Mr Yeung Fan is Vice Chairman and General Manager of Glorious Sun Group, and Chairman of Jeanswest International (Hong Kong) Limited. As a legendary entrepreneur distinguished by diligence and innovation, he embodies outstanding leadership with a strong commitment to social responsibility.

Mr Yeung’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1974 when he co-founded the Glorious Sun Group with his elder brothers, starting from a modest jeans processing factory. Through astute insight and technological breakthroughs, the group has undergone four transformations, evolving into a multinational enterprise engaged in garment manufacturing, retail, real estate, and financial investment. Upholding the philosophy “Cultivate integrity in adversity; contribute to the world in prosperity”, he believes a company’s success extends beyond profit-making to shouldering social responsibilities.

In addition to business achievements, Mr Yeung has demonstrated profound generosity in philanthropy. Over the decades, he has led the group to donate more than HKD 3.5 billion, focusing on poverty alleviation, social welfare, healthcare, and cultural preservation. He views operating a successful enterprise as a vital aspect of social responsibility. He places particular emphasis on education, building schools and establishing scholarships on the Chinese Mainland, while also generously supporting the development of various universities in Hong Kong, embodying his belief that education serves the nation.

PolyU has also greatly benefited from Mr Yeung’s support. Committed to advancing education, he champions collaboration among research, academia, and industry for sustainable innovation in fashion and textiles. He has supported research at the School of Fashion and Textiles, including projects using AI to enhance industry competitiveness, and sponsored the PolyU International Future Challenge to inspire creativity among global youth.

Actively engaged in public affairs, Mr Yeung served as a Member of the 13th National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, and President of the Federation of Hong Kong Garment Manufacturers. He is currently the Vice Chairman of the China Association of Enterprises with Foreign Investment, Vice Chairman of the China National Textile and Apparel Council, and Chairman of the HK General Chamber of Textiles. He also serves as a consultant professor at several universities, contributing valuable insights to national development and Hong Kong’s prosperity. His extraordinary contributions have earned numerous honours, including three consecutive “Chinese Charity Award” and the “Annual Philanthropist” title at the China Charity Ranking, reflecting high regard from all sectors of society.

Chairman Lam, University Council Members, President Teng, distinguished guests, dear friends and family,

It is a great honour to be appointed a University Fellow of The Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU), for which I express my deepest gratitude. This fellowship is not only a recognition of my efforts in business, industry development, and social responsibility over the years; it is also a powerful encouragement for me to keep moving forward and contribute more to our industry, Hong Kong, and our country.

PolyU is an innovative world-class university at the forefront of interdisciplinary research, with outstanding achievements in talent nurturing, scientific research, and knowledge transfer. The relationship between Glorious Sun Group and PolyU began in the 1980s, and over the decades, our cooperation has continued to deepen and expand. PolyU’s educational philosophy resonates strongly with the Group’s belief in “managing a business for the benefit of society”, and this shared vision has been the solid foundation of our partnership.

Culture is the bedrock of any enterprise, the source of competitiveness, and the driving force for sustainable development. For more than fifty years, we have upheld Mencius’s teaching: “Cultivate integrity in adversity; contribute to the world in prosperity” as our core corporate value. We firmly believe that for a company to survive, it must be economically viable; but for it to endure, it must also earn the recognition and trust of society. This means that while pursuing economic growth, we must also give back to the community and shoulder our corporate social responsibility.

When we have limited ability, we should first look after ourselves and avoid becoming a burden to others or to society. When we are more capable, we should be grateful and give back by contributing to the community and our country. In business, our goals should not only serve ourselves and our families, but also the company, the many families who depend on it, and those in need. In today’s fast-changing and uncertain global environment, it is especially important for businesses to stay strong, adapt and keep seeking better development amid both opportunities and challenges.
 
In closing, let me once again sincerely thank PolyU for its long-standing trust and support for the Glorious Sun Group and for me personally. I wish PolyU continued success and ever-greater achievements. I also wish all of you good health and every happiness. Thank you.