In Dialogue with foreign students Beyond the “Five Must Dos” of

01
issue
Unsung
Heroes
In Dialogue with foreign students
Beyond the “Five Must Dos” of HKU
5Ws1H on school press
2011-2012
page
In This Issue
dialogue01
2011-2012
contents
Cover Story
03-06
On Campus
Unsung Heroes: Characters who turn
HKU campus into a community
The mother of Swire Hall
A manager prepared to get his hands
dirty
Coming clean about university life
Sponsorship that comes with added
cool
Social inclusion pays happy dividends
14-15
16
17
Need a helping hand? How and where to
get advice
Checklist for you: “Five Must Dos” of HKU
What else beyond the “Must Dos” ?
5Ws 1H
18-21
Campus News
07
08-09
10-11
Residential Colleges: New residential
experience for students
Catering outlets and general amenities at
the Centennial Campus
Don’t stop the press: The challenges
facing campus media
Culture
22-23
24
What makes an artist?
Arts events in HK
Gala Dinner : A night to remember
Vox Pop
In Dialogue
12-13
25
Foreign affairs: Matching expectations
with the realities of university life
Welcome to my world
See, Saw, Seen
26-28
Photo story on the Philippines
Dialogue
Please circulate this publication
when you finish reading
Published by
Centre of Development and Resources
for Students, The University of Hong Kong
Address 3/F & 4/F, Meng Wah Complex
Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong
Website http://cedars.hku.hk
Email Address
dialogue@cedars.hku.hk
Design
Bingo Communication Co.
Cover Story
They run our restaurants and our stores. They attend to our needs while away from home and they mop up after us. Some liken
themselves to our mothers. And yet, while many of us may not even know their names, we all benefit from what they do.
These are the people who help to create a real community on campus, and who remind us that there’s more to university than just
students and teachers. At a time when each student is embarking on a journey towards independence, it is this sense of community
and support that makes it possible.
We talk to five people who help to make life at HKU just that little bit easier.
The mother of Swire Hall
Agnes Hio U
English Studies and Music, Year 3
To Lin Jie, Swire Hall is like a close family, and her relationship with the students is like a mother
to her children. As the hall’s Assistant Officer for more than two decades, Lin Jie has seen
thousands of young adults come and go. All, she says, provide her with happy memories.
“Seeing the boys and girls grow up during their years living here, then graduating,
accomplishing their dreams and serving the communities – gives me such happy returns and
some even came back to take wedding photos in Swire Hall.” she says.
Lin Jie still keeps contact with students from as far back as the 1980s, many who now have
their own family. She says she has been invited to a tuan nian fan (Lunar New Year Eve's
reunion dinner), and once to a boat trip.
Before joining Swire Hall, Lin Jie worked for six years as a cashier in HKU’s catering services.
Back then there was just one centralised canteen instead of the diverse, multi-cultural choices
that exist today. Once she moved to Swire Hall, she enjoyed the “close interactions and
mutual trust” she had with the students, and has been there ever since.
She views her role in the hall as one piece of a mosaic. Her responsibilities are countless: one
moment she may be calling for help to fix the hall’s internet connections and the next she’s
exchanging coins for students wishing to use the washing machines.
Lin Jie, the mother of Swire Hall.
Indeed, Lin Jie provides essential support for students’ everyday needs when they are learning to be independent. She recalls how she walked a
student to the Western Market to teach her what food to buy to make dessert for her floor-mates.
Hall culture, Lin Jie says, is an important part of university education. “Students begin with a new page of their lives when they first come to university,
so the more opportunities and resources one grabs, the more colorful these blank pages become.”
Having seen so many students come and go, what advice would she give to those now in Swire Hall and elsewhere? Take the initiatives and
responsibilities while at university, she says, but learn to manage your time or else the tower of work and fun will collapse.
Oh, and you should always listen to your mum.
page
Cover Story
dialogue01
2011-2012
A manager
prepared to get
his hands dirty
Yuki Cheung
Journalism, Year 2
Rummaging around in bags of garbage looking for an accidentally
discarded dental retainer is one experience Michael Tsang won’t forget
in a hurry. Mr Tsang, manager of the popular Maxim’s in the Chong Yuet
Ming Amenities Centre – known to most as CYM Can – recalls coming
to the aid of one panicked student customer.
“In almost 10 years of working at the canteen, my most unforgettable
experience is when one exchange student lost his teeth retainer after
leaving it on his plate,” says Mr Tsang. Knowing that retainers are
expensive and have to be tailor-made, and that the student might face
spending his entire exchange in Hong Kong without it, Mr Tsang set
about searching through bag after bag of food waste. Eventually he found
it, much to the relief of the student who couldn’t thank him enough.
Michael Tsang, manager of a university canteen,
or the lost and found specialist
Busy students often leave behind their possessions at the canteen, says
Mr Tsang. One even left a personal computer, but fortunately that didn’t
make it into the garbage.
Mr Tsang has been employed in the catering field for many years. What
makes working at HKU different from serving the general public is the
constant contact with students and the close relationships they build.
Mr Tsang says he doesn’t feel like any ordinary restaurant manager.
“Sometimes students approach me for advice on functions such as tea
gathering,” he says, “we’re like friends.”
As a new semester begins, Mr Tsang has mixed feelings. “It reminds me
that another year has passed,” he says, “but when I see new students
in T-shirts of their own hall or society colour gathering at the canteen, it
really livens me up.”
Sponsorship that comes with added cool
Yuki Cheung
Journalism, Year 2
It’s not just the excellent food or the convenient location that makes The
by providing food and beverages for their events. The Ice House may
Ice House so popular among HKU students. It’s also because of its vital
appear to be yet another local deli, but for students who need to find
sponsorship to many student activities.
refreshments for events such as inauguration ceremony, tea gathering or
“Frankly speaking, it all started as a marketing gimmick for promotion,”
says Tony Chong, owner of The Ice House. But, he adds, his fish-ball
rolls have since become something of an icon among students.
Tony Tam Chi-shing, Welfare Secretary of the Social Sciences
Society, HKUSU, certainly agrees. “Once you get to The Ice
House you just have to order a plate of fish-ball rolls,” says Tam.
“It’s an open secret among student associations.”
The Ice House, just five minutes’ walk from the HKU East Gate, is one
of the restaurants that provide sponsorship to student societies mainly
conference, it is a essential ingredient in their plans. A plate of fish-ball
rolls from The Ice House is simply a must-have item.
