Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
The Zubin Foundation
2025 Policy Recommendations to Mr John Lee, Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region 1 September 2025
Email: ceo@ceo.gov.hk
1. Introduction to The Zubin Foundation (TZF)
1.1. TZF (IR: 91/12344) is a registered charity committed to improving the lives of Hong Kong’s Ethnically Diverse Individuals (EDIs) by providing opportunities and reducing suffering.
1.2. Focus areas:
i. Mental health
ii. Talent and Youth Development
iii. Women and Girls
iv. Children and Parents
v. Elderly
1.3. TZF is an integrated service provider for the Ethnically Diverse Community (EDC). TZF provides direct services, such as 1:1 mental health counselling, managing the Call Mira helpline and assisting victims of forced marriage and domestic violence, providing youth with jobs, scholarships, internships and capacity training, counselling children and working with families with children at the end of life, providing parents with skills and knowledge, working with the elderly through social and emotional activities.
1.4. TZF works directly with service users and works through other NGOs, public hospitals, religious organisations and places of worship, and government-subsidised schools, kindergartens and agencies.
1.5. The following recommendations are based on (1) observations from service users, (2) observations from partnerships with other providers of direct service to EDC, such as Integrated Community Centre for Mental Wellness, schools, NGOs, hospitals, police, etc., and (3) global best practice
Recommendations
2. Terminology: Replace the term Ethnic Minorities (EM) with Ethnically Diverse Individuals (EDIs) and Ethnically Diverse Community (EDC)
2.1. On 14 June 2025, TZF organised its first-ever Youth Leadership Summit bringing together over 200 passionate and engaged young individuals, and comprising of youth who are tertiary educated. Polling from the Summit recorded that 77% of participants disapproved of the “ethnic minority” label preferring instead the term ‘ethnically diverse individual’ or ethnic diverse community’. This new term has been normalised within the EDC and various NGOs and is the preferred term.
2.2. Many in the EDC view the term ‘ethnic minority’ as demeaning and feel that it further marginalises them.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org Website 網址: www.zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
2.3. TZF recommends that the HKSAR Government adopt a new term “Ethnically Diverse Community” (EDC) and “Ethnically Diverse Individual” (EDI) and 多元種族 in Chinese, moving away from using the “Ethnic Minority” (EM) label across all official communications. This is the language chosen across the EDC.
3. Tertiary and Secondary Education: Talent Pool and Unique Barriers
3.1. Growing Youth Population and Persistent Tertiary Educational Gap: The South Asian youth population in Hong Kong (ages 15–24) has grown significantly over the past decade. According to the 2021 Population Censusi , the South Asian youth population (ages 15–24) increased by 86% between 2011 and 2021, from 7,812 to 14,566. The broader ethnically diverse youth population (excluding domestic helpers) rose by 76%, from 19,536 to 34,321. Despite this growth, access to post-secondary education remains unequal. Only 22.2% of Nepalese and 25.1% of Pakistani individuals had attended post-secondary education, compared to 34.6% for the overall registration.ii These disparities highlight the need for targeted support to ensure equitable access to education.
3.2. TZF has awarded 190 scholarships for financially disadvantaged EDIs to go to university in Hong Kong over the past five years, enabling students to pursue degrees in medicine, engineering, journalism, business, and more at leading local institutions in Hong Kong such as the University of Hong Kong, Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, etc. TZF recommends that the Education Bureau (EDB) encourage universities to (a) customise job support for EDIs (b) provide Chinese language learning so that graduates can acquire jobs in the local economy.
3.3. More Opportunities for Female Talent Pool: Of the 190 scholarships awarded by The Zubin Foundation in the past five years, 171 were given to women, demonstrating both the demand and the potential among young women in these communities Women in EDC are talented, ambitious, and eager to contribute meaningfully to society and some of them seek mental health support so that they can better manage their anxieties over familial responsibilities and school
3.4. TZF recommends that secondary schools can support these young women by (a) referring them and their parents to the Ethnic Minority Well-Being Centre (for age 18+), Children’s Counselling Centre in case of mental health issues (age 6 to 17) (b) seeking positive female EDI mentors and role models.
