2005 Steven doing social works - Updated

2005 Steven doing social works  星想事成 (Realizing Celebrity's Dream) at TVB8



Transcript on Steven's commentation only
My first job to apply after graduating high school was for a social worker assistant position. But I did not get it. First, because I was too young (tn: was 16 years old). Second, because my grades were not good enough. So did not get the job.   At that time, I was disappointed. But today, I'm rather happy because finally I have a chance to feel how it's like being a social worker. 

I dare not say I like to help people since young, I'm not that great. On the contrary, what I want to say is that when young I often had the opportunity to receive other people's help.  Including at school, at work. I feel that I was quite lucky at people helping me. Enabling me to do a lot and resolving many problems. Hence, I didn't get on the wrong track. So to me, helping others or giving opportunity to others is very important. Because I myself have received a lot. So if it is within my effort, I hope to help other people. 

I think when I was young I was still very naive. But in Form 3 (Grade 9) I got into society, studying and working at a part-time job simultaneously.  I experienced a lot and encountered many people. And also got to know a lot of people older than me. Their influence on me was rather big. They taught me a lot. Even working at a part time job, my supervisor was a very decent boss. He too had given me a lot of opportunities.

Actually, after my Form 5 graduation, the first job application letter that I mailed out was for the position of a social worker assistant.  That was only for an assistant. If want to be a certified social worker, one has to pass an exam to get the license. It's not like just because you want to be one, then you can do it. So at that time, I thought to myself I couldn't even meet the requirement to be a social worker assistant what's more a social worker. Because my grades were not high level enough. Because the minimum requirement was at least Form 7 but I had only Form 5 level grades. They also returned a rejection letter to me saying sorry and thank you for your sincerity but we couldn't accept your application. At the time, I thought to myself wanted to help but couldn't even help? Maybe because social work is a professional job so you (applicants) need to take exams, a certain level of qualification, only then would they let you slowly work from the bottom up.  But then I couldn't got back to school again, so would have to see in future if there were other opportunity in some other avenue to help out to realize this dream. So today can be considered a success to realizing that dream.

They said generally after a fund raising event, they would do something to commend the involved colleagues because the latte had put in their best efforts. To me this is very important because when one did something but it was completely ignored by others and nobody encouraged, naturally one would feel some disappointment. But they have a practice in that they seldom especially point out the part where someone did not do it well. On the contrary, they (social workers) would use a positive reinforcement thinking to encourage them by emphasizing the stuff they did well. And seldom point out the stuff they did not do that well.   To me, this is a very motivational aspect which I appreciate very much.

Juvenile problems are undoubtedly very serious.  Because I feel all of us between the ages of 15 to 20 that period is when we are most likely to absorb the bad influences. If during this time period we received, be it from our teachers or the social workers, some positive outlook, I think our paths in the future would be much smoother to travel.

I think juvenile delinquency is one of the more serious problems faced. (tn: in society) . I feel if we can bring to them a positive outlook, hope, or some influential aspect, this may greatly influence their future path.  This (impact) cannot be underestimated.

Because I grew up in Sham Shui Po, some of you may know, at that time Sham Shui Po was truly...when I was young, it (tn: the place) was truly very complex.  Yellow (tn:pornography), gambling, drugs all there, truly they were all there. The problem of secret societies, many many. I've had also witnessed my schoolmates around me because of weak willpower, can say they turned bad but I always said how come I myself also grew up in the same environment but didn't turn bad.  I think it is because I had a good family, good teachers and good friends, people around me were willing to guide me. Many were willing to give me opportunities. I believe if one can be good, nobody chooses to be bad. 

You can let them test out their direction to take.  Of course, you have to guide them from the sideline.  For instance, I say I want to go to disco to see how it's like.  To me this is fine. I think you can let him check it out.  Because the more you tried to prevent him from checking it out the more he wants to do it.  And once he sees he would say it was no big deal after all. 

I've just participated in an activity. Like Coach Liu said, the team spirit is very important, and mutual trust, too.  He insists that before participating you must say I'm very confident, do you all support me?  Everybody must give him a very big response which is "support".  After he succeeded and came down, they all would give him a celebration  which is, congratulate him.  Actually these two small acts represent the sharing of mutual support and contribution and outcomes - I feel they all came through in this activity. It's very meaningful.

Don't mistakenly think I'm having lunch right now.  Actually, I'm with the real social workers in the cafeteria below the social center located inside the building. There are some social work trainees working in this cafeteria so I came down with a social worker to better understand their situations.

I've never thought that helping you is to give you something. Honestly, I never see it that way. I feel if you want to help people the way to do so is to make sure that in the future they can help themselves, they can take care of themselves.  This is the real help.  If I want to help you, I take care of you for life now that is not helping you only harming you. I want to help you to be self-sufficient and can independently take care of yourself.  Know how to take care of yourself and later take care of other people.  That's how it should be.

Actually, I think their dancing is really wonderful; it's great. I feel this street break dance, erm, maybe many seniors or parents feel that this kind of dancing, turning and spinning on the floor, feel that only a group of juvenile delinquents would gather together to dance this kind of dance.  To me this kind of thinking is wrong because this kind of motivational force is very strong. This is a very difficult dance to perform.  Also they are passionate about this kind of dance so I very much like to talk with them.  To find out their reactions to other people's viewpoints on them and about their feelings or aspirations for this dance.

When people grow they will have their own experiences, and often times look upon their own thinking as the right viewpoint. Basically, can't say it is wrong to think this way.  We have experiences, we have traveled some roads, we are aware of problems and we don't want those young people or those younger than us to travel the same erroneous paths as we did. So often times, we thought of our own thinking  to be the standard answer, so always difficult to connect (tn:between adults and youngsters). We always seem to be on the opposite sides of an issue, and thus conflicts exist. So the only way is to first cast aside our own belief. Because we are more mature, more experienced. We should be able to back down a step, to let go of our belief so that we can listen to what they have to say, and to see from their viewpoint.

Female voice: Social workers are not salespeople so cannot hard sell on life outlook. This, Steven is much aware of. Towards a sad case, they (tn: sw) can only silently wish that person well.

Steven: There was this 12 year old girl. I talked with this 12 year old girl, for a long time.  She has just taken some pills.‘FING头丸’ , still woozy. She's only12 years old. But she told me she has been taking soft drugs for 2 years already.  So, that means she started at 10 years old. 10 years old only she has already started taking drugs. I feel really saddened. So I asked her if there is any way for her to stop doing drugs? I said don't do it.  She said, started as a 10 year old girl, can't stop it anymore, has become a habit.   That kind of... made me feel very disheartened. I really hope.. I said to her I really hope you would find you would ask them to help you to get rid of your drug addiction, go back to study, go back to school.  I don't know if she did or not look them up. But I hope she did. Such a waste. So young in age.

Female voice: Finally the most difficult stage. Steven along with the social worker talks to street juveniles. Before setting out, must listen to instructions. 

Steven: So inside this social work building I've had discussions with the social workers and have talked to the youngsters, so now there is this more challenging situation, which is to be an outdoor social worker trainee to talk to some youngster. A bit scared but will do my best.

Social worker: There are three techniques. First, don't ask them why so late at night they are still not home. Second, don't you need to be at school tomorrow?  It is good to be at school, everybody knows that.  Third, whatever they say we will not immediate rebut them with suspicion or sarcasm. Maybe our experiences are more than them or that their thinking or deeds we know is implausible but we will not bluntly say that. Maybe that was just a way to protect themselves or not real but nevertheless we would not point that out right there and then.  Like how can that be, you must be lying.

Steven: Maybe because I have performed in many tv series so I was quite happy to see them treating me like a friend or a big brother. Anyway, I grew up in the same environment as they.  So maybe that's why, at least to me, I didn't feel any distance.  None at all. So maybe that's why they felt as if talking to a friend.

After today, I feel they are great.  My aspiration at that time (tn: verses today) really.. a lot of feelings. Hopefully in the future, as an artist I hope I can continue to do more of this kind of work. 

