MIUS Bar: Hong Kong's Charming Neighbourhood Gem

Nestled at 29 Gough Street in the vibrant NoHo area, in that odd space between Central and Sheung Wan which is a nightmare to get to on a rainy day in a red cab (I write with a lot of experience), MIUS [pronounced "muse" but Alexa that and land up elsewhere, hence the all caps spelling], has quickly become one of Hong Kong's most talked-about cocktail bars since opening its doors in late August 2025. 

Shelly Tai

Founded by award-winning bartender Shelley Tai, the venue marks her triumphant return home after nearly five years abroad, where she managed Singapore's acclaimed Nutmeg & Clove (ranked #6 on Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2024). There are 8,926 licensed bars operating in Hong Kong [yes, I checked] in the tiny dot of an island and the trickling pool of customers have options galore, venues tightly knit next to each other so waiting is not an option for the well-heeled. Note a line streaming out of a bar, waiting in impatient scroll, you know the venue is either really good [Coa, Bar Leone], or its new with either hype or hyperbola trending on social media. 

I landed at the venue soon after MIUS opened and am happy to report its pretty damn good. As all are spoilt for choice in the city, you really aren't going to a bar for their novel drinks and the aerated promises of a tattooed mixologist, you're going to follow the cult of personality; Bar Leone does better when Lorenzo's in town and without Jay Khan's ever-smiling face, Coa wouldn't be what it is either. I was told about Shelley long before I met her; she's gorgeous and she's gifted. Both, I've witnessed. 

A former Quinary talent [which is a street above and across the street - like I said, choices], Tai brings world-class expertise and her famed World Class championship pedigree to her first independent project. The name MIUS playfully twists “muse,” reflecting Tai’s philosophy of “simple things, done right.” The bar embodies a welcoming neighbourhood vibe rather than flashy spectacle—think mid-century modern decor with neutral tones, clean lines, high ceilings, reflective surfaces, and warm wood accents that create an elegant yet generally unpretentious atmosphere. 

The menu focuses on modern classics and approachable cocktails, most using no more than six ingredients for balance and precision. Standouts include the refreshing Tomatotini (vodka-based, savoury twist, introduced to me by Christy Liang who swears by it--word of mouth does well in the 852), the cozy warm Matcha Mori (hot whisky with matcha, coconut, and salted vanilla cream), the fruity Guava Oolong Float (sparkling sake with sorbet), Strawberry Negroni, and the beloved Gin & Apple. 

Beyond drinks, MIUS pairs cocktails with comforting bar bite staples like fries and hearty plates that blend Asian influences, turning it into a true hangout spot. Prices range from the accessible to the elevated, so look carefully; the prices are not on whim, the quality of the ingredients is top-notch.  

While on a lonesome media tasting, I found the place to be perfect for Hong Kong’s youth and dare-I-suspect, many a first-date situation. It attracts younger crowds eager for its relaxed energy, sharp pours, and genuine hospitality. It feels approachable and comfortable, designed for easy conversation with friends or bartenders, with gentle music levels and a no-pretension approach, although I've been warned by others that the place gets busy quickly and is riddled with the young and the restless, while the rest of us might have to wait in line--unless you know someone, who knows someone, who can get you a high-barstool quickly.

High-concept bars are dime-a-dozen, MIUS stands out for its focus on enjoyment over showmanship—proving that thoughtful simplicity can create something truly special.

MIUS
Address: 29 Gough Street, Central, Hong Kong (Sheung Wan/Central area, walk-in only)
Instagram: @mius.hongkong 
Opening hours: Monday–Sunday, 5 PM to 1 AM

Postscript: next week, will let you know about Peridot, which everyone's talking about... unkindly. Great views, awful food, photogenic interiors with vile vegan cheese. Great staff, but an expensive venue. I want to like the place, but like Natalie Imbruglia and my shower curtain, I am torn. 

Also, my how the mighty hath fallen; whatever is going on at 11 Westside?! 

  

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Art Basel Hong Kong: 2026

 

Art Basel Hong Kong 2026 is scheduled for March 27–29, 2026 (public days), with preview/Vernissage days on March 25–26 (invitation only or special access). 

