PolyU professor said to have received expensive gifts from student

A video circulating on social media shows a professor at Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) allegedly receiving luxury gifts from a student, including two bottles of 2021 Moutai and wild Cordyceps from Yushu, Qinghai. Netizens questioned whether it was an exchange of benefits or a misunderstanding.

The video discusses gifts and acknowledgments of high value. In Hong Kong, a 500ml bottle of 2021 Moutai costs over HK$3,000, while a 15g gift box of wild Cordyceps is also around HK$3,000.

Based on the video content and comments, the professor is believed to be Professor Zhu Zi-qiang, Chair Professor of Electrical Machines and Control Systems at PolyU.

Education Legislative Council member Lawrence Tang Fei said universities must comply with the Prevention of Bribery Ordinance and obtain formal approval for high-value gifts. He warned that receiving such gifts could negatively affect public perception.

Barrister Albert Luk Wai-hung noted that gifts over HK$1,000 require written approval and that receiving valuable items without declaration could violate the ordinance or constitute misconduct. He added that “future benefits” intended for potential advantages could also be considered bribery.

The professor reportedly returned the gifts. Luk emphasized that returning them does not guarantee immunity but may reduce liability.

PolyU told Sing Tao Headlines that the university takes staff integrity seriously. Its employee handbook includes the Guidelines on Acceptance of Benefits and Hospitality, which all staff are required to follow. The matter has been handled according to established procedures.