Issuu

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

The Zubin Foundation Submission on the Public Consultation on The First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (2026 – 2030) 14 August 2026 Email: hk5yplan@cmab.gov.hk

Preamble The Zubin Foundation (TZF) (IR: 91/12344) welcomes the opportunity to contribute to the public consultation on the First Five-Year Plan for Economic and Social Development of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. TZF believes that Hong Kong’s long-term success depends not only on economic growth, but also on social cohesion, social harmony and stability.

The Zubin Foundation’s Perspective on Hong Kong’s Five-Year Plan As a non-profit organisation dedicated to improving the lives of Hong Kong’s marginalised ethnically diverse (ED) communities, TZF works directly with ED women, men, children, youth and elderly persons. Through our frontline services over the past decade, we support families experiencing poverty, mental health challenges, special educational needs, caregiving responsibilities, domestic violence, forced marriage, family breakdown, social isolation and other vulnerabilities. This submission draws on: • Our frontline service delivery, extensive partnerships with schools, universities, hospitals, NGOs, employers and government stakeholders; and • The policy recommendations and submissions that TZF has made to the HKSAR Government over the past five years. Importantly, the ED population is one of Hong Kong’s fastest-growing communities, increasing by 53% between 2011 and 2021.1 During the same period, the ED youth population grew by 76%, with South Asian youth alone rising by 86%.2 This growing population represents both an opportunity and a responsibility. With the right investment, ED communities can contribute significantly to Hong Kong’s competitiveness, strengthen its role as a “super connector” between China and the world, and help build a more cohesive, resilient and prosperous Hong Kong for all.

1 Census and Statistics Department (2022). 2021 Population Census, Thematic Report: Ethnic Minorities

https://www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/data/stat_report/product/B1120111/att/B11201112021XXXXB0100.pdf 2 Census and Statistics Department (2022). 2021 Population Census, Thematic Report: Ethnic Minorities https://www.censtatd.gov.hk/en/data/stat_report/product/B1120111/att/B11201112021XXXXB0100.pdf

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

Focus Areas of This Submission The recommendations in this submission are organised around the 6 consultation areas set out by the HKSAR Government and are informed by TZF’s frontline experience, community engagement and policy advocacy over the past 5 years: • Section 1: Northern Metropolis and Spatial Planning: o Housing o Inclusive Community Development o Northern Metropolis University Town o Chinese Language Learning o Talent Development o Healthcare Innovation o Muslim-friendly Infrastructure • Section 2: Economy, Finance and Trade: o ED Communities as A Strategic Economic Asset o Hong Kong’s Role as A “Super Connector” o Belt And Road Opportunities o Aviation, Logistics, Supply Chain Development • Section 3: Innovation, Technology and Industry Development: o Education-to-employment Pathways o Artificial Intelligence o Multilingual Public Services o Healthcare And Innovation • Section 4: People’s Livelihood and Social Development: o Education o Healthcare and Mental Health o Housing o Carers o Elderly Care o Neurodiversity o Protection and Support • Section 5: Development of Regional Co-operation: o Greater Bay Area Integration o Belt And Road Cooperation o International Engagement o Representation In Public Bodies and Hong Kong as an International Convenor • Section 6: Integrated Development of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Green Living, and Other Areas: o Multicultural Tourism o Sports Participation o Cultural Exchange o Multicultural Festivals o Muslim-friendly Hong Kong o Strengthening Social Cohesion

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

Section 1: Accelerate Northern Metropolis Development and Advance Spatial Planning in Other Areas 1. Housing and Community Planning I.

II.

Building family-friendly communities in the Northern Metropolis a. Hong Kong’s ethnically diverse (ED) population continues to grow and contributes to the city’s long-term economic and social development. Many ED families are multi-generational and have larger household sizes, highlighting the importance of providing a diverse mix of housing options that can support different family structures and life stages. [From TZF 20222026 Policy Recommendations] b. The Northern Metropolis presents a unique opportunity to create family-oriented communities that support upward mobility, well-being and social cohesion. Through thoughtful housing design and long-term planning, Hong Kong can ensure that future developments accommodate the needs of an increasingly diverse and internationally connected population. [Building upon TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] c. Recommendation: As the Government develops new communities in the Northern Metropolis, there is an opportunity to plan for the needs of larger families from the outset. Increasing the supply of larger-sized public housing units will help families thrive, reduce overcrowding and create stable environments in which children, youth and elderly family members can flourish. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] Building inclusive communities from the start a. The Northern Metropolis provides Hong Kong with a rare opportunity to embed inclusion into community planning from the beginning. As Hong Kong attracts more international students, talent and families from around the world, new communities should be designed to reflect the city’s aspirations as an international and welcoming society. b. TZF has previously recommended inclusion programmes within newly built public housing estates, Light Public Housing developments and Transitional Housing projects. As communities become increasingly diverse, proactive inclusion helps foster mutual understanding, strengthen social cohesion and create harmonious neighbourhoods. c. The Northern Metropolis presents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to build an internationally minded and inclusive community from the ground up. Through thoughtful planning, Hong Kong can demonstrate how diversity contributes to stronger, more vibrant and more resilient communities. d. Public spaces, parks, community centres, religious organisations, medical facilities and recreational facilities can all play a role in bringing people together. The Northern Metropolis can become a model of inclusive community development that reflects Hong Kong’s position as an international city. [Building upon TZF’s inclusion recommendations across 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] e. Inclusion should be visible throughout the built environment. All aspects of community planning should be inclusive, from artwork on public buildings to changing rooms, family facilities and prayer rooms within public leisure and community facilities. f. Recommendation: TZF recommends the development of an Inclusive Hong Kong Framework to guide planning, development and community-building within the Northern Metropolis and future development areas. This framework should ensure that planning

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

committees, working groups, project teams, public facilities and community spaces are designed with all residents in mind, embedding inclusion into both the decision-making process and the built environment itself.

