In Memory of Dr Philip S.L. Beh
The Association Concerning Sexual Violence Against Women came to know Dr Philip S.L. Beh during the organisation's early days, and it was with his support that RainLily was established. His expertise as a forensic pathologist provided invaluable perspectives and crucial support to the founding social work colleagues of the Association.
"After the incident, victims of rape are often confused and helpless, unable to calmly consider whether or not to report it to the police. Under the current system, they simply have no choice: either report it, or do nothing at all. A victim bleeding in the A&E will be asked by the doctor if they want to report it. If they decide to, the police will be called to summon a forensic expert for evidence collection. If they don't report it, their wounds will simply be cleaned and that's the end of it; there will be no further follow-up. Victims truly have no room for choice."
— Dr Philip S.L. Beh in 2004
(translated by ACSVAW)
Dr Beh's extensive experience in forensic science deeply informed his understanding of the secondary trauma that criminal justice procedures could unfortunately inflict upon victim-survivors of sexual violence. Yet, he was a firm believer that this systemic harm could be lessened through cross-sector collaboration. Consequently, he passionately championed evidence collection and support mechanisms for sexual assault cases that were not conditional on reporting to the police. Hong Kong's first sexual violence crisis support centre, RainLily, was established in 2000. Dr Beh then consistently worked to streamline procedures for sexual assault survivors within the centre, both at the systemic and operational levels, reducing unnecessary referrals and duplication.
In 2016, with Dr Beh's support, RainLily began its retrospective study series. This involved organising and analysing RainLily's past case records, shedding light on the landscape of sexual violence in Hong Kong and ultimately seeking to deepen public and policymaker understanding, thereby fostering continued action. In 2018, Dr Beh further supported RainLily in organising the "Symposium on Sexual Violence in Asia," helping to invite numerous international forensic professionals involved in sexual violence crisis intervention to share their insights, thereby advancing the implementation of relevant models in Hong Kong. As an honorary consultant to our organisation, Dr Beh's consistent support at every level and his active involvement were truly pivotal to our professionalism, impact, and sustained growth.
Dr Beh's dedication extended beyond the organisation's growth and genuinely cared for our team. He once thoughtfully gifted us a coffee machine, having learned of our fondness for coffee and understanding the centre's limited resources. He'd often bring forensic professionals to tour the centre, always taking the opportunity in his teachings and discussions to acknowledge and affirm the hard work of our colleagues. Dr Beh was a staunch supporter of the organisation's activities and was always keen to meet new team members, offering help and guidance. From our very beginnings, Dr Beh remained a valued member of RainLily's Management Committee, and for many years, he dedicated his time to training our frontline staff and hotline volunteers.
Dr Beh's unwavering support for the Association and RainLily was truly actions that speak louder than words. He laid a vital foundation for supporting victim-survivors of sexual violence, and for that, we are eternally grateful. We will forever cherish the wonderful gifts he brought into our lives — not just the pandan cakes and the coffee machine, but most profoundly, the sense of mission he inspired in us all. May Dr Beh rest in peace. Our heartfelt thoughts and deepest condolences go out to his family during this incredibly difficult time.