weibo sep 29-30

Steven: Peace and happiness to everybody!  @材叔：Happy National Day! 

9/30  14:04 Prosperous Father's outdoor scene. May I take an "afternoon nap" ?










9/30 09:28 Go to Hin Sang Hong facebook to win Steven Ma's new book as prize with your winning essay.











9/29  17:25 The storm brought a small break, quietly listening to Prudence Liew's (劉美君) song...mulling over what should be pondered upon....

9/29 17:01 Haha! Very cute and strong doggie! Storm can blow them down, awesome!

weibo 9/27

9/27 21:01 18 years in the industry, cheers to myself! Cheers!!!

9/27 18:37 Today, many friends' birthday. There are Siu Ching jie (Miu Siu Ching) , Kelvin baba, idol Andy Lau, Angus, etc.  Coincidentally, today is also my 18th anniversary in this industry. Here's wishing everybody good health, happiness and prosperity! Congratulations !   Here's a lobster for the birthday guy and gal to eat! Will make up with a real one later！

9/27 15:07 18 years in the industry...thank you everybody for your best wishes.

9/26 13:48

Fatt Dat gor and my most beloved

Assasination of the Spirit -- Steven Ma

Source: Eastweek Magazine
Writer: Tsui Yong Yong
Date: September 2011

July 21, 2011 night was the date I tendered my resignation to Steven Ma.  The year I helped Steven to establish Kinston Publishing Ltd. Company (建星文化出版有限公司)* was in July in Autumn; today’s parting also was in July. “Where’s old friend? Where’s future? With whom to share heart to heart talks?”  Ten years of acquaintance ephemeral like the evanescence of white clouds.  Came in with happiness, left with sadness, such bitterness!

Who brought this bitterness here? I believe if my old friend, Steven Ma, in 2005 did not choose to sign up with TVB artists management and became this department so-called ‘biological son’, today he would not have with much grief and indignation requested to terminate his contract and leave; only missing a long sleeve to wave farewell. (tn: as in the ancient times)

It is that, once a person leaves, the tea will get cold, (tn: out of sight out of mind) and all gratitude and grievances would summarily dissipate; but after reading an article in a magazine concerning Virginia Lok and Steven Ma’s contract termination request, my heart suddenly became agitated.

What first agitated me was this sentence: “Steven’s jobs are not many? Why?..  clients are fickle, one minute like this the next like that.. .and close to him is Tsui Jie, (i.e. me, Tsui Yong Yong), a seasoned veteran media person, many clients looked her up first, then had us followed up.”

An executive in charge of overseeing artistes’ careers has the responsibility to seek out job opportunities for each and every one of the ‘biological sons and daughters’ who signed a management contract with TVB, yet she charged that because Steven had someone by his side to help him, that is why (TVB) was not able to find jobs for him.

excerpt memoir 2002

A fellow forumer asked me why I like Steven, I gave the stock answer below:

Why I like Steven Ma. Because of “眼缘” (eyes affinity) and idol-fan fate(缘分). I think Steven is good looking and multi-talented. He acts,sings,and writes well. I also appreciate his intelligent and articulated responses during his interviews. He is a public figure I can really admire and look up to as a role model from what I know of him. Also I absolutely enjoy reading his thought-provoking,sometimes profound,writings in his book and blog.

Year 1993
But that is only part of the reason why I became such a big fan of Steven, what truly captured my heart is Steven's memoir whereby he shared the innermost of himself through his words in his 2002 column he wrote for a Guangzhou Daily. Steven said newbies started at ground zero but his starting in the entertainment was at a negative point because of this slogan: "He is not Lai Ming...".  His eloquence with words and his willingness to expose his vulnerability touched my heart and made me see him not just as an artist but a person I can admire and appreciate as role model. 

When an almost healed wound was suddenly ripped open, the pain and the despondency felt couldn't be imagined. Although, I knew Ms. MC’s use of “.. resembles Lai Ming…” to present me was not ill-intentioned, nevertheless, when I heard it I was transfixed with terror. My mind went blank. Backstage, I heard the riotous heckling and the male emcee, Uncle Jim saying: “What’s the matter? This singer sings very well. He sings with his heart. Listen to him…….” Uncle Jim’s terse remarks swiftly quieted down the crowd. It was precisely because of this esteemed veteran’s encouraging remarks that I was able to re-assemble whatever shredded confidence still left in me to actually find the courage to walk out onto the stage. Perhaps, unknowingly during the past year I had gotten use to performing amidst boos, for that night, I was able to present an outwardly calm and collected demeanor as I cast aside my trepidation for the moment. I got my wits together, enough to pep talk myself: To be a professional singer, one must be able to perform professionally under any circumstances.