3.5. Barriers to Access to University Programmes: We commend Chinese University of Hong Kong for its inclusive approach to their medicine programmes, which does not require Cantonese proficiency and uses the duration of the medical programme to teach Chinese language. This allows ethnically diverse youth with talent and academic qualifications who may not speak the Cantonese language fluently to pursue careers in medicine and contribute to Hong Kong’s healthcare system, while learning the Chinese language
3.6. TZF recommends EDB works with universities to ensure that all programmes on offer review their Chinese language requirements for (a) admission and (b) language medium of instruction. This should be clearly stated on all university webpages, university collateral. These changes will also help to attract more overseas university students to Hong Kong.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
4. Attracting Tourism, Talent, and International Students
4.1. Develop Multicultural Elements for Tourism: Hong Kong's EDC is not only a vibrant part of the HKSAR fabric but also a potential captive market for tourism. Their diverse cultural traditions, languages, and cuisines offer a unique and enriching experience for visitors. Imagine exploring vibrant South Asian stores, savouring authentic cuisine, or witnessing the colourful celebrations of different festivals. These unique cultural offerings can be integrated into tourist itineraries, showcasing Hong Kong's multiculturalism and attracting visitors seeking authentic experiences beyond the typical tourist attractions. By embracing and showcasing the richness of its EDC, Hong Kong can become a truly global destination, attracting travellers seeking to experience the city's diverse tapestry.
4.2. TZF recommends that the Tourism Board (a) undertake training to understand the EDC landscape of activities and sites in Hong Kong, (b) have a dedicated webpage for outsiders to explore and appreciate Ethnically Diverse Hong Kong with recognised walking tours, sites and history (for example, the Star Ferry was founded by an EDI), and (c) ensure its webpages and promotional materials include pictures of EDIs.
4.3. Fully leverage the potential of multicultural tourism in Hong Kong: it is crucial to empower EDIs to become storytellers of their own cultures. By investing in developing their talents and providing them with platforms to share their unique perspectives, we can create authentic and engaging experiences for visitors. This could involve supporting ethnically diverse-owned businesses, promoting cultural events and festivals, and training individuals to become tour guides, interpreters, and cultural ambassadors. By empowering EDIs to tell their own stories, we can create a truly immersive and enriching experience for tourists, showcasing the vibrant tapestry of cultures that makes Hong Kong so special.
4.4. Attract International Talent: To attract international top talent to come to Hong Kong, the city needs to demonstrate its international character. To do this, Hong Kong needs to have multi-ethnic faces and voices featured in its media campaigns and roadshows, both outside and inside of Hong Kong.
4.5. Attract International Students: To attract international students into Hong Kong, TZF recommends that EDB asks universities to include EDIs on university Advisory Committees so that they can help to strategically think about how to attract international students and be included in university roadshows to different countries.
5. Advisory and Statutory Bodies
5.1. TZF commends the HKSAR Government for onboarding more EDIs since the publication of The Zubin Foundation’s first Diversity List in 2016.
5.2. EDIs are active members of the community, deeply invested in the future of Hong Kong SAR, Greater Bay Area and the growth of Mainland China. Many EDIs are highly skilled professionals, eager to contribute their expertise and diverse perspectives to the betterment of the city. Their commitment to Hong Kong is evident in their willingness to serve on Advisory & Statutory Boards (ASBs), where they can provide valuable insights.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。 Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
5.3. The administration has existing target of 35% women and 15% youth on ASBs, and therefore adding a racial inclusion target is in line with the HKSAR administration’s efforts to make Hong Kong more inclusive at ASBs.
