e-Bulletin August 2025

Hosting two dozen leaders from the National Health Commission in Hong Kong for three weeks this July and August was an honour that our School lived up to. There were so many details to attend to with visiting VIPs flying, driving, and Zooming into HKU. Our teaching team thoughtfully designed these activities to foster discussions, so that our “one country, two systems” learning community could engage in meaningful sharing.

This small space cannot do justice to the breadth of the exchange. A very important observation was the blurred boundary between who was the learner and who was the teacher. Everyone was called to be both. Insights gained from years spent problem-solving in China’s healthcare system intersected with insights from research, giving new meaning to the word “uni-versity”. Common issues faced by everyone included daily battles against fragmentation that occur because individuals work towards their own ends. Great ideas to achieve alignment were just as likely to come from the visiting leaders as from the teachers.

Our hardworking staff who pulled this off showed grit and resilience. Yes, it was worth it. We did more than wave a flag for Hong Kong and for HKU—we became our best selves, enlarged by our openness to new ideas from new partners.

Professor David Bishai
Director and Clinical Professor
School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong

Congratulating Professor Malik Peiris on Being Conferred as Emeritus Professor and Honorary Clinical Professor
A Tribute to Pioneering Work and Enduring Academic Legacy

We are delighted to announce that Professor Malik Peiris, one of our most distinguished and longest-serving scholars at the School of Public Health, has been conferred the titles of Emeritus Professor and Honorary Clinical Professor by HKU, effective from July 2025. This lifetime honour recognises his thirty years of outstanding contributions to the University, to science, and to global public health through his distinguished service.

Professor Peiris created an extraordinary academic legacy. He has published over 900 papers that have been cited more than 97,000 times, with an astronomical h-index of 144. His publications in Nature, Nature Medicine, and The Lancet, among others, present stunning breakthroughs in the biology of viruses.

Professor Peiris has demonstrated distinguished leadership in the global scientific community. He has served as Vice-Chair of the WHO Strategic and Technical Advisory Group on Infectious Disease Hazards (STAG-IH) and as a member of its Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution (TAG-VE). His involvement in the Lancet–PPATS Commission on Prevention of Viral Spill-over reflects his dedication to pandemic prevention. He has received numerous accolades, including Fellowship of the Royal Society of London, Foreign Membership of the US National Academy of Sciences, and the Future Science Prize.

At HKU, Professor Peiris served as Director of the HKU-Pasteur Research Pole (2007–2020) and as Director of the School of Public Health (2014–2017). As founding Co-Director of the Centre for Immunology and Infection (C2i), he has played a pivotal role in establishing HKU as a hub for cutting-edge research. Upon his retirement, he will continue to engage with both C2i and the Hong Kong Jockey Club Global Health Institute (HKJCGHI), passing on his research expertise and nurturing the next generation of scientists.

The School extends our heartfelt congratulations to Professor Malik Peiris on this well-deserved honour, and wishing him the best to his retirement.

Promotion of Professor Youngwon Kim
Celebrating a Remarkable Career Milestone

We are pleased to announce the promotion of Professor Youngwon Kim to Associate Professor, effective July 2025. This well-deserved recognition reflects his remarkable contributions to research, teaching and academic service.

Since joining our School in 2019, Professor Kim has been pursuing his vision that creating new knowledge can improve health for millions. He has advanced the field of physical activity epidemiology through his research on how modifying daily activity patterns can help prevent chronic diseases. His work integrates genetic and wearable technology to develop personalised risk prediction models. He believes that combining personalised genetic disease risk feedback with wearable devices offers more impactful motivation for behaviour change. Furthermore, his work has enhanced methods in physical activity measurement across diverse populations.

Professor Kim’s scholarly impact is demonstrated by his publication record, with over 80 papers as first or corresponding author in top-tier journals such as the Journal of Internal Medicine, Mayo Clinic Proceedings, and BMC Medicine. He further contributes to the academic community as an editorial board member of the International Journal of Behavioral Nutrition and Physical Activity.