Mr Chong, who has been running The Ice House for two years, says it is
not only a strategy to expand customer base but also to create a binding
relationship between the students and the restaurant. “In our first year,
students made minimal contact with us, mostly for sponsorships,” says
Mr Chong. “But now we have so much interaction. We greet each other
like friends, even when they are just passing The Ice House on their way
to or from classes.”
Cover Story
Coming clean about university life
Rebecca Ng
Arts, Year 3
Wong Wai-ling may be regarded as one of the unsung heroes of HKU.
Ms Wong, known to friends and colleagues as Ling Jie, is a member
of that special group of worker who dedicate their lives to making ours
more tolerable. Many may not notice they are there, but everyone would
notice if they weren’t.
Ling Jie, an attendant in the Chong Yuet Ming Amenities Centre, has
worked at HKU for the past 16 years keeping the centre’s public areas
clean. She also assists in the booking of resources for various student
societies when storage rooms and carts are needed for activities such
as book fairs and variety shows.
Getting to know the members of student societies whom she comes into
contact with is the happiest part of her job, she says. “A lot of my young
friends are from student societies, such as the Business Association and
the Psychology Society, whose offices are located in the Amenities Centre. I
treat them as if they were my children, and I enjoy seeing them grow up and
graduate. A lot of them come back and visit me after graduation. They tell
me everything about their career and even show me pictures of their babies.”
Today, Ling Jie finds satisfaction in her job, but recalls a time when she
despised herself for the work she did. “I felt that cleaning toilets was a
lowly job, and I hated myself for having to do that,” she says. “But later
I found that I should respect myself even if no one respects me. No one
can ever use a clean toilet if there aren’t any cleaners. I don't steal, rob
or do anything dishonest to earn my living. I have always told my children
that even the lowliest workers in their schools deserve their respect.”
Having interacted with so many students over the years, Ling Jie has
encouraging words of advice for those lucky enough to enjoy university life.
It is a rare opportunity, she says,
and one that each student should
treasure.
“Getting into HKU is not easy,
and I am sure that it is not just
pure luck that has brought each
of you here,” she says. “Of
course, given that you have a
good education, you should not
be boastful. Some students may
think that graduation means total
success in life, but in fact, society
is much more complicated than
it may seem. Treasure what you
have now, and remember to treat
each person and task with a
serious attitude.”
Having spent 16 long
years assisting students,
Ling Jie, deser ves
everyone's respect.
Mr Chong says he probably sponsors more than 100 plates of fish-ball
rolls a year, and he is delighted to continue supporting student activities.
“I remember how surprised and touched the students were when I gave
out the food for the first time,” says Mr Chong. “I know it’s no easy task
for students to find sponsors.”
These days The Ice House is often crowded with groups of HKU
students, many in their distinctive coloured T-shirts representing different
halls and student bodies. “Whenever a new academic year starts,
senior students will bring along freshmen to The Ice House, maybe after
meetings or sports practice,” says Mr Chong. “I feel a sense of unity
among students when I see the restaurant is overwhelmed by them
wearing their colours.”
Remember Tong Chong, owner of The Ice House, for his
generous sponsorship of fish-ball rolls.
page
Cover Story
dialogue01
2011-2012
Social inclusion pays happy dividends
Joey Wong
BA (English Studies), Year 2
The University of Hong Kong is renowned for its academic achievement
and its historical monuments. But on a smaller level it has something of
which it can be equally proud of – the HEA Kiosk.
Located on the fourth floor of Meng Wah Complex and the third floor of
Chong Yuet Ming Amenities Centre, HEA Kiosk is an extension of the
HEA Concept Store which aims to promote a holistic lifestyle on campus.
It is stocked with books, environmental-friendly commodities, fair-trade
food items and handicrafts created by underprivileged communities .
As a social inclusion initiative between CEDARS and the New Life
Psychiatric Rehabilitation Association, HKU student volunteers work
alongside employees who are recovering from mental illness.
One such employee is Ah Chee. “At first, we worried that the volunteers
HEA Store at 4F. Meng Wah Complex
wouldn’t come regularly,” she says, “but more and more came and they
help us whenever they have time.”
With a grin on her face, Ah Chee recounts just what makes working at the kiosk so fulfilling. “When I am at
the counter, the students are already standing next to the staircase helping me to bring in more customers,”
she says. “They are energetic and motivated. All my happy memories come from the students. I am looking
forward to the start of the new semester when I will be working with them again.”
HEA Kiosk
Campus News
Residential Colleges: New residential
experience for students
Albert Chau
Dean of Student Affairs
The University is building four Residential Colleges on Lung Wah
Street, Kennedy Town, for 1,800 students. They will be completed in
the summer of 2012 providing much-needed residential places for the
double cohort of students of the 334 curriculum.
The Residential Colleges will have three distinctive features. First, as they
are located within Kennedy Town and next to many residential blocks,
students will have very close engagement with the community. Students
can use their knowledge and skills to help build a better community and
learn and grow in the process.
Second, there will be a strong intellectual and academic component.
Each Residential College will comprise half postgraduates and half
undergraduates, preferably those in the advance years of study. The
Master of each College, who will be a senior university academic, will
provide strong academic and intellectual leadership. Through activities
such as seminars, salons, talks and projects, students will together
embark on interesting intellectual journeys and explorations. Such
activities will also benefit the rest of the university community.
Third, the Residential Colleges will have strong representations of local,
mainland and overseas students. There will be a lot of in-depth cultural
exchange. The students could also help Kennedy Town to develop into
a multi-cultural community.
Of course, the Residential Colleges will build on the proud traditions of halls – helping students to build a
sense of identity, High Table Dinners, etc.
32o
A governance committee chaired by Pro-Vice-Chancellor Professor S.P. Chow has been set up. Each
Residential College may set up its own advisory committee to bring in extra community support and
ideas. Other members of the governance committee include academic staff, community leaders, the
Masters, and representatives of student residents and the HKU Students’ Union and Postgraduate
Student Association.
Halls have a long tradition in HKU. For a century, they have nurtured many leaders and provided a strong
base for students and alumni to identify with the university. Halls and Residential Colleges will provide a
complete range of residential experiences and work hand-in-hand in a complementary manner to achieve
students’ whole-person development. The University will try to secure the resources required by both the
Residential Colleges and Halls so they can both excel, albeit in different ways.
Notices to call for applications to the Residential Colleges will be issued in early May. Students may apply
to live in Halls and Residential Colleges and must make a choice should they be accepted for both.
Students will be assigned by CEDARS to a Residential College according to the criteria set down by the
governance committee and in consultation with the Masters. Priority of admission will be given to nonlocal students, students with no experience in Residential Colleges or Halls, and undergraduate students
in senior years.