5.4. TZF recommends (a) the government ask all bureau and departments to consider onboarding EDIs on each committee with a target set of at least one EDI on every ASB by 2030 (b) report on a yearly basis on the numbers of EDIs on ASBs (c) continue to provide simultaneous translation services from/to English to/from Cantonese/ Putonghua on ASBs so that non-Chinese speakers are able to fully contribute to ASB meetings.
6. Steering Committee on Ethnic Minority Affairs
6.1. We commend the administration for continuing its high-level internal Steering Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs chaired by the Chief Secretary. It is important for the bureaus and departments to continue to share knowledge internally and look at ways of working collaboratively to improve the lives of Hong Kong's EDIs.
6.2. On the other hand, to effectively address the needs and concerns of EDIs in Hong Kong, it is crucial to ensure that the steering committee responsible for their affairs is well-informed and equipped with the necessary knowledge and insights.
6.3. We recommend that the government invite a diverse range of trusted EDIs as advisors to this Steering Committee for Ethnic Minority Affairs as it may not be possible for existing members of the Steering Committee to talk about communities which they are not from, not have direct access to.
7. Women
7.1. Support for
Ethnically Diverse Women in Divorce Proceedings
Through TZF’s helpline and community engagement, we have observed that ED women – particularly those married in Pakistan – face significant challenges in navigating divorce proceedings in Hong Kong. These challenges persist regardless of whether their husbands are from Hong Kong or not. Key issues include delays in Legal Aid processing, bias in Legal Aid Department against parties whose marriages were celebrated in Pakistan, and lack of coordinated support across government departments.
i. Many ED women continue to face uncertainty and risk while waiting for divorce proceedings to be resolved, especially those living with abusive or estranged spouses The broader issue lies in the lack of governmental and community support in housing Many women do not have access to support network in Hong Kong, such as safe housing or childcare options, especially when their family of origin is absent and, in some cases, sides with the husband. Some are vulnerable to harm due to the lack of protective measures to remain Hong Kong given their spousal dependency status.
ii. These women deserve timely justice, safety, and dignity. By strengthening institutional support and recognising the unique challenges faced by ED women, Hong Kong can become a safer and more inclusive city for all.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。 Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
iii. TZF recommends:
a. Legal Aid processes are expedited for ED women in high-risk divorce cases, especially those involving overseas marriages.
b. Providing clear guidelines and training for Legal Aid officers and frontline staffs on handling cross-border and religious marriage cases.
c. Housing Authority is enabled to support separation arrangements, including providing for victims and perpetrators to be housed in separate flats to prevent further harm.
d. Coordination across departments (e.g. Legal Aid, Housing, Social Welfare) to provide holistic support for ED women navigating divorce, including counselling, legal guidance, and emergency housing.
e. Enhanced information in Hindi and Urdu at the Family Court registry. Recruiting frontline staff or interpreters from the EDC to assist EDIs in understanding legal documents and procedures. Having even one registry EDI staff member could significantly improve access to justice.
7.2. Forced Marriage (FM) and Long-Term Support for Ethnically Diverse Women and Girls
i. FM is the marriage of a woman to a man without her free will. While men may also be affected, FM remains a highly gendered practice. The over 30 women TZF has assisted are mostly Hong Kong permanent residents. These are Hong Kong girls and women
ii. From TZF’s partnerships with other NGOs, we understand that FM cases are surfacing more frequently as women in the EDC are becoming better educated and there is more access to information.
iii. The Hong Kong Police must be commended and have been instrumental in referring FM cases to TZF and have shown openness to receiving training.
iv. We recommend that the HKSAR Government:
a. Recognise FM as a form of gender-based violence and child abuse and include it in relevant policy frameworks.
b. Provide FM training for all frontline staff including but not limited to the Hong Kong Police Force, Social Welfare Department (SWD), Education Bureau (EDB), and Immigration Department. An encounter with frontline personnel may be the only opportunity a victim has to seek help and is known internationally as the “once chance” rule.
c. Equip social workers and others with knowledge about where they may be able to turn to for further assistance in FM.
