HONG KONG - The decision by the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee on electing Hong Kong's chief executive by universal suffrage is of utmost importance to Hong Kong, said Tung Chee-hwa, the territory's first chief executive here Wednesday.

Tunng, currently vice-chairman of China's top political advisory body,told the media that Hong Kong will turn a new leaf in its history, noting that he was chosen by a 400-member selection commission in 1997, but the new chief executive will be elected by 5 million eligible voters in 2017.

He called for positive response to NPC's decision and warned against making no progress in the democratization process.

Tung noted that though some people are not satisfied with the decision, however, as Hong Kong is at a critical moment in its constitutional development, various social sectors in Hong Kong should seek common ground while reserving differences in a calm and patient manner.

The former chief executive said he opposed civil disobedience movement "Occupy Central" and students' strike, urging people to turn negative sentiments into positive energy and pay greater attention to the challenges China is facing and Hong Kong's role in the national development.