HKUAA Singapore Chapter Celebrates Its 2026 Annual Dinner
The Hong Kong University Alumni Association Singapore Chapter (HKUAASG) gathered on 25 April 2026 for its Annual General Meeting and Annual Dinner at Fu Lin Men Grandeur, Singapore — an evening that turned out to be far more than a celebration. It was a night of history, warmth, and inspiration.
A Chapter with Deep Roots
Established in 1946, HKUAASG is one of HKU’s oldest overseas alumni chapters. Its founding aims — to foster closer ties among members, to maintain a living link with the University, and to support students pursuing studies at HKU — remain as relevant today as ever. The Chapter brings alumni together through an annual dinner, joint activities with alumni associations of other Hong Kong universities, and regular bi-monthly walks and food-and-beverage gatherings across Singapore.
Mentorship for Exchange Students
From an early base of around 200 members, the Chapter has grown steadily over the years — a reflection of the increasing number of HKU graduates who have chosen to put down roots in Singapore. Beyond social connection, alumni also give back as volunteer mentors to HKU students on exchange in Singapore — guiding mentees through their educational, social and personal growth, and keeping the Chapter’s bond with the University very much alive.
A Special Guest: Professor Wang Gungwu
The undisputed highlight of the evening was the presence of Professor Wang Gungwu 王賡武教授 — eminent historian, global scholar, and one of HKU’s most distinguished alumni. Born in 1930 and now 95 years old, Professor Wang served as Vice-Chancellor of The University of Hong Kong from 1986 to 1995, a transformative decade in the University’s history. He has called Singapore home for nearly 30 years since.
Professor Wang recently released his autobiography, No Borders: Journeys Across Islands and Continents (World Scientific), a sweeping memoir that traces his intellectual and personal journey across Malaya, London, Australia, Hong Kong and Singapore. Chapter 20, “HKU in Transition”, offers a candid and deeply personal account of his nine years steering HKU through one of its most challenging periods — navigating debates on language of instruction, degree system reform, research capacity, and the complexities of Hong Kong’s return to Chinese sovereignty.
In a wonderfully warm moment, Professor Wang graciously autographed copies of the book for members, including for our newly installed President, Vivian Yuen 袁靜汶 (BNurs 2011, MNurs 2016). Professor Wang engaged in thoughtful conversation with alumni throughout the evening, generously sharing reflections on his years at HKU and his lifelong passion for scholarship and history. His mind remains remarkably sharp, his manner gracious, and his presence a true inspiration to all who had the privilege of meeting him.
The epilogue of No Borders closes with a reflection on his years in Singapore: that the freedom to explore across islands and continents, without borders, has been a precious gift. For a room full of alumni who have themselves journeyed from Hong Kong to build lives in Singapore, those words resonated deeply.
Transitions and Tokens of Appreciation
The evening also marked a meaningful leadership transition, as Sheila Lam 林倩晴 (BSc(ActuarSc) 2015) completed her tenure as Immediate Past President and warmly welcomed Vivian Yuen as the chapter’s new President. Alumni Yvonne Shih 史以文 (BSocSc 1971) and Dr. Lim Thuan Lok John 林傳騄 (MBBS 1969) joined in the celebrations, reflecting the strong sense of community and continuity that defines HKUAASG.
Adding to the festive spirit, the chapter was delighted to receive a thoughtful collection of HKU 115th anniversary souvenirs from the University’s Development & Alumni Affairs Office (DAAO), along with postcards from publisher The Lion Rock Press — gifts that drew warm admiration even from representatives of CUHK, HKUST, PolyU, CityU and HKBU who were present.
Looking Ahead
With a growing membership, a vibrant new committee, and an evening graced by one of Asia’s greatest living historians, HKUAASG enters 2026 with great energy and optimism. The Singapore Chapter warmly welcomes all HKU alumni in Singapore to connect, reconnect, and be part of this community. For more information or to join the HKUAA Singapore Chapter, visit: https://www.alumni.hku.hk/hkuaasg/ or email hkuaasg@gmail.com
