CUHK professor faces backlash over controversial gender remarks

Chong Tai-leung, an Associate Professor of Economics and Associate Dean of New Asia College at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, is facing intense criticism following a seminar titled ‘How to Invest in Your Life’. During the presentation, slides included phrases such as ‘the cost-effectiveness of girls catching golden turtles’ (a Cantonese slang for marrying wealthy men).

Students have accused the professor of gender discrimination and objectifying women, with some remarks suggesting that high academic achievement is useless for women if they ultimately marry for wealth, and advising women against pursuing PhDs because their youth is too precious. In response to the backlash, students have launched a ‘one person, one letter’ campaign, urging the university administration and the Committee on Prevention of Discrimination and Sexual Harassment to investigate and potentially remove him from his position.

Chong has denied allegations of discrimination, stating that his comments were intended to apply economic concepts to partner selection and that the term ‘catching golden turtles’ is common Cantonese slang applicable to all genders. He expressed regret if his words caused discomfort and offered to amend his presentation materials.