d. Develop a strategic plan on how Hong Kong will support its FM such as including safe housing, counselling, legal aid, education, and employment pathways to help them rebuild their lives independently.
e. Raise awareness within EDC about consent in marriage and support available for those at risk.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
:
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
f. Undertake research and consider raising the Hong Kong legal marriage age, which currently allows individuals aged 16 to marry parental consent, to age 18 or above. In Hong Kong, a child is defined as those under 18, so Hong Kong allows child marriage if there is parental consent. The current age threshold for marriage is lower than that in other jurisdictions and may serve as a loophole for FM. TZF recommends a thorough investigation into this policy and its implications for child protection. Below is the reference of what the other countries are doing:
Country Minimum Age
Australia 18 years old, unless a court has approved a marriage where one party is aged between sixteen and eighteen years old. If one person is aged between 16 and 18 they must have court approval by a judge or magistrate to marry and consent by your parent or guardian has been given or dispensed with.iii
France 18 years old under the Civil Code of 2013. Marriage before the age of 18 is possible with consent of parents or the public prosecutor for serious reasons.iv
Mainland China No earlier than 22 for male, no earlier than 20 for female. No exceptions.v
Netherlands 18 years old: no possibility to marry below 18 years exists, as recommended by the CRC Committee. If someone under 18 gets married abroad this is considered child marriage in the Netherlands and is not recognised until both partners reach the age of 18.vi
Singapore People aged 18-21 may only get married with parental consent. 21 years and older do not require parental consent. If at least one party is aged 18 to below 21 years old, they will be required to attend a Marriage Preparation Programme (Mprep) conducted by an MSF-approved organisationvii
UK 18 years old. 16- and 17-year-olds will not be able to marry even if they have parental consent. The Marriage and Civil Partnership (Minimum Age) Act 2022viii
Hong Kong 16 years of age. If either party is above the age of 16 and below 21 years, written consent from parent or guardian, or order of the court is required.ix
8. Carers
8.1. Support for Carers Who Are Ethnically Diverse
i. Many ED women in Hong Kong serve as full-time carers for children with special needs, elderly family members, or individuals with rehabilitation needs. While they are capable and talented individuals, their caregiving responsibilities often prevent them from participating in the workforce or pursuing personal development. Furthermore, because of large family sizes, there is often a very long period of life which is spent in active and strenuous caring.
ii. TZF has observed that some government-funded programmes such as childcare for working parents, elderly day care, and rehabilitation support exist in certain districts. However, these programmes are often limited in quota and not easily accessible to ED families due to language barriers, lack of outreach, or cultural unfamiliarity.
iii. By supporting ED carers, the government can unlock a pool of untapped talent, reduce carer burnout, and promote greater social inclusion and economic participation.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
iv. TZF recommends that the HKSAR Government:
a. Increase the quota and accessibility of care support programmes (e.g. childcare, elderly care, rehabilitation day centres) to explicitly include ED families, enabling carers –especially women – to have breathing space and consider re-joining the labour force.
b. Launch new initiatives specifically targeting ED carers, to raise awareness that they are not forgotten and that the government recognises their contributions and challenges.
c. Provide cultural sensitivity training for frontline staff across social welfare, healthcare, and education sectors to ensure that ED carers are treated with respect and understanding.
d. Collaborate with NGOs and community leaders to co-design outreach and support services that are linguistically and culturally appropriate.
9. Elderly
9.1. Development of Services for Ethnically Diverse Elderly
i. Over the past decade, TZF has observed a significant and steady increase in the number of ED elderly living in Hong Kong. Many have settled in Hong Kong SAR permanently and now face challenges like the general elderly population such as isolation, chronic illness, and family conflict but compounded by language and cultural barriers.
ii. Despite their growing presence, ED elderly often struggles to access public services due to limited Cantonese proficiency and unfamiliarity with Hong Kong’s systems. Some report experiences of discrimination or exclusion from mainstream elderly centres and services.