2. Northern Metropolis University Town I.

Support ED youth, international students and families a. TZF has highlighted that despite a rapidly growing ED youth population, participation in postsecondary education remains lower among certain communities. We have therefore advocated for targeted measures to improve access to higher education and strengthen pathways from education to employment. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Through our engagement with families, we have observed that many families from Belt and Road countries want a clearer understanding of the support systems available to their children studying in Hong Kong, including academic support, well-being services and career opportunities. c. TZF has consistently advocated for Hong Kong to strengthen its attractiveness as an international education destination. Attracting international students requires not only world-class universities, but also support systems that help students settle, integrate and succeed in Hong Kong, including access to appropriate mental health support. [From TZF 2024 and 2025 Policy Recommendations] d. Through the government-funded Ethnic Minority Well-Being Centre (EMWBC), TZF has seen an increase in international students from Belt and Road countries seeking mental health support. This demonstrates the importance of ensuring that student well-being is an integral part of Hong Kong’s international education strategy. e. TZF has also observed that some ED students feel excluded during their university experience and have limited opportunities to build meaningful relationships across communities. f. The Northern Metropolis University Town presents an opportunity to position Hong Kong as a leading international education hub for Asia and Belt and Road countries. By combining academic excellence with student well-being, inclusion and cultural exchange, Hong Kong can create a distinctive student experience that attracts and retains talent from around the world. [From TZF 2024-2026 Policy Recommendations] g. Recommendations: i. TZF recommends that the Northern Metropolis University Town adopt a holistic approach to international student success, including academic support, mental health services, integration programmes and career pathways. ii. TZF recommends that the Education Bureau include ED students and graduates in international education roadshows and promotional activities. Their lived experience can help prospective students and parents better understand what it is like to study and live in Hong Kong. iii. TZF recommends that universities incorporate inclusion and intercultural understanding into first-year student experiences. Students should be encouraged to build friendships across different communities and develop the skills required to

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

II.

succeed in an increasingly diverse and international Hong Kong. Establish a Global Centre for Chinese Language Learning a. TZF has consistently highlighted that Chinese language acquisition remains one of the most important factors affecting education, employment, integration and social mobility for nonChinese speakers. [From TZF 2022, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Hong Kong’s ambition to attract international students, overseas talent and Belt and Road professionals will create growing demand for high-quality Chinese language learning opportunities. c. The development of the Northern Metropolis University Town presents an opportunity for Hong Kong to become a global centre for Chinese language learning. Hong Kong is uniquely positioned to teach both Cantonese and Putonghua within an international and bilingual environment, while also promoting Chinese culture and strengthening connections with China and the wider region. d. Such a centre would not only support integration and talent attraction but could also contribute to the growth of a new education industry focused on Chinese language acquisition and cultural exchange. [Building upon TZF 2022, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] e. Recommendations: TZF recommends the establishment of a Global Centre for Chinese Language Learning within the Northern Metropolis. The Centre could: i. Develop and teach Cantonese and Putonghua second language curricula. This would support international students, overseas professionals and new arrivals seeking to integrate into Hong Kong while maintaining strong international connections. ii. Support international students, overseas talent and newly arrived residents. The Centre could serve as a point of integration and help people better understand Hong Kong and Chinese society, culture and language. iii. Develop or fund the development of AI-assisted Chinese learning tools. Hong Kong should leverage advances in artificial intelligence to make language acquisition more personalised, effective and accessible. iv. Conduct research into second-language Chinese acquisition. The Northern Metropolis could become a leading international centre for Chinese language pedagogy and innovation. v. Position Hong Kong as China’s global centre for Chinese language learning. This would create a distinctive niche that differentiates Hong Kong from other international education destinations.

3. Muslim-Friendly and Inclusive Campus Infrastructure I.

Creating a welcoming and international university environment a. As Hong Kong seeks to position the Northern Metropolis University Town as an international education hub, universities will increasingly attract students from around the world, including those from Belt and Road countries and Muslim-majority markets. b. Through TZF’s engagement with students and families, we have observed that some Muslim and ethnically diverse students do not always feel fully included within university environments. Factors such as food choices, facilities, language accessibility and representation can significantly influence a student’s sense of belonging and overall experience. c. The Northern Metropolis presents a unique opportunity to build a new generation of

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

II.

III.

IV.

VI.