50o
page
08
page
Campus News
dialogue01
2011-2012
Catering outlets and general amenities at
the Centennial Campus
Patrick Tang
Director of Campus Life, CEDARS
Students and staff members may be aware that five catering outlets and some general
amenities have been constructed at the Centennial Campus by the University’s Project
Group for Centennial Campus and Main Campus Development (Project Group).
CEDARS is pleased to provide an update of these new and much-needed facilities
and we are all looking forward to making use of them at the time when the University is
moving to the new four-year curriculum this autumn. Here is a brief description of the
plans for the catering outlets and general amenities on the new campus:
Location
Gross Area (sq.m)
Location HKU/Contract
Outlet A
220
LG / F
Contract out
CSA / CoC / CEDARS
Outlet B
140
G / F
Contract out
CSA / CoC / CEDARS
Outlet C
230
G / F
Contract out
CSA / CoC / CEDARS
Outlet D
180
G / F
Contract out
CSA / CoC / CEDARS
Outlet E
240
2 / F
SCR
SCRC
Catering Total
Quiet Room
70
LG / F
N/A
HKU / CEDARS
Travel Agency
40
LG / F
Contract out
HKU / CEDARS
Bank
100
G / F
Contract out
HKU
Emporium
110
G / F
Contract out
HKU / CEDARS
Book store + 130 + 450
G / F
Contract out
Learning Commons HKU-Bookstore
Committee
Fitness Centre
Amenities Total
Grand Total
Managing Authority
1,010
320
1 / F
N/A
HKU / IHP
770 + 450
1,780 + 450
Overview of Catering Outlets and General Amenities
Key:
CSA: Committee on Student Affairs
CoC: Committee on Catering
CEDARS: Centre of Development
and Resources for Students
IHP: Institute of Human Performance
SCR: Senior Common Room
SCRC: Senior Common Room
Committee
Campus News
09
page
Catering Outlets
In anticipation of increasing demand for meals on the Main Campus
and Centennial Campus (CC) from 2012, the University has planned five
brand new catering outlets at the CC, with a total gross area of 1,010
square metres.
Through the opinion poll “My Most-Wanted CC Eateries” conducted by
CEDARS in September 2010, students and staff conveyed their views
regarding the type of catering outlets they preferred at the Centennial
Campus.
After thorough discussions in various committees, such as the
Committee on Catering and the Committee on Student Affairs, the
recommendations for the various provisions, mode of operations and
type of food to be served at the respective outlets were consolidated by
the Project Group.
The Project Group has also decided that one of the outlets (location E)
will be assigned to the Senior Common Room in order to cope with
the needs of the increasing number of academic staff and research
postgraduates as well.
These new eateries will specialise in different delicacies with some degree
of differentiation from the existing catering outlets on the Main Campus.
The preferred specialties of the four general eateries mentioned above
are as follows (these however may be subjected to change based on the
operation proposals submitted by different bidders for the new outlets):
Outlet A: Pizza and pasta, light food and drinks, wine and beer (subject
to the availability of a liquor licence).
Outlet B: Fast food, sandwiches, chicken wings, fish and chips, light
drinks and beer (subject to the availability of a liquor licence).
Outlet C: Congee, dumplings and noodles (Guangdong style), drinks
and dim sum.
Outlet D: Sushi bar, health food, vegetarian/salads
General Amenities
Quiet Room
The furnishing of this room will create a relaxing atmosphere for
our student users. The room will be under the management of the
University.
Emporium
This will be a small retail outlet for consumers of the university
community. Items on sale will include daily necessities, etc. Students and
staff members will be consulted as to what items should be sold.
Travel Agency
Students who wish to make travel plans can come here for advice and
information as well as to make reservations for tickets, travel insurance
and overseas accommodation. Steps are being taken to approach
outside travel agents who will be interested in providing this service.
(Subject to the final approval of the Project Group)
Bookstore and Learning Commons
This facility will be run on more or less the same format as the existing
University Bookstore. Textbooks, stationery and books for leisure reading
will be available for sale. There will also be a learning commons to
provide a wide range of support services for students.
Bank
There will be banking services similar to the existing banks on the Main
Campus, including over-the-counter and ATM services.
Fitness Centre
This facility will be under the management of the Institute of Human
Performance, providing a range of fitness equipment items primarily for student
use. Courses will also be run to encourage students to keep fit and active.
Current Situation
The construction of the Centennial Campus is making good progress and a Tendering Exercise Working Group for the catering outlets has worked
on the requisite work in tendering exercise and the selections of appropriate operators. It is expected that the new eateries and the general amenities
will be in operation by
July / August 2012.
10
page
Campus News
dialogue01
2011-2012
Gala Dinner:
A night to remember
More than 4,500 University of Hong Kong alumni and friends gathered at the Hong Kong
Convention and Exhibition Centre last December for the university’s Centenary Gala Dinner
and a chance to celebrate their achievements, share memories and, most of all, enjoy a big
reunion.
Some 600 student volunteers acted as hosts, welcoming guests and helping the night to
pass off without a hitch. As student photographers documented the historic evening, five
student representatives took to the stage to share stories about their voluntary work
and a student group sang Brighten Me With Virtues, a song specially composed for
the centenary by Canto-pop icon and former HKU student Sam Hui.
CEDARS would like to thank all those involved for making the evening of 18
December, 2011, a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Here are a few thoughts
by some of those lucky enough to attend.
Luke gets his copy of
the evening’s programme signed by
Vice-Chancellor Professor Tsui Lap-chee
Luke Lee Tin-yan,
MBBS, Year 5
I was invited to deliver a speech to the thousands
of guests about a registered charity I helped to set
up. I wanted to inspire HKU alumni and students to join
similar humanity service projects and to give love and hope
to people in need. I was so nervous until I saw Hong Kong
Chief Executive Donald Tsang and other distinguished alumni
smiling and clapping wholeheartedly after my speech. I am
proud to be a HKU student and appreciate those who have
helped and supported HKU in the past. It was an honour to
meet Edward Yau, Secretary for the Environment, who
gave me sound advice and encouraged our team
members to keep up with our voluntary work.
Alexander Stotkiewitz, BSocSc (Political Science), Year 3
It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, especially for an exchange student like me, to
experience the university’s 100th anniversary from as many angles as possible. I was one of
14 student hosts who carried torches onto the main stage and handed them over to the ViceChancellor Professor Tsui Lap-chee, Hong
Kong Chief Executive Donald Tsang and other
honorable guests. I then spent the night running
around taking scores of photographs, talking to
guests, eating refreshments and enjoying some
of the very tasty centenary wine. My friend and
I passed the kitchen and asked for some desert.