We really must be aware of our own words and deeds. I won't dare to say I did well,  but I am truly very careful of my own words and actions. I know they may influence other people. I don't want to inflate these two words, "helping others" to sound so great.  Because everybody needs to help someone, at the same time, also needs help from other people.  During the process of so-called helping people, you yourself also benefited from it.  We all  must cherish ourselves. Even if many people want to help us we must help ourselves first.  First do well by ourselves, and when faced with problems, someone stretches out a helping hand to us, that way will  be perfect.  I believe many people know it is not easy to be a social worker. After today as a social worker trainee I feel happy.  But there is one thing I can ascertain is that if we want to communicate with the youngsters and people younger than us, we must first put the adults' acknowledged beliefs.  We truly must cast that aside first to break down the barrier first, only then can we share our experiences with them so that they can have a better life.

source: Uploaded by oldmor on Feb 19, 2012 @ youtube

related material: News: Steven empathizes with youth.
book essay: Insist on calling it angst
Book: [向好走　向坏走] Headed the Right Path, Headed the Wrong Path.

Editorial: Steven's Impacting Life

Impacting Life through giving help and opportunities to others
Because of his background, his mother's battle with cancer and a social conscience instilled in him by his parents, Steven had aspired since young to give back to society and to impact lives through actions and through giving others help and opportunities to better themselves. After high school Steven applied for a social worker position but was rejected because he did not have the required Form 7 academic credentials.  (1) Hence his mother's doctors, nurses and the hospital personnels and staff first inspired him with their kindness and help given to his mother. Till now Steven still do Hospitals promo video.

I dare not say I like to help people since young, I'm not that great. On the contrary, what I want to say is that when young I often had the opportunity to receive other people's help.[..]So to me, helping others or giving opportunity to others is very important because I myself have received plenty. So if it is within my effort, I hope to help other people. (2005)

1999 Steven was devastated when his mother died and he withdrawn into sorrow and depression. He isolated himself at home for three months or so until he was enlightened by Tang Jun Yi's (唐君毅) book given to him by good friend, Tsui Yong Yong.

2002 Steven established his own publishing company (出色堂) so that he could publish books of interest to him. He stressed he did not publish books specifically for profit or for fame.  2006 news:  "Only 2000 odd books are published per run. It’s a breakeven, can’t even make profits. So what fame is there to laud? What compliments are there to fish?" .  His objective he said was to give his readers different perspectives on life so that they could get through their problems or get back on life after a devastating setback. The materials of his published books drew heavily on his childhood background, which include: suicide, the family of a cancer patient and problem teenagers. (2)

2005: I feel that people in general need other people’s perspectives and assistance. [..] If they could somehow benefit just one person, I would be very happy indeed[..]

There are other mediums I could use, too. Besides books, I could also do it through TV series by choosing different kinds of characters to portray. I could even write scripts. And also, my characters could convey what I want to communicate to the public. Really not necessary to strictly do it through printed words. Printed words are indeed important, but images/videos could also be used as well as audio.

Singing could do that too. Like for instance, I could compose a song about family love, or include some words about the meaning of life. Actually, a lot of stuff are interrelated, no need to relinquish any one of them.  Actually, a lot of stuff are interrelated, no need to relinquish any one of them.

Over the years Steven has given back to society through his numerous charity works. Today, Steven continues to impact lives through his books, words, charities, actions and his work.  Steven said his new music album is composed mostly of Christian songs.


(1) 2005 vid/transcript- a day as a social worker.
(2) Acting is not my objective, helping people is


related materials
SM empthasizes delinquent youths
I'm a chronic patient's relative
vid/transcript SM talking to mainland fans
2006 Red Wine-Fresh-Milk
2009 SM's tour a poverty stricken village  

2002 Sisters Magazine - Maggie Cheung - Remains True to Onself

Steven's interview of Maggie as part of his "Women in Mazai's Eyes" column in the 2002 Sisters Magazine.

magscan source: weibo 11/9/ 01:27

Steven Ma’s interview with Maggie Cheung in his freelance 2002 column for Sisters No.721.
The woman in Ma Zai’s eye  马仔眼中的女人》
Subject: Maggie Cheung - Remains True to Onself.  之忠於真实自我——张可颐
Writer: Steven Ma

Maggie Cheung entered the (tv) industry at age nineteen, crossing over through the thresholds of movie world and music world, respectively. Even though she once left this field to venture into other worlds including a dip in a 9-5 job, the title of Miss Hong Kong with the most acting potential awarded her pulled her back into it again. Because her Chan Bao Zhu’s portrayal was so realistic, her forehead was henceforth “embedded’ with these four gigantic words “natural born thespian”. (天生演员) However, only her acting potential flows into the entertainment world’s channel; her personality clashes with it.

“Better Halves” was not my first collaboration with Maggie. Two three years ago, we had already worked together in a movie called “When a Man Loves a Woman” (爱我别走).  My impression then was that this girl was very punctual, which is why I found the later disseminated news of her tardiness to work very perplexing.

We did not have much on screen interactions in the earlier movie, but in the tv series, we faced each other day in and day out. I noticed that this girl was not only very punctual but also possessed a rather straightforward personality.

One Friday afternoon, we arranged to meet at a certain restaurant in Clearwater Bay for a lunch interview. And sure enough, Maggie talked as she ate; seemingly enjoying both with much relish.

Steven Empathizes; Steers Youths to A Better Path.

马浚伟同理心 领少年向好走

2004-07-12 文：郑依依 

Translator: Tamaya

It's been half a year before Du Shu Ban (Books Section) did another interview with Steven. This fellow has lost weight, but still looks good. Like his Tales of Society book series which is now onto its third book [向好走　向坏走] (Headed the Right Path, Headed the Wrong Path), likewise Steven’s commitment to social issues, expressed through his publications, has steadfastly strengthened.

The book tells the stories of 10 young men who somehow along the way took the wrong turn. Steven, together with a colleague and a social worker, had pounded the streets, ‘accosted’ late night young loiterers, and chatted with juveniles placed on probation; their encounters were later compiled and narrated into that very book. Whether these young men are straddling the fine line of good vs evil or are convicted felonies, Steven strongly believes that, "They are not bad."

He believes that human basic nature is good. "Since birth, people have strived to be good, but somehow, somewhere, they strayed, and got lost because of lack of direction. No one showed them the right way. In order to guide young people onto the righteous path, or to straighten them up from wrong to right, one must first understand their problems."

"Thump, thump", he knocks on the desk top; his face solemn: "Problem teens and teens with problems are two separate issues," he reiterates. Steven wants the reporter to really get his reasoning behind it. "Teenagers make mistakes only occasionally. Therefore, the adults should not so magnify those mistakes that they stick out like labels, and then forcibly imposed demands on the offenders. These actions will not help them to understand or solve the offenders’ problems."

"Spending the night at the beach chatting till dawn; wearing earrings, dying hair does not mean he’s bad; this kind of thinking is outdated." Steven continues: "Using my point of view to solve your problem will never work because the starting points are not the same. To solve a teen’s problem, the most important thing is empathy."

The ability to put oneself in another’s shoes is the very subject of the book EQ (Emotional Intelligence) by Daniel Goldman which was published six seven years ago. In EQ, its author advocates: "Empathy enables feeling another’s experience and emotions; seeing with own eyes is more strongly felt." Sure, youths squatting by the roadside are an eyesore, but surprisingly, squatting is really quite comfortable. And if one chooses to shoot the breeze with some buddies, it can be quite fun if one does not have to go to work or school tomorrow morning. Steven, who has had such experiences squatting with a group of youths by the roadside, can easily relate to the book’s concept, which is why he recommends empathy when dealing with youths.

"Without empathy, one cannot communicate on equal plane with the teens, much less understand their problems. We do not need to try the drug ‘FING头丸’ to understand how ‘high’ it makes the kid, just so we could persuade him to get off drugs." Steven grew up in the poor Sham Shui neighborhood where gangsters and drifters were part of its street scenes. He did not turn bad instead, many a time, he managed to pull back friends from a wrong turn at the precipitous moment.

"During introspection, I realized I possessed a knack for eloquence, and can be quite persuasive." A hooligan in the eye of the public once told Steven: "When my parents reasoned with me, I refused to listen; however, the same reasoning coming out of your mouth sounds good to my ears."