VII.

universities that are inclusive, globally competitive and attractive to students from diverse cultural, linguistic and religious backgrounds. d. Recommendation: TZF recommends that inclusivity be embedded into the design, operation and culture of all universities and student facilities within the Northern Metropolis from the outset. Availability of halal-certified and vegetarian food options a. As Hong Kong seeks to attract more students from Muslim-majority countries and Belt and Road economies, halal and vegetarian food options should become a standard feature rather than a specialist offering. Access to suitable food is a basic consideration that significantly affects student well-being and university choice. Hong Kong is a food heaven but fails in these two areas. Prayer and reflection spaces a. Universities should provide appropriate spaces for prayer and quiet reflection. Such facilities are standard in many leading international universities and demonstrate respect for religious diversity. Muslim-friendly accommodation considerations a. Universities should consider Muslim-friendly and culturally inclusive accommodation arrangements as part of student housing planning. Planning and advisory groups should also include individuals with relevant cultural expertise to ensure that diverse perspectives are reflected in decision-making. Ethnically diverse staff and cultural competency a. Students are more likely to feel welcomed and included when they see diversity reflected among teaching staff, researchers, administrators and student support teams. b. TZF recommends that universities actively recruit diverse talent across teaching, research and student support functions, while ensuring that all staff receive cultural competency training. Students should be able to see themselves reflected in the institutions they attend. For Hong Kong to succeed as an international city and education hub, internationalism must be visible throughout its universities. For Hong Kong to be an international city, it must embed internationalism. Information and services available in English alongside Chinese a. TZF recommends that key university information, services and communications be consistently available in both English and Chinese. This should extend beyond academic materials to include signs, notices, accommodation information, campus facilities, public communications and student support services. Multilingual communication helps international individuals see a future in Hong Kong. Without it, individuals feel left out and excluded. As Hong Kong seeks to attract more international students and talent, particularly from Belt and Road countries, these facilities will become increasingly important.

4. Positioning the Northern Metropolis as a Talent Development Hub I.

Strong growth in the South Asian youth population a. The ED population is one of Hong Kong’s fastest-growing communities, with significant growth among young people. This growing generation represents an important source of future talent, entrepreneurship, multilingual capability and international connectivity. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations]

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

II.

III.

b. As Hong Kong seeks to strengthen its competitiveness as an international education, innovation and talent hub, this growing generation of young people represents an important asset. With the right support, they can contribute to Hong Kong’s workforce, strengthen links with international markets and support the city’s role as a "Super Connector". c. Recommendation: the Northern Metropolis University Town should be positioned not only as an education cluster, but also as a talent development hub that supports social mobility, innovation and international engagement. Stronger connections between universities, industry and employers will help ensure that young people are equipped to contribute to Hong Kong’s future economy. [Building upon TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] Talent development a. Many ED and international students possess the academic ability and professional potential to contribute to Hong Kong but may encounter barriers that limit access to educational and career opportunities. b. Hong Kong can strengthen its talent pool by ensuring that pathways into higher education and professional careers remain accessible while maintaining academic standards. c. Recommendation: Universities should review unnecessary Chinese language admission requirements in disciplines where professional competence can be developed alongside language acquisition. Hong Kong should seek to maximise access to talent while maintaining high academic and professional standards. [Building upon TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] Connecting education with careers a. Through our direct work with ED youth, university students and graduates, TZF has observed that many young people wish to build their future in Hong Kong but are uncertain about the availability of career pathways after graduation. b. We have also encountered ED and international graduates who have left Hong Kong after completing their studies because they were unable to identify sufficient English-speaking career pathways or employment opportunities aligned with their qualifications. c. The Northern Metropolis University Town provides Hong Kong with an opportunity to strengthen the connection between education, industry and employment. A successful education hub should not only attract students but also retain talent and support graduates in building long-term careers in Hong Kong. d. Recommendations: i. TZF recommends that the Government align its international student strategy with a corresponding talent retention strategy. This should include stronger universityindustry partnerships, internship opportunities, graduate employment pathways and continued efforts to encourage the use of English in internationally focused industries and professions. ii. TZF recommends that students, families and overseas institutions be provided with greater visibility of career opportunities available in Hong Kong after graduation. Clearer pathways from education to employment will strengthen Hong Kong’s attractiveness as a destination for both local and international talent.

5. Health and Medical Innovation I. Building a globally connected healthcare talent hub a. TZF has previously advocated for stronger recognition pathways for overseas-trained

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

professionals. This is particularly important given Hong Kong’s ambition to become an international health and medical innovation hub. [From TZF 2024-2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Through the Ethnic Minority Well-Being Centre (EMWBC), funded by the Health Bureau, TZF employs qualified counsellors who speak Nepali, Urdu, Hindi and Tamil. However, we continue to observe a limited pipeline of healthcare and mental health professionals in Hong Kong with the linguistic and cultural capabilities required to serve the city’s growing ethnically diverse population. c. Recommendation: TZF recommends that universities, healthcare institutions and professional regulators actively support the development of healthcare talent with the linguistic and cultural skills needed to serve Hong Kong’s increasingly diverse population. This includes encouraging admissions pathways for students who possess language capabilities and cultural competencies that are currently in short supply. II. Expansion of pathways for overseas-trained healthcare professionals a. Hong Kong faces healthcare manpower challenges, including mental health that may benefit from broader access to international talent. TZF has supported measures that facilitate the attraction of suitably qualified healthcare and mental health professionals from recognised institutions. [From TZF 2024-2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Developing a multilingual and culturally competent healthcare system a. A more diverse healthcare workforce can better serve Hong Kong’s increasingly multicultural population. Multilingual healthcare professionals can also improve access, communication and patient outcomes. [From TZF 2023-2026 Policy Recommendations] b. TZF has repeatedly highlighted the importance of language and cultural competency within the healthcare system. Effective communication remains fundamental to quality care. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] c. Supporting diverse pathways into medicine, psychotherapy, nursing and allied health professions will help strengthen Hong Kong’s future healthcare workforce. Universities and professional regulators should continue exploring pathways that attract talent from Hong Kong and abroad. [From TZF 2024-2026 Policy Recommendations] IV. More recommendations: a. Expand pathways for qualified overseas-trained healthcare professionals from recognised institutions. b. Develop targeted talent schemes for nurses, doctors, clinical psychologists and healthcare professionals from jurisdictions with strong training systems, including India, the Philippines and other countries with internationally recognised qualifications. c. Encourage training and recruitment of multilingual healthcare professionals. d. Support AI-powered interpretation, translation and communication tools to improve healthcare accessibility and patient experience.

