A new six-episode documentary titled From Dongguan to Hong Kong premiered on June 2, offering an in-depth look at the lives, struggles, and legacies of Dongguan-born individuals who have shaped modern Hong Kong across generations.
The series chronicle the century-long journey of Dongguan people in Hong Kong, how they planted roots, built careers, gave back to their hometown, and helped forge deep cultural and economic ties between the two cities. Through interviews with over 20 prominent figures from fields such as business, finance, education, charity, and the arts, the documentary blends personal storytelling with archival footage to paint a vivid portrait of resilience and community.
Interviewees include business leader Chan Wing-kee, CPPCC Standing Committee member Tam Kam-kau, financial executive Pollyanna Chu Yuet Wah, and well-known entertainer Wong Cho-lam. Their stories reflect a shared spirit of hard work, patriotism, and deep-rooted connection to Dongguan.
Tam Kam-kau, a member of the National Committee of the CPPCC and Chairman of the Hong Kong Federation of Dongguan ASSN., himself featured in the film, called it not just a retrospective but "a spiritual relay." He encouraged younger generations to embrace their heritage and carry forward the Dongguan ethos in a modern context.
Pollyanna Chu Yuet Wah echoed this sentiment, noting that Dongguan represents her family's cultural foundation. "Dongguan isn't just our hometown, it's our cultural root," she says. "That sense of origin keeps us grounded." Over the years, she has supported numerous Dongguan companies going public in Hong Kong, helping bridge resources and opportunities across the region.
Wong Cho-lam, who has actively promoted Dongguan-themed cultural projects, hopes to use entertainment as a bridge for greater understanding between the two cities. "Culture is a powerful way to build identity and mutual respect," he noted.
The premiere also featured an immersive exhibition, showcasing over 20 photos of the city's recent urban transformation and cultural heritage. Guests enjoyed traditional Dongguan snacks and interactive photo zones designed to evoke the "flavor of home."
Produced and organized by the Hong Kong Federation of Dongguan ASSN., the documentary marks the first major cultural film project independently led by a hometown federation in Hong Kong. The series is set to broadcast every Friday and Saturday evening starting June 6 across Greater Bay Area TV and several leading digital platforms.
