Chua Lam

Chua Lam was born on August 18, 1941, in Singapore, then part of the Straits Settlements, British Malaya. His early life was marked by a passion for cinema, growing up above a movie theater. Influenced by his father, he developed an early interest in reading and writing, publishing his first article at the age of 14 in Nanyang Siang Pau. Despite disliking formal academic study, he pursued education at The Chinese High School in Bukit Timah, Singapore, and later at Nihon University in Chiyoda, Tokyo, Japan, where he studied film directing. During his time in Japan, he worked part-time for Shaw Brothers Studio as a manager and translator, laying the groundwork for his extensive career in film.

In 1963, Chua Lam relocated to Hong Kong, continuing his work with Shaw Brothers Studio as a production manager. His career took a significant turn when he was recruited by Raymond Chow to join Golden Harvest, where he served as vice-president of film production for two decades. During his tenure at Golden Harvest, Chua Lam produced numerous films, including notable works for Jackie Chan such as “Armour Of God” (1987), “City Hunter” (1993), “Thunderbolt” (1995), and “Mr. Nice Guy” (1997). Beyond film production, he gained prominence as a media personality, co-hosting “Celebrity Talk Show” from 1989 to 1990, a classic adult talk show on Asia Television, alongside Jin Yong and Ni Kuang.

Chua Lam’s influence extended significantly into the culinary world. He hosted several food programs, including “Market Trotter” (2007), “Chua’s Choice” (2008), and “Be My Guest” (2009). His role as a judge on Fuji TV’s “Iron Chef” brought him wider recognition, particularly in Japan. He was a respected columnist for “Oriental Daily” and “Ming Pao” in Hong Kong, and later contributed to Next Media’s publications such as “Next Magazine,” “Apple Daily,” and “Eat and Travel Weekly.” He authored more than 150 books on diverse subjects, including food, travel, and personal philosophy, and opened his own restaurants, such as Chua Lam’s Pho. Throughout his career, Chua Lam remained a Singaporean citizen, maintaining strong ties to his birthplace while building a legacy in Hong Kong. He passed away on June 25, 2025, at the age of 83 in Hong Kong.