China Maple Leaf Educational Systems Limited (MAPLELEAF EDU, stock code 01317) has disclosed a forthcoming board reshuffle effective 31 August 2026. Independent non-executive director (INED) Ms Wai Fong Wong will resign to pursue other business commitments, simultaneously stepping down from the Audit, Remuneration and Nomination Committees. The Board expressed gratitude for her service and confirmed no disagreements or issues requiring shareholder attention.

To fill the vacancy, the Board will appoint Mr Ling Zhao, 39, as INED and committee member (Audit, Remuneration, Nomination) from 31 August 2026 through 31 August 2029. Zhao is currently an independent director at Singapore-listed United Food Holdings Ltd (since November 2023) and co-founder/director of Singapore advisory firm PPL Group (since February 2014). He holds a BSc (Hons) in Applied Accounting from Oxford Brookes University and is a member of the Singapore Institute of Directors as well as a Certified Accounting Technician registered in Malaysia. His annual director’s fee has been set at HK$0.36 million, aligned with prevailing market conditions.

MAPLELEAF EDU confirmed that Zhao meets all independence criteria under Listing Rule 3.13, holds no shares in the Group, and has no ties to existing directors, senior management or substantial shareholders.

Regulatory Implication: With Ms Wong’s departure, the Board will comprise only male directors, leaving the company temporarily non-compliant with Listing Rule 13.92(2) on gender diversity and the Corporate Governance Code (paragraph B.3.5). Management intends to appoint a female director within three months of 31 August 2026 to restore compliance.

As of the announcement date (12 August 2026), the Board consists of three executive directors—Mr Shu Liang Sherman Jen, Mr King Pak Lau and Mr James William Beeke—and three INEDs—Mr Peter Humphrey Owen, Ms Wai Fong Wong and Mr Ming Sang Chow.