Whilst the ongoing trend is turning everything into digital, there is one thing that keeps the Hong Kong spirit in its most original form and in the most iconic colour combo – The red-white-blue minibus sign. Try to spot a lineup of white plastic boards under the windshield of the red minibuses, that are emblazoned with the names of destinations in red Chinese calligraphy, its English translation in blue, and the fares. But who in town weaves the magic with paintbrushes and acrylic paints? 

Mak Kam-Sang (麥錦生) from Hawk Advertising Company Limited (巧佳小巴用品) has been churning out the three-coloured signs for over 35 years at his store on Battery Street (炮台街), right in front of a minibus stop. First opened as a store selling gifts to people from all walks of life, Mak didn’t start his signboard business until he got asked by the red bus drivers after he moved to Battery Street. Why do red buses have such high demand though? They are permitted to operate on all roads with no fixed hours and fares, and meanwhile, green buses have their own offices where sign printing comes in handy – which is why Mak’s handwritten masterpieces are golden to the red bus drivers. 

As technology grows and the red buses are gradually diminishing due to government interference, Mak’s work is now a sunset business. To keep his distinctive calligraphy alive, he has embraced the use of technology, promoting and selling signboards incorporated with Cantonese slang through social media, and hosting workshops teaching calligraphy. If you are interested in learning the skills, go DM their Facebook page and create customized minibus sign of your own!