6. Inclusion, a Competitive Advantage I. TZF has consistently encouraged the Government to view ED communities as a strategic asset rather than solely as a community requiring assistance. Our recommendations have focused on participation, representation, talent development and contribution to Hong Kong’s future. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] II. The Northern Metropolis should be developed as a model of inclusive city-building. This includes:

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

o Diverse representation in planning, advisory processes, and working groups. People affected by policy decisions should have opportunities to contribute to them. Diverse representation also strengthens policymaking by incorporating broader perspectives. o Inclusive public signage and information: Key information should be readily accessible to all residents through appropriate language arrangements. This supports accessibility, public safety and social inclusion. o Recognition of different cultural and religious needs: Inclusive planning should recognise the needs of a diverse population, including dietary, linguistic and religious considerations. o Community engagement with ED residents: Meaningful engagement helps ensure that new developments reflect the needs of all communities and strengthens trust between residents and Government. o Creating an environment where residents, international students, overseas talent and Hong Kong-born ED communities can thrive together. The Northern Metropolis should showcase the best of Hong Kong as an open, globally connected and internationally competitive city. III. By embedding inclusion into the Northern Metropolis from the outset, Hong Kong can strengthen its position as an international education hub, talent hub, innovation centre and global city.

Section 2: Economy, Finance and Trade 7. Recognising Ethnically Diverse Communities as an Economic Asset I. Recognise ED communities as a strategic asset to Hong Kong’s economy and social cohesion a. TZF has consistently advocated for a shift in mindset from viewing ED communities primarily through a social welfare lens towards recognising them as a strategic asset for Hong Kong’s future. b. Many ED individuals are multilingual, culturally agile and possess family, professional and business networks that span South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and North America. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Strengthen representation of ED individuals in decision-making a. TZF has repeatedly recommended that ED individuals be represented across Advisory and Statutory Bodies (ASBs) and key government committees. Greater representation would allow Government to better understand how Hong Kong can leverage the economic opportunities presented by its growing ED population. [From TZF 2022, 2023, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Recommendation: As Hong Kong develops new strategies in finance, trade, aviation and international business, qualified ED professionals should continue to be considered for relevant advisory and leadership roles. Their perspectives can strengthen policy development and improve Hong Kong’s international engagement.

8. Hong Kong, a “Super Connector” I. Leverage multilingual and multicultural talent to strengthen Hong Kong’s international positioning a. TZF has previously highlighted that many ED Hong Kong residents maintain linguistic abilities and family networks across multiple regions of the world. These include countries and markets that are important to Hong Kong’s trade, investment and diplomatic objectives.

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

[From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Recommendation: The Government should consider developing internship, trainee and graduate pathways within trade promotion, investment promotion, Belt and Road initiatives, chambers of commerce and international engagement programmes. This would allow Hong Kong to better utilise a growing pool of multilingual local talent. [Building upon TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Employ ED graduates within Belt and Road-related initiatives a. Recommendation: Recruit ethnically diverse graduates into Belt and Road, international trade promotion and overseas engagement initiatives. Many young ED professionals possess language skills, cultural knowledge and international connections that align naturally with Hong Kong’s role as a “Super Connector”. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations]

9. Aviation, Logistics and Supply Chain Development I. Recognise the contribution of ED communities to international industries a. TZF has consistently highlighted that many ED individuals already work across internationally connected industries. These include aviation, logistics, transportation, professional services and trade-related sectors that support Hong Kong’s role as a global city. [Based on TZF 20242026 talent and employment recommendations] II. Align language requirements with genuine occupational needs a. TZF has repeatedly noted that unnecessary Chinese language requirements can exclude qualified candidates from employment opportunities. We have advocated that language requirements should be based on genuine occupational needs. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Recommendation: Many positions within aviation, logistics and supply chain management primarily operate in English or international business environments. Government and industry should review whether language requirements accurately reflect job responsibilities to ensure Hong Kong fully utilises available talent. [Building upon TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Ensure aviation sector growth benefits all communities a. Hong Kong’s aviation sector is one of its most international industries and employs people from diverse backgrounds throughout the supply chain. As the Government develops aviation-related services and the low-altitude economy, efforts should be made to ensure that recruitment, training and advancement opportunities remain accessible to all qualified candidates. b. Employees who speak English, Hindi, Urdu, Nepali, Tagalog, Bahasa Indonesia, Arabic and other languages can strengthen Hong Kong’s connectivity with key markets. These linguistic capabilities should be recognised as an economic advantage rather than viewed solely as a diversity consideration. c. Many ED individuals already work across the aviation ecosystem, including airport operations, ground handling, airline services, cargo logistics and supply chain management. d. Recommendation: As Hong Kong expands its aviation hub and develops the low-altitude economy, this workforce should be recognised and included in training, advancement and recruitment opportunities. The Government should also ensure the multilingual talent is recognised as a strategic advantage within aviation, logistics and supply chain development.

