HONG KONG – Taiwanese singer-songwriter Vic Chan, known for his soulful ballads and creative ventures, marked a new philanthropic milestone Wednesday by launching a scholarship initiative for primary school students in Hong Kong’s Wong Tai Sin district, using funds accumulated from fan donations intended for his original animated character, “Huala La.”
Chan, 40, attended the award ceremony for the “Vic Chan and Huala La Scholarship – Wong Tai Sin District Primary School Growth Program,” where he announced a first donation of HK$100,000 (approximately US$12,800). The money, he explained, came entirely from red envelopes—traditional gift money—given by fans to his IP character.
“Every Lunar New Year and on July 7, Huala La’s birthday, my fans send red envelopes wishing him to grow up healthy and happy,” Chan said during the event. “I have always made it clear that I would save all these gifts for charity. This is the first charitable project, and the fund has already raised nearly HK$50,000.”
The scholarship aims to support underprivileged children in the district, a densely populated area with a mix of public housing and older neighborhoods. Chan, who gained fame after winning Taiwan’s “One Million Star” competition, emphasized that the initiative is just the beginning. He revealed plans for a second project focused on music education.
“I want to help children who have a passion for music but face financial difficulties,” Chan added. “My dream is to sponsor them to attend music academies, so they can pursue their talents.”
A Personal Mission Born from Hardship
Chan spoke candidly about his own upbringing, describing a childhood marked by financial struggles. “My family was poor, but I was lucky to have many benefactors who helped me along the way,” he said. “I deeply understand that when someone extends a hand, it can change your entire life. Now, I want to pay it forward. If possible, I even hope to volunteer as a teacher, sharing my story to encourage the next generation.”
The announcement comes months after Chan faced backlash from fans of late Hong Kong pop legend Leslie Cheung. Chan had previously created a parody cover of Cheung’s album using Huala La, sparking criticism from Cheung’s dedicated fanbase, known as “Gor-mates.” Asked about the controversy, Chan said he now feels less pressure appearing publicly with the character.
“Huala La was created to break stereotypes,” he said. “He is different from other cartoon characters. The incident is in the past, and I will keep moving forward, doing what I believe is right and giving more care to society.”
Upcoming Tour and Future Collaborations
Chan revealed he will depart Thursday for a short concert tour across Canada, including stops in Toronto, Vancouver, and Calgary. “I hope I’ll have time to see the Niagara Falls,” he said with a smile.
When asked about potential collaborations with contestants from the latest season of Hong Kong’s singing competition “Midlife, Good Voice 4,” Chan admitted he has yet to get to know the new batch of talent well. He noted he remains in contact only with singer Yau Suk-ching, with whom he has previously worked, and said future partnerships would be arranged by his management team.
The scholarship program, administered in partnership with local education groups, is expected to expand in the coming years as Chan continues to channel fan support into community initiatives. For now, the singer said his immediate goal is simple: “To give children the encouragement I once received—and a chance to believe in their dreams.”