The photo does little justice to this piece that was in constant motion courtesy of cleverly concealed air ducts that made the fabric move like ocean waves. Many stood mesmerised just watching it ebb and flow. 

 Can't wait to see what's coming up; in conversation with curators, exhibitors and the odd gents from Sotheby's and Christie's to see what they are looking forward to. 

In this haze of constant doom scroll, shocking headlines, and a barrage of bad news, something to look forward to. 

Chain Reaction: Men's Jewellery in 2026 is all about Bling Kings

David Yurman kicked off a pivotal shift in men's accessories in early 2024, launching the brand's first dedicated high-jewellery collection for men—"The Vault"—with Michael B. Jordan as global brand ambassador, model, and muse. 

The campaign, captured by Tyler Mitchell, helped normalise bold, luxurious pieces for men and sparked wider interest across the industry. 

By 2026, the momentum has only grown. Over the past two years, editors (and red carpets) have witnessed an explosion of gentlemen embracing dazzling, high-end accessories—from understated signets to statement chains and pavé-set bands. Men's fine jewelry has evolved into a true avenue for self-expression, blending timeless craftsmanship with modern edge. Here are some of the standout trends and pieces catching attention in 2026, ranging from subtle sophistication to pure opulence. 

P. Ramakrishnan writes.

Image courtesy of Daniel T

Full feature at Style.com  

The Armoury in Central, Hong Kong, with Model One's resident supermodel Taner S

 

Suit Up! 

 Brunello Cucinelli, Ralph Lauren (Purple label!), Hermès, Tom Ford, Loro Piana are just regulars in the column. But over the past two years, I seem to have written the most about The Armoury, esp the Central branch in Hong Kong [have yet to visit its New Yorkian avatar!]. Would love to do a shoot on location there, high ceilings, natural light, the arches, the controlled environs, the cityscape, to be in the heart and chaos of Central and yet be above it all, far from the madding crowd. One fine day...

Another day, another year, another shoot with Hong Kong's resident Turkish super-duper-model, Taner S. The fittings pre-shoot were a breeze. 

Oh to be sample size... 

Mia Kang: An all-time favourite magazine cover girl: Eurasian supermodel

 

Coa Was Listed as the Best Bar in Asia. Again.

Throwback Thursday: Have been writing about Jay Khan since... the days of Galaxy magazine in the early 2012s!  Someone brought up with Coa feature and interview and... i forgot I wrote it! So here's a throwback to summer of 2022.

With successive accolades and titles in a row, will owner Jay Khan strike a hat-trick?

At a boisterous ceremony held at The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok, among a sea of peers, friends, rivals and fans, Hong Kong’s very own Coa retained its title as Asia’s Best Bar, at the seventh edition of Asia’s 50 Best Bars.

Launched in 2017 by Jay Khan, owner and charismatic bartender, Coa has a focus on agave spirits and lies off the beaten path in Central, among a cluster of other famed titles and tonier bar/restaurant hybrids. Standing out in this crowd isn’t-but he makes it look-easy.

Over a signature drink at a relatively quiet hour, we sat across Khan for a quick tête-à-tête.

Read the full interview and feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong. 

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RIP Terri Holladay: Remembering the first lady I ever asked for a quote for my newspaper column

On this day, two years ago, I heard about the untimely passing of Terri Holladay and was immediately taken back to my intern days at SCMP, when I first wrote about this staggeringly beautiful lady for my Society and then "Lai See" column [which was shared with other writers].

Terri Holladay, born Teresa Anne Holladay in 1968, was a vibrant Vietnamese American model, designer, entrepreneur, and prominent Asian socialite whose life blended glamour and grace as she hopscotched over the pitfalls of fame and great fortune. She rose to prominence in the fashion world, was one of the first few Asian models who graced the cover of Vogue, before capturing headlines in Hong Kong tabloids for her scandalous, high-profile relationship and engagement to billionaire Cecil Chao Sze-tsung in the early 2010s. The couple welcomed a son together named Roman [Roman Holladay-- geddit?!], adding a deeply personal chapter to her public persona. Known for her elegance, passion for travel, cooking [think she had a cookbook out a la Nigella], love of animals, grace and glamour, Terri described herself as a multifaceted woman: a mother, creative force, and lover of life's finer experiences. 