We were denied by the first chef but the second gave us a plate each
and even some delicious chocolates meant for our VIP guests. I didn’t
find it too hard to forget about the final exam I had the day after and just
enjoyed the amazing night.
Alex (left) eyeing the anniversary cake before it was cut.
Campus News
11
page
Marcus and the hundreds of
other student hosts.
Marcus Daniel Chi, MBBS, Year 1
I signed up to be a student host at the gala dinner as soon as I saw the email from CEDARS because as a proud member of
the HKU family, it almost feels mandatory to take part in our centenary. I was tasked with selling fair-trade food and tea to
guests. Quite a few guests were lost before the event started and I had the opportunity to take them to different
places and talk with them. Singing the centenary song, composed by Sam Hui, as the ceremony began
was definitely a proud collective moment. I think I must have entered HKU in a lucky year.
Jessy Chen Si, BBA (LAW), Year 2
As an HKU student, it was my honour to join the gala dinner
to celebrate the glory and heritage of the university. I was
nervous and excited when I, together with four other student
representatives, got on stage and shared our experience of
volunteering to promote the spirit of serving others. I felt the night
was a family reunion and I made a lot of new friends, too. Later,
I strolled along University Drive and took photos of the beautiful
backdrops that recreated scenes of the campus from the past.
Cheers! Students soak up the centenary atmosphere at the Global Lounge
Sam Poon, Catering Manager, CEDARS
Jessy at the replica Lily Pond.
Photo provided by the Development & Alumni Affairs Office
More than 250 students and staff joined the campus party at the Global Lounge.
They were generally excited about the centenary celebration and could sense the
atmosphere from the main venue via the live webcast. Students mingled, chatted
and enjoyed the food and Champagne. The party ended with a lucky draw and
everyone shouted for their number. It was a blast, a perfect way to chill-out after
intense exams.
page
In Dialogue
dialogue01
2011-2012
Foreign affairs: Matching expectations
with the realities of university life
Joey Wong
BA (English Studies), Year 2
Hong Kong, known as the Pearl of the Orient, is a land of opportunity with vibrant cultures
and connections to cities all around the world. A place where old meets new, and east meets
Helpful
Resources
for non-local
students at
the University
of Hong Kong
west, Hong Kong is the place to be if you are an adolescent searching for a bright future.
Like many hardworking students with ambition, Lily Ke, a second-year exchange student
from Sichuan, decided to pursue her tertiary degree at HKU. “I chose the University of Hong
Kong because of its excellent reputation and, of course, because of Hong Kong,” she says.
“To students in Sichuan, Hong Kong is the place where all young people with aspirations
would like to go.”
Ranked by Quacquarelli Symonds as Asia’s top university, the University of Hong Kong
attracts foreign and local students who come to meet like-minded people, gain a quality
education and embark on a stellar career path. Foreign students flock to “Asia’s World City”
full of hope and to integrate themselves into an international community. They are ready for
Hong Kong, but is Hong Kong ready for them?
Surprisingly, for mainlander Lily, language was the first challenge she faced in her new
Whether it’s adjusting to life in general or
finding the best student club to get you started
in university life, CEDARS is the ultimate
resource centre for newcomers to HKU.
For accommodation problems, they
provide:
．Information on different types of
accommodation, guidance to different hall
cultures and resident-housing matching
services.
For language barriers, they provide:
．Tailor-made Putonghua and Chinese courses
for non-local students.
For meeting new friends, they provide:
．Fun-filled orientation activities including
cultural adjustment sessions, a library tour, a
city tour and outings.
For adjusting to university life, they provide:
．Counselling services to guide you through the
ups and downs.
For getting around Hong Kong, they
provide:
．Geographical and climate information, travel
tips and more.
To get the help you need today, visit
www.cedars.hku.hk
environment. “Language is a hard-fought problem to me,” says Lily. “I didn’t get much out
of the Cantonese courses provided by the university and students here are reluctant to fill a
whole conversation with Putonghua.”
In Dialogue
Julian Gaertner, a German fresh graduate from the Faculty of Social
Sciences, echoes Lily's opinion. He says HKU students and Hong Kong
people in general are quite shy and hesitant to initiate conversations in
languages other than Cantonese.
Describing himself as a person driven by gut feeling, Julian took a
different approach to overcome this barrier. He used Putonghua he
learned in Shenzhen and took Cantonese lessons to bridge the gap
with Hong Kong students. “My conversations would be made up of
Putonghua, Cantonese, English and sign language but it’s fine, as long
attracted students such as Lily and Julian. However, a coin has two
as we are communicating and making progress,” he says. Learning
sides, and with flexibility comes self-dependence. To Lily, typical
opportunities are endless, he adds, spelling out the first rule of coping at
assignments here – research papers and essays – are tricky tasks.
HKU – the doors to social or self-enriching opportunities in Hong Kong
“I wish there was a mentor system for freshman which could guide
are always open to people who are willing to take the plunge and be
students step by step towards good essay writing. It was a big challenge
proactive.
for me,” she says.
For freshmen, locals and foreigners alike, university halls and orientation
Although the assessment methods may not be everyone’s cup of tea,
camps are their first steps in their university lives. Lily and Julian call
help given by professors and tutors is appreciated by these foreign
their university halls home but they also admit their first few months
students. “All of my queries are met with detailed advice,” Lily says. “Their
there overwhelming. “Meetings start at midnight and sleeping at 3am
eagerness to help has greatly reduced my anxiety.”
is the norm,” Lily says. “I have to wear my earplugs to study in peace.
It is very different to my lifestyle in Hangzhou.” Julian adds that there is
one positive aspect to this unusual sleeping pattern. “Now I can sleep
anytime, anywhere, instantly!” he says.
Cliques exist no matter how welcoming a community may be. In fact, the
more diverse the society, the more groups that are likely to be created.
Groups among the students tend to form according to nationality and
can become small, separate communities which seldom interact.
“It took much courage and effort but I am proud that I have spent my
years in hall and university as one of those who bridged the groups and
was friendly with them all,” says Julian. When asked about finding true
friends in a foreign land, Julian says that friendships are built with trust,
time and effort that can embrace different nationalities.
Julian, for one, has decided to try to make his mark in Hong Kong.
“The degree at HKU has been an investment and the diversity of Hong
Kong has taught me many lessons,” he says. “There are many exciting
opportunities I want to explore.”
But many foreign students express concern about starting their life in
Hong Kong after graduation. They say the cosmopolitan and diverse
nature of Hong Kong that attracted them in the first place offers many
opportunities but little security or sense of acceptance.
