 The oldest of seven siblings, he completed his high school education at St. Anthony's National Secondary School in his hometown and later also attended St. Joseph's National Secondary School in Kuching.After his father had fallen ill, Chong returned home to take over the helm at the family business after having only completed Form 3 (Year 10) of his high school.Nevertheless, he self-studied and eventually took teaching jobs at his alma mater, St. Anthony's, including teaching Form 4 and 5 (Years 11 and 12) morning classes between 1952 and 1962.