10.International Trade and Overseas Networks

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

I. Support Hong Kong’s internationalism efforts through diverse representation a. TZF has previously recommended that Hong Kong’s international branding and economic promotion activities better reflect the diversity of the city. We have stated that demonstrating Hong Kong’s multicultural character helps attract talent, international students, tourists and investors. [From TZF 2022, 2024, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Many Hong Kong families maintain close relationships with relatives, business communities and professional networks across overseas markets. These networks represent potential channels for business development, trade expansion and investment promotion.

11. Talent Attraction and Retention I. Showcase Hong Kong as an inclusive international city a. As Hong Kong competes globally for talent, diversity should be presented as one of the city’s strengths. Individuals considering relocation to Hong Kong should be able to see themselves reflected in the city’s institutions, marketing materials and international engagement efforts. II. Facilitate integration alongside attraction a. Talent attraction policies should be accompanied by measures that support integration. These may include language learning opportunities, community engagement initiatives and access to information in English and other commonly used languages.

Section 3: Innovation, Technology and Industry Development 12.Education, Talent Development and the Future Workforce I. Rapid growth in ED youth population a. TZF has highlighted that Hong Kong’s South Asian youth population increased by 86% between 2011 and 2021, while the broader ED youth population increased by 76% during the same period. This growing population represents a significant future talent pool that can contribute to Hong Kong’s innovation, technology and knowledge-based economy if appropriate support and opportunities are provided. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Growth in post-secondary participation a. TZF has consistently noted that post-secondary participation rates among some ED communities remain lower than the city-wide average. As such, TZF has supported over 300 young ED through scholarships at universities in Hong Kong. We are seeing a change in trend, with more Hong Kong ED youth seeking university education. The government needs to account for this and find ways of utilising this talent, many of whom are still not fully proficient in reading and writing Chinese. This growing and increasingly well-educated population presents Hong Kong with an opportunity to strengthen its future workforce, innovation capacity and international competitiveness through targeted education and employment pathways. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Education-to-employment challenges

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

a. TZF has observed that university-educated ED graduates often encounter barriers when seeking employment aligned with their qualifications. Strengthening education-toemployment pathways will help Hong Kong retain talent, support youth well-being and maximise the contribution of university-educated ED graduates to the city’s future economy, social cohesion and social stability. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] IV. Ensure ED youth are included within Hong Kong’s future talent strategy a. Recommendation: As Hong Kong expands its innovation and technology ecosystem, ED youth should be explicitly included in talent cultivation, internship and graduate employment initiatives. Stronger collaboration between universities, employers and NGOs can help ensure that young people are equipped to participate in emerging industries and future sectors of the economy. [Building upon TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations]

13.Chinese Language Learning as Economic Infrastructure I. Chinese as a Second Language remains a major barrier a. TZF has consistently highlighted that Chinese language proficiency remains one of the most significant barriers affecting educational attainment, employment and social mobility among ED communities. We have repeatedly advocated for a genuine Chinese-as-a-SecondLanguage approach rather than expecting non-Chinese speaking students to follow pathways originally designed for native speakers. [From TZF 2022, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. TZF has recommended the adoption of innovative approaches to Chinese language learning, including the development of second-language pedagogy, Romanisation and technologyenabled learning. There is much to be learned from the Chinese Mainland here with their robust Putonghua as a second language pedagogy and their use of romanisation. We have consistently argued that language acquisition should be viewed as an investment in Hong Kong’s future workforce and social cohesion. [From TZF 2022, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] c. Recommendation: TZF recommends the establishment of a working group under the Education Bureau that includes educators, NGOs, parents and members of the ED community. This will help ensure future policies are practical, evidence-based and informed by lived experience. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Invest in AI-powered Cantonese and Chinese language learning a. Recommendation: Hong Kong should invest in and adopt AI-powered Cantonese and Chinese language learning tools for children, youth, overseas students and newly arrived talent. Personalised AI tools can accelerate language acquisition, support integration and improve workforce participation. b. Given Hong Kong’s unique bilingual environment, the city is well positioned to become a leader in developing AI applications for Chinese language acquisition. Such innovations could support local integration while also creating exportable educational technologies for global markets. [Building upon TZF 2022, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations]

14.Artificial Intelligence (AI) for Public Services I. Use technology to address language barriers a. TZF has consistently highlighted the challenges faced by non-Chinese speakers when accessing healthcare, education and public services. We have recommended investment in

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

multilingual resources, interpretation services and innovative technologies that can improve communication and service accessibility. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Improve linguistic accessibility across Government services a. Hong Kong has an opportunity to become a leader in multilingual public service delivery by leveraging technology to improve accessibility for an increasingly diverse population. All one has to do is walk through any public hospital to see notices in Chinese language only. This does not give the non-Chinese-speaking end-user comfort. b. TZF has repeatedly recommended the use of AI that improves access for ED communities to public services. while reducing the burden of frontline service providers. A more coordinated adoption of AI-enabled language solutions can improve service accessibility, strengthen user experience, and increase efficiency across government services. [From TZF 2023-2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Invest in multilingual AI solutions a. Recommendations: i. The Government should invest in AI-powered interpretation and translation tools that can be adopted across public hospitals, clinics and healthcare facilities. Such tools would improve communication between healthcare professionals and patients while enhancing efficiency and patient safety. ii. Many public services remain difficult for newcomers and non-Chinese speakers to navigate. AI-powered digital assistants and multilingual service platforms can help residents access information, appointments and government services more effectively. iii. Hong Kong should position itself as a testing ground for responsible AI solutions in public administration. Healthcare, social services and education provide valuable opportunities for innovation that can improve service outcomes while supporting inclusion. [Building upon TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations]