After stepping away from the spotlight, despite several high-profile relationships [including a well-documented one in the papers with HK/Sindhi entrepreneur Dino Lalvani] that played out in print, in later years, Terri lived more privately in Hong Kong, focusing on family and personal pursuits. When she disengaged from the media, she completely cut off the trappings of fame, burnt by what the press was writing in the wild wild west days of tabloid sub-culture in the city; I remember a local colleague saying their newspaper office had more lawyers than reporters as the notorious press, pre-social media, sold millions of copies on the back of local celebrities. A friend featured in print often, famously told us in the magazine office, about the daily rags and tabloid hacks, "the story doesn't have to be truthful, it has to be interesting."   
Well, Terri was always truthful and interesting. 
She passed away on December 27, 2023, at the age of 55 in Hong Kong, but her tragic death remained largely unnoticed until February 2024, when an online memorial page surfaced, drawing media attention and tributes from those who remembered her warmth, remarkable spirit and red-carpet elegance. Her family and friends let the dust settle before news broke, allowing them to deal with the tragedy in peace. 
Terri was one of the first few ladies I featured—an early highlight in my Society column, that showcased her poise and charisma. She left an impression as someone who navigated fame with grace, embracing both its thrills and being perturbed by its challenges. I was chatting with a friend at The Mandarin Oriental, facing the buffet table (as usual!), when she tapped my shoulder and said something kind about what I had written about her in an earlier column. I remember being 19 and flabbergasted at how gorgeous and glamorous she was. Didn't even respond like a human being and made some strange esophagal sound and she quickly swanned away. #FacePalm  
Scrolling through the tributes online, friends and admirers recall her as a beautiful woman who led a full life filled with love, and resilience. She was deeply cherished as a mother and friend; her kindness and effortless elegance remains in the memories of many. 
Though she shunned the limelight later on, her legacy as a trailblazing, multifaceted celebrity will be her enduring legacy, along with the love she had for her beloved son, the young entrepreneur Roman. 
RIP Terri.

A stylist, a photographer, and a dream team

Looking across the table in the office and watching my dream team make cover shot selections, stylist Tasha Ling and photographer Olivier Yoan.

 

Valentine's Day: Lols tho

 Well... 

Richard Mille: Time Honoured

Born on February 13, 1951, in Draguignan, France, I've been writing about Richard Mille watches since... a time I cannot remember. 

So when Richard Mille Hong Kong office hosted a VIP luncheon, got a rare opportunity to sit across him and get an exclusive chat for... I think I was working at Prestige magazine at the time. 

They liked the interview so much, the brand fully sponsored one of my 40 under 40 editions. And went on to do the same until I left. 

Richard Mille turns 75 today - bonne anniversarie indeed. 

Frank Binder on record

Was a pleasure to interview Frank Binder. Full feature out at Robb Report.HK

Part of my last few series of interviews for Leaders of Luxury. 

 

Arsenale’s Paolo Barletta on the Resurgence of Luxurious Rail Journeys

Arsenale’s singular approach to luxury train travel is poised to revolutionise the way we experience the world—one languid, opulent locomotive at a time.

In Asia, the iron horse is all about velocity—the region’s swiftest operational trains include the Shanghai Maglev, Indonesia’s Whoosh, and Japan’s Shinkansen.

In Hong Kong, the MTR whisks commuters from workplace to hearth (and back) with minimal fuss and immaculate carriages. If you’ve endured the New York City Subway or London Underground, the contrast is cause for celebration. Luxury is an empty cabin and a seat that isn’t damp. We seldom spare a thought for railways unless a delay derails the day.

