To celebrate the conferment of honorary doctoral degrees, the University organises a series of activities entitled "Brilliance of Civilization" to enable the honorary doctors to share their wisdom with the general public.  In this connection, Mr. Simon Suen, JP, recipient of the honorary degree of Doctor of Social Sciences, delivered a public lecture on "Sharing on Business Management and Philosophy of Culture" on 9 November 2012.  During the lecture, Mr. Suen shared his success in running a global business and his devotion to Chinese cultural pursuits.

In his address, Professor Albert S.C. Chan, JP, President and Vice-Chancellor, praised Mr. Suen as a global entrepreneur dedicated to promoting Chinese culture, who is indeed unique in the local business community. He has been making significant contributions to traditional culture and arts over the years. Professor Chan also thanked Mr. Suen for supporting the University's mission of Whole Person Education and academic research, especially for his donation of HK$30 million for the founding of the Mr. Simon Suen and Mrs. Mary Suen Sino-Humanitas Institute in 2011. To express our sincere appreciation, Professor Chan presented a souvenir to Mr. Suen for his staunch support of the University and for his inspiring sharing at the public lecture.

In his lecture, Mr. Simon Suen told his life story and the hardships he had experienced in business building as well as his insights into traditional culture. He shared his philosophy of starting a business, emphasising that integrity is the most important element in winning the recognition of business partners, society and the market. He said he considers culture as the sediment of history, and he cherishes culture and enjoys listening to, viewing and reading historical pieces. He encouraged students to be self-confident, decisive, and to grasp every opportunity and challenge with hope. He advised students not to focus their studies on business subjects only, but also on the humanities, because culture is the root of mankind.

The public lecture was a great success and received overwhelming response from the guests, including family members and friends of Mr. Simon Suen, representatives of local governments and organisations of the Chinese Mainland, community leaders, representatives from the business and cultural sectors, as well as members of the Council and the Court, staff, students and alumni of the University.

After the lecture, Mr. William Leung, BBS, JP, Treasurer of the HKBU Foundation cum Treasurer of the Council and the Court, hosted a dinner for the family and friends of Mr. Simon Suen with HKBU representatives.