In terms of teaching, Professor Kim has taught several Kinesiology courses, including the popular Common Core course ‘Be Fit! Be Active!’. He is deeply committed to mentorship, having guided numerous students and early-career researchers across various programmes, including our MBBS curriculum, where he serves as a research supervisor, Enrichment Year mentor, and e-lecturer.

The School extends our hearty congratulations to Professor Youngwon Kim on this significant milestone in his career.

Interdisciplinary and Composite Talents in Medicine, Disease Prevention and Control, and Management Training Programme
Promoting Deeper Integration and Synergy in Medical and Health Development Across the Two Regions

Our School recently hosted the inaugural ‘Institute of Philanthropy Medical and Health Scholarship-cum-Fellowship for Top Talent in the Mainland: Interdisciplinary and Composite Talents in Medicine, Disease Prevention and Control, and Management Training Programme’, bringing together senior management officials from Mainland China’s healthcare system for an intensive three-week training course.

We were honoured to welcome Mr Leung Chun-ying, Vice Chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), former Chief Executive of the HKSAR, and Chairman of GX Foundation, to join the Exchange Session at HKU. Mr Leung shared GX’s mission and objectives, as well as its achievements in delivering international humanitarian aid across eight Belt and Road countries.

He emphasised, ‘As Chinese people, we now have the capacity to extend our reach globally with the spirit of connectivity and shared prosperity, working together to build a global community of health for all.’ His vision deeply inspired all participants.

Additionally, Mr Lester Huang, Chairman of the Institute of Philanthropy, graced the event with his presence and met with the participants.

Supported by the Institute of Philanthropy Medical and Health Scholarship-cum-Fellowship for Top Talent in the Mainland, our School aims to use this training programme to enhance collaboration and exchanges between mainland China and Hong Kong in the healthcare sector, thus contributing to the long-term development of the nation’s public health. This initiative not only provides a valuable platform for healthcare professionals from both regions to exchange knowledge and expertise, but also further promotes deeper integration and synergy in medical and health development across the two regions.

Thanksgiving Happy Hour in Honour of Professor Malik Peiris
Honouring 30 Years of Dedication and Excellence

Over 40 colleagues gathered on July 15, 2025, to celebrate Professor Malik Peiris in a lively happy hour brimming with laughter and camaraderie. The evening honoured his extraordinary contributions to science and academia through warm tributes and shared memories.

Our School Director Professor David Bishai set the tone with a heartfelt tribute to Professor Peiris’ pioneering research and leadership. His presentation of a custom caricature, capturing both Professor Peiris’ intellectual brilliance and characteristic warmth – drew immediate laughter and enthusiastic applause from the assembled guests.

Professor Leo Poon, Daniel C K Yu Professor in Virology, Chair Professor of Public Health Virology and Head of Division of Public Health Laboratory Sciences of the School and Associate Dean (Human Capital) of the LKS Faculty of Medicine, followed with a nostalgic reflection on their years of collaboration, sharing memorable anecdotes while presenting a photo album that chronicled key moments in Professor Peiris’ distinguished career. From laboratory breakthroughs to international conferences, the images served as visual testaments to his far-reaching impact on the scientific community.

When Professor Peiris took the stage, he charmed the audience with his characteristic modesty and wit. His speech emphasised the vital importance of mentorship and interdisciplinary cooperation – values that have defined his personalised approach throughout his career. The sincerity in his words resonated deeply with everyone present.

As colleagues reconnected over drinks and snacks, the room buzzed with conversations and appreciation that truly reflected Professor Peiris’ legacy – one built on both professional excellence and meaningful relationships.

MOU Signing between HKUSPH and Vanke School of Public Health of Tsinghua University
Paving the Way for Academic Excellence and Student Collaboration

A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between our School and the Vanke School of Public Health of Tsinghua University on June 26, 2025. This collaboration marks the beginning of a new chapter dedicated to academic excellence, innovative collaboration and student partnerships. Together, the two Schools aim to foster a vibrant partnership that benefits our students, faculty and communities.