He likes to observe and take note of his peers’ strengths. Some friends sing better than him, or look better than him- only that they did not have the opportunity to fully develop or display their talents. Steven, being a recipient of such an opportunity through someone’s generosity, is especially grateful. "After graduating, I went for an interview with Longman publishers. The employees had to be at least 18 years of age. Attired in suit and tie, I looked 21 (Translator note: I can’t imagine that!) but really I was only 16 then, however, the interviewer was very accommodating. After getting his boss’ approval, I was hired."

"People need empathy and assistance. It would be a pity if people chose the wrong path just because they were not given any help." He sighs. Steven, who strongly believes that being good or bad ultimately lies in one’s own hands, strives to inspire the lost teens with hope for a better life. The publication of this book, "Headed the Right Path, Headed the Wrong Path", realized Steven’s aspiration to contribute to society. Everytime he helps a teen resolved his internal conflicts, Steven feels a sense of accomplishment. His reaching out is purely driven by genuine concern. "Do not seek public eye – just so one could raise the hand in triumphant v when successful, and to lose interest afterwards. One should reach out even when outside the public eye…this is true altruism. What's important is: someone gets the help he/she needs."

The Tales of Society book series does not set a time frame or schedule for its last publication. "The problems in society are ongoing; we should do whatever we could do to help until they are beyond our help." As if entrusted with a mission, Steven wishes to use his artiste’s status to set a good example for the young people, and to influence them with his leads. "It’s important not be a bad role model."

But immersed as he is in an entertainment work environment, Steven often feels stifled by showbiz lifestyle of extravagance and dissipation, which can inevitably promote a detachment from real society. So publishing books allows him to once again be in touch with society, thereby greatly enriching his life. "I used to be a low-housing resident, living in close proximity to society", so his social consciousness for society comes naturally out of him.

"Most Chinese people have an urge to trace their roots and to understand their society. Their own community is a good place to start with." He recommends a book entitled, "香港左派斗争史" (The Chronicles of Hong Kong Left Wing’s Struggles) to the young people, so they would know of the struggles and oppression of a group of old patriots whose collective voice is now lost to the public, and how they were oppressed for the last hundred years under the British rule.

Or maybe, what Steven hopes is that through the book, the young generation will learn from its historic chronicles of blood and tears; and upon reflection will treasure their own fortune more; thereafter like him, will steadfastly walk the good path.

wenweipo paper
TN: A few years back, Shantou University Press bought the copyright to “Why Suicide”. Steven had planned to write the 2nd book first because of his own experience but first hand information was hard to come by then, (patients and their family were reluctant to talk) so he re-directed his focus on suicides. At that time, Hong Kong society was plagued by an abnormal amount of suicides, therefore, materials for that subject were easier to gather.

related news - Steven Ma's new book cover design contest in alma mater 艺人马浚伟重返母校 新书封面师弟来设计

**************************************************

A fan of the book posted the below in her weibo, Why suicide?
郭骁荻这本书放了好多年，中学时代的我非常喜欢这书，它让我明白了生命的可贵，现在我即将从学生蜕变为上班族，生活的压力就在眼前了，以前或许不懂书中那些人为何要自杀，现在以后我会明白，但我更会坚强的走过困难，生命是可贵的！希望能像@马浚伟 说的那样，希望下一代完全不知道自杀是什么！

Vicki, Selfish?

.On the outside, some people may say she is selfish. Actually I don't think Selfish is the best word to describe her character. She's more 'materialistic'. From growing up, her aim was to climb on top of everyone- to marry a rich man and be set for life. ........ If it wasn't for her brother not believing her earlier, Vicki wouldn't have turned herself into alcoholic and involved herself in the accident- later ending her life. fungyifanatic, May 4 2008 asianfanatics

With all due respect, I think selfish is the exact word to use on Vicky, as well as these: vain, shallow, spoiled, self-centered, self-absorbed, and of course, materialistic. Her suicide is the ultimate selfish act that a person can do to her loved ones. Yes, she loves her family and Raymond, too, but all at her convenience and her love is very conditional. As much as she loves them, she can just as selfishly cut them off, quite hardheartedly I might add, like she did to her mother in the office, to Ah On, to Raymond and off course, to her unborn baby, when they interfered with her dreams of social advancement.

                                                     Vicki's death on the beach

Foreword - James Wong

James Wong’s foreword title: "Ma Chu Wai Once Again Made People Sit up and Take Notice."

Chun Wai’s manager, Frankie Fan, phoned and asked if I would write a foreword for ‘Why Suicide?’. I agreed unhesitatingly. I’ve known Chun Wai for many years, and what I remember most about him is that he would periodically come up with new stuff. It’s been so for many years. And his new stuff would always make one sit up and take notice of him with anew respect.

During Chun Wai’s early start in the entertainment circle, insiders dubbed him “Little Leon” – Siu Lai Ming. When he was introduced to me as such; he smiled, held out his hand to shake mine, and said, “Uncle Jim, I’m Ma Chun Wai.” Outwardly, this self-introduction was nothing out of the ordinary, nevertheless, it carried an undertone that caught my attention. What he had wanted to say to me was: “I’m Ma Chun Wai, not some ‘Siu Lai Ming’!” But being a newbie then, he could not very well come right out and say that, so only one of the two-phrase sentence was uttered. My instinct at that time was that this young man displayed a social knowledge way beyond his age, as well as discretion.

Later, we became colleagues in a TVB game show 1994 - (江山如此多FUN). During one of our chats, I found out that he started working at an early age. His poise, and social comportment of being neither supercilious nor obsequious were nothing short of extraordinary - this kind of knowledge provided by the university of society, he had not only learned it well but applied it well, too. I couldn’t help but be impressed by him, thus, I've had my eye on him. Through the screen, I observed his every gesture and every move. Before long, he blossomed on TV. This did not come by easily. Chun Wai has no formal acting training. But he is the kind of person who is inborn with a strong survival instinct, if needed, his fortitude will naturally emerge.

I recall the time when he performed Cao Zhi’s 7-step poem on screen, when the episode ended, I mused: wonders never ceased to amaze; who would have thought! This Ma Chun Wai’s new stuff definitely and indisputably exceeded far beyond expectation. Later, I guest hosted a Metro TV morning show. On every Saturday, there was this talk show, ‘James Bond’s Happy Hour’. I was in charge of its guest list; for one hour, I would shoot the breeze with my invited guest of the day. One day, I invited Ma Chun Wai. We talked about books; he was very knowledgeable on them. As we chatted amiably along, I was inwardly pleased with him as nothing pleases me more than well-read young people. That interview was a pleasure. Ma Chun Wai once again made me sit up and see him with new eyes and anew respect. But I would never have guessed that he would come out with this book series of ‘Ma Chun Wai’s Tales of Society’. I have only briefly skimmed through a section of the book, but I know this Ma Chun Wai will once again make people sit up and take notice of him with increased respect!

2002 September

Translator: tamaya

Editorial on Steven's reality TV participation

The horror in entertainment circle is nothing worse than losing one’s own self identity. On this, Steven is very much aware of. (2010 news)

I guess to Steven, his agreeing to participate in Guangdong Satellite TV《技行天下》is more than just monetary gain and exposure to mainland tv viewers, it was more of him getting the pulse of ordinary people (mainland) and connecting with them on a personal level.  Even way back when, Steven reached out to ordinary people thru his books, social/charity works and culinary show, and getting much satisfaction from getting to know them.

Steven, together with a colleague and a social worker, had pounded the streets, ‘accosted’ late night young loiterers, and chatted with juveniles placed on probation; their encounters were later compiled and narrated into that very book. [..]But immersed as he is in an entertainment work environment, Steven often feels stifled by showbiz lifestyle of extravagance and dissipation, which can inevitably promote a detachment from real society. So publishing books allows him to once again be in touch with society, thereby greatly enriching his life. (2003 news)

All fine and dandy, now can he please get back to filming a tv series or more for his forbearing fans?  I miss seeing my most favorite leading man in action on screen.  Sorry but《技行天下》just doesn't cut it for me. Of the 6 episodes, I've only watched 4-- guess which 4.

One pen ma-The Old Meets the New

Clear Newspaper 3/15/2012
column: One pen Ma
writer: Steven Ma
translator: Tamaya

The New Meets the Old? 
新知會舊雨

Because of work, recently got in contact and also got to know many mainland friends; most of them are actors but there are also some behind the scenes competent personnels, all of whom have become my good friends.

