Chua Lam, the 83-year-old renowned food critic and one of Hong Kong's Four Great Talents, has recently been reported to have health issues that necessitated his admission to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) for observation. His secretary reassured the public that Chua is merely dealing with some "old ailments" and there is no need for concern.
Chua, who has been a vibrant presence on social media, particularly known for sharing his culinary experiences, has notably become more low-key in recent weeks. On April 3, 2025, he announced on Facebook that his regular Friday live broadcasts would be suspended for the time being due to a busy schedule. This was the last communication he had with his followers before the recent reports of his hospitalization.
In a statement on the evening of April 29, Chua took to social media to ease the worries of his fans, stating, "Thank you for your concern, it's not a critical illness, please don't worry." His message came after reports surfaced about his condition, indicating that he was under observation in the ICU.
Chua Lam is not just a food critic; he is a cultural icon in Hong Kong, often compared to literary giants like Jin Yong and Ni Kuang. His influence extends beyond food, as he has also penned an autobiography titled "Lived Through," released on February 10, 2025. In this book, he reflects on his life journey, stating, "This is my latest work, I didn't want to write it originally, but now I feel indifferent. Once, I encountered turbulence on a plane, and the foreigners next to me were shocked, but I continued to drink without caring. After the crisis passed, they asked me, 'Hey, old brother, have you died?' I waved my hand and told them, 'I have lived through.'"
Chua's life took a significant turn two years ago when his wife tragically passed away after falling at home. In a desperate attempt to save her, he suffered a severe hip injury that required surgery. This event profoundly affected his outlook on life, leading him to sell his Kowloon City home and move into a luxurious hotel service apartment overlooking Victoria Harbour. He now spends approximately 500,000 Hong Kong dollars a month to maintain a team of eight caregivers, including doctors and nurses, to assist him with daily activities.
Chua's recent health issues come in the wake of personal loss; his younger brother, Chua King, a well-known media figure in Singapore, passed away on March 26, 2025, due to complications from myelodysplastic syndrome that developed into acute leukemia. Due to his own health problems, Chua Lam will not be attending his brother's funeral.
Despite the challenges he faces, Chua remains optimistic about his future. He has expressed a desire to scatter his ashes at sea after his passing, a reflection of his deep connection to the ocean and the city he loves. In a previous interview, he remarked on the dwindling number of friends he has left, stating, "I hope to pass away without suffering." This sentiment underscores his acceptance of life’s impermanence and his wish for a peaceful end.
As news of his hospitalization spreads, fans, friends, and family continue to rally around Chua Lam, hoping for his swift recovery. His contributions to Hong Kong’s culinary scene and culture remain unparalleled, and many are eager to see him return to his lively discussions about food and life.
Chua Lam's journey reflects not only the trials of aging but also the enduring spirit of a man who has witnessed and experienced much throughout his life. Now, as he navigates these health challenges, his resilience and humor shine through, reminding us all of the importance of cherishing every moment.