Some decide to leave and some decide to stay but all agree that Hong
Kong does not disappoint. Some experiences may not match expectations
and challenges have to be overcome, but Hong Kong is a place of
discovery and vibrancy where exciting opportunities are often around the
corner and support is always at hand – for those who look for it.
Studying in a foreign setting throws up its own challenges. Teaching
methods adopted by HKU are described by the students as “flexible”,
“student-oriented” and “thought-provoking”, characteristics that
Do you have any suggestions about how students from different
cultural backgrounds can adapt better to life in Hong Kong and
HKU? Send us your comments to “HKU-CEDARS Fans Zone”
www.facebook.com/hkucedars.fans
14
page
On Campus
dialogue01
2011-2012
Tips for freshmen
Need a helping hand?
How and where
to get advice
Rebecca Ng
Arts, Year 3
Some say university life is fun, but others feel confused because they are
suddenly faced with many choices. Some say academic excellence is not
their only pursuit, while others worry about their academic performance.
So if they are feeling a little lost, who can give them sound advice?
This issue’s Dialogue introduces two supporting units on campus where
advice can be sought. We talk to Katherine Wan, Head of the Academic
Advising Office (AAO), and Dr Eugenie Leung, Director of Counselling
and Personal Enrichment (CoPE) of Centre of Development and
Resources for Students (CEDARS).
and SIS frequently. You
1. Login to HKU Portal
details of your Faculty
may check the contact
. Als o, loo k out for
Ac ade mic Ad vis er via SIS
AAO and CEDARS so
emails and flyers from the
ant news or learning
you don’t miss any import
opportunities.
may also be of use.
2. The CEDARS website
l fac ilita te a sm oo th
Int ere stin g act ivit ies wil
. Joi nin g one of the ir
tra nsi tion into uni ver sity
“sixth thing” you can do
programmes may be the
ku.hk
at university. www.cedars.h
A student’s struggle with academics may be intertwined with family
problems, problems in love relationships, or other sources of emotional
distress. Some simply find it difficult to figure out their direction in
life. Some lack the motivation to study or are suffering from internet
addiction.”
Dr Leung also mentions that inter-personal relationships, especially
inter-cultural one, and adjustment difficulties are prevalent among those
The term “academic advising” may sound familiar, as each faculty
provides guidelines on proper procedures for course selection, major
and minor requirements and various academic issues.
“The Senate endorsed the implementation of a university-wide academic
advising system and the setting up of an Academic Advising Office at
its March 2011 meeting” says Katherine Wan. “The four-year curriculum
that is to be introduced in 2012 and the revised three-year curriculum in
the current academic year are different from the old curriculum. The new
curricula allow students greater flexibility in choosing courses. They may
choose many inter-faculty courses and have a major or minor discipline
outside their home faculty.” Moreover, in September 2012, HKU are
anticipating two cohorts of students coming to HKU – the last cohort of
Form 7 graduates and the first cohort of sixth-form graduates under the
new 334 Scheme. Ms Wan believes that students need more advice and
support to navigate their journey through the university.
Apart from seeking help and advice from teachers, Ms Wan says the
AAO can assist students in understanding university requirements,
course enrolment procedures and different academic options. “Some
students may find that they are interested in majors outside their home
faculty, and some may even consider transferring to a different faculty.
Our office can give more information about inter-faculty majors and
minors, and guide them on things they should consider before making
academic decisions. With the changes in the undergraduate curriculum,
taking courses across faculties is more common. Understanding the new
curriculum structure, the graduation requirements and related regulations
become all the more important.”
However, in certain cases, academic issues may not be the only things
that trouble students. “An academic problem – for instance, a drop in
grades – may be indicative of other non-academic problems,” says
CoPE’s Dr Eugenie Leung. “My department offers non-academic advice.
Ms Katherine Wan and Dr Eugenie Leung are here to help.
who need counselling. In other words, if one finds that the root of an
academic problem lies in an emotional or motivational issue, talking
to a counsellor from CEDARS may help. In addition, CoPE organises
workshops on time management, stress management, dating, and other
issues.
A problem may have multiple causes, and the AAO and CEDARS work
closely together to advise those in need. The two parties may refer
students to each other so they can receive advice on a range of issues.
“Services in HKU are like a buffet,” Dr Leung concludes, “You have to
know how much you need, and the best way to enjoy it is to try a bit of
everything.”
On Campus
The Advising System: How it works
1) Faculties
Faculty Academic Advisers are teachers appointed by faculties to act as academic advisers. They are assigned to a group of students
in their own faculty and are responsible for providing advice and guidance. Each faculty has appointed a Faculty Academic Advising Coordinator to oversee the implementation of the academic advising system.
Another aspect of faculty-level advising is the recruitment of Faculty Student Advisers. Faculties recruit current students with a good
academic record, sound communication skills and a caring attitude. They will assist in providing information and advice to new
students from 2012.
2) Academic Advising Office (AAO)
The AAO works closely with faculties, halls and CEDARS in implementing a university-wide academic advising system. It supports the
work of the University Academic Advising Committee which oversees all university academic advising initiatives, and provides training
and sharing of good practices to Faculty and Student Advisers. The Academic Advisers and experienced administrative staff of the
AAO are ready to guide students on university rules and regulations, academic matters and other inter-faculty issues.
3) CEDARS
The professional counsellors and psychologists from CEDARS offer counselling for students with personal, emotional, relationship
and family distress, whether or not these issues are related to the academic arena. Student Advisors of CEDARS also provide various
services such as career advising, financial management, personal development and other learning opportunities. Some Student
Advisors provide specialized advice, for example, staff from Accessibility Support serve students with physical or learning disabilities,
like dyslexia, who may need learning aids or special arrangements for learning and examinations.
4) Halls
A residence-based advising system is planned for 2012 with Residential Student Advisers (RSAs) appointed by hall wardens. RSAs
are senior students in halls and will advise freshmen who study in the same faculty on learning matters, particularly on how to strike a
balance between hall life and academic pursuit.
5) Web
A new academic advising website http://aao.hku.hk has been launched. The website contains relevant and useful information and
serves as the first point of contact for students looking for academic guidance. Academic Advising tools have also been added in the
SIS (Student Information System).
15
page
16
page
On Campus
dialogue01
2011-2012
Checklist for you:
“Five Must Dos” of HKU
Rebecca Ng
Arts, Year 3
The famous “Five Must Dos” of HKU (or some simply call them “Five Things of HKU”) are studying
well, experiencing hall life, taking a part-time job, becoming executive committee member of a
student society and having a romantic relationship. But is that all to university life? Students face
many choices and they may seek advice from others before making decisions. Four students
share their thoughts on university life, making choices, seeking advice, and looking to the future.
