Grandmaster Kong On started training in Chow Gar Kung Fu at the age of 17. He trained under the style's founder, Master Chow Loong for four years till his teacher passed away. Later, he studied Buk Sing Choy Lay Fut under Master Tarm Sarm and trained under Master Ku Yu Cheung of Buk Sil Lum, The Northern Shaolin System. Kong On was an extraordinary person who excelled not only in the martial arts, including all the weaponry, but also in the Hard and Soft (internal) Chi Gung. He had mastered the Gum Jung (Golden Bell) iron body development as well as Chinese medicine and bone setting. Today it is very rare to find someone of his caliber even among the best in the martial arts circle. Only his son, Kong Hing, has managed to inherit the same qualities and wisdom of his famous father, healer and teacher.

During his early twenties while performing his kung fu at a demonstration, Kong On caught the attention of Master Tarm Sarm, who was impressed with the young man's performance. He was so impressed that he sent his student, Chui Cheung, to Kong On's house with an invitation to meet with him. This caught Kong On by surprise and right away he felt suspicious and wary of Master Tarm's intentions. Kong On was well aware of Master Tarm's great reputation, and how he loved to test his fighting skills against other reputable fighters. Kong On's own curiosity prompted him to ask Chui Cheung, "Why does ‘Sarm Sook’ (3rd uncle - the name many used to address Tarm Sarm) wish to see me? I have neither offended him, nor do I have any quarrel with him." Master Tarm's student assured him that his master's intentions were honorable and managed to convince Kong On to accept the invitation. At this, Kong On accompanied Chui Cheung back to his master's house.   

Grandmaster Kong On burns incense and makes an offering at the
Tarm Sarm Anniversary.

Upon arriving at Tarm Sarm's house, Kong On was warmly received and found the master to be very friendly and hospitable. Master Tarm proceeded to ask, "What style of kung fu is it that you were demonstrating?" To this Kong On replied, "My style is Chow Gar and the form I was doing is called 'Fu Pau Kuen Di Ng Lo' (Tiger Leopard form number five). When questioned who his master was, Kong On replied, "My master is Chow Loong." Master Tarm then requested a meeting with his master, and Kong On told Master Tarm that his master had already passed away. Learning of this, Master Tarm thought that maybe now was the chance for Kong On to ask him to accept him as his student. But when Kong On did not express any desire, nor gave any indication that he was interested in studying under him, Tarm felt both offended and disappointed, especially after Kong On expressed great respect for him earlier on and would certainly make a great student for him. 

Feeling rather frustrated and anxious to test this young man's kung fu, Master Tarm then said to him, "Your Chow Gar Kung Fu looks very strong and powerful, and I would very much appreciate it if you could demonstrate some of your moves on me!" On hearing this, Kong On immediately knew Tarm Sarm was serious and he was about to end up another one of Tarm's many victims! So Kong On turned and said to Master Tarm, "Your reputation as a champion fighter is well known and respected. I am not worthy to spar with someone of your caliber and credibility."   

 Realizing he was placed in an awkward and dangerous position and must certainly suffer defeat, Kong On stood up excusing himself by saying, "I have to leave now, thank you kindly for your hospitality. It was a great honor to meet you." Tarm Sarm did not want to let this young fellow leave so easily without first having a match with him. He knew deep inside Kong On had great potential and would be a great asset to his school.

Grandmaster Kong On, right, and Master Kwan Mun Keng,
founder of the Hong Sheng Koon in Singapore.