15.Innovation Through Diversity I. Greater ED representation across institutions and governance structures a. TZF has consistently advocated for greater participation of ED individuals within advisory bodies, institutions and leadership structures. Inclusion in decision-making allows Hong Kong to better leverage the experiences, perspectives and networks of its diverse communities. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Recognise diversity as a driver of innovation a. Innovation thrives when people with different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives work together. Hong Kong should therefore position diversity as a strategic advantage within its innovation and technology ecosystem. b. This is particularly relevant as Hong Kong seeks to become a health and medical innovation hub under the Northern Metropolis development strategy. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] c. Recommendations: i. As Hong Kong develops into a leading international innovation and technology centre, its institutions, leadership and talent pools should reflect the diversity that makes the city unique. Doing so will strengthen Hong Kong’s attractiveness to international talent, investors and global partners. ii. Hong Kong should continue to review pathways for internationally qualified doctors,

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

nurses, healthcare professionals and researchers, and open up its list of recognised institutions. It should also consider including top universities from India and other Asian countries.

16.Strengthen Pre-Arrival and Post-Arrival Integration Support I. Greater ED representation across institutions and governance structures a. Hong Kong’s long-term competitiveness depends not only on attracting global talent, but also on helping talent successfully integrate into the city. b. Recommendations: i. The Government should explore providing voluntary online Cantonese and Hong Kong orientation programmes for newly approved talent, international students and their families before arrival in Hong Kong. Early exposure to language, culture and everyday life in Hong Kong can strengthen integration, improve retention and help new arrivals participate more fully in the workforce and wider community. ii. The Government may wish to study international best practices regarding integration pathways adopted by other jurisdictions. These may include language learning, civic education and community orientation programmes that help new arrivals understand local culture, institutions and social norms while facilitating their successful integration into society.

Section 4: People’s Livelihood and Social Development 17.Education I. Strengthen pathways for ED students to access higher education a. As previously mentioned in Section 3 – Paragraph 12: Education, Talent Development and the Future Workforce, TZF has observed growing participation in post-secondary education among ED communities, reflecting increasing aspirations for higher education and long-term contribution to Hong Kong. Through scholarships, mentoring, career guidance and university access initiatives, we have seen a growing generation of ED youth seeking to contribute to Hong Kong’s future workforce and economy. [From TZF 2024, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Improve Chinese Language Learning a. TZF has repeatedly advocated for a genuine Chinese-as-a-Second-Language approach for non-Chinese speaking students. Strengthening Chinese language acquisition presents an opportunity to improve educational attainment, social mobility, workforce participation and social cohesion, and the Government should continue developing a long-term strategy that incorporates second-language pedagogy, AI-assisted tools and stronger collaboration with stakeholders. [Building upon TZF 2022, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Support life and career planning for ED youth a. TZF has observed that many ED students see Hong Kong as their home and are eager to build their futures here. Greater investment in life and career planning, starting from secondary school, together with mentorship and career guidance programmes, can help unlock aspirations, strengthen social mobility and enable young people to contribute fully to Hong

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

Kong’s future development. [From TZF 2023, 2024 and 2026 Policy Recommendations]

18.Healthcare I. As previously mentioned in Section 1 – Paragraph 5: Health and Medication Innovation, Hong Kong’s ambition to become an international health and medical innovation hub will require a healthcare system that is accessible, multilingual and culturally competent. II. Enhance linguistic and culturally competent healthcare services a. TZF has consistently highlighted that many ED residents experience barriers when accessing healthcare services because of language and cultural differences. Effective healthcare requires effective communication, trust and cultural understanding between providers and patients. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Support culturally appropriate mental health services a. Through the free counselling offered to non-Chinese residents in Hong Kong by the Ethnic Minority Well-Being Centre (EMWBC) operated by TZF and funded by the Health Bureau, TZF has supported nearly 700 clients from 2019 to May 2026, experiencing depression, anxiety, trauma and suicidal ideation. b. We have repeatedly highlighted the need for mental health services that are linguistically accessible and culturally appropriate. [From TZF 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] c. Recommendations: The Five-Year Plan should recognise the growing mental health needs of Hong Kong’s ED communities and commit to strengthening culturally competent mental health services. This should include: i. Normalising long-term and recurrent support such as the Ethnic Minority Well-Being Centre (EMWBC), which helps create health equity and reduce barriers to accessing care. Currently, TZF runs this service funded by the government on a 2-year project basis. Normalisation would allow for continuity in service. [Building upon TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] ii. Additional multilingual counsellors and mental health professionals to meet growing demand. [Building upon TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] iii. More formalised pathways between EMWBC and hospitals and emergency units. [Building upon TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] iv. Dedicated support for high-risk and suicidal clients through specialised manpower and case management. [Building upon TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] v. Cultural competency training for mental health, healthcare and social welfare professionals. [Building upon TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] IV. Improve access to healthcare professionals from diverse backgrounds a. As shared in Section 1 – Paragraph 5: Health and Medical Innovation, Hong Kong’s healthcare system should continue developing a culturally competent and multilingual workforce. [From TZF 2024-2026 Policy Recommendations] V. Adopt AI-powered multilingual healthcare tools a. As previously mentioned in Section 3 – Paragraph 14: AI for public services, Hong Kong has an opportunity to leverage AI to improve accessibility, communication and service delivery. b. Recommendation: The Government should invest in AI-assisted interpretation and translation technologies across hospitals and healthcare facilities. These tools can improve communication, reduce misunderstandings and enhance patient outcomes while supporting

