Dr Chung-yee Ma, Arisina, was president of the Hong Kong Public Doctors’ Association from 2019 to 2021. When she stepped down in June last year, Hong Kong had already been languishing in an increasingly suffocating atmosphere. One media outlet after another ceased operations. Many civic groups were disbanded. The government’s coronavirus policies remained contradictory. Owing to the deteriorating social environment, and the stress caused by different criticisms of her as a public figure, she became depressed. As she no longer held public office, she decided to relocate to the Uk and continue to practise in an entirely new work environment.

Leaving public office and moving to a new place, Dr Ma has reclaimed her rhythm in life. She also feels a growing sense of relief after letting go of the past. As she is now working in a healthcare environment completely different from Hong Kong’s, she feels compelled to reflect on why she wanted to be a doctor at first.

Dr Ma shares her knowledge as well as her UK experience with those who need it, in a bid to connect with Hongkongers in the country. Unwilling to sever her ties with Hong Kong, She continues to keep abreast of any new developments in the city. However, the controversial arrests of many people in Hong Kong made her realise that her fear will never disappear, even though she has moved abroad. She still thinks she has yet to enjoy total freedom.