Suddenly, I recollect my first time working in mainland situation.

That was in 1991. I worked for a Hong Kong chemical factory as a salesman. At the time, the company was just setting up its first factory in Dong Guan, and I was assigned to the managing director following him to the new factory location to take care of things there. To an inexperienced young person, this was undoubtedly a hard to come by opportunity.

Besides handling all small and big stuff concerning the factory, business entertainment activities were aplenty too. Social drinking was one given activity, and what's more, the liquor imbibed was white wine. Maybe because I was still young plus my liquor tolerance threshold was high, I was considerably sober after the social drinking. However, once inside the factory living quarters, tis’ bad! During that time, it was high summer and the factory was not air-conditioned. Just imagine, the body was all heated up after the drinks, and a 30 degrees Celsius over temperature hot summer night, that feeling was truly unbearable!

After so many years, I suddenly thought of my former colleagues, though separated we still keep in touch, just that we are now focusing in different fields. A strange thought: if the new and the old gathered together to imbibe some white wine, what would they talk about?

Interview

Interview 馬浚偉 by godplatform part3

Steven relates how believing in Christ has helped him be more at peace with himself and with the world.
Except while driving by himself, Steven does not swear nor use profanity.
Steven has a strong social conscience, cares deeply of society condition
Steven talks about today's young generation, how internet and cyber networking have greatly stunted their social skills to communicate with other people in real life.

Steven talks about how deeply he cares about the society he lives in.  

Steven is asked how his generation differs from today's generation.  Steven says that today's generation is different from his because they are shaped by the society they grow up in, especially the existence of internet and the iphone with lots of apps functions to occupy their time and mold their thinking.  Nowadays the young people are slowly losing the interpersonal skill to communicate face to face with other people because of the internet and iphone app culture.   I totally agree with Steven's sentiment.

Updated thoughts on Sam Siu and Bing Bing

Risking cyber lynch, one distraught soul, out of ‘true love’ for Sam Siu, (as opposed to Steven Ma) declares openly on her thread that she really hopes Sam Siu won’t end up with BB. Her reason is understandable being that she couldn't bear to see SS hurt, given the era and the closed feudal society they live in his romance with BB will only bring him and her too, heartaches and heartbreak turning his life and that of his family's upside down all for the love of a woman.  Of course the reverse can be said of BB fans too - BB, get away from SS, you'll only get hurt, so not worth it.

As expected, her thread immediately evoked distressed howls from equally distraught Stevia fans, “Just how difficult is it for Stevia to have at least one happy ending, huh, huh?” Anyway, the thread got me thinking two things. First, is an ill-fated love relationship worth the pain and suffering it can and will cause both parties and their respective families? Second, can Bing Bing and Sam Siu surmount the social obstacles and customs of their times to have a happily ever after ending?