Mei Li Bacani, Arts, Year 1
Jin Ke, Public Finance, Year 2
I would like to do two of the “Five Things of HKU”: to experience hall
life and take up a part-time job. As I like writing, I would also like to
work in the library. I’d like to understand more about university life in
Hong Kong. I do need to get advice from people, and I contact my
faculty’s office staff when I have queries on general issues.
Among the “Five Things of HKU”, I would like to experience hall life.
I want to make many friends—friends from mainland China, Hong
Kong and from different countries. I hope to get advice from senior
students and professors. I am thinking about what to do with my life,
whether to pursue further studies abroad or get a job after graduation.
Xia Chuan Li, Journalism, Year 2
Augustine Hung, Translation, Year 3
Among the “Five Things of HKU”, I would like to get a part-time job.
As a visiting student, I also want to travel and visit different places
in Hong Kong. And I do hope to get advice from the alumni of HKU
who have already got a stable and successful career. I’m sure they
will give me tips on how to choose a suitable job.
I have already had the experience of getting a part-time job and
being an executive committee member of a student society. Beyond
the “Five Things”, I also had a good experience in Finland during my
exchange semester. I like to plan university life on my own rather
than seeking advice, though. One may listen to lots of different
advice, but in the end, how to live is one’s own choice.
On Campus
Wayne Yeung
Year 3, Arts
What else beyond the
“Must Dos” ?
Agnes Hio U
English Studies and Music, Year 3
Tw o t h i n g s a r e
constantly bothering
me lately: submitting
m y t h e s i s p ro p o s a l
and fulfilling all the
credit requirements so
I can go on exchange
in Canada in the final
semester. So, my next
academic year will
c o n t i n u e t o re v o l v e
around these two aims.
Mandy Lai
Litchi Ling
My next stop will be working in public dental
hospitals in Africa and experiencing an
exotic safari. I also want to experience living
in a hall, as I haven’t had the chance in the
past few years.
I have done quite a lot of different types of
social services throughout the past year and
visited Finland, Estonia and Africa as well.
Having spent my past two semesters doing
voluntary work, choral singing and part-time
jobs, I really hope to put more effort into my
studies as I will be graduating this year.
Year 5, Dental Surgery
Year 2, MPhil (Social Work)
Krithika Chandra Mouli
Year 2, BEng (EComE)E
Tonya Yam
Year 1, Education (Liberal Studies)
I hadn’t heard of the Five Must-dos – until now.
For me, being a part of hall culture is top of
my priority at the moment, because I believe
the more time you devote to something,
the happier you will be. Being able to go on
exchange is my other target, for sure.
Dicky Cheung
Li Meng de Bakker
Year 2, BBA (Law)
Year 3, Arts
I am planning to launch my own business,
which provides free printing service on
campus. This goal will keep me busy since
running a business requires a strong and
cohesive team. With four more years to go, I
will prioritize the Five Must-dos, selecting and
discarding some of them. You cannot have
all things at the same time or you risk losing
all of them. But there is a constant goal I
keep in mind: to be more open-minded to
new ideas and new people I meet.
Of course my priority will be to improve my
grades so that the chance of getting into postgraduate studies will be higher. However,
I also want to make time for an internship
this semester as this is also very important. I
am planning to take advanced scuba-diving
lessons through the IHP (Institute of Human
Performance). Before I graduate, I’d like to
spend a night in the 24-hour study room, as I
have never tried “sleeping over” in there.
Apart from managing my academic studies,
I would like to stay active in different kinds of
projects, events or societies, so that I might
have the chance to develop leadership skills
and cultural awareness. This is one of the
reasons why I joined the Student Ambassador
Scheme and Union Choir last year. So, grab
the opportunities while you’re at HKU, but
manage your time.
page
5Ws 1H
dialogue01
2011-2012
Don’t stop the presses:
The challenges facing campus media
Gathering information and publishing it in an informative and entertaining way has been the goal of journalists for centuries. In an era of internet
and instant messaging, the challenge for traditional media has been brought sharply into focus.
Whether it’s informing students through Campus TV or expressing different perspectives through the various student publications, the university’s
print and television media fight a constant battle for the attention of its young, tech-savvy audience.
Here, students running some of HKU’s media on campus outline the challenges they face in keeping the university informed.
Campus TV, HKUSU
Yuki Cheung
Journalism, Year 2
Facts at a glance
What is it? A student body making regular productions including news, advertisements,
TV episodes and informative programmes in order to disseminate campus information.
When did it start? 1989.
How is it viewed? Via eight TVs installed on campus.
Website: www.youtube.com/hkcampustv
High schools and universities over the world have student bodies that broadcast news and
events on campus. But what makes Campus TV at HKU so special is its inseparable relationship
with the 1989 democracy movement in Beijing and the events surrounding Tiananmen Square
leading up to June 4 that year.
Little information was released by authorities as students seeking democratic reforms in China
gathered in Tiananmen Square in 1989. Some concerned HKU students volunteered to take
video cameras to Beijing to record the truth. The video they sent back aroused a great deal of
attention among HKU students. They learned what was happening in Beijing by watching real
images and listening to genuine sound. People realised the importance of visual-audio media,
and Campus TV, HKUSU was established, soon after, in November 1989.
As Chairman of Campus TV, HKUSU, Felix Au Ka-chun’s aim is to spread campus information to
students and monitor works of university staff and student organisations. Felix says the biggest
hindrance to reaching this goal is the resistance from respondents. Attempts to discuss sensitive
issues with the university, such as school policy, grade point averages, the exchange system and
curriculum reform in different faculties, are often met with a lack of cooperation. “I can only get
little information when we are making our news productions,” says Felix.
However, with the strong belief that Campus TV is here to help, and spurred by its links to the
unforgetable year of 1989, all those involved will continue to try their best to gather and broadcast
important information to their fellow students.
We disseminate information
on university affairs to
students and enhance
communication on campus.
5Ws 1H
page
Politika
Yuki Cheung
Journalism, Year 2
Facts at a glance
What is it? A journal of the Politics and Public Administration Association, Social Sciences
Society, HKUSU containing academic articles and interviews on a particular theme written
by academics, politicians and students from institutions around the world.
When did it start publishing? 1979.
How often? Annually, around Novemember.
