HONG KONG — Beloved veteran actress Miu Kam-fung, whose real name was Lam Wai-shan, passed away in late June at the age of 84. A funeral service was held Thursday at the Po Fook Memorial Hall in Tai Wai, with cremation scheduled for Friday morning at Diamond Hill Crematorium.
The actress’s second son, Lau Luk-wing, told reporters that his mother spent her final years peacefully surrounded by her children and grandchildren. He said the family chose to display her most beautiful photographs at the funeral so that friends and relatives would remember her at her best.
“She loved all of her work, but at home she could be strict, of course,” Lau said, recalling that corporal punishment was common in their generation. “But it was always for our own good.”
Notable figures from Hong Kong’s entertainment industry gathered to pay their respects, including Gao Xiong, Tin Kai-man, Wong Ha-wai, Chui Po-fung, and Wong Man-wai.
Emotional Tributes from Co-stars
Veteran actor Gao Xiong, who flew back from Canada to visit family, grew emotional as he recalled working alongside Miu. They had once played a married couple on screen and remained in touch over the years.
“I am particularly saddened by her passing,” Gao said, his voice breaking. “To me, she was absolutely a Nice Lady. I wish her well on her final journey.”
Gao, who has learned of several colleagues’ deaths in recent days, also expressed sorrow over the loss of legendary actor Tse Yin (known as “Fourth Brother”), who died on July 16 from pneumonia. Tse’s family honored his wish for a low-key funeral, with cremation already completed.
“He once helped me—he was someone who gave me opportunities,” Gao said, choking up again. “It doesn’t matter now. Everything is as fate decides.”
Industry Legacy and Mentorship
Tin Kai-man, spokesman for the Federation of Hong Kong Film Workers, confirmed Tse’s cause of death and clarified media speculation. Contrary to rumors, Tin said Tse did not appear in Shaolin Soccer for free—he accepted a symbolic red envelope payment, demonstrating the generosity of a true industry veteran.
Tin also reflected on Miu’s influence on his own career. “When I first entered the industry, she kindly taught me acting techniques, and I have passed those lessons on to newcomers in training classes,” he said.
Miu’s funeral displayed 21 precious vintage photographs for mourners to view, capturing a life that spanned decades in Hong Kong’s golden age of cinema and television.
Broader Impact
The passing of Miu marks the end of an era for Hong Kong’s entertainment industry, which has lost several icons in recent years. Her legacy lives on not only through her extensive body of work but also through the skills she imparted to younger generations of actors. Tin’s commitment to sharing her teachings with new talent ensures that her influence will continue to shape Hong Kong cinema for years to come.
For those wishing to learn more about Hong Kong’s film history, the Federation of Hong Kong Film Workers maintains archives and educational resources at their official website.