Putting aside the first question – too philosophical, I want to write on the 2nd question in the context of personality, death and the process of change of whether they can have a happy ending in the end.
Putting aside their social backgrounds and upbringing, outwardly SS and BB couldn’t be more different in personalities as depicted in the earlier episodes. (Still don’t see the need for BB’s initial loud and rude conduct towards SS) Their differences notwithstanding, their common characteristics, shared circumstances and their mutual respect and admiration for each other bonded them.

~~~common characteristics ~~~
First and foremost: both have an obstinate and fighting spirit
SS: a 5 year army medic veteran, fights for his medical doctor dream, and later will fight for his marriage to BB. And BB is the ultimate fighting (clucking) mother hen king. Lol! (other traits ref: personality link1 epi 7 link2 epi8)


Open minded vs mind opened;
From the onset SS possesses an open mind that is receptive to new ideas and outside influences; his mind is further opened but at the same time also traumatized by his war experiences and is almost destroyed by the Jo Yiu's evilness and his own comrades’ betrayal.  How much influx of ugliness and evilness can an open mind take in before becoming numb for self-preservation or else risk going insane? 

BB’s mind has hitherto been sheltered and prejudiced by her upbringing and surrounding. Unlike SS’s 5 year gradual initiation into the depth of human wickedness, her eyes and mind are instantly, abruptly and forcibly wrenched opened by Jo Yiu’s evilness and betrayal. So shocking was the face of evil her mind instantly shut down as she hyperventilated in recollection.

But now that her mind is open up and her prejudice discarded BB is definitely viewing SS in a positive light hence can see beyond his status to connect with his person.

Courage in the face of death
Cliche, but death or near death can instantaneously and drastically change one's perspective in life and in people. SS can totally relate to BB’s close call with death, her grief, her sorrow, her self-guilt, and her sense of betrayal all rolled into one big mixture of confused emotion - he has been through all that. While SS’s war experiences have gradually turned him into a cynical man, how will BB's brush with death and the betrayal at the hand of her beloved "husband" change her?But of BB's innate compassionate nature for the others I'm sure that will never change. Even when in physical pain and mental anguish herself she feels SS's pain as she did for Kuan Jie's and Lai Kuen's.

Both BB and SS faced injuries and death with courage and fortitude. SS’s inborn courage is undeniable as depicted in his numerous war flashbacks and his refusal to submit. BB’s courage is no less than SS's, fortified as it is  with her sense of justice. She jumps instinctively in front of SS to protect him – her outrage against such blatant injustice was such that she forgot her own safety. (recall childhood game – the eagle and mother hen) Their courage and fortitude in the face of death evoke in them a mutual respect and admiration and compassion for each other's character.  When BB puts her hand over SS's hand to silently comfort him, they are forever bonded.  They have protected each other from death.  They have looked into the face of death and survived. They are wrecked with guilt for causing the death of another.  They have felt the pain of betrayal by another.  They have looked into each other's soul deep within. 

The immutable process of change
Change is inevitable in any era.  SS has come home a changed man.  He is not afraid of changes and will even fight to effect changes to benefit himself and BB.  From the preview of their marriage scene, guess BB must have taken courage from SS's strength to challenge the old tradition and marry SS.  

Given their indomitable and courageous personalities unless it is Heaven's Will to keep them apart after bonding them, I'm sure these two will prevail all obstacles to be together in the end. They'll have a happy ending!! PLEASE!

E-buzz Interview of Steps’ Male Lead, Steven Ma.

posted 02 October 2007 

娱乐直播 专访 舞动全城 男主角程嘉俊
E-buzz Interview of Steps’ Male Lead, Steven Ma.

Host::Today at E-buzz, our featured guest, this person I feel though he’s busier than ever, but the busier he is, the fitter he gets, and the more vibrant and attractive he becomes. He is Ma Chun Wai. Ma Zai, how are you?

Steven: Thank you!

H: Yes, I truly feel that you may be extremely busy these days, but your hectic schedule seems to energize you.

S: It could be that.

H: Right. Let’s start with tonight’s premier of Steps. Would you mind telling us what it’s about?

S: Well, actually, Steps’ kind of story with dancing as a main theme is still relatively uncommon in TVB series. The plot centers on Dance International Standard (sic style) which includes both ballroom and Latin dances. The characters all have some connection with dancing. As for my family, my mom, Mannor jie is from a family of dancers. Bernice is a dance enthusiast. Our relationship came about because of dancing.

H: And sparks flew?

S: Yes. Because Dance International Standard (sic) is the main theme. And the dance has many moves, in fact, all its moves; maybe should say interactions, require a male and a female to form a partnership. And in it, the level of mutual trust, support, encouragement and understanding of each other depends greatly on the partners’ interrelationship.

H: Exactly. Which means you and Bernice must have good communicate in order to dance well for the public, is that right?

S: Yes. Actually our production supervisor and copy editor hoped to use dance to express a relationship from a different angle. I think dance itself is a kind of expression, especially Dance International Standard because it requires two people to meld into one, and how they go about it; having their moves, their spirit and their energy all fused into one. Which is why in this series, we dance in almost every episode, like dance while romancing, or maybe dance when unhappy, or yet again dance in some dance competitions.

H. Like channeling feelings into a different dimension. But what I’d like to ask you is, before you had said you feared dancing, felt you don’t dance well. When did you change from dancing badly to being able to perform in a series and, moreover, did it so well to boot?

S: I still wouldn’t dare say I dance well, because dancing is truly my Achilles’ heel. All these years as an artiste, dancing is my ultimate weakness. Before whenever I heard my work required some dancing, I would immediately plead with my manager, "I can’t. I’m not right for it, or I can’t do it."

H: So how did you overcome it? As you said, almost every episode has dancing in it. There’s at least one dance per day.

S: At first, I was actually afraid to accept this series. Because, on the positive side, it was a challenge, but conversely, the pressure was enormous. I thought to myself, how could I work under such pressure everyday? Moreover, my co-stars are Bernice, Fala, Kate and Mannor jie. They’re all talented dancers.

H: True. They all have dancing background and can dance very well.

S: Right. Even though they learned a different kind of dancing, still they have dancing talent. I was worried. “Will my poor dancing level and standard hinder the production progress? This was my main concern.

H: So how did you overcome it? What made you think you could do it?

S: Well, first of, despite my fear, my interest was high. It’s like if you are scared of a cockroach, but if you try to smack it; maybe you could overcome your fear of it.

H: Like watching a ghost movie; the scarier you are, the more you want to watch under covers.

S: I like to watch ghost movie so I’m not scared but I’m scared of roaches. So I would try to smack them. This is just an analogy. Luckily we had dance instructors as our dance directors. Moreover, I had brother Lingo, and also a group of professional dancers who were extremely patient with me. Besides them, I also have had outside tutoring before filming, a total of four lessons.

H: Prep work before filming?
S: A total of 8 hours, 4 lessons.
H: That’s not a lot.

S: Well, at least I’ve had some contact with it. At least, I knew what are the 10 dances included in Dance International Standard (sic Style) which I didn’t know before. I thought social dance was just social dance. I had no idea what constitute it.

H: So did the more you dance the greater your interest is?
S: Yes.
H: And now you love dancing?
S: Actually, even after the series was done, I continued to take dance lessons. And also danced in Steps’ promos and incorporated dancing into my stage shows.

H: Among the dances, which ones are the most challenging to do?

S: For me, it would be those that are fast-paced such as: Pasa Doblo or Samba or Cha Cha. Their rhythm is much faster. I‘m not very nimble, so I find it easier to learn slower dance. Much easier to catch on. But of course, whether I danced it well or not is another matter. But as far as catching on, slow dance is easier for me. But I, myself, enjoy quickstep, ballroom quickstep.

H: Actually, dancing can make one feel rather dense wo. I've danced before. Prior, I had never thought of myself could be this dense/slow but turn out (I) could be this uncoordinated) (as in having 2 left feet)."

S: It’s ok, you’ve me as company.

H: But after Steps, you’ve become an expert from what I could see from the promo. Also I know you have many dance scenes throughout Steps, and many of those with Bernice. Close bodily contact is inevitable. So were you concerned that people would say. "Wah, so bold, the dancing so risqué."

S: One has to be bold. Actually, during the shoots we weren’t worried at all. Because we did the shoots inside the studio, well, some were on site too. Anyway, since the shoots were done mainly in the studio, we were not worried, because we could completely focus without outside distractions. There’s one such scene where Bernice and I danced inside a dance studio. There was a power outage. Basked in the neon lights, she taught me how to dance rumba, very intimate. It was a moving scene, we both thought so. In the scene, I didn’t even dare to touch her; however, in the scene, she was very professional. She grabbed my hand, brushed her hand down my arm, and wrapped her leg around mine; all these minute details will be shown in the dance scene. As to your earlier question on intimacy, that also was a sticky situation for me. I can be shy too. Either a male or female could be shy. The intimacy..all that will be performed in the show.

H: Was it awkward? You did say the filming in the studio was ok.

S: Yeah. Because this was Bernice and my second time collaboration. Also Bernice, Fala and Kate, they’re all dancers so they understand that dancing, especially, Latin can get very intimate. The way I see it, it’s just a dance. I’ll treat it like an art or a sport.

H: Were you self-conscious wearing such revealing costumes? Also, you mentioned before that it was alright to expose the chest area, but not the belly button, why?

S: Haha, men seldom exposed their belly buttons. Not only the ladies are attired sexily, but in the Latin dance, the men’s costumes are also very snug, most are see-through, it’s just that they are in black. If one has a big belly, then that would present a problem.

H: Oh, it’s not the belly button then.

S: No, there’s problem with showing the belly button.

H: We’ve talked quite a bit about Steps. Now I’ve more practical questions to ask you. What do you think the rating would be for Steps? Do you feel the pressure for garnering high rating?

S: No. Because I’ve been in TVB for quite a while now. And I understand, in fact, all TVB employees understand that they just need to do their best during production, to fully exert their energy and time, their effort and their heart. As for the outcome, each one of us would respond: "Of course hope for the best." But the rating results are always beyond our control. Of course we hope the viewers will like it. And also hope the viewers will like each and every one of our series. Not just my own, but all of the company’s series, I hope the viewers will like them all. Even better, that the company’s series’ can continually maintain a high rating. Then everyone will be happy.

H: If the rating is good, have you thought about performing some difficult dance for the public?

S: I prefer doing that.
H: The reporters frequently ask the actors if they would don their swimwear if the rating is high.

S: I’ve not seen anyone done that yet. In fact, I much prefer your suggestion. If Steps’ rating is high, I would really consider your suggestion. I’ll do something that will challenge me, or maybe do it with my co-star, maybe Bernice or another lady, to perform something that would surprise people because they didn't think we would or could do it. You’ve given me a good idea. Now I know how to respond to my media friends.

H: That was a good idea?
S: Yes, a very good one.
H: To fit in with this series, maybe do a lyrical dance.
S: Or maybe ice dancing?
H: Not a bad idea. But ice dancing is quite difficult
S: Very. I can’t even keep my balance standing up.

H: I really hope the rating will be high so I can watch your lyrical dance. Let’s change the subject. We’ve chatted quite a bit about Steps. You’ve also written about it in your blog. You like to write, and to keep in touch with your fans. Busy filming, busy writing, how did you do it all?

S: First of, I don’t plan ahead on what to write. Often when I write my blog or journal, it’s not always done in the computer, but scribbled on a piece of paper. These are just random writing. Anybody can do it. There’s no pressure in it. There’s no special topic on what I plan to write, just whatever comes to mind. When I get online, I might then update my blog. I enjoy doodling too. I’m interested in many things.

H: What kind of books do you like? Or the kind of books that will inspire you.
S: I like all kinds of books.
H: Such as?

S: I prefer books that are profound. The thought provoking kind, maybe books by intellectuals or philosophers because different readers can acquire different insights from them. I seldom read novels. I also like comic books. There’re some series that I follow.

H: Guess you’re still a big boy yet.

S: Not really. There are some adult comics. Haha, not those kind; the kind that’s written with the adults in mind.

