If you are a student studying Clinical Medicine in JNU International School, you must have heard about Dr. Wong Kiu Fung. The famous alumnus has not only been known for his achievements in the medical field, but his active extension of a helping hand to his fellow juniors who wish to be as prominent as him in the future.

But how well do you actually know about Dr. Wong?

Dr. Wong’s Chinese characters were adapted from the late legendary author Louis Cha (Jin-yong)’s book “Demi-Gods and Semi-Devils” (Tianlongbabu), to which he explained, “My father wants me to be as admirable as Qiaofeng in the story, for his generosity and chivalry. Of course, not in Kungfu, but rather, in saving lives.” However, something noteworthy is that Dr. Wong originally wanted to study space engineering and develop future advancements that can strengthen the technology and defence of our nation. Until one day, he came across an article written by Mr. Sun Yat-sen, he decided to be a doctor, especially under the influence of his father. “Nothing brings me greater joy than knowing that I can save a patient. That is definitely true once I have begun my medical career.”

Nevertheless, for every hero in the story, they must have had a rough start. Dr. Wong recalled his feelings of being lost and confused during 2004 fall. He found it hard to adapt, and didn’t we all? Yet he never gave up.

“I deeply appreciate my professors, especially Dr.LiuKaishanwho taught my Pathology. You know that once we’ve completed our exams we just wait for our results, but she once gave mine back just to correct my concept. She also voiced out herconcerns towards my classmate and corrected him one by one as well. It is such comfort to know that your professors actually care about your studies!” Since then, Dr. Wong has been actively teaching others, “It’s not easy! You have to ensure that you know the content well before teaching others, and at the same time, you get to preserve that memory long term!”

Teaching Clinical Medicine with English was still a relatively new experience for JNU in 2004 then, to which Dr. Wong praised for her open-mindedness, encouragement to students in participating activities, and inviting students from all around the nation to enrich culture. “I joined a research team studying renal transplantation for 2 years. That then I’ve witnessed many failures and disappointments, but we eventually overcame all those challenges. Teamwork. That is the key for success in the medical field, for you all exchange knowledge and efforts in order to achieve the same goal. In addition to that, I’ve discovered my passion towards surgery.”

Dr. Wong’s passion toward Medicine blazed like wildfire, and he was so ambitious that he attempted to join Medicines Sans Frontiers immediately after his internship, which was unfortunately turned down as he was not a top specialist yet. However, as the old Chinese proverb goes, “A thousand miles begins with a single step.” Dr. Wong does volunteering services in the rural parts of Hong Kong once a month, offering medical help to the elderly. He even published a book as a guideline of simple diagnosis for citizens. But then let’s come back to reminding you why Dr. Wong is our famous alumnus: Dr. Wong established a scholarship fund for his juniors studying Clinical Medicine, encouraging them to pursue their medical career and further contribute to society. Not only that, but he frequently holds reunion gatherings for CM students and even returns to school to offer lectures despite his busy schedule!

“I do this because I want to pass the flame to the next generation, and people grow stronger in difficult circumstances!” He described his mother’s worry of dropping an organ when he was assisting a transplantation surgery then. “I used to be a clumsy child, but turns out the surgery was a huge success and even made it to the papers! My mother was proud, and this reassured my potential and further motivated me to set foot in surgery.”

“I don’t feel tired as a doctor, quite the contrary, I feel boosted! This is especially when you know that there are many people supporting and helping you.” He then mentions that many CM students from Hong Kong are worried over taking the LMCHK, which is infamous for its difficulty, therefore he reminds us that success does not belong to an individual, but a team.

Dr. Wong also displays an interest towards Chinese painting and calligraphy. When asked about his suggestions towards spreading the Chinese culture to foreign countries, he believed that everyone should learn to appreciate the Chinese language and culture first, evaluate its strength and weaknesses and make further improvements. He also mentions the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge as a magnificent architecture that connects not only geographic regions, but also facilitates the acceleration of development for China. “In the coming 50 years, Hong Kong students studying in International School can have more opportunities, they don’t have to simply tackle the LMCHK, they can choose to study postgraduate here and eventually settle and work in China!”

“I think this generation lacks the patience and capacity to bear with stress, but you can’t blame them, for technology has brought too much convenience it’s turned into a disadvantage and distraction for them.” Indeed, youngsters now tend to seek attention and rely on it heavily to gain a sense of existence and pleasure. However in reality, they may be poor in communicating and problem-solving. Eventually, this hinders their all-rounded development.

However, Dr. Wong believes that everyone has a dream and will make sacrifices to fulfill it. When asked about his role model, Dr. Kenneth Chow and Dr. Zhu Xianlun came to his mind. “Dr. Zhu is the former consultant of neurosurgery of Prince of Wales Hospital, he has great accomplishments because he studied really hard. I’ve even heard that he slept with his study materials and whenever he wakes, he studies!” Remember, the path to success is long and difficult, but you are never alone!

Kristine Kwan (16CM),

Lo Anna (17CM),

ChenFan