Enter Paolo Barletta, the visionary founder and CEO of Arsenale, intent on persuading us that slow travel is the ultimate indulgence. In a world where haste eclipses panache, the romance of the rails has receded into the shadows of modern frenzy. Barletta, however, is resolute in resurrecting this timeless conveyance, lavishing it with luxury and refinement. In an exclusive conversation with Robb Report Hong Kong, he unveiled his audacious blueprint to redefine travel, drawing on his family’s storied legacy in hospitality and real estate.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Ulyssia’s Frank Binder on Navigating New Horizons, His Vision For Sustainable Luxury Living at Sea, and Building a Floating Community

 

We explore the innovative world of Ulyssia, where luxury meets sustainability aboard a residential ship designed for the discerning few—very few.

Frank Binder stands at the forefront of a maritime revolution with his most ambitious project to date: the glamorous and grand Ulyssia. As founder and chairman of Ulyssia Residences AG, Binder is crafting a unique experience that merges the opulence of high-end residential living with the dynamic lifestyle of a luxury yacht. His pioneering venture promises not only to elevate the standards of luxury travel but also to foster a deeper connection with the world’s most breathtaking locales studded around the planet.

The genesis of Ulyssia can be traced back over two decades, when Binder first encountered the concept of a residential ship. His vision has since evolved into a magnificent project that aims to provide an unparalleled living environment for its residents. “When I first came across the idea 25 years ago, I was captivated by the notion of having a home at sea,” Binder recounts. “Since then, I have explored various similar projects, but none met my standards. I knew I had to create something extraordinary.”

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Gordon & MacPhail’s Richard Urquhart on the Enduring Legacy of Exceptional Whisky

 

Step into the exquisite world of Gordon & MacPhail through the discerning lens of its fourth-generation steward. 

Steeped in history and tradition since its inception in 1895, Gordon & MacPhail is the family-owned independent bottler that has become synonymous with the meticulous art of whisky maturation and single malt excellence. At the helm of this illustrious legacy stands Richard Urquhart, the sales director of Gordon & MacPhail and a proud member of the fourth generation of the Urquhart family, which has deftly navigated the evolving landscape of whisky production while remaining steadfastly true to its Scottish roots. 

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

HBA’s Chris Godfrey on Crafting Luxury and His Vision For Authenticity in Design

Explore design philosophies rooted in cultural context and emotional connection.

Chris Godfrey has an approach to design that transcends the superficial allure of glittering extravagance, focusing instead on the intrinsic connection between a property and its locale. In an exclusive conversation with Robb Report Hong Kong during his sojourn in Hong Kong for the Leaders of Luxury Summit 2025, the co-CEO of HBA (Hirsch Bedner Associates) sheds light on his philosophy, revealing how he and his team create spaces that resonate deeply with their surroundings whilst seamlessly forging emotional bonds with guests.

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

Stelliers Co-Founder Stéphane de Montgros on Asia’s Premier Hotelier Awards

Riviera Events and Stelliers co-founder Stéphane de Montgros shares his story on building a premier corporate events agency, launching an awards platform, and proving that people—not marble—make five-star magic.

In the summer of 2003, the Shanghai skyline was still a promise rather than a boast. French expatriates Stéphane de Montgros and his business partner, Benoit Thebaut, looked at the city’s concrete riverbanks and saw opportunity in a city still finding its rhythm. De Montgros recalls that “there weren’t many options back then…the days were fairly quiet on weekends.” So, the enterprising pair ushered in a solution that was simple, audacious, and quintessentially Riviera: throw the best pool parties China had ever seen.

Champagne brands were pouring budgets into the Middle Kingdom for the first time, seeking new ways to connect with a rapidly growing audience. Many companies were experimenting and open to fresh ideas, creating space for Riviera to bring something new to Shanghai’s social landscape. “We gave them wooden decks, cabanas, jacuzzies, and DJs flown from the best clubs in Europe, offering a lifestyle experience that felt different for the time.” Riviera Pool Parties were born, and the name was deliberate. “Riviera meant sun, sea, sophistication,” de Montgros explains. “Everything Shanghai aspired to be.”

Read the entire feature here at Robb Report Hong Kong.