Visit to HKU-Shenzhen Hospital
Fostering Collaboration in Public Health

On July 31, 2025, our School’s delegation embarked on a fruitful visit to the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital (HKU-SZH), aimed at strengthening collaboration and advancing public health initiatives in the Greater Bay Area. The day was dedicated to sharing our latest research findings, gaining insights into HKU-Shenzhen Hospital’s outstanding work, and exploring opportunities for joint research projects.

The visit began with a guided tour of the hospital, where our delegation took a closer look at their innovative practices and high-quality healthcare services. This was followed by a series of engaging presentations, including a keynote address titled “From Green Healthcare Reform to High-Quality Development” by Professor Kenneth Cheung, Hospital Chief Executive of HKU-SZH. Professors from the School of Public Health also shared insights of their research areas and latest discoveries.

Throughout the day, participants engaged in parallel discussion sessions focusing on various public health topics such as reproductive medicine, community health, clinical trials, infectious diseases, paediatrics, and oncology, etc. These interactive exchanges fostered in-depth dialogue and laid the groundwork for future collaborations, and set the stage for ongoing cooperation that will contribute to the sustainable development of public health in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and beyond.

Celebrating the 2025 Graduates of BASc(GHD) and MPH
Equipped to Drive Changes Worldwide

The 214^th Congregation Ceremony of the LKS Faculty of Medicine was held on July 12, 2025, on HKU Campus. The School is delighted to welcome our new graduates from the MPH programmes and the third cohort of the BASc(GHD) into our pioneering alumni community. With their expertise and passion, our graduates are prepared to address global health challenges and drive meaningful changes. This ceremony marked a significant milestone in their academic journey and signified the beginning of a new chapter in their professional endeavours.

The School extends our warmest congratulations to all the BASc(GHD) and MPH graduates.

One Health Hub Seminar Series
A Dialogue Between a Virologist and a Medical Anthropologist on Emerging Viruses

The SPH One Health Hub recently hosted a seminar titled “A Dialogue Between a Virologist and a Medical Anthropologist on Emerging Viruses”, bringing together over 100 participants for an engaging discussion. The seminar featured Professor Malik Peiris from our School and the HKU-Pasteur Research Pole; and Professor Tamara Giles-Vernick from the Institut Pasteur.

The ancestors of emerging viruses such as Ebola, Nipah, and Mpox have likely persisted in their natural reservoir hosts for centuries. Yet, why are we witnessing a surge in viral outbreaks in recent decades? The experts explored the complex drivers behind this trend and discussed innovative strategies for pandemic prevention.

The One Health Hub is dedicated to advancing interdisciplinary solutions for complex health challenges at the human-animal-environment interface, embodying the One Health approach. By bringing together the diverse strengths of the School and empowering the community, the team led by Professor Hui-ling Yen will tackle urgent issues such as antimicrobial resistance, emerging infectious diseases, and the far-reaching effects of climate change through strategic knowledge exchange, collaborative research partnerships, and dynamic community outreach.

Oxford Debate and Ethical Deliberations on Vaccine Mandates
A Thought-Provoking Forum Featuring Professor Daniel Wikler on Public Health Ethics and Discourse

On July 30, 2025, a forum for rigorous ethical debate took place during an event titled “How to Agree and Disagree about Vaccine Mandates?”, featuring world-renowned bioethicist Professor Daniel Wikler.

Co-organised by Medical Ethics & Humanities Unit and Department of Emergency Medicine of School of Clinical Medicine, School of Public Health and Laboratory of Data Discovery for Health (D²4H), the debate addressed a pressing contemporary issue using an Oxford-style debate format, centering on the proposition: “Mandating COVID-19 vaccination for healthcare workers is ethically justified”. Student debaters brought the scenario to life, with some advocating for the policy’s public health benefits while others raised counterarguments.

Professor Daniel Wikler, Mary B. Saltonstall Professor of Ethics and Population Health, Emeritus at Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, then elevated the discussion with a masterclass on ethical persuasion in public health. His insights shed light on how institutions can approach difficult decisions while maintaining trust and inclusivity.