With that in mind, I grasped the mike, closed my eyes, and sang with all my might and all the emotion I could muster. For the next three minutes, my only thought was to sing this song well, nothing else matter. Not until the last note faded away, and I heard the resounding applause did I ascertain my effort did not go to waste. From booing to warm applause, the time interval was exceedingly short, and its turnabout, incredibly abrupt. Caught up in the swing of mood, emotion welled up inside me. Standing on the stage, vaguely discerning an undulating sea of friendly faces, I was so touched I almost cried. I thought: although the crowd’s booing was tough to bear, but to finally receive their acceptance and approval; did it not make this all the more meaningful? I held back my tears, thanked the audience and went backstage. The smile that was moments ago hanging on my face fell off instantly. No need to look at a mirror, I could feel the numbing of my senses on a face void of emotion. The backstage was crowded with people, but I did not utter a word. I withdrew straight into my shell from the past; a very familiar, very private world…

.....................................

Faced with these two options, I felt re-energized. Delirious aside, I wondered at fate’s timely intervention; its timing was impeccable, right on when I was all set to leave entertainment and move on to a different circle. Why pull me back again? Did it mean I should stay? I had already put in three years in this circle, and was fully cognizant of the vagaries of an entertainment career; a gamble if ever there was one. If I stay, does it mean I would have to gamble one more time? Put in another three more years? How many three years could I bet on? Stay or leave? I was torn; indeed the decision was not an easy one to make.

read the whole memoir here

One Pen Ma: 18 Years in the Industry

9/26/2011
18 Years in the Industry

September 27th is the anniversary of my debut into the entertainment circle; in a blink of an eye, 18 years now.

Recall in early 1993, I participated in the Pioneer Laser Karaoke singing competition, after encountering 43 failures, this time I finally experienced the taste of being a champion! And the chief judge for that competition was Teacher Tai Si Chung. After the competition, I was fortunate to elicit Teacher Tai’s appreciation; signed up as singer under a company’s label; trained and groomed; made my debut as singer, officially entering the entertaining circle.



However, there are two things that people may not be aware of:
First, before my success in that competition, I had actually been taking singing lessons. During that learning period, Teacher Leung Yuet Ling had been utmost generous with her teaching toward me, not only on singing, but also on stage presence, wardrobe and others, she did it all for me. My indebtedness to her, I give thanks without words.

Second, September 27 is actually the release date of my first music album, “Fortunate is to have met you”. To commemorate the birth of my first album, I designated this date to be my debut into the industry. So counting on fingers, I actually being in the industry for 18 and a half years.

Anyway, to be able to have these 18 years, I truly need to thank these two teachers for their benefaction and affection.

Mona Fong Expresses Anger Over TVB’s Talent Drain; Wants Steven Ma to Stay

Source: Oriental Daily
Recently, TVB was in an embattled state, facing the exodus of its production staff and continuing the long-time struggle over royalty provisions with the “Big Four” recording companies, which consisted of EMI, Sony Music, Universal Music, and Warner Music Group. TVB Vice Chairman, Mona Fong (方逸華), was extremely angry over the state of affairs, ordering top three executives, Norman Leung (梁乃鵬), Lee Bao On (李寶安), and Stephen Chan (陳志雲) to solve the crisis of the talent drain in the artist department, while specifically stating that Steven Ma (馬浚偉) should be retained at the company.

With the Hong Kong government’s approval of operating licenses to three free television stations next year, a wave of high staff turnover occurred within TVB. Aside from fadans, siu sungs, and singers expressing their intention to leave the nest, numerous top executives, producers, scriptwriters, and even veteran supporting actors also launched “The Great Escape” [to rival stations]. In charge of TVB, Mona Fong was very dissatisfied with the news reports over the past few days.

Steven Ma Moved to Tears in Front of TVB Management

To avoid further deterioration in the current state of affairs, Mona Fong enlisted the help of TVB’s top three executives, Norman Leung, Lee Bao On, and Stephen Chan to resolve the company’s internal and external issues, while stabilizing staff morale. The first issue to address was the recent high staff turnover, requiring the top three executives to understand the root of employee dissatisfaction and the cause of their intent to leave TVB. Second, did the collective resignation of high-level management validate outside rumors that the salaries were indeed low and the hours were very long? Finally, regarding the problem with the “Big Four” music companies, it was also necessary to retain talent at the company.

Among the three main issues to address, Ms. Fong requested that Steven Ma’s contract be handled first. He was the first artist asking to leave with an unexpired contract. Allegedly, Ms. Fong noticed Steven Ma’s recent performances, including The Life and Times of a Sentinel <紫禁驚雷>, cooking show Apprentice Chef <大廚出馬>, and Book of Words <正識第一>. Considering Steven to be a talented artist, Ms. Fong did not understand why he possessed the intention to leave TVB. Ms. Fong specifically pointed out that she hoped to retain Steven at the company.