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

healthcare efficiency. VI. Strengthen cultural competency across healthcare services a. Healthcare professionals should receive ongoing training on cultural competency and inclusive service delivery. This will become increasingly important as Hong Kong continues to attract international students, talent and professionals from around the world. [Building upon TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations]

19.Housing I. Increase provision of larger-sized public housing units a. Recommendations: i. As mentioned in Section 1 – Paragraph 1: Housing and Community Planning, TZF consistently highlighted that many ED families have larger household sizes and therefore face longer waiting times for suitable public housing. We have repeatedly recommended increasing the supply of larger units to reduce overcrowding and improve living conditions. ii. Future public housing developments should include a greater proportion of larger units to reflect the diversity of household structures within Hong Kong. This will help reduce lengthy waiting times experienced by larger families and improve quality of life. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations]

20.Social Welfare and Carers I. Support ED carers a. TZF has highlighted the contribution made by ED carers, many of whom care for children with disabilities, elderly family members or family members with rehabilitation needs. ED families tend to be larger, and it is not uncommon for ED carers, mostly women, to be looking after 5 children and 2 to 4 elderly members. With appropriate support, this group represents an important source of resilience, caregiving capacity and potential workforce participation within Hong Kong. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Improve access to support services a. Increasing access to childcare, elderly care, respite care and rehabilitation services presents an opportunity to improve family well-being, support workforce participation and reduce caregiver stress. Service providers should also reflect the communities they serve in terms of expertise, language and cultural understanding. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Recognise carers as an untapped workforce a. Supporting carers is not simply a welfare intervention but also an economic investment. By improving access to support services, Hong Kong can help carers re-enter employment while reducing isolation and burnout. IV. Expand culturally appropriate support services a. Recommendation: Future planning should ensure childcare, elderly care and rehabilitation services are accessible to all communities. Outreach, interpretation and culturally sensitive programme design should form part of mainstream planning rather than specialist provision. [Building upon TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations]

21.Elderly Care

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

I. Develop dedicated services for the growing ED elderly population a. TZF has observed a growing number of ED elderly residents across Hong Kong. As Hong Kong’s population ages, there is an opportunity to develop services that support healthy ageing, social participation and well-being across all communities. [From TZF 2024, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Improve cultural competency within elderly services a. We have recommended that elderly services become more accessible through language support, cultural awareness training and appropriate consideration of dietary and religious requirements. The current service model often does not adequately reflect the diversity of Hong Kong’s ageing population. [From TZF 2024, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Undertake a territory-wide study on ED elderly a. Recommendations: i. As Hong Kong plans for long-term demographic change, better data will support more effective service planning. Understanding the needs of ED elderly residents will enable Government to design targeted and evidence-based responses. ii. Future elderly care planning should include language support, dietary considerations, religious accommodations and culturally appropriate activities. Such services will help reduce isolation, improve well-being and support active ageing. [Building upon TZF 2024-2026 Policy Recommendations]

22.Special Educational Needs (SEN) and Neurodiversity I. Strengthen support for ED children with SEN a. TZF has worked extensively with ED children with ADHD, autism and other special educational needs. We have consistently highlighted long waiting times, limited Englishlanguage services and barriers experienced by families attempting to access support. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Adopt a neurodiversity framework a. In 2026, TZF recommended that Hong Kong move towards a strengths-based neurodiversity framework rather than a deficit-based SEN model. This approach recognises that individuals may have both support needs and significant strengths that should be nurtured and developed. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. Recommendation: The Government should ensure that language is not a barrier to accessing assessments, interventions and support services. Multilingual information, interpretation and culturally competent services should be incorporated into future planning. III. Position Hong Kong as a regional leader in neurodiversity a. Hong Kong has the opportunity to become an international convenor on neurodiversity, bringing together experts in education, healthcare, technology and social policy. This would create opportunities for research, innovation and cross-border knowledge exchange. This aligns with Hong Kong’s ambition to become a centre for medical innovation, education and international professional exchange. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations]