Politika, the annual journal of the Politics and Public Administration Association (PPAA), Social
Sciences Society, HKUSU, faces restrictions that are no different from those confronting most
publications. “I have often dreamed of publishing coloured versions of the magazine, yet this is
likely to be impossible due to our limited budget,” says Amanda Zhang, Publication Secretary
of the PPAA.
Nevertheless, Politika stands out from many of its peers due to its academic nature and the
insightful views of its contributors, who are mainly well-known and experienced academics
and politicians from around the world. It is Politika’s content that sets it apart.
Despite financial constraints, time pressure as deadlines
approach and the juggling of numerous other commitments,
Amanda’s passion to produce a high-quality student publication,
coupled with the support of her fellow members of the executive
committee, ensures that this prestigious publication hits the
shelf on time, continuing to provoke thought and discussion
throughout the campus.
Politika, the think tank of HKU
20
page
5Ws 1H
dialogue01
2011-2012
Undergrad
Yuki Cheung
Journalism, Year 2
Facts at a glance
What is it? A magazine published by an independent editorial board and circulated
campus-wide. It focuses on social issues and university life.
When did it start publishing? 1952.
How often: Without a fixed schedule.
For a publication with the name Undergrad, it is somewhat ironic that its Assistant Editor-inChief, Harold Chiu, struggles to get HKU undergraduates involved. Students tend to contribute
very few articles and the number of people willing to join the editorial board is declining.
“We are neither professional reporters nor editors,” admits Harold, “Our reports may seem
immature in the eyes of readers, particularly senior students and professors.”
But the belief that they are doing something right and meaningful, and that the articles deliver
fresh perspectives on a range of issues provide the production team motivation to keep the
59-year-old student magazine circulating among HKU students.
Working on Undergrad also gives a front-seat view of news events and allows contributors to
interpret them in their own way. Harold recalls the street rally of July 1 last year in which Hong
Kong citizens protested over a number of social and political issues.
“The scenarios we saw were different from those portrayed by the mass media,” he says. “We
were all touched by the protestors’ passion and cooperation, whether we agreed with their
views or not. We used our own words to reflect what we saw that night and were glad to share
these experiences with our fellow students.”
Think carefully,
speak courageously.
5Ws 1H
Voice
Yuki Cheung
Journalism, Year 2
Facts at a glance
What is it? A magazine published by the Social Sciences Society, HKUSU to promote the
study of social science and keep members updated with the society’s news.
When did it start publishing? 1968.
How often? Twice a year.
Website: www.hku.hk/ssshkusu
As the official publication of the Social Sciences Society (SSS), HKUSU, Voice is a newsletter
focusing on the society’s news and current social issues. It publishes articles contributed by
the society’s executive committee and its members, and is distributed as one of the society's
welfare products.
The process involved in producing the magazine is a long one, from deciding on a theme for
each issue to contacting and conducting interviews, writing and editing the articles, proofreading
and printing. “When I finally see the raw information that has taken weeks to be turned into
printed copies of the magazine, solid and real, it’s like giving birth to a baby,’’ says Emena San
Man-mak, Publications Secretary of SSS. “The satisfaction is more than words can describe.”
However, maintaining readership of the magazine is a difficult task,
especially when there are many other publications on offer from numerous
academic societies and clubs. That’s why feedback from readers, whether
positive or negative, really helps to inspire those who work at Voice to
continue striving for the best in each and every issue.
Let your voice be heard.
page
Culture
dialogue01
2011-2012
What makes an artist?
Artist Simon Birch ponders, what exactly, constitutes the most important
moment of his week. Sometimes, he says, it’s “just a single brush
stroke”. For Birch, however, those brush strokes can fuse into works of
art that now sell for US$100,000. Not a bad return for someone whose
profession also happens to be his passion, who is truly engaged by his
work. Few are as lucky.
Hard work may lead to success, but how many successful people are
stuck in professions they don’t really enjoy? And how many students
graduate with a head full of knowledge and a job waiting at a consulting
firm but still with no idea about what will make them happy?
“To some extent we are all irrational by doing something we don’t really
love,” says Birch, a British artist who has been based in Hong Kong since
1997. “Although life tried to distract me many times, the thread of artistic
production was always there. I had many years when I did other things to
survive, but I'm grateful that I eventually found a way to pursue this life.
Julian Gaertner
Journalism, Year 3
“We're all artists on some level,” he adds, perhaps a way of consolation
to those less lucky. “We all engage in creativity even if the day job
doesn't reflect that.” For all things in life, you get out of it what you
put in, says the self-taught artist, who sold his first painting in 2003
– for US$500 – but who now holds exhibitions regularly and has an
advertising contract with Lane Crawford. “We should all be allowed to
pursue the things that genuinely engage us. It's a shame there are so
many things stopping people from getting to that place.”
Graduates of HKU, just like students all over the world, often end up
in a very different “place” to where they thought they were heading to.
Former HKU Psychology and English Literature student Mabel Cheung
knows about this as she is now an internationally recognised awardwinning film-maker.
Cheung had taken part in the 2011 University Artists Scheme under
which HKU invites a number of outstanding artists to exchange ideas
Artworks by visual artist Simon Birch thanks to his ever-present "thread of artistic production"
Culture
page
"We're all artists on some level", says Birch.
with students through lectures, workshops and a short film competition.
It is an ideal forum to help young artists of all fields to, as Birch says,
keep the thread of artistic production and pursue an artistic life.
Other Hong Kong universities have taken their own invitatives to provide
support for students and local artists in recent years. The Hong Kong
Baptist University renovated an old British military office into The Academy
of Visual Arts. The Chinese University of Hong Kong has revised and
improved its fine-arts programmes while the City University of Hong Kong
has just launched a media arts research lab. At the same time, a number of
internationally recognised arts schools are opening branches in Hong Kong.
Undoubtedly, much of this is in anticipation of the West Kowloon Cultural
District, which will open in 2015, and the Hong Kong government’s
initiative to turn Hong Kong into “Asia’s creative capital”. Yet, creativity
isn’t just restricted to the visual arts.
“Art cannot be categorised in one faculty. Any type of leadership is an
art form,” says Professor Kam Louie, Dean of the Faculty of Arts at HKU.
“What we are looking for is to produce good arts administrators and
widen the horizon of the students. The Faculty of Arts is not the APA
[Academy for Performing Arts], being a BA graduate,” he adds, “means
you can be anything you want. Many industries have a dead end. It is
quite common for people to have several jobs until they settle for one.”
And don’t forget, says Dr Yoshiko Nakano, the Associate Dean of the
Faculty of Arts at HKU, who is in charge of outreach and development
programmes, that you can still be a part-time artist when you become
an administrator or a banker. “There are roles to play between people
who are critiquing art and people who are performing art,” she says.