H: Books can be inspiring; filming can be, too, bringing in a different perspective. Recently, in your blog you wrote about meeting a young actor while shooting 金石良缘This young actor changed your outlook in life.

S: Wow! I just wrote that.
H: Why don’t you tell us what the outlook was…like embarking on a new phase in life…to be a father.

S: No. I’m not even married yet. There was this scene; it’s about my sister’s son. He’s around a year old or so, very cute and fun to play with. Sister Helen and sister Mary saw me holding him, and doing a pretty good job too. They taught me how to hold him properly and coax him to sleep; also how to spread his little legs to wrap around me and have his hands hugged me. And sure enough, before too long, like a koala bear hugging me, he fell asleep on me.

H: A very heartwarming sight.

S: Then his mother took out a camera and snapped our pictures. It left a big impression on me. They all quipped, “You are now qualified to be a father.� I think I am too. But this is just an experience. Very happy because if you had a child quietly fell asleep on your chest; that feeling was truly very sweet.

H: You know when you talk like that, you’ll make people think that Ma Zai will marry soon, or maybe wants to get marry, wants to be a father. Have you thought about that?

S: Of course, the thought has entered my mind. After all, I’m at that age already, but I’m not in a hurry.

H: Do you have someone in mind?

S:Haha! Let’s not go there. But if time, no, should say, if it’s so fated, if I married, I’d want to have kids because I love kids and love to watch them grow. Of course, (the young ones) that’s the fun stage, but as they grow older, problems will follow.

H: More difficult to teach.

S: Yes, to me it’s just a natural progression of life journey; to see your kids grow up, or to see other people’s kids grow up, you’re happy just seeing other kids grow, what’s more, your own.

H: You’ve a hectic career schedule, one series after another. Have you thought about maybe getting awards this year, maybe the most favorite male character award again? Would you like that?

S: Of course, I would. I look upon that as a motivation. When to get it, I don’t think about it, but it will be the direction I’m aiming for. Some people would say receiving awards is not that important; more important is making more series and money. True. But for me, receiving awards represents a different stratum, and provides a very good incentive and motivation. It’s my goal to achieve the best male actor award in TVB, or maybe from outside HK, in other places. That very thought drives me. When? This year? I don’t know. Maybe? Maybe next year? The year next? Don’t know. But that’s the direction I’m going.

H: I wish you the very best for your success. I thank Ma Zai today for his interview. Thank you!

S: You’re welcome.


credit to: baidu source & transcript

Video:tudou 娱乐直播专访
Translator: Tamaya

SM's strenuous workout spiked blood pressure

《馬浚偉 催谷過勁血壓上升. 親眼目睹水災 大隊緊急撤離 》

Mingpao weekly ed 2370
enlarged magscan: weibo pix1; weibo pix2
Written by tsui yong yong 2014-04-13 15:31

Steven Ma’s TVB series, A Storm in a Cocoon, was well received by its audience. Its finale garnered an average rating of 32 points peaking at 36.1 points, the highest rating for TVB this year to date. Steven was very happy but he also pointed out the hardships of shooting this series including a dangerous experience.

“August last year, Sung Dak, Gwong Dong, had a flooding disaster. The series of torrential rainstorms caused severe flooding in many places. One day, the filming troupe came to a dam to shoot some outdoor scenes, and unexpectedly was caught in a rainstorm. We had no idea of a looming disaster until we received a government issued warning alert; the mountain area was to be summarily closed to effect the draining of floodwaters from the dam. We were asked to evacuate the site within five minutes. We swiftly packed and left; five minutes later we saw the swelling floodwater surging through the dam floodgates. If the water was not released the dam would burst. If not for our timely evacuation, our lives would be jeopardized. I’d never witnessed a more terrifying scene. This was truly a mind-blowing life experience.  his series had me soaking in the waters, drenched in the rain; definitely more grueling than filming “Where the Legend Begins”. This time, also portrayed a soldier, so personally experienced a soldier’s hardships.”

Steven said in the last scene of the series, Tavia Yeung so stranded by the rainstorm had to climb up to the roof to await rescue. During the filming, the troupe personally witnessed this kind of scenes. Many fish ponds and mulberry plantations were flooded. The residents truly did climb up to the roofs. Many senior citizens braved the pouring rain to snag the floating debris off the waters hoping to retrieve some of their personal belongings. This kind of scenes was truly sad to behold.

“On the day of SIAC’s finale, Hong Kong unexpectedly encountered heavy rain and even had hailstones. That night I had a get-together dinner with some colleagues to watch the finale. When we saw this scene we all thought it was truly bizarre. From start to airing of this series, the raining had been relentless, truly complying with the lamentation that protecting the business is indeed difficult.”

Besides encountering floods, when filming SIAC Steven also experienced heart discomfort and had to visit the hospital. That was not his first time experiencing heart discomfort; he has this issue for the past ten years. “Before it was just mere discomfort but at a recent hospitalization, the doctor found my blood pressure spiking at 108. That had never happened before. My utmost fear was the brain suffering a stroke. So right after I returned from my US concert I immediately went to the hospital to review my medical reports. Fortunately, all the reports state that all test results were on the low side including cholesterol and blood pressure.”

Per Steven and the doctor’s analysis, the latter concluded that Steven’s problem might have been caused by his heavy consumption of coffee, moreover, recently for his fitness training Steven had been eating steaks every day, and drinking protein milk powder, so his daily quantity intake of food was that of his three day’s quantity in the past. Thus strenuously pressured, his body could not withstand the strain hence the problematic symptoms.

Steven has always been the tall and thin type, so what was the reason for his decision to put on weight? “As actor, one must have a good body shape. In the past, I was too skinny. Furthermore, recently I’ve received many movie invitations that requested nude scenes. I’m not thinking of becoming a cat-III (erotic) actor or being a porn star. Just that there’s no reason to shoot a shower scene, whereby because I think myself too thin so would take a shower fully clothed. If the script requires such scene, but because of my unwillingness to bare thus affecting the movie, then that’s not good. So, before filming starts, one must keep the body in good shape beforehand. The toughest thing for an actor is to control the body mass thus I admire Nick Cheung and Chow Yun Fatt. I respect their determination to gain or lose weight all in the name of art."

After Steven finished shooting SIAC, he no longer has a contract with TVB. He has established his own production studio, and he now charts the direction of his own career. In June he will release a new music album, thereafter, he will film mini movies, movies, and mainland tv series as well as write a script and be a director. All that Steven has done before and all that he has not, he wants to do them all. Enjoying his freedom, though tiring he is happy in what he is doing.

Furthermore, he also wants to set aside time to do charity works such as this high school event “中學生升呢大行動” whereby he has agreed to oversee the 'stars' event. “Charity work involving senior citizens, children, and students, I like them all. These days, people like to use cellphones so face to face communication has diminished considerably. I was in sales before so I understand the importance of face to face communication among people. I’m concerned with social issues. Earlier, as support to environmental protection, I turned off my lights for an hour. Besides work, people should also be concerned with the society. Attending to both personal career and social services is what I strive for as a new goal.” 


TN: Steven, don't you think you have too much on your plate at the same time?  Having good health should also be one of your goals, don't you think?  Steven's empathy, idealism, positiveness, tenacity and even his naivety never fail to impress me.  That he has been in the entertainment industry for 20 years and still retained his own identity and positive outlook on life is truly amazing.

Acting is not my objective, helping people is

2005 interview
Abashed, because if not for this interview taken after a public social event, I would not have found out inadvertently that Ma Chun Wai has written several books; moreover, books that are totally unrelated to entertainment or stars' life stories. What’s more, his purpose for writing is to reach out to those who have fallen by the wayside. This discovery evoked in me an impulse to immediately get down on my knees to pick up my imaginary shattered pieces of eyeglasses.

Journalist: Publish books, singing, acting, all these you have experienced, which of these give you the greatest sense of accomplishment?
Steven: Undoubtedly, writing a book is the biggest challenge. I depend on the people in my company to help organize my book materials. Because of time constraint, I could only co-author one fifth of the writing in the book. But that’s where the real challenge lies. Right now, I am preparing a fourth book, as I have already published three books in my series. Recently, one just came out in China. I just saw my fans (China). They knew about my book. I'm truly happy to know that. The book is based on real life stories; therefore, the stories themselves are intrinsically educational. I, myself, like to see young friends reading a book. When I was young, I, too, like to read.

J: Most stars when publishing a book are more likely to write an autobiography, or a pictorial album/journal, even diet books, and the like. Why did you choose to write books that are totally unrelated to entertainment?
S: It’s related to my background. Because I grew up in a place, don’t know if you’ve heard of it; in Hong Kong, there’s this place called Sham Shui Po; I grew up there. It’s a chaotic place; all kinds of people lived there. When young, we lived in this public housing. My family of seven resided in this tiny living quarters. It didn’t even have a bathroom. We had to use the common bathroom outside by the staircase. The building housed eighty households, and four bathrooms which residents took turns using. So during that period, I was exposed to all kinds of unpleasantness, but why didn’t I turn bad? Because it had a lot to do with how my parents brought my sisters and myself up. While at Form 3 (Grade 9), I was simultaneously attending school, and selling ice cream to earn money. Right after I finished Form 5 (Grade 11), I joined a publishing company. I sold books. I guess there’s that source and origin.

J: But why this kind of books?
S: I feel that people in general need other people’s perspectives and assistance. I’ve no interest whatsoever in writing entertainment gossips, travel guides, or on beauty and fitness, and the like. I only wish to write about my feelings and thoughts. If they could somehow benefit just one person, I would be very happy indeed.

J: Would you continue with your writing?
S: Yes, until I can’t do it anymore. I’m right now preparing the fourth book….. It will be written in the same genre as the earlier ones.

J: When you’re no longer an actor, would you like to go into publishing?
S: Yes. In fact, at the time when I established my publishing company, I’d planned to quit acting when I’m forty. But just two days ago, I had this discussion with Director Lang. He gave me a good scolding for my thinking. He retorted how could you even think of not acting at forty? He said that’s the time when an actor is truly in his element and is able to exude a totally different kind of charisma. He was totally against my plans to quit. After re-thinking, he did have a point. Because if I truly want to communicate my viewpoints through books, there are actually other mediums I could use, too. Besides books, I could also do it through TV series by choosing different kinds of characters to portray. I could even write scripts. And also, my characters could convey what I want to communicate to the public. Really not necessary to strictly do it through printed words. Printed words are indeed important, but images/videos could also be used, as well as, audio.

J: As such, it could be done through different mediums.
S: Exactly. Singing could do that too. Like for instance, I could compose a song about family love, or include some words about the meaning of life. Actually, a lot of stuff are interrelated, no need to relinquish any one of them.

Flashback
Long ago, I was taught an invaluable lesson, but it didn’t stick in my memory. I often took people at face value; that people’s appearances reflect some of their inner selves. I was being shallow. Reality tells me that I should not completely trust what I see with my own eyes. For instance, like regarding this one popular TVB actor, I should not immediately jump to the conclusion that he is gregarious in nature; that he likes to sing, dance and frequent the nightclubs. In reality, he might have just finished reading Nietzsche the night before. The person who taught me that invaluable lesson was Ma Chun Wai. After that interview, my deepest impression of him was that his eyes beheld something not found in ours; his presence was here, but his heart was elsewhere. That we only chatted banally on his recent series was truly a bit of a downer.

Present
~~~I’m old-fashioned, but I’m a good man~~
Who would have guessed gauging from his appearance, twenty something at the most, that he would possess an old soul. He thinks himself old-fashioned, and that women will not be attracted to his type of men. Is it because I didn’t get it, or is it that the world is changing too fast? But doesn’t he know that nowadays his type of good men are most welcome?