The Rise and Fall and Rise Again of Shanghai Tang: A Chronicle of Ambition, Reinvention and Chinois Chic

Full disclosure, this is my love letter to Shanghai Tang. I am a fan. Oops wrong campaign, but truly, am a fan of my hometown brand, and I've featured the label in my columns, fashion shoots, Best of... annual lists since... Jesus was in high school. Here's my (quasi-) deep dive into the house that David Tang built...

Often hailed as Hong Kong's first global luxury brand, Shanghai Tang emerged in 1994 amid the city's vibrant post-colonial scene. Founded by the charismatic entrepreneur, the bon mot and bon vivant Sir David Tang, the brand drew inspiration from 1930s Shanghai glamour, blending traditional Chinese elements like qipaos, mandarin collars, and velvet Tang jackets with bold, modern twists. Neon colours, satin and silk fabrics, intricate embroidery and dazzling embellishments, a range from the subtle to glittering excess, the original flagship store in Central had a little something for anyone and everyone - particularly tourists with a proclivity of purchasing Chinois chic, in silken fabric-in-seamed neon green paillette gift boxes.  

Tang's vision was audacious: to elevate "Made in China" from a mark of mass production ubiquity to a symbol of luxury, much like how Mercedes represents German engineering or Coca-Cola signals American culture across the world, Shanghai Tang became synonymous with Hong Kong's elevated luxury scene; when celebrities, politicians and world leaders landed on the dot of an island, they inevitably made a stop at the landmark Central store. Hillary Clinton was spotted there, Naomi Campbell wore their signature jackets, while Whoopie Goldberg wore the brand for a season while seated front and centre at Hollywood Squares. The Western celebrities had no link nor lineage to Hong Kong, China - or even Asia, but their friendship with David Tang, one of the great global yet distinctly Asian personalities, meant a goody bag travelled the seven seas from (Victoria-) Harbour to Hollywood. 

Starting as a bespoke tailoring shop in Hong Kong's Pedder Building, it employed tailors who fled Shanghai during the Communist Revolution, quickly expanding to ready-to-wear by 1996. The brand's early success was fueled by celebrity endorsements—Princess Diana and Kate Moss donned its pieces—and a kitschy, Pop Art flair that appealed to Western elites. By the late 1990s, Shanghai Tang symbolised East-West fusion, exploding onto the international stage. 

The rise accelerated with global expansion. Tang opened the flagship in Central Hong Kong's Pedder Building, a whopping 6,300-square-foot emporium of vibrant silks, cashmere, and homeware. In 1997, it ventured to New York with a lavish, staggering 12,000-square-foot Madison Avenue store... but this marked the first stumble: it shuttered in 1999 after just 19 months, crippled by high rents and sluggish sales of its alien, colourful designs to American tastes where the minimalism of Calvin Klein and ready-to-wear DKNY was all the pre-millennium rage. High rents and immobile landlords...sound familiar? It was also a sign of what's to come sooner than later in Hong Kong as well, notorious for capricious landlords and breath-taking square footage rent and sale. 

Undeterred, Richemont acquired a controlling stake in 1998 (completing full ownership by 2008), injecting capital for growth. Stores proliferated: by 2009, 34 locations worldwide, peaking at 45 by 2013, with 30 in Greater China. Outlets spanned Bangkok, Beijing, London, Paris, Singapore, Tokyo, and even Honolulu, Las Vegas, and Miami, often in prime spots like Orchard Road or Xintiandi. 

Under creative director [the fabulous] Joanne Ooi (2001-2008), collections infused cultural themes, boosting sales by 43% by 2005. Ooi herself a remarkable wit and capable of eviscerating word play, led the golden years by golden thread as the house of Tang flourished. The brand needed a narrator and after a character like David Tang, Ooi provided quotes and quotations to energise fashion editors craving for an interesting story from the East. Milestones included the 2007 Mandarin Collar Society and costumes for the 2004 film Colour Blossoms.

Yet the fall was swift soon after. Ballooning rents and shifting consumer preferences plagued the brand. In October 2011, the iconic Central Hong Kong flagship closed after 17 years, as rents soared—A&F paid 2.5 times more to take the coveted space in the heart of Central, and covered the once high fashion retail space... with its notorious stench of fast fashion, cheap thrills and casual ready-to-wear that reeked of the worst of Americana. From the elegance of the Mandarin collar to shirtless boy-toys standing in front of the store, Pedder's prestige took one at the shin. For a while it didn't matter, sales were swift and rent was paid by the foreign extraction.  

