Both Project Gemstone of Yau Tsim District (YTDIST) and Project Himalaya of Yuen Long District aim to improve the competitiveness of Non-ethnic Chinese (NEC) Junior Police Call members who are interested in joining the Force or other disciplined services. On August 9, Acting YTDIST Commander Kerry Carew hosted the first meeting for Police Community Relations Officers in the two districts to share their experience and explore areas for closer co-operation.

Mr Carew said, "As someone who has worked in both districts, I am fully aware of their efforts and commitment in running the two projects. I am sure that by working together we could achieve more." He also hoped that the two districts could forge links with other districts that were running similar programmes for NEC youths.

In September, graduates of Project Gemstone and Project Himalaya, who have joined the Force, have been going to schools to share their successful stories with NEC students and help recruit new members for the projects. Furthermore, both districts are planning to hold joint sports competitions and language learning activities for their members in an attempt to strengthen their team spirit and broaden their social circle.