There were rumors that Steven Ma was in tears at an earlier dinner Mar 15 2011 between TVB artists and management. It was understood that Steven did not shed tears for himself, but was worried over the future prospects of TVB. Steven confided to Norman Leung regarding the plight of the little-known state of TVB artists. Steven hoped that TVB management will place importance upon the matter, as an increasing number of artists would otherwise leave, resulting in greater losses for TVB.

Although Ms. Fong did not enlist the help of Virginia Lok (樂易玲) in her emergency response plan, Ms. Lok worked with rumored rival, Catherine Tsang (曾勵珍), to initiate meetings with TVB artists and greater understand their feelings.

Steven Ma Groaned Over Inopportune Broadcasting Times
Held in high esteem by Mona Fong, Steven Ma noted that he was unaware of the situation. If the praise were indeed true, Steven indicated that he felt very happy and appreciated Ms. Fong’s praise. Asked why he had cried at an earlier TVB management dinner, Steven said, “That dinner was between artists and TVB management. These type of dinners occurred on a regular basis. That night, Norman Leung and Li Bao On were present. I drank a bit of alcohol and we discussed some unhappy issues. I expressed my feelings about the company and hoped TVB can do better.”

Asked what matters made Steven unhappy, he said, “I asked Norman Leung not to broadcast my dramas during inopportune times, such as holiday periods. In fact, it was not much. I just felt emotional and shed tears!”

Since TVB appeared to possess great sincerity in retaining him, will Steven remain at the company? Steven replied, “I am currently filming a series. Stephen Chan did contact me. However, I did not have time [to meet yet]. This situation takes time to resolve. Give me some time. I need to think carefully about the future!”

Stephen Chan did not return the reporter’s call before the publication deadline. Normally attending church every Sunday, he was not seen yesterday.

Source: Oriental Daily
translator: Jayne @ Jaynestar  on 9/25, 2011

weibo 9/26

credit: the little girl in between

SM HK fanclub candid photo

@Tsui 蓉蓉細語：Reviewing old photos, truly feel that Grand Master Piggy is master of pen and sword.

Steven: 9/26 00:50 This was taken in that one year at Hengdian when fooling around with the makeover designer.  Don "Lu Bu" costume and took this photo. haha!






9/26 00:30 Fatt Dat gor acts cool to pursue Yi Shuk Miu.

9/25 20:21 

Steven Ma: Knows how to manage time.
Steven Ma fans know that their idol loves Bumblebee of the Transformers, so they gave him this key chain.  Steven: "Besides being an accessory, that thing at the end of the key chain is a mini flashlight, very useful in nighttime outdoor shooting."

Steven often has to work outside so his cellphone is low on battery so a battery charger is a necessity to have with him at all times. Steven said: "For just in case situation. Also can lend to others who need it."

In between takes Steven uses the interim to do some exercises so he brings along his gym gloves and gym clothes with him.  "When on breaks will go do some exercises.  And I have my gym clothes inside the car so can do exercises anytime."

Steven's

tsui yong yong weibo - confirmed Steven has accepted The Legend of Empire Founder

 
9/25/2011 (Tsui Yong Yong's weibo)：Grand Master Pig (Steven Ma) has already accepted "The Legend of Empire Founder" (English title per its sina weibo account) . Later he will be going to Hengdian and other locations to shoot the series. I'll accompany him on these shoots. Twin swords are back together again. Happy! 

***************************
Yes! Steven is very lucky to have Tsui Yong Yong all these by his side, and he knows it, too.

weibo 9/24

 I am inside the bedroom.........！From Fatt Dar Gor

Steven 9/24 17:47 Wah, HKRTV's Angel Lorna! 

@Ron-MMY：Another pose @馬浚偉 with dog !

steven 9/24 16:20:   Haha! Thks toyi!

 

@歐紀賢Toyi：Browsing book store and saw this @馬浚偉 ..happy!

Steven 9/24 13:44  :  Wow! thks!
@真真Tai Steven, London Chinatown has many of your series, and also your latest poster.

weibo 9/23

9/ 23 14:54 Waited past the first Autumn, waited past the second Autumn, waited until the leaves fall, waited, waited until cry, why still love like before...lift my head, recalled this song. 

等過第一個秋 等過第二個秋 等到黃葉滑落 等等到哭了 為何愛戀依舊......抬頭看，想起這首歌。





The song is 等等等等 by 黄磊

Steven Ma: Chok King

Haha! Steven caught by roving paparazzi self-snapping away his own "chok" look with his iphone.

Even though the road in front of him is unclear but yesterday when shooting Prosperous Father with Linda Chung and Chris Lai, Steven's mood was not affected. In between takes he talked and joked with the crew. But when left alone, it's like Chok god suddenly possessed him as he began to snap self shots, as he took shots of himself from all angles, up down left right, was he trying to compete with Chok Fung? (Raymond Fung)

Weib: 9/22 sweet dreams

9/22  23:06  I was already tired to start with but after exercising, even more tired.  But it's fine, certain to sleep well.  Wishing everybody sweet dreams!