Shanghai Tang's move symbolised broader woes: the Pedder store, once a tourist magnet for Mao watches, became overpriced and stagnant without strong marketing. Chinese consumers increasingly favoured Western luxury, viewing Shanghai Tang as too nostalgic or kitschy (something that neighbour Goods of Desire aka G.O.D. was doing well, at a fraction of the cost). 

Global retreats followed; the Miami store closed by the mid-2010s, and others like London and Paris shuttered amid ownership turmoil; from 45 stores in 2013, the network contracted significantly, with estimates suggesting dozens of closures over the years as the brand refocused on Asia.

Things then turned from bad to verse; the King of quip and the brand's eternal ambassador David Tang's death in 2017 exacerbated the decline, leading Richemont to sell in July 2017 to Italian entrepreneur Alessandro Bastagli and Cassia Investments for an undisclosed sum. 

Ownership has changed hands five times: from Tang to Richemont (1998), Bastagli/Cassia (2017), Lunar Capital (December 2018), and restructured in 2020 under UTAN Group as a core brand. 

However, as of 2025, Derek Sulger and Jerry Mao—Lunar's leaders—own it independently, spearheading a "revolution" with headquarters in Shanghai and streamlined supply chains.

Designers have rotated: Ooi, Massimiliano Giornetti (2017-2018), Victoria Tang-Owen (2018-2020, David's delightful daughter), and now Yosh Yu, who infuses artistry and irreverence to a much-beloved brand. 

Today, Shanghai Tang operates about 20-25 stores, down from its peak, focused on Asia: three in Hong Kong (Pacific Place being its largest flagship in town), plus Shanghai, Beijing, Shenzhen, Singapore (Raffles City), Kuala Lumpur, and cafes in China. 

Recent expansions include Milan Fashion Week debuts and artist collaborations, with 30th-anniversary celebrations in 2024 signaling revival... if not a revolution. Sales surged in homeware post-2023, but the brand's journey—from 24 global openings in the 2000s to numerous closures—reflects luxury's volatility. The story wasn't unique to this brand but an across-the-board trend of over saturated premium goods with consumer fatigue. 

The frequent rise and fall and rise again reflects Shanghai Tang's intriguing narrative, one of resilience, navigating cultural shifts, tenancy disagreements, designer musical chairs [which is true of any luxury brand] and signature style, while chasing a truly Chinese luxury identity. 

The latest chapter in the brand's storied history is being written with deft hands-- and that's all the Chinese take away you need today. 

James Wong wearing Shanghai Tang 

Coffee: Because Murder is Wrong

 Coffee: Because Murder is Wrong 

 

New Era Martial Club: A Journey of Transformation and Inspiration with Hong Kong actor Andrew Pong

 

As the New Era Martial Club (NEMC) approaches its second anniversary, its founder, Hong Kong actor Andrew Pong King-fun, 34, reflects on a journey steeped in personal evolution, community engagement, and the pursuit of holistic well-being. With an unwavering commitment to martial arts, fitness, and mental discipline, the club has become a beacon for those seeking to enhance their physical and mental capabilities.  

For many, the iconic figure of Bruce Lee symbolizes not just martial arts but a lifestyle rooted in discipline and versatility. The founder of NEMC cites Lee as a significant influence, not just in terms of physical fitness but in cultivating a mindset that balances strength, speed, endurance, and flexibility. “Martial arts require the full spectrum of physical capabilities,” Pong explains. This philosophy inspired the creation of NEMC, where courses are designed to encourage students to train their bodies while nurturing their mental fortitude. 

Discipline and consistency are often heralded as the cornerstones of success, a sentiment that resonates deeply with the NEMC ethos. The founder acknowledges that achieving fitness goals requires a blend of passion, process, and perseverance. “Great things take a great deal of time to build,” he states, emphasizing that these qualities are essential for reaching any goal, whether in martial arts or life. 

