The HKBU Foundation records with deepest sorrow the passing of Dr. Cheung Huen Cheong Thomas, MH, FCII, Founder of Thomas H.C. Cheung Foundation Limited (the Foundation), and Honorary President of the HKBU Foundation, on 30 August 2023 at the age of 94.

Dr. Cheung was a highly regarded figure in the insurance industry in Hong Kong. He served as the Chairman of The Pacific Insurance Co., Ltd. and The Pacific Life Assurance Co., Ltd. In recognition of his distinguished contributions to the insurance profession, Dr. Cheung was named an Honorary Fellow by the Chartered Insurance Institute, which made him the first international insurance professional from outside the United Kingdom to receive this honour. Dr. Cheung was also bestowed with the National Honour Sri Lanka Ranjana by the President of Sri Lanka.

Dr. Cheung was also a dedicated philanthropist who contributed significantly to the development of education in Hong Kong and Mainland China through his Foundation. He also served as Honorary Chairman or Director of several educational institutions. His invaluable contribution to education earned him a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, and an Honorary Fellow from The Chinese University of Hong Kong, and an Honorary University Fellow from the then Open University of Hong Kong. Since 2004, he made generous donations in support of HKBU’s Chinese medicine research and student development.

The HKBU Foundation extends its heartfelt condolences to Dr. Cheung’s family at this time of bereavement. He will always be remembered for his remarkable contributions to education in Hong Kong and his earnest support for the University’s development.