More work is needed to ensure an inclusive Hong Kong

Originally published - SCMP - 6 July 2025

—More work is needed to ensure an inclusive Hong Kong—

dated July 6, 2025, discusses the article “Tackle Discrimination Against Pakistanis at the roots” published June 23, 2025.

https://www.scmp.com/opinion/letters/article/3316948/more-work-needed-ensure-inclusive-hong-kong?

Abstract:

I refer to the letter, “Tackle discrimination against Pakistanis in Hong Kong at the roots” (July 23). The Hong Kong government has shown a commendable commitment to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion through measures such as the Race Discrimination Ordinance.

In 2020, the government launched a three-year ethnic minority district ambassador pilot scheme in nine districts with larger ethnic minority populations. Last year, the government introduced eight care teams focused on ethnic minorities.

In 2020, the government launched a three-year ethnic minority district ambassador pilot scheme in nine districts with larger ethnic minority populations. Last year, the government introduced eight care teams focused on ethnic minorities.

However, as the letter highlights, structural barriers persist, particularly for the Pakistani community. I know people who share these concerns. Despite obtaining qualifications from reputable Hong Kong institutions and diligently applying for legal internships and positions, they often do not hear back from prospective employers. This suggests a gap exists between policy intentions and practical implementation, particularly with regard to job opportunities for ethnic minorities.

Some measures could strengthen the government’s existing efforts. First, promote inclusive hiring practices across the public and private sectors to help address unconscious bias. This could include promoting anonymised recruitment processes in early stages and establishing diversity benchmarks in fields where ethnic minority representation remains low. Perhaps the civil service could lead by example.

Second, enhance support for Chinese language acquisition. While programmes exist, expanding teacher training for Chinese as a second language and creating more opportunities for intercultural exchange in schools could help bridge the proficiency gap and promote social cohesion.

Third, keep developing more structured career pathways for ethnic minority youth through targeted internship and mentorship programmes to help translate educational qualifications into professional opportunities. Partnerships between corporations, academic institutions and community organisations could build valuable bridges.

Finally, raise community awareness through positive media representation and school curriculums to reflect Hong Kong’s multicultural reality and address stereotypes. Telling stories of ethnic minority contributions to Hong Kong’s development could inspire younger generations and change perceptions.

Ahmed Ashfaq, Tsim Sha Tsui