Dr. Samuel YUNG, Executive District Director and Honourable Advisor at AIA International Limited, and Vice Chairman of the Committee for Economic Affairs of the National Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference, has dedicated his career to advancing professionalism, public service, and education. An HKUST EMBA alumnus, he continues to embody the University’s spirit of leadership and innovation.
For Dr. Samuel Yung, success has always been a matter of purpose. Guided by his belief that “everything is possible,” he has built a career defined by resilience, integrity, and service. Over four decades in the insurance industry, he has not only led teams to record breaking success but also helped elevate the professional standards of an entire sector.
When Dr. Yung joined the HKUST EMBA Program in 2005, he was already a seasoned executive ready for new perspectives. “It was an honor to be part of the EMBA class,” he recalls. “After over 20 years in management, I wanted to exchange ideas with other leaders. The discussions were practical, the professors were inspiring, and the experience was truly transformative.”
Since then, his bond with HKUST has only deepened. “The University’s academic strength and international recognition continue to grow,” he notes. “HKUST’s excellence is not only visible in its rankings—it’s evident in its culture of innovation and the achievements of its students and alumni.”
Building a Community of Innovation and Unity
To Dr. Yung, HKUST represents more than an institution—it’s a community driven by creativity, collaboration, and purpose. Over the years, he has served in multiple leadership roles within the University, including Founding President of the EMBA Alumni Liaison Committee, Council and Court Member, and Chairman of the Council’s Institutional Advancement and Outreach Committee.
“HKUST cultivates people who don’t just aim for success—they aim to make a difference,” he says. “Its entrepreneurial spirit mirrors Hong Kong’s own dynamic identity as an innovation hub.”
He cherishes the lifelong friendships and mutual support forged during his EMBA years. “Even after graduation, our class continues to meet. The bond we built at HKUST remains very strong—that sense of unity is something truly special.”
Leadership with Vision and Purpose
Now as Executive District Director and Honourable Advisor at AIA International Limited, Dr. Yung has witnessed the insurance industry evolve dramatically—from traditional face to face work to the age of digital transformation and AI driven analytics. Yet one constant, he says, defines great leadership: vision.
“Whether times are stable or changing rapidly, a good leader must look beyond the horizon,” he reflects. “We must continuously learn, adapt, and use innovation to serve people better.”
His leadership achievements have been recognized across regions. In addition to receiving multiple international awards—including the Lifetime Achievement Award – Life Insurance from the Hong Kong Federation of Insurers, the Worldwide Chinese Life Insurance Lifetime Achievement Award from the International Dragon Award Organisation, and the Lifetime Achievement Award at the 7th Asia Trusted Life Agents & Advisers Awards 2022—Dr. Yung made history as the only person worldwide to earn GAMA Global’s Master Agency Award for 31 consecutive years.
“Leadership is about example,” he emphasizes. “A leader must act with humility and curiosity, always learning from others. At HKUST, I found the same values—vision, adaptability, and lifelong learning.”
Ethics, Dr. Yung believes, lie at the heart of enduring success. “Integrity is the foundation of everything we do,” he says firmly. “Without it, no achievement can stand the test of time. In business and in life, transparency and sincerity come first.”
That commitment to service has defined not just his career, but his public life, with countless commendations and accolades recognizing his contributions.
“For me, true leadership is about stewardship,” he says. “We should contribute to the progress of society, not just personal success.”
Looking Ahead: Inspiring a Generation of Changemakers
Dr. Yung firmly believes that Hong Kong’s strength lies in its openness and talent. “Hong Kong’s advantage under ‘one country, two systems’ is its ability to connect global vision with national development,” he explains. “HKUST, with its Guangzhou campus and cutting edge research, is in a powerful position to nurture global talent and drive innovation for both Hong Kong SAR and our country.”
As HKUST continues to shape the region’s future, he encourages students and alumni to uphold the same principles that have guided his own career. “Keep learning, stay honest, and always give back,” he says. “HKUST has provided us with knowledge, inspiration, and opportunity—it’s our turn to support its future.”
For Dr. Yung, the University’s anniversary is not simply a celebration of achievement, but a reminder of responsibility. “Everything is possible,” he concludes. “With vision, integrity, and a heart to serve, we can create lasting change—for ourselves, for our city, and for the world.”