iii. As the ED elderly population continues to grow, it is essential that Hong Kong’s elderly care infrastructure evolves to meet their needs. Providing culturally appropriate day care and residential services will promote dignity, inclusion, and well-being for this vulnerable group.
iv. We recommend that the HKSAR Government:
a. Conduct a territory-wide landscape study to map out the needs, challenges, and aspirations of ED elderly across districts. This will help inform targeted policy and service planning.
b. Establish dedicated elderly day care centres for ED communities, staffed with culturally competent professionals and language support in dialects such as Urdu, Hindi, Nepali, Tagalog, and Bahasa Indonesia.
c. Develop residential care units that are inclusive of ED elderly, with consideration for language, dietary needs, religious practices, and cultural norms.
d. Train frontline staff in elderly services to better understand and respond to the cultural and linguistic needs of ED elderly.
e. Improve outreach and access to public resources, ensuring ED elderly are aware of and can navigate available services.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
10. Children
10.1. Special Educational Needs (SEN) Support for Ethnically Diverse (ED) Children
i. TZF commends EDB for its decision to continue supporting mainstream and Special Schools with 1–5 ED students with SEN. This inclusive approach ensures that even those schools with smaller ED SEN populations are not overlooked and can access the necessary resources to support their students. Such efforts reflect a commitment to equity and inclusion in education
ii. TZF has been operating a Special Educational Needs (SEN) programme that provides free 1:1 therapy to ED children aged 6 and above who are suspected of or diagnosed with mild ADHD or ASD in mainstream government primary schools. Therapy provided includes personalised speech, occupational, behavioural and physiotherapy.
iii. Our experience with 100 ED students with SEN over the past 3 years shows that the support available through schools is extremely limited, especially for children who require services in English or their native languages and have limited financial resources. TZF will be terminating this service at the end of December 2025 and are concerned that there will be a gap in the provision of direct 1:1 therapy to ED SEN children in primary mainstream schools.
iv. Mainstream schools struggle to source SEN professionals who can provide therapy in English or communicate effectively with ED parents. The language barrier significantly hinders early intervention and parental involvement, both of which are critical to a child’s development.
v. For pre-schoolers, we have observed that English-speaking EETCs (Early Education and Training Centres) and SCCCs (Special Child Care Centres) have significantly longer wait times almost double compared to Cantonese-speaking centres. This delay in access can severely impact developmental outcomes.
vi. We recommend that HKSAR Government:
a. Fund a specialised SEN support service for ED children in mainstream government primary schools, delivered in English, with parental support available in native languages such as Urdu, Hindi, Nepali, Tagalog, and Bahasa Indonesia.
b. Train and develop more ED SEN professionals, including educational psychologists, speech therapists, and behavioural therapists, through scholarships, fast-track training pathways, and incentives.
c. Expand early intervention services for ED children with mild to moderate SEN, particularly in the early years, and ensure that these services are accessible outside of the Cantonese-speaking mainstream so that children require less support in primary years.
10.2. Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse: Inclusion of Religious Settings, ED Parent Education, and Cultural Sensitivity Training
i. TZF continues to support the implementation of Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse (MRCA) in Hong Kong. TZF has also seen examples of children who have been abused at religious places
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
through our Children’s Counselling Centre. Children and their parents find it difficult to report abuse by religious leaders because of the vast imbalance in power.
ii. Given the physical abuse case involving a 13-year-old boy at a religious institution (madrassa) in Quarry Bay in 2023x, it is critical that religious leaders and educators in these settings receive compulsory training on child protection and mandatory reporting procedures. These venues must not be overlooked in safeguarding efforts.
iii. We recommend the HKSAR Government to ensure that the scope of MRCA includes religious institutions—such as mosques, madrassas, churches, temples, and gurdwaras—where many ED children regularly attend activities and classes.
iv. We have also seen that parents, through our Ethnic Minority Well- Being Centre and our parental training, may not understand that corporal punishment is unlawful in Hong Kong.
