Sunday, 10 May 2026On 29 April 2026, the Guidance Team was proud to host a unique cultural event: the Minibus Sign Workshop. In an era dominated by digital screens and rapid change, this workshop offered students a rare opportunity to connect with a fading piece of Hong Kong’s “slow living” heritage. By encouraging participants to focus on the intentionality of each brushstroke, the event served as a meaningful reminder to prioritise quality over quantity in our often-relentless city life.
We were privileged to welcome Master Mak Kam-sang, the sole remaining master of hand-painted minibus signs in Hong Kong. With over 40 years of experience, Master Mak has dedicated his career to promoting the culture of Red Minibuses. While he is a guardian of tradition, he has modernised the craft by incorporating contemporary slang and personalised blessings, ensuring these iconic signs remain fashionable and relevant to younger generations. Through his workshops and collaborations with global brands, Master Mak ensures that this traditional craftsmanship continues to shine brightly despite the relentless pace of the city.
The session offered a comprehensive look at the history and technique behind the art:
* Historical Insight: An introduction to the evolution of Hong Kong’s minibus culture.
* Storytelling: Master Mak shared personal anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories from his four decades in the industry.
* Technical Skill: Students learnt the specific calligraphy styles and brush techniques unique to minibus signage.
* Hands-on Creativity: Every participant designed and hand-painted their own full-sized minibus sign and a matching keychain.
For many participants, the workshop was a practical exercise in ‘Mindfulness’ — focusing on quality over quantity and being present in the moment. Shungtakians Cheryl Lam and Jeanie Lee shared their thoughts:
“The workshop was informative, meaningful, and relaxing. It helped us unwind by drawing the signs with my friends after a long school day. I enjoyed the sharing of the historical background and cultural heritage behind the signs. It was a great experience that we will remember.”
By inviting a master who treats his work with such intentionality, the school hoped to show students that even in a concrete jungle, there is value in slowing down to master a craft. We thank Master Mak for helping our students ‘unplug’ and find their own internal equilibrium through this beautiful Hong Kong tradition.