A Champion for Prisoners' Rights and Social Justice in Hong Kong

Shiu, a social worker and university lecturer, gained prominence during Hong Kong's 2014 Umbrella Movement, a civil disobedience campaign advocating for genuine elections. His involvement led to his imprisonment.

During his 163 days behind bars, Shiu advocated for prisoners' welfare, clashing with guards over their treatment. Upon his release, he championed this cause, establishing the support group Wall-fare.

Wall-fare assisted families in navigating the complexities of prison bureaucracy, a crucial service during the 2019 Hong Kong protests, which resulted in numerous imprisonments. A young woman, Wong, shared how Shiu's pen pal program sparked her interest in prisoners' rights.

"He ignited my passion for prisoners' rights... inspiring me to contribute, even if my impact might be limited," Wong stated.

Shiu aimed to improve prison conditions, arranging book deliveries to inmates. Novelist Chiang, who collaborated with Shiu, praised his dedication, attributing it to his Christian faith and social commitment.

In 2021, Wall-fare was shut down after Hong Kong's security chief accused it of jeopardizing national security.

Activist Dickson Chau of the League of Social Democrats hailed Shiu as a legislative "pioneer" who sought systemic change.

Shiu's prolific writings and mementos from his time as a lawmaker and lecturer were showcased at a memorial service held on Saturday. Veterans of Hong Kong's pro-democracy movement, including Cardinal Joseph Zen and barrister Margaret Ng, paid tribute to him.

In his final months, battling cancer, Shiu wrote about his struggle, stating, "I'm losing weight, not faith." He believed that "joy and suffering are two extremes, both essential to life.