v. TZF recommends the HKSAR Government to expand education and outreach to ED parents, many of whom may not be familiar with Hong Kong’s child protection laws or alternative parenting approaches. This includes:
a. Culturally sensitive parenting programmes that discourage corporal punishment and promote positive discipline.
b. Training and resources in native languages to ensure accessibility and understanding.
c. Community-based workshops and materials delivered through trusted NGOs and religious institutions.
vi. TZF recommends that frontline personnel—including social workers, police officers, educators, and immigration officers—receive comprehensive cultural sensitivity training. These professionals are often the first point of contact for victims, and their ability to respond appropriately can determine whether a child receives timely protection. Training should include:
a. Understanding cultural norms and practices that may mask abuse.
b. Recognising signs of distress in children from ED backgrounds.
c. Responding with empathy and clarity, especially in cross-cultural contexts.
vii. With the new law on MRCA, we may see many more ED children requiring residential and foster care.
viii. TZF recommends that the SWD:
a. Conducts a complete review of the foster care register to ensure that there are families who can support and house children from the EDC, who speak their languages and understand their culture.
b. Conducts a review of residential home to ensure they are ED children ready. This includes ensuring they can support ED children and staff are trained in cultural sensitivity and inclusion and given access to external NGOs and resources that may be able to help.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
:
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
10.3. Chinese Language and AI Education for ED Children and Families
i. Over the past decade, we have observed a significant increase in Chinese language proficiency among ED children in Hong Kong. More ED students are learning Chinese in schools, and many are now able to communicate verbally in Cantonese. This is a positive development and reflects the growing integration of EDC into the mainstream community.
ii. However, we believe that further progress can be made if ED parents fully recognise the importance of Chinese language acquisition not just as a school subject, but as a critical life skill for their children’s future in Hong Kong. Parent education is therefore essential.
iii. We recommend that the EDB:
a. Initiate targeted parent education programmes to raise awareness among ED families about the importance of learning Chinese and equip them with practical tools and strategies to support their children’s language development at home.
b. Provide culturally and linguistically appropriate resources (e.g. workshops, translated materials, community-based support) to help parents engage in their children’s learning journey.
c. Provide funding to NGOs and schools to deliver Chinese language support in ways that are accessible to ED families, including bilingual teaching assistants and community tutors in a certain ratio related to the number of students.
iv. In addition, we highlight the growing importance of Artificial Intelligence (AI) education in preparing children and youth for the future. ED children must not be left behind in this global shift and need to understand the benefits and the pitfalls of AI
v. We recommend that the EDB:
a. Integrate AI literacy and digital skills into the mainstream curriculum in ways that are inclusive of ED students including in all English Medium Schools.
b. Ensure equal access to AI-related learning opportunities, including coding, robotics, and digital creativity, STEM fairs etc., regardless of language background.
c. Support NGOs and schools to run AI education programmes in English and other ED languages, so that ED children can participate meaningfully and confidently
vi. By investing in Chinese language and AI education for ED children and their families, Hong Kong can build a more inclusive, future-ready society where all children have the tools to thrive.
11. Social Media and Screen Use: Supporting Parents and Schools in Setting Boundaries
11.1. Through our counselling services with ED children, it is noticeable that parents and schools are struggling to manage children’s screen time and social media use. Device addiction contributes to family conflicts, unsatisfactory homework habits, and social isolation among children. In addition, we have children who are clients of TZF’s Children’s Counselling Centre who have bot friends that they believe are real, this is resulting in greater isolation from human friends and activities. We see this as a dangerous and growing concern, and a mental health problem.
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org
網址: www.zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
11.2. We recommend the HKSAR Government consider referencing global practices to introduce legislation to reduce children’s exposure to devices, including with homework, social media and online games. This is urgent and requires immediate government attention.
