would make the same choice in the same situation, because when a life is in imminent danger, no one can stand idly by.”
He emphasised, “Life is priceless, and successfully saving someone is the most important thing. I am deeply moved and grateful to receive the Good Citizen Award, but I believe I was simply doing what I ought to have done. I wish the lady good health and happiness, and I also hope that this experience will encourage more people to believe that even a seemingly small act of kindness can change someone's life.”
AS Watson Group was deeply moved and proud. Dr Malina Ngai, Group CEO of AS Watson, expressed, “In a moment of real danger, Ed jumped into the water without hesitation to save the person in that critical moment. His sincerity and courage are deeply admirable. Not only did he save a precious life, but he also reminded us that care and respect for those around us can be expressed in the simplest and most direct ways.”
She added, “Ed’s actions truly reflect our core values — care for the community and grow as one. This spirit is not a slogan, but a belief we strive to put into practice every day.”
Ed van de Weerd is currently the CEO of Health & Beauty Continental Europe of AS Watson and also serves as the Group’s International Commercial Director. He is responsible for overseeing the development of the Group’s health and beauty businesses across the Benelux region. Since joining the Group in 2018, Ed has continued to drive business growth and digital transformation, while actively contributing to the Group’s global sustainability initiatives.