The event concluded with an engaging Q&A session on stigma prevention and professional discourse, fostering dialogue on medical ethics, and equipping future healthcare leaders with key frameworks and practical communication skills.

Yoga & Health: Transforming Lives of Domestic Workers
Building Healthy Habits Through Accessible Wellness

A health project led by Professor Jane Zhao, Assistant Professor, has achieved remarkable results since its launch in January 2025. Approximately 600 domestic workers have participated in free yoga sessions and health workshops, with 95% successfully improving their dietary habits.

Recognising both the lack of health awareness among domestic workers and the proven benefits of yoga for weight management, a key factor in preventing chronic diseases such as diabetes and heart disease, Professor Zhao collaborated with experts to create a 10-minute yoga routine. This routine requires no special equipment and accommodates their irregular work hours.

Professor Zhao aims to expand the project to include hypertension and diabetes screenings, as well as mental health support, with a target of reaching 800 participants.

To read the news, please click here for the link to Mingpao (Chinese only).

Automated Organoid Platform Debuts at C2i
Breakthrough in Translational Research

The Centre for Immunology & Infection (C2i) has achieved a significant scientific milestone with the introduction of Hong Kong and Greater China’s first automated organoid culture machine, developed in collaboration with Hitachi East Asia Limited. This new automated organoid production will expand the use in drug testing, infection studies, and potentially transplants, making treatments safer and more personalised.

Professor Michael Chan, Professor of our School and Lead Scientist of C2i, along with his team, is collaborating with HKU Department of Medicine and Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine to conduct drug screening for 50 to 100 asthma patients, aiming to identify precise and timely treatments. Professor Chan also plans to extend this innovative approach to benefit lung cancer patients, predicting potential side effects in advance to avoid risky trial medications and optimise treatment timelines.

To read the news, please click the following links to Mingpao (Chinese) and South China Morning Post (English).

BASc(GHD) Graduates Spotlighted for Global Impact
Driving Change Beyond Borders

BASc(GHD) combines expertise from multiple faculties including Architecture, Business and Economics, Law, Science, and Social Sciences, to equip students with skills to address global health and development challenges. This year, the programme remains highly competitive, with 82 applicants ranking it among their top three JUPAS choices for only 18 available places, making it 3.5 times oversubscribed.

Our graduates are making significant impacts worldwide. Recent graduate Christine Wong contributed to UNICEF New York’s monkeypox response during her internship and will soon lead public health initiatives across Africa and Latin America in her new position. Another graduate, Holly Yuen, addressed medical waste and wastewater management issues during her UNDP Indonesia internship, crediting the programme’s balance of theory and practical experience for her preparedness. Their stories were recently featured in an interview with Headline Daily and HK01, highlighting the global impact and promise of our alumni.

To view the news, please click the following links to Headline Daily and HK01.

Public Health Newspaper Column
Bringing Real-life Impact to Community

As an institution committed to sharing knowledge with the community, members of the School of Public Health contributed articles in the Faculty of Medicine’s weekly column of Oriental Daily News （東方日報）. The following are articles (Chinese only) published in August 2025:

August 9, 2025

創新基層醫療模式與社區參與：「數」說健康計劃應對肥胖危機
Professor Sophia Chan
Senior Advisor of President’s Office, HKU
Professor and Director, HKU Primary Health Care Academy
Professor, School of Public Health, HKU

Dr Aaron He
Research Assistant Professor

August 16, 2025

「社會處方」以人為本 真正關顧患者所需
Dr Nason Tan
Senior Lecturer

August 23, 2025

黃連素與心血管疾病：傳統中藥的現代應用與警示
Professor Jane Zhao Jie
Assistant Professor

Publications in June and July 2025
Scholars’ Output Highlighted

The following are research papers published by SPH researchers in June and July 2025:

Remarks:

      * Member of School of Public Health, The University of Hong Kong

• This list is compiled by searching in Scopus using the keywords “School of Public Health, LKS Faculty of Medicine, The University of Hong Kong” for June and July 2025
• Arranged by date of publication