11.3. These examples can serve as useful references for shaping Hong Kong’s own approach:
Location Regulations in Place
Australiaxi
Francexii
Mainland
Chinaxiii
Netherlandsxiv
• Ban on social media for youth under 16
• Fines for platforms that fail to enforce the ban
• Mobile phone ban in schools for ages 11–15 starting 2025–2026 school year
• “Regulation on the Internet Protection of Minors” passed in 2023
• Schools are required to prevent and intervene in youth internet addiction
• Technology companies are required to establish systems that prevent addiction and remove content that may cause addiction
• In-school mobile phone, smart watch and tablet ban was first introduced in 2024 for secondary school. The ban was extended to include primary education as of the 2024/2025 school year. The ban aims to encourage discussions and social interactions while addressing cyberbullying.
• Government recommends children under 15 stay off TikTok and Instagram
Singaporexv
UKxvi
• Detailed guidelines to manage screen use among young children up to 12 years old have been updated by the Ministry of Health in January 2025, with plans to later extend it to older children.
• Children must be 13 or above to access social media
• Children are required to prove their age to access the most harmful material on social media and other sites
• Platforms have to use secure methods like facial scans, photo ID and credit card checks to check the age of their users.
11.4. In addition, TZF recommends that the government:
i. Establishes a multi-sector committee to address children’s online and device use, with input from educators, mental health experts, paediatricians, tech experts and parents from both the Chinese and EDC population.
ii. Introduce penalties for non-compliance platforms that fail to enforce age restrictions and safety measures. This will protect minors from online harm while holding tech companies accountable.
12. Adult Mental Health
12.1. We commend the administration and the Advisory Committee for Mental Health (ACMH) for recognising the current gap in the provision of mental health interventions for the ethnically diverse community and for funding, on a pilot basis over a two-year period, the mental health of EDIs (as per Policy Address 2022 para 107) through the Ethnic Minority Well-Being Centre (EMWBC), run by TZF.
12.2. TZF is delighted that the Health Bureau has opened a tender for 1:1 counselling for EDC, however, we are very concerned that this is short-term funding for two years. We recommend
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org Website 網址: www.zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
that the Health Bureau normalise this service so that there is health equity in Hong Kong for EDCs and to provide mental health 1:1 service to those Hong Kong people who are non-Chinese speaking.
12.3. We are deeply saddened by the recent tragic news about the death of a 61-year-old Indian lady who suffered from mental health issues and jumped off from a building on 21 July 2025.xvii Over 60% of the cases we have seen score severe or extremely severe in the Depression, Anxiety, Stress Scale. Over the course of the past 18 months, 33 individuals reached out for our service exhibited moderate or severe risks. There is a real need for mental health support for the EDC.
12.4. The EMWBC offers 1:1 free counselling service by counsellors who understand the cultures and languages spoken by ethnically diverse individuals since 2019 and has seen a total of over 500 clients as of 30 June 2025. Demographic data of clients from the current government funded period (from 28 Dec 2024 to 30 June 2025:230 clients, Female - 75%; Male – 25%, Ethnicity: Pakistani –31%; Indian – 28%; Nepalese – 13%; Filipino – 13%; Others – 15%
12.5. The benefits of 1: 1 counselling of the EMWBC was published in the British Medical Journal Mental Health (BMJ Ment Health 2023;26:1–7) in 2023.
12.6. EMWBC is embedded into the mental health support system of Hong Kong: receiving referrals from Ethnic Minority Care Teams, Support Service Centres for Ethnic Minorities, Outreaching Teams for Ethnic Minorities, hospitals, identifying and referring risk cases to Integrated Community Centres for Mental Wellness for appropriate support.
12.7. There is demand from the mainstream health, education and social work communities to receive mental health training. Since December 2023, 10 capacity building training were delivered to public services and other NGO services to the EDC: psychiatrists, nurses, clinical psychologists, educational psychologists, social workers, frontline staff from hospitals, schools, NGOs, etc.
