Project Gemstone, initiated by Yau Tsim District (YTDIST) in 2013, connects with the non-ethnic Chinese (NEC) community in the District and nurtures young people interested in joining the disciplined forces. Police Community Relations Officer (PCRO) Support (Ethnic Minorities) of YTDIST Sergeant Hung Ka-wai is one of the Project starters. Balal Zaffar, a former mentee of Hung, has become a law enforcer through the Project.

Hung recalled that the initial service under the Project was providing Chinese Language classes for NEC youths aged 15 to 25. Everything is difficult to start, however. To establish networks in the NEC community for attracting participants was no easy matter to a Chinese. “My colleagues and I have to ‘canvass’ the places where NEC youths hang out and start conversations in simple Hindi and Urdu. We would then persuade them to join the Project.”

The team needs to maintain communication with the young people’s families and religious leaders to build mutual trust with sincerity. NEC residents often ask for a wide range of assistance, such as suggesting Chinese names for their children, filling out government documents, and even helping them buy masks during the epidemic. YTDIST officers always do their best to help.

After a dozen years of meticulous efforts, the Project has attracted nearly 1 000 participants. With support from the Force and social communities, the various activities have extended from the initial Chinese Language class to mathematics and boxing classes, and now regular fitness class and all sorts of activities about understanding the Force.

Inspector Balal, a 26-year-old Pakistani, joined the Project with his elder brother ten years ago. Firstly, he joined the Hong Kong Auxiliary Police Force in 2021, followed by his success in becoming a probationary inspector the next year. Balal, his elder brother and a cousin who is also a Force member have been cultivated by the Project to become “gemstones” that are ready to shine.

Balal says that Hung and other volunteers are excellent mentors. “Many NEC have never thought about joining the Force. Thanks to the mentors, who equip us with language, police knowledge and physical fitness, allowing every one of us to realise that with hard work, we can attain the competency requisite for becoming a Force member to protect our home, Hong Kong.”

At the same time, Balal thanks Hung for being the good friend of the junior “gemstones”. “He is a beacon accompanying us in our growth. When we are in trouble or confusion, he guides us to get back on the right track. That’s why we invite him to witness our graduation and wedding, just like sharing the joy with family members.”

Over the years, the Project has helped more than 50 NEC youths join the disciplined forces. Balal never forgets to plough back. Whenever he has time, he will volunteer to share his experiences with younger generations. Earlier, Balal was the emcee for the halal hot pot banquet, of which Hung was one of the organisers.

Hung hopes to help more NEC join the Force to serve the growing NEC community. As to Balal, he looks forward to passing on the spirit without failing the inspiration and support of his predecessors. He says, “I want to be a role model for the younger generations by identifying more ‘gemstones’ in the community and cultivating them to join us in shining for Hong Kong.”

In addition to free Chinese Language classes on Saturday morning, Project Gemstone also provides physical training classes on Wednesday evening.

NEC who are interested in the project may contact officers of YTDIST PCRO at 3661-9233.