A concrete master’s legacy echoes in Ko Tung Au. This unassuming village in Hong Kong’s New Territories holds a secret. Ko Tung Au is more than just farmland and low-rise buildings. It’s home to Kanny Au Chi-hung a man who shaped Hong Kong’s infrastructure one concrete spacer at a time.
Ko Tung Au’s history is intertwined with that of its people. Cantonese Hakka and Teochew farmers first cultivated this land. Later refugees many from the Kuomintang added to its rich cultural tapestry. Ko Tung Au’s story is one of resilience a testament to its enduring community.
Kanny Au’s workshop sits in Ko Tung Au. Inside sits a concrete mixer stacks of cement and countless spacers. These aren’t ordinary spacers. Au’s creations are integral to Hong Kong’s iconic structures. The Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge the Tsing Ma Bridge and the Hong Kong International Airport all bear his mark. His designs have been copied many times yet he remains unfazed. He simply smiles and shrugs. His workshop is more than just a workplace. It’s a reflection of his life. Chinese opera plays from speakers decorated with glittering glasses. An open blue umbrella hangs above adding a touch of whimsy. Dust coats everything in a soft sand-colored layer.
Au’s journey is inspiring. He started by making fibreglass molds then moved to concrete. He even tested his spacer’s strength at Hong Kong Polytechnic University. His work on the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology’s construction stands out as a source of pride. He faced huge daily fines if he was late but he met the challenge head-on. He’s not just a concrete master. He’s a musician a motorbike enthusiast and a former football player. His life is a vivid portrayal of resilience determination and a love for his community in Ko Tung Au.
Today as we stand here in Ko Tung Au we are reminded of the unsung heroes who build our cities. We see the impact of a single man’s dedication. Kanny Au’s story is etched not only in the concrete foundations of Hong Kong but also in the very heart of Ko Tung Au. His legacy resonates in this quiet village a testament to human ingenuity and unwavering spirit. His life’s work is a reminder that even the smallest contributions can have a monumental impact. His story in Ko Tung Au is a story of Hong Kong itself.