Professor Kam Louie and Dr Yoshiko Nakano of the Faculty of Arts at HKU
One body that certainly excels at inspiring creative minds is the HKU’s
Department of Music. “We encourage students to join competitions and
productions,” says Dr Chan Hing-yan, a professor and composer in
the department. “It is this kind of creative work that students need. We
want our students to interact with international artists and professional
musicians at a very early stage.”
Daniel Lo, a master's student in the Department of Music, recently won
a number of international competitions with his musical ensemble that
mixes Indonesian gamelans with drums and piano. “You won’t find any
other piece using this instrumentation”, he says with pride.
Daniel switched his major from Biochemistry early in his studies. It was
a bold move, yet, he seems more than content with his decision. “I want
my music to be heard,” he says. It seems he wouldn't let anything stop
him from getting there.
Daniel Lo wowed the world with his creative composition of Indonesian musical
instrument.
page
Culture
dialogue01
2011-2012
Arts events in HK
Julian Gaertner
Journalism, Year 3
Speak up!
Everyone is invited to share experiences or exhibit at Speak up! This artist networking gathering every first Wednesday
of the month, has become a hub for the creative scene. Speak up! has helped a number of artistic projects to get
recognised, such as the popular web series Lumina and comedy groups like CB Fresh. It also supports the making of
feature films such as the upcoming Supercapitalist.
www.artisteventscompany.com
Alivenotdead.com
Originating from the mockmentary boy-band project of artors Daniel Wu and Terrance Yin. Alivenotdead.com (AnD) is a
web portal for artists and their fans. The idea was to use online media to strengthen artist communities in Hong Kong.
The site now contains more than1,700 official artist profiles and attracts more than 500,000 users and fans from around
the world. You can sign up at any time but the portal itself defines an artist as someone who is working full-time in a
profession listed under the creative industries.
www.alivenotdead.com
CreateHK
This is an agency set up by the Hong Kong government’s Commerce and Economic Development Bureau to lead,
champion and drive Hong Kong to become Asia’s creative capital. Its CreateSmart Initiative provides funding for
projects the agency considers to be promoting the arts in Hong Kong. The agency also helps you to boost your work
locally and abroad.
www.createhk.gov.hk
The Hong Kong Arts Development Council
The ADC is a statutory body set up by the Hong Kong government to plan, promote and support the development of
local arts. It organises a number of competitions, such as the Fresh Wave Short Film Competition, and helps graduates
secure art-related internships in their field of interest under the Cultural Internship Scheme.
www.hkadc.org.hk
Arts
events
Hong Kong
Vox Pop
Welcome to my world
Agnes Hio U
English Studies and Music, Year 3
Life at HKU isn’t just about attending lectures and tutorials. University is about experiencing a wide
range of activities and meeting numerous challenges, all of which can make time spent on campus
appear to fly. We asked some HKU students about their typical day.
Emily Chan, BBA (Law), Graduate
Life at HKU is very colourful. As the 3rd-year representative of BBA students, I discussed school
policy administration with our faculty staff in the morning. Lunchtime was exciting as I participated
in a campus public-policy forum. Afterwards, I went to CEDARS for a final rehearsal of a drama
for the Robert F. Kennedy Centre for Justice and Human Rights, in which I played the role of a
female farmer fighting for equality and rights. A discussion about homework with my coursemates over an evening snack in the campus canteen marked the end of a perfect day.
Simon Luk, MBBS, Year 5
My day started by saying ‘hi’ to my German floor-mate in Starr Hall – it was nice to know what he
likes for breakfast. After finishing my lessons at 5pm I had a meeting with my colleagues from the
Medical Society, HKUSU, about the High Table Dinner. The meeting really was a lot of fun. The
evening was like a symphony of activities studying, chatting with my room-mate and messing
around with other friends on our floor. It had been a fruitful and beautiful day.
Cynthia Huang, Social Science, Year 3
Usually, I attend my lectures with the notes I print out after breakfast. Then I have lunch and
spend some quality time with my friends at Starbucks before attending my tutorial class at 2pm.
Our conversations usually revolve around the activities held at Sun Yat-sen Place. After class, I
always carry out research and complete my required reading at the Main Library. Sometimes in
the evening I go to hip-hop dance session with other DANSO members at the KKL building. It is
the highlight of my campus life.
Pauline Lui, BBA (Law), Graduate
Strolling through pathways from West Gate to Meng Wah Complex is always a joyful start of the
day as I meet a lot of friends on my way. It’s the most direct way to get campus news and learn
about any special offers. Between lessons, I usually go to the library or Starbucks with my friends
for a quick revision and last-minute preparation for lessons. Sun Yat-sen Place, or "Happy Park"
is the loveliest place in HKU, and where I always go to recharge, physically and mentally, in the
sunshine.
page
See, Saw, Seen
dialogue01
2011-2012
Photo story on
the Philippines
Julian Gaertner
Journalism, Year 3
I first visited the land of the 7,107 islands in 2005, and I
was fascinated by the country’s history, its people and the
pure beauty of its nature.
Ever since, I have been to the Philippines many times,
travelling on the back of colourful, popular motor-tricycles
called Jeepneys, and even in three-hulled fishing boats.
This time, I got myself a motorbike, which turned out to
be the perfect mean of transportation to navigate the
often steep and rocky roads that connect the stunning
countryside of the remote Busuanga Island in northern
Palawan.
In September 1944, Busuanga’s Coron Bay was the site of
a United States Navy air raid on a Japanese ships shelter.
Today, 12 ship wrecks are home to myriad species of fish,
making it a popular attraction for scuba divers.
use of a smile…
oment lasts beca
Sometimes a m
Busuanga is an ideal destination to explore the beauty
above and below sea level. Please enjoy these images that
capture the essence of the fascinating country.
jam.
ts because of a traffic
And sometimes it las
Enjoy fresh BBQ fish and snacks from the local store before
getting back on the road.
page
See, Saw, Seen
dialogue01
2011-2012
You can't define where the Earth ends and Heaven begins.
A young kid who
The water is so cle
ar that jumping in be
comes an urge.
It' s no t unus ua
l to have vil lag
er s
Philippines happ
en outside. These wave at yo u as m os t of th e liv
girls are just retur
es in th e
ning home from
school.
surprises with his
maturity.
See, Saw, Seen
leads through green
The journey begins on rough roads that
d.
of Busuanga Islan
planes
Reaching places where hum
an impact is still minimal.
Once it gets dark, a pleasant place in town to sleep
is all that matters.
page