The government has proposed elevating the main building of the old Tsan Yuk Hospital in Sai Ying Pun, the first Chinese women's obstetric hospital in Hong Kong, and the Kwong Fook I Tsz in Sheung Wan, known as "Pak Shing Temple," from Grade I historic buildings to Declared Monuments. The Antiquities Advisory Board will meet today (March 13) to discuss the proposal.
Founded in 1922 by missionaries from the London Missionary Society, Tsan Yuk Hospital initially aimed to provide obstetric services for Chinese women and train midwives. It became a teaching hospital for the University of Hong Kong, promoting Western medical practices. The old main building features a neoclassical style with Chinese elements and was designed by an architectural firm. Adjacent is a small white building, built in 1909 as a convenience facility during a plague outbreak.
After moving locations in 1955, the building became a community center, renamed "Western District Community Centre" in 1973. In 1992, it was designated a Grade III historic building and later upgraded to Grade I. The recent proposal aims to strengthen its cultural heritage status.
Kwong Fook I Tsz, located on Tai Ping Shan Street, was completed around 1856 to honor the spirits of deceased individuals from mainland China. Established in 1895 by Chinese elites, it initially provided memorial spaces and later expanded to offer medical care and shelter. This laid the groundwork for the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals, which was established in response to health concerns raised in the late 19th century.
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