J: It seems your social conscience is inborn. Is it because of your family?
S: Well, my dad is a very responsible person, as was my mom, and both very traditional Chiu Chew people. I am greatly influenced by my dad. From young, I saw my dad, after a hard day at work, would come home and take care of my mom, and cook for us. When I look at my dad, I see how a real man should be. That’s how I want to be, just like him.

J: Ah? You know how to cook?
S: Yes, I do. I even know how to make soup. The soups that I know, I can basically make all of them. But I’m better at Cantonese dishes. I know how to make chicken soup, celery soup, carrot soup and even apple soup. In fact, the people at my company have all tasted my soups.

J: During your free time, do you make soup for your family?
S: Yes. My third sister and my dad live with me. Almost once a week, I would make soup. …(tn: not anymore)

J: When you find a loved one, would you make soup for her?
S: Sure. Of course, if she knows how to enjoy them. As you know, most women these days prefer men who are a little bad. My kind of men who are more traditional are considered outdated. Nobody wants them anymore. Haha! Actually, I know some friends, men in their twenties; they would sometimes complain that I’m too old-fashioned. Because oftentimes I preferred staying home to going out. I even enjoy brewing tea (Chinese). That’s why, sometimes people abandon me.

J: So, you seldom frequent the nightclubs?
S: I don’t go there. All these years in Hong Kong, no snapshots were taken of me inside a nightclub. It is too rowdy in there. I don’t like it. .. Usually, when I’m not working, I would get up around 7 and jog; even here in China. Just this morning, I went jogging. In the past, I enjoyed the karaoke bars, but I've outgrown that as I mature. Nowadays, I don’t pursue novelties just because they are new and different. Instead, I prefer to indulge in the feelings of the moment. My attitude toward acting has also changed, now I know to enjoy every moment of it.

Translator: Tamaya
Journalist: Tian Shui
source: Modern Music Field 2005

Credit to: sm baidu post #12

news 2003 - Steven Ma on Life, Death, Love and Desire

source: 3Weekly 2003 4/22
生死愛慾馬浚偉　
Translated by Tamaya

26 October is not a birthday of presidents or great men, merely a birthday for some celebrities such as Steven Ma, Aaron Kwok, Chu Mi Mi, Rebecca Lee(李樂詩), and Joyce Chan (陳彥行), to name a few.

Legal name Ma Chee Wai, now Ma Chun Wai, Steven was born in a grassroot family. His father is a former bus driver of the kmb (kwoloon motor bus)  bus line. He grew up in Sum Shui Po Bak Tin Chi. As student in Band 5 at C.M.A.Pre-vocational School (中華廠商會職業先修學校) he scored an 'A' for Art, 'D' for Chinese, 'E' for his English, and U for Maths. After graduating high school, he became Sales Executive with a monthly salary of HKD20,000. He did not have a rich family background for Longman Publishing Co with the monthly salary of about HK$20,000. No illustrious family background or superior academic results, what he has is the Chew Chow people's perseverance, courage and enterprising spirit.

In 1993, he entered a karaoke competition organized by Pioneer Laser Karaoke and won the championship with 'Lei Heong Lan' (tn:Jacky Cheung's song)thus enabling him to sign up with Warner Music. Unfortunately, the promo slogan, "He is not Lai Ming; he's not Jacky Cheung" had him endured their fans' jeers hurting his pride and undermining his self-confidence, and in the end,Warner refusing to renew his contract.

In 1994, on the verge of withdrawing from the entertainment circle, the most important woman in his life appeared, whose guidance helped resurrected his career thereafter riding the fast track.

In July 1999, his most beloved mother died of acute pneumonia complication from nose cancer. He isolated himself at home in self-withdrawal but was later enlightened by a book. He is faithful in love and hopes to meet his true love by age 35. However, his greatest life aspiration is self-actualization. He plans to fully concentrate his career in the publishing industry by age 40. Having seen through life and death, and full of anticipation for romantic love, this is the inner voice of Steven Ma's thirst for knowledge.

"Everlasting Regret" 《長恨歌》 describes Yang Yu Huan's (楊玉環) "natural beauty hard to ignore 天生麗質難自棄」; under Tang Di's(唐滌)pen strokes, Chow Sai Hin is intelligent and resourceful, his thinking straightforward, To him, the obligation to 'bury the late Emperor, enlighten the crown prince' is the real premise of life, even to forgoing the opportunity for matrimony bliss with Princess Cheung Ping in the Purple Jade Mountain boudoir. Through these acts「迎鳳」&「寫表」at all times he displays his resolution to die for a just cause, and his sentiment to cherish love above all. His intellect and martyr spirit are up there with the likes of Wen Tianxiang (文天祥)and Shi Kefa (史可法) superior characters.

Life: A Scholarly Demeanor
Temperament: Refined and Cultured Naturally refined and cultured, as well as charismatic, there is none other more suitable than Steven as the Prince Consort in 'Perish in the name of Love'. Since his portrayal of Kangxi in the 1998 DOMD《鹿鼎記》 the renowned composer, Wei Ran, praised him for his "scholarly look, his extraordinary classy temperament, and his kingly demeanor".

In 1994, Annie Yi(伊能靜), the featured female in Steven's 'Won't be Pessimistic Again'《不再悲觀》 MTV, was full of praise for Steven during her interview last August in Taiwan. She said: "This young man has finally made it through hard work. I'm very happy for him. I believe artists with real ability and real diligence will someday reap their bountiful harvest. Actually TVB had approached me for the role of Fu Yi in 'Where the Legend Begins', unluckily my schedule clashed so didn't have the fate to collaborate with him."

A classy temperament cannot be manufactured with money nor can it be molded through image packaging, that Steven can become TVB first line siu sang,his elegant temperament plays a big part in it. At hearing this, Steven smiles brilliantly, and says: "Since joining the industry, many people have thought that I was highly educated, even being overseas for higher studies, but in actuality I've had only a Form 5 (Grade 11) education. In Form 3, to help out my family I was already working part time at an ice-cream shop selling ice-cream."

