In a heartfelt tribute, former legislator and social worker Siu Ka Chun passed away on January 10th due to stomach cancer at the age of 55. Siu Ka Chun, who dedicated his life to caring for the disadvantaged, embarked on a colorful journey that included roles as a university lecturer, legislator, social activist, and founder of the organization “Stoneflower” to advocate for prisoners’ rights. Despite his passing, his impact on society and the lives he touched continue to resonate deeply amongst those who knew him.
Born into a humble family in Kwai Chung, Siu Ka Chun grew up in the Shui Yam Estate and attended Ho-Fung College and Pentecostal Yu Chun Keung Memorial College. Despite facing academic challenges, he persevered and eventually graduated from the Social Work program at Baptist University in 1989. He dedicated over a decade to youth outreach work in the New Territories West, including mentoring a young student named Wong Tsz Kwong, who would later become a renowned director. Siu Ka Chun’s compassionate and unconventional approach to his work earned him the endearing nickname of “an extraordinary social worker.”
Siu Ka Chun’s career spanned various roles ranging from social worker and writer to legislator and radio program host. His commitment to advocacy extended beyond his community work to addressing broader social issues. He believed in the importance of engaging people from all walks of life, from grassroots individuals to celebrities, in discussions on societal challenges.
His involvement in social issues heightened over the years, leading him to become a familiar face at social movements. From advocating for a minimum wage increase to supporting disadvantaged groups like the homeless and prisoners, Siu Ka Chun’s dedication to promoting social justice was unwavering.
In 2016, Siu Ka Chun was elected as a legislator representing the social welfare sector, advocating for marginalized groups such as prisoners, recipients of Comprehensive Social Security Assistance, and the homeless. However, his political career was not without challenges. In 2019, he was sentenced to eight months in jail for his participation in the Umbrella Movement, a pro-democracy protest.
During his time in prison, Siu Ka Chun continued to show compassion towards fellow inmates, founding the organization “Stoneflower” to support social activists behind bars. Despite facing adversity, he remained resolute in his pursuit of justice and human rights for all.
In his final days battling stomach cancer, Siu Ka Chun remained steadfast in his beliefs, leaving behind a legacy of courage and resilience. His unwavering spirit and dedication to social justice serve as a reminder of the impact one individual can make in the world.
As we reflect on Siu Ka Chun’s life, let us remember his words: “I am losing weight, not faith.” His legacy will continue to inspire and guide us as we navigate the challenges of our time, reminding us to always seek light in the darkness and to never lose hope in the face of adversity.