Dr Simon Suen is a distinguished entrepreneur and philanthropist, celebrated for his global leadership in the label manufacturing industry and his unwavering dedication to cultural preservation and education.
As the founder and chairman of the SML Group, established in 1985, Dr Suen has guided the company to become a world leader in innovative and sustainable labelling solutions. Today, SML operates in over 30 countries with thousands of employees, serving as a trusted partner to leading fashion brands and retailers around the globe. His visionary leadership has set a benchmark in corporate excellence and innovation.
Dr Suen’s profound commitment to society further distinguishes his career. A passionate advocate for cultural heritage, he has channelled his entrepreneurial success into philanthropic efforts spanning education, health, youth development, and community advancement. A devoted supporter of Hong Kong Baptist University (HKBU), a key partner of Beijing Normal-Hong Kong Baptist University (BNBU), Dr Suen has made transformative contributions to academia.
In 2011, he donated HK$30 million toward the founding of the Mr. Simon Suen and Mrs. Mary Suen Sino-Humanitas Institute and became its Honorary President. The Institute promotes Chinese classical learning and cross-cultural academic exchange, reflecting his deep belief in the enduring value of the humanities. In the same year, Dr Suen also donated HK$1 million to support HKBU’s Human Resources Management Mentoring Programme. In 2011 and 2012, he contributed an additional HK$300,000 in support of the 8th and 9th Global Chinese University Student Film and TV Festivals.
Deeply inspired by the esteemed sinologist Prof Jao Tsung-I, Dr Suen has become a leading figure in the promotion of Chinese cultural studies. He currently serves as Founding Chairman of the Jao Tsung-I Petite Ecole Fan Club and Honorary Chairman of the Jao Studies Foundation, playing a pivotal role in fostering appreciation and scholarship in sinology.
A firm believer in “giving back to society,” Dr Suen has donated generously to causes ranging from disaster relief and healthcare to education and community infrastructure. He also actively serves society in multiple leadership roles, including Honorary Vice President of the Chinese Association of Museums, Honorary President of the Scout Association of Hong Kong, and Executive Vice Chairman of the Federation of Hong Kong Guangdong Community Organisations. In recognition of his longstanding support for his hometown, he was named an Honorary Citizen of Dongguan. In 2012, he was conferred an Honorary University Fellowship by the University of Hong Kong, and an Honorary Doctoral Degree by Hong Kong Baptist University.
Dr Suen’s entrepreneurial vision, philanthropic spirit, and commitment to Chinese cultural scholarship exemplify the values of leadership, cultural stewardship, and social responsibility. These qualities make him a most deserving recipient of an Honorary Fellowship at BNBU and a model of excellence for future generations.