Because of filming 'Better Halves', he became friends with Joyce Coi and through her got to know Lung Koon-tin.  He says: "They've both seen my ancient drama's and Cantonese Opera's makeovers, and both praised that I've elegance. That's why till now I'm still surviving, there is still a survival space for me in the entertainment."

Superior temperament is hard to explain, of grassroot family background Steven has three older sisters and a younger one. When he was a young boy, much like Jia Bo Yu (tn: male protagonist) in the novel, "Red Chambers of Dreams", he was well doted by his family. His features refined like an intricate cut jade, growing up amongst females, Steven appeared shy and quiet.  Since he studied in a boys' school he did not have opportunity to get close to girls. It was not until Form 4 through a mutual friend's introduction that he experienced the taste of first love.

Grew up in the midst of jeers
"Some people's impression of me is that I'm very refined and learned, seemingly weak.  Actually, my appearance is deceptive. I'm a very stubborn and strong-willed person. Since I know my formal education is lacking, I could only seek to diligently remedy that deficiency; voracious reading is the most direct method to enhance self-improvement."

Entered entertainment world through a singing competition, Steven's road was littered with thorns, the farther he walked the more despondent he became. He said: "Kevin Cheng and I entered the music industry in the same year. He joined Polygram in March; I signed up with Warner in September.  At that time the fight for Best Newcomer Award was between us. If he got Gold, I would get Silver. If I got Gold the Silver would go to him. If he got Bronze I would come up with nothing all. Because of this slogan: "He's not Lai Ming; he's not Jacky Cheung"! I was jeered on stage. My first stage show was at 尖東東急百貨 (a departmental store).  At that time Polygram had Kevin Cheng, Linda Wong, Lai Ming; Warner had Lui Fong and me.  The minute I stepped onto the stage, the jeers started. With much effort i finished the song, my eyes were already tearing up." 

"I hid myself in the hotel and cried. I was really depressed. In the end, I couldn't take it anymore and went to the hotel bar and drank a can of cold beer, my heart in pain. To prevent my despondence being seen I lowered my head and wept softly. During these three years I was jeered on stage throughout the whole three years; my confidence was in shatters.  My legs even wobbled when on stage. When Warner decided not to renew my contract I made up my mind to leave the entertainment circle."

Benefactor: Catherine Tsang
Nature endows each of us with a special talent. (天生我才必有用) A talented person will eventually be appreciated.  With his career hitting rock bottom, TVB executive, Catherine Tsang, encouraged him to crossover to shooting tv series and  his 1995 Files of Justice IV became his first stepping stone into that sector.  "I want to thank Zhan Jeh for her nurturing. Without her appreciation, Steven Ma would have long vanished from the entertainment circle."

In the 1998 Duke of Mt. Deer, Steven portrayed Emperor Kangxi, which was originally portrayed by his senior, Andy Lau.  During the costumes tryout, a reporter mocked him, "dressed in imperial robe but no princely look."  But Steven did not mind.   "I anticipate a good role for myself. My portrayal of Dr. Joe (陳卓堯)changed my negative image. Many viewers sent letters to me, praising my portrayal of a doctor, but I will not become complacent because a newbie starts from zero but I started from -10, so now my result is reset to zero. I've to start from square one."

In 1999, Ultra Protection's ratings went from bad to worse, and Steven seldom smiled because he was suffering the pain of losing his mom, a 22 year cancer patient, to her disease. What pained him most was he was not there to say his last goodbye to her when she died.  After her death, he isolated himself inside his bedroom,  withdrawn in sorrow he grieved inconsolably.

Death: Cherish the People Around You
"A good friend quoted me an inspiring sentence from a page on death in Teacher Tang Jun Yi's book,  Human Life Experiences (人生之體驗).  "The pain over a loved one's passing is indelible, and no philosophy can console you because it is part of life that must be endured. Having experienced the passing of a loved one, you will henceforth cherish your loved ones around you even more, and also even cherish the people around you. Henceforth, you will grow stronger."『親人的離開是你永遠不能磨滅的痛，但這種痛沒有任何哲學理論安慰你，因為人生中必須要承受，而你經歷過親人的離開，你會更加愛惜你身邊的親人，甚至愛惜你身邊的每個人，從此你就會更加堅強。』

"I was so moved I was in tears. Though the trees are calm and quiet the winds never stop.  Though son still needs parent, parent's not there.  All those consolation platitudes I would have none of them. All useless to me. I started reading Teacher Tang's works.  Regardless 《人生之體驗續篇》or《生物與人生》, they all opened up my mind.  That real life must experience trials, and to understand the cycle of life that includes old age, sickness and death are part of nature."

Towards illness, Steven has profound experiences. He was afflicted with "Panic Attack" disorder four years ago. A kind of neurotic, involuntary tightening of nerves disorders. The symptoms include: dizziness, cold hands and feet, shaky hands, shortness of breath, chest tightness, racing heartbeats. "The main cause comes from stress and the inability to relax. Always on the Get-Ready intense mode. Recently, these past months, I've had relapses, and once, I even had to stay home for 10 days. And there was even this one time when I was getting ready to do a magazine photoshoot when my hand suddenly started shaking uncontrollably so much so I was rushed to Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital for medical treatment. "

No wonder Steven feels it's a dog's life in the entertainment circle. He hopes to retire by age 40 and concentrate totally on his publishing business. "My first job was a Sales Executive selling textbooks. I set up a publishing company last year. I believe it's a type of bond. My application to be a social worker when I was 16, was unsuccessful. So now I decided to work with the local social organizations and Anti-Suicide association to write my first book "Why Suicide?"《點解要自殺？》. I will be publishing another book "I am the Patient's Family" 《我是病人家屬》 and it will be out, end of this month. I sought help from an association, and apart from my own story, there are 10 more touching real life stories." 

Love: Bad Men over Good Men
Steven's love life is still not in sight. Before he entered the entertainment circle, his few ex-girlfriends loved him for his filial piety and his love for his family but because he's not romantic, they left him. "Actually someone unromantic can be said to be stable emotionally." (Reporter nods) Those women pursuing romance if still single will in the end settle for a stable man to marry. Once I had a heated argument with a male friend who was popular amongst females. He said: "if men aren't bad, women won't love." That time, I was 20 odd years old. I wanted my ideal girlfriend to be like Cecilia Yip (葉童), with Jacklyn Wu's(吳倩蓮) class, and she must have flowing, long hair. Now I only ask for compatibility and geniune love. Won't even cares if she was onece a dance hostess."

Steven boasted that he would definitely be a 100% good husband and father due to his compassionate father's teaching. His father always taught him that a good man must possess an indomitable spirit, that taking care of his wife and children is a man's mandatory responsibility.

When asked if still will be friends with his past romantic rumored girlfriends: Astrid Chan, Dai Wan Wai (戴蘊慧) Ada Choi and Sonija Kwok; Steven answered sternly: "Astrid and I have no problems remaining friends, she had disagreement with Sheila Chan (陳淑蘭), not with me. But now she is blissfully in love, and since we work in different places, we seldom keep in touch. Dai Wan Wai - that's all bridge under water, now we phone each other occasionally. As for Ada, please (to all media) do not give us pressure. We are still in the good friends and colleagues's relationship mode. (When reporter was about to mention Sonija, as if knowing how to lip read, Steven quickly forestalled the question: "Her', no comments!"

Love Desire Entanglement
To foster good relationship is a form of desire but to keep one's distance from a conditional relationship is another form of desire. Ms. Kwok publicly criticized Steven, revealing her Sima's mentality for all to see, hoping to get promoted and to salvage her negative image, what is called having both beauty and brain.

Steven though humiliated by girlfriend of three months gallantly said: "No comments."

 （後排左三）念男校生活沉悶，馬仔難怪樣子木訥。

 （右起）年輕時的唐君毅與學生小思（盧瑋鑾教授）、唐夫人的合照，唐氏的《人生之體驗》令馬浚偉茅塞頓開，變得積極奮進。

 馬爸爸帶覑獨子馬仔及姊姊到海洋公園遊玩，以當時他們的家庭經濟狀況，已是高級的消閒活動。

 (左一）馬媽媽是馬仔一生中最愛及尊敬的女人，她的逝世對其打擊很大。

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Artist-Sonija Kwok
Artist-Astrid Chan


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