Zhongshan is a famous overseas Chinese hometown. At the early stage of reform and opening up, many overseas Chinese and compatriots from Hong Kong and Macao took an active part in the construction of their hometown by opening factories and donating schools and hospitals. 

Since 1989, Zhongshan started to awarded these personages “Honorary Citizen of Zhongshan” title to commend their contribution. The first 10 persons awarded included Fok Ying-Tung, Kwok Tak-Seng, Wu Guixian, and etc.

So far, total 96 personages have won the honor. Their total investment in Zhongshan has amounted to over 11.3 billion yuan, and donations exceeded 530 million yuan.