Christine Chow Ma

Zhou Meiqing, born on November 30, 1952, in Hong Kong, China. Her educational background includes attending the private Zai Xing Middle School in Taipei City, Taipei Municipal First Girls' High School, and the Law Department of National Chengchi University in Taiwan. She later pursued further studies in the United States, earning a Master of Laws degree from New York University.

In terms of family, Zhou Meiqing's father was Zhou Zhaoyu, who served as a ship captain. Her mother was Zhou Qiaoxin Zhen. She has four siblings: her eldest sister Zhou Meqi, who currently resides in the United States; her second brother Zhou Weiqi, who served as Chairman of Lianhua Gas; her third brother Zhou Meiqing, who was Director of Legal Affairs at Mega International Commercial Bank; and her youngest brother Zhou Weixiong, also settled in the U.S. She married Ma Ying-jeou in 1977, and they have two daughters.

During her education, Zhou Meiqing attended Taipei First Girls' High School and later graduated from the Law Department of National Chengchi University in 1974, with a graduation photo showing her with long hair cascading over her shoulders, appearing refined and graceful. Reports indicate that during high school, she was classmates with Ma Ying-jeou’s sister; her sister once took her to their home to make dumplings. Although they did not speak directly at that time, they became classmates at New York University, developed feelings, and married in 1977. While Ma Ying-jeou was pursuing his Ph.D. at Harvard University, Zhou Meiqing worked in Boston, including part-time jobs in libraries and serving as a research assistant at Harvard Law School to support her family and studies.

After marriage, Zhou Meiqing gave up her personal academic pursuits to focus on family life. During her husband's busy academic and future political career, she took on the responsibilities of caring for the household. She often presents herself publicly as low-key and modest, refusing glamorous embellishments, and emphasizes practicality and independence.

Professionally, Zhou Meiqing served as the Director of Legal Affairs at Mega International Commercial Bank, showcasing her professional legal background. She is also actively involved in charity work, serving as Honorary President of the Taiwan Red Cross Society. Politically, she maintains a low profile, rarely participating in her husband's official duties—except for campaign activities such as campaigning for votes during the 2008 presidential election. She is known for her composed, independent image, and her rational and sensible demeanor. She is regarded by the public as approachable and plain, earning respect and recognition. She has been described as "insulating herself from the media."

Her lifestyle and values reflect her emphasis on family, responsibility, and professionalism. Not only is she the mother of two daughters, but she is also seen by the public as Ma Ying-jeou’s steady spiritual support and rational partner. Despite frequent media coverage, she remains low-key, focusing on her family and charitable work.