Interestingly, the founder's journey to fitness was not straightforward. As a child, he battled severe asthma, a condition that could have easily deterred his pursuits. However, martial arts and figure skating helped him strengthen his lungs, ultimately shaping the fit individual he is today. He admits, “I have never been a gym person. I have always been an outdoors person, so I did take on calisthenics.” This unique background has fueled his passion for teaching and mentoring others at NEMC. 

As NEMC continues to grow, the community response has been overwhelmingly positive. Currently, the club boasts over 50 actively enrolled students, with a database of over 400 individuals. This growth is not merely a reflection of numbers but a testament to the club's commitment to spreading martial arts and Chinese culture among young people. “We are now entering more schools to expand our brand and bring martial arts to more children,” he shares with enthusiasm. 

The founder emphasizes that mental health plays a crucial role in overall fitness. “Have a healthy relationship with your friends and family is key,” he says. He believes that mental well-being transforms into physical health, underscoring the interconnectedness of mind and body. This holistic approach is woven into the fabric of NEMC's training philosophy, where students are encouraged to explore various courses and experiences. 

When it comes to nutrition, the founder takes a pragmatic approach. “It really depends on the role and the part,” he says, acknowledging that dietary needs can vary based on individual goals and lifestyles. While he advocates for healthy eating, he recognizes that what works for one person may not work for another. “It is up to you to figure out what your body needs and improve upon it. We cannot spoon-feed you—literally!” 

The founder's fitness routine is as dynamic as his martial arts philosophy. He incorporates cardio, core training, and flexibility exercises into his regimen. “I usually start with 15 minutes of stretches, followed by 10 minutes of jump-ropes,” he explains. His goal is to maintain a 5km run in under 25 minutes, with aspirations to achieve a personal record of 20 minutes. This dedication to self-improvement, leading by example instead of hammering his point in, is a hallmark of his teaching style, inspiring students to set and pursue their fitness goals. 

While martial arts may be a primary focus, the founder also harbors aspirations in acting—many in Hong Kong know his famous mother, actress Sharon Kwok. But naturally, he stepped into the industry and has appeared in film, television and music videos. He views acting as a physically demanding career that requires conveying emotions without words. Drawing inspiration from silent film legends like Buster Keaton and Charlie Chaplin, he acknowledges the physicality involved in performing. “A successful actor is someone who could convey a message without speaking,” he asserts. 

The path to success is often fraught with challenges, and the founder is no stranger to this reality. “The start is always the hardest,” he reflects, recognizing the difficulties faced by many entrepreneurs. Yet, his love for teaching and sharing martial arts culture continues to motivate him. “I really love teaching children and spreading the Chinese culture, especially martial arts,” he says. 

At NEMC, students are encouraged to explore a variety of courses, reflecting the belief that the human body is designed for movement and diverse experiences. “Your body will thank you for the new experience and very likely broaden your horizons,” the founder explains. This philosophy not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters personal growth and exploration. 

Even amidst a busy schedule, the founder prioritizes relaxation and quality time with family. “Spending time with the family and my dog is essential,” he shares. He enjoys exploring new experiences and traveling, believing that these activities enrich his life and contribute to overall well-being. 

For those looking to improve their fitness and well-being, Pong has a simple yet profound message: “Become the best version you imagine yourself to be.” This mantra serves as a tribute to one’s soul and underscores the importance of self-improvement. 

As NEMC looks to the future, the focus remains on expanding its reach and impact within the community. With a commitment to holistic health, physical fitness, and mental well-being, the club aims to inspire a new generation of martial artists and health enthusiasts. 

As the club prepares to celebrate its second anniversary, its founder remains dedicated to empowering individuals to embrace their fitness journeys and become the best versions of themselves. 

 

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Interview and shoot at The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong

Mild panic and last minute revisions on the Q's, nothing like pre interview prep.

The long weekend read: Catusinterrruptus

 

Working from home over the Christmas-New Year break requires patience. Or the cat to nap. Which, blissfully, happens a lot. 

2026! Let's goooo