Bernard Charnwut Chan
Dr Bernard Charnwut Chan
Doctor of Social Science, honoris causa (2024)
Dr Bernard Charnwut Chan is a distinguished leader whose impact spans multiple sectors, including business, governance, the arts, and education. His steadfast commitment to creating a brighter future for Hong Kong is reflected in his lifelong contributions to the city’s development. Recognised for his visionary leadership, Dr Chan is instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead for Hong Kong.
Dr Chan graduated from Pomona College in California, where he laid the foundation for his multifaceted career. His education equipped him with academic knowledge and instilled a global perspective that he would later apply in various roles. This international outlook has informed his approach to business and governance, emphasising the importance of connectivity and collaboration in our complex, interconnected world.
Currently, Dr Chan serves as the Chairman and President of Asia Financial Holdings and Chairman of Asia Insurance, positions that demonstrate his extensive expertise in the financial sector. He is the Chairman of the Hong Kong-Thailand Business Council and a director at Bumrungrad Hospital Public Company in Thailand. These roles highlight his commitment to fostering international business relationships and promoting economic development.
He is the Chairperson of the Hong Kong Council of Social Service and a Steward of the Hong Kong Jockey Club. He also chairs M+, Asia’s first global museum of contemporary visual culture and Tai Kwun, a vibrant cultural and heritage centre offering immersive, world-class experiences. He also serves as Vice Chairman of the West Kowloon Cultural District Authority and his involvement in these organisations underscores his dedication to enhancing the cultural and social fabric of Hong Kong.
In 2023, he succeeded the Honourable Tung Chee-hwa as Chairman of Our Hong Kong Foundation. Its Public Policy Institute, the Academy of Chinese Studies, and the Hong Kong Chronicles are focused on initiatives to enhance international connectivity and amplify narratives about China and Hong Kong while advancing the agenda for science, technology, and innovation.
From 2008 to 2023, Dr Chan served as a Hong Kong Deputy to the National People's Congress of the People's Republic of China, allowing him to represent Hong Kong's interests at a national level. Additionally, he was the Convenor of the Non-Official Members of the Executive Council of HKSAR from 2017 to 2022 and a Non-Official Member of the Executive Council during two separate terms (2004–2009 and 2012–2022). His legislative experience, particularly as a Member of Hong Kong's Legislative Council from 1998 to 2008, representing the insurance industry, has equipped him with a deep understanding of the governance structures that shape the city.
Dr Chan has held various leadership positions in cultural preservation and sustainable development. He was the Chairman of the Hong Kong Palace Museum and the Council for Sustainable Development, demonstrating his commitment to preserving Hong Kong's cultural heritage while promoting sustainable practices.
Dr Chan's significant contributions have earned him numerous awards and honours. In 2002, he was appointed a Justice of the Peace, reflecting his dedication to public service. In 2004, he received the title of Commander (3rd Class) of the Most Noble Order of the Crown of Thailand, recognising his contributions to fostering Thailand-Hong Kong relations. His commitment to Hong Kong was further acknowledged with the Gold Bauhinia Star in 2006, followed by the Grand Bauhinia Medal, the city’s highest honour, in 2020.
Dr Chan’s commitment to education is deeply rooted in his family’s tradition. His father, Dr Robin Y H Chan, was a dedicated supporter of Hong Kong Baptist University, serving as an Honorary University Fellow and Honorary President of the Hong Kong Baptist University Foundation. This legacy of educational support has influenced Dr Chan’s philanthropic efforts. From 2008 to 2014, he served as the Lingnan University Council Chairman and is a trustee emeritus of Pomona College. Under his leadership, Asia Financial Holdings became a senior Hong Kong Baptist University Foundation member, further solidifying his connection to education. In 2016, Dr Chan delivered an important and impactful lecture entitled "The Well-being of Hong Kong and the Challenges Ahead" during the University’s 60th Anniversary celebrations. His contributions to the academic community extend beyond lectures; he has participated in various talks and seminars, sharing his insights on governance, economics, and social issues.
Dr Chan is an inspiring example for any students graduating today who may question the relevance of their degrees. His dedication to nurturing creative talents during his undergraduate programme significantly shaped his international outlook and cultivated diverse business and social interests. Dr Chan embodies the belief that education is a transformative journey, encouraging individuals to adopt a purposeful approach to life. This mindset equips them to make meaningful contributions to society.
Dr Chan is a distinguished leader whose multifaceted contributions have significantly shaped Hong Kong's landscape across various sectors. His dedication to public service, education, and cultural preservation positions him as a critical figure in the city’s development. Through his leadership and vision, Dr Chan continues to inspire future generations, reinforcing the importance of community engagement and the transformative power of education.
In recognition of his extensive contributions to community service and education, Hong Kong Baptist University is honoured to confer upon Dr Bernard Charnwut Chan the Doctor of Social Sciences, honoris causa.