12.8. There is more demand from the EDC to better understand mental health with Over 330,000 views from public awareness videos promoting importance of seeking professional support for mental health and other related topics
12.9. EMWBC has been approached by EDIs who require a Clinical Psychologists and Psychiatrists for specific mental health needs and suicidal risk cases, and they are unable access private sector because of financial constraints, and they have found well-meaning public sector professionals unable to understand their cultural contexts.
12.10. TZF recommends that the Health Bureau consider (a) importing qualified psychologists and psychiatrists into the public sector with relevant cultural backgrounds, and/or (b) providing subsidises for EDIs who need this support to access it via the private sector.
13. Housing Bureau
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org Website 網址: www.zubinfoundation.org
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
13.1. Some EDIs have larger family sizes and they tend to wait for a much longer time to receive public housing than the average of 5 to 6 years. The existing waitlist for most EDC for public housing is 7 to 8 years; some have been waiting for even longer.
13.2. We recommend the administration explore how to provide more large-sized accommodation for these families.
14. Enquiries:
14.1. For further information and discussion, please contact:
Shalin Mahtani, Founder and CEO, email at mummy@zubinfoundation.org
Sandy Chan, Director of Services, email at sandy@zubinfoundation.org
Matthew Yu, Director of Core Functions, email at matthew@zubinfoundation.org
- End -
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong.
香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org Website 網址: www.zubinfoundation.org
References
Improves the lives of Hong Kong ethnically diverse individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities
i Source: Census and Statistics Department (2022). 2021 Population Census - Thematic Report: Ethnic Minorities. Table 3.3.
ii Source: Census and Statistics Department (2022). 2021 Population Census - Thematic Report: Ethnic Minorities. Table 5.2.
iii Source: https://www.ag.gov.au/families-and-marriage/marriage/get-married#rules-to-get-married-inaustralia%20https://www.wa.gov.au/service/justice/civil-law/marriages
iv Source: https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F36504/1?lang=en
v Source: http://en.gdfao.gov.cn/2024-07/25/c_1037381.html
vi Source: https://www.government.nl/topics/forced-marriage/tackling-forced-marriage
vii Source: https://ask.gov.sg/ourmarriagejourney/questions/cm4b5wmz000h1cm2j1cbmxmmz
viii Source: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/legal-age-of-marriage-in-england-and-wales-rises-to-18
ix Source: https://www.immd.gov.hk/eng/faq/marriage-registration.html
x Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/teacher-allegedly-slaps-muslim-boy-at-islamic-learning-centre-followed-by-apunch-to-the-face-as-recounted-by-his-brother/
xi Source: Reuters (2024). What countries do to regulate children’s social media access
xii Source: The Connexion France (2024) ‘Mobile phones to be banned in French schools”
xiii Source: China Law Translate (2023). Regulations on the Protection of Minors Online. And Gov.CN (2023). 未成年人網路 保護條例 (The Regulation on the Protection of Minors in Cyberspace).
xiv Sources: European Commission (2025). Netherlands: A ban on mobile phones in the classroom. And The Associated Press (2025). Dutch government recommends children under 15 stay off TikTok and Instagram
xv Sources: The Straits Times (2025). No devices for kids at meals and turn off the TV: Singapore issues stricter screen use guidelines. The Straits Times (2025). No screen time, period: What are the new guidelines to help parents manage kids’ device use?
xvi Source: Gov.UK. (2025). Press Release: What’s changing for children on social media from 25 July 2025
xvii Source: https://www.dimsumdaily.hk/61-year-old-indian-woman-dies-after-fall-at-k-summit-in-kai-tak/
The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited, known as The Zubin Foundation (registered charity in Hong Kong - IR 91/12344).
小彬紀念基金(香港註冊慈善機構 IR 91/12344)。
Room F, 5/F., High Fashion Centre, 1 – 11 Kwai Hei Street, Kwai Chung, Hong Kong. 香港新界葵涌葵喜街 1-11 號達利國際中心 5 樓 F 室。
Tel 電話: +852 2540 9588 E-mail 電郵: info@zubinfoundation.org Website 網址: www.zubinfoundation.org