23.Protection and Support

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

I. Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse a. TZF has strongly supported the introduction of Mandatory Reporting of Child Abuse and has consistently recommended culturally appropriate implementation, including engagement with religious institutions regularly attended by ED children. [From TZF 2023, 2024, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Forced marriage and support for women a. TZF has highlighted the experiences of women affected by forced marriage, domestic violence, family breakdown and complex divorce proceedings. We have consistently advocated stronger support systems, frontline training and policy reforms to improve safety, well-being and access to justice. [From TZF 2022, 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] b. TZF has also highlighted the challenges faced by some ED women navigating divorce proceedings, particularly in relation to overseas and religious marriages. Future planning should strengthen coordination between Legal Aid, Housing and Social Welfare services to ensure vulnerable women can access safety, justice and appropriate support in a timely manner. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] c. Through our frontline work, TZF has observed a growing number of cases involving Hong Kong-born ED women marrying spouses from their families’ countries of origin. In some cases, significant differences in educational attainment, language ability, social integration and life experience can contribute to communication difficulties, dependency, unequal power dynamics and family conflict, affecting both women’s well-being and family stability. [From TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] d. Recommendation: TZF recommends that relevant Government departments, including the Immigration Department, strengthen safeguards to ensure that marriages are entered into freely and with informed consent. The Government should also explore measures that support the successful integration of newly arrived spouses, including language learning, employment support and community orientation programmes, with a view to promoting stronger families, greater social cohesion and long-term social stability. [Building upon TZF 2025 and 2026 Policy Recommendations] III. Strengthen family support and child protection systems a. Recommendation: Implementation of child safeguarding measures should include culturally sensitive outreach, parenting education and engagement with faith-based and community organisations. This will help ensure that all children benefit from Hong Kong’s safeguarding framework.

Section 5: Development of Regional Co-operation 24.Greater Bay Area Integration and Hong Kong’s Role as a “Super Connector” I. Recognise ED communities as a strategic advantage in regional and international engagement a. As noted in Section 2 – Paragraph 7: Recognising Ethnically Diverse Communities as an Economic Asset, TZF believes ED communities represent a strategic asset to Hong Kong’s economic development and international engagement. This advantage is particularly relevant within the Greater Bay Area and in Belt and Road cooperation, and to leverage ED communities to support Hong Kong’s role as a “Super Connector”. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations]

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

25.Belt and Road Initiative and International Engagement I. Develop pathways for ED graduates within Belt and Road initiatives a. As mentioned in Section 2 – Paragraph 8: Hong Kong, a “Super Connector”, and Paragraph 10: International Trade and Overseas Networks, TZF previously recommended recruiting ED graduates into Belt and Road-related initiatives and government programmes. Many of these young people possess language skills, cultural understanding and personal connections that align closely with Belt and Road markets and priorities. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Include ED communities in international outreach a. As mentioned in Section 2 – Paragraph 8: Hong Kong, a “Super Connector”, and Paragraph 10: International Trade and Overseas Networks, ED professionals, entrepreneurs, students and community leaders should be engaged in talent attraction, student recruitment and international promotion efforts. Their participation can strengthen credibility and help prospective talent better understand Hong Kong’s multicultural environment. b. Recommendation: Government delegations, trade missions, student recruitment initiatives and international engagement activities should actively involve qualified ED professionals, entrepreneurs and community leaders where relevant. Their international experience, language skills and cultural knowledge can strengthen Hong Kong’s outreach efforts.

26.Hong Kong as an International Convenor I. Develop Hong Kong as an international convenor on emerging global issues a. In order to ensure that Hong Kong is at the forefront of emerging issues, it is important to include ED experts on all committees. The diverse range of opinions and outlook can only benefit Hong Kong and highlight our difference to other major cities in China. b. Recommendations: i. Hong Kong should explore opportunities to convene international dialogue not only in finance and trade, but also in education, healthcare, neurodiversity, inclusion, philanthropy and social innovation. ii. Convening global experts around shared challenges, for example the growth in children with special educational needs globally, can strengthen China’s soft power and reinforce its international positioning. iii. TZF has proposed that Hong Kong could become an international convenor in areas such as neurodiversity, disability inclusion and social innovation. Hong Kong’s unique position allows it to connect the Chinese Mainland, international institutions and global experts. [From TZF 2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Showcase diversity as part of Hong Kong’s global identity a. Hong Kong’s ED population is part of what differentiates it from many other cities in Asia. This asset should be incorporated into international engagement strategies, conferences, forums and promotional activities.

Section 6: Integrated Development of Culture, Sports and Tourism, Green Living and Other Areas © 2026 The Zubin Mahtani Gidumal Foundation Limited (registered charity in Hong Kong, IR 91/12344). All rights reserved.

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

27.Tourism and Hong Kong’s Multicultural Identity I. Develop multicultural tourism a. TZF has consistently advocated that Hong Kong’s ED communities should be recognised as part of the city’s tourism offering. Their cultures, languages, heritage, businesses, cuisine and festivals provide authentic experiences that can enrich Hong Kong’s tourism landscape and differentiate the city from competitors. [From TZF 2024 and 2025 Policy Recommendations] II. Empower ED communities as storytellers a. TZF has recommended supporting ED individuals as tour guides, cultural ambassadors and community storytellers. This inclusion should be embedded into our Tourism Board’s offerings and made clear from the tours on offer to the languages of collateral and images used. This allows visitors to experience Hong Kong through multiple perspectives while creating new economic opportunities. [From TZF 2024 and 2025 Policy Recommendations] III. Develop a multicultural tourism strategy a. Hong Kong should actively promote its diverse communities as part of its tourism brand. Cultural districts, heritage trails, ethnic restaurants, festivals and community experiences can contribute to more authentic tourism products. IV. Create dedicated multicultural tourism resources a. The Hong Kong Tourism Board should consider establishing a dedicated platform highlighting ED Hong Kong, including cultural sites, walking tours, local businesses and community history. This would further strengthen Hong Kong’s positioning as a global city.

28.Sports for All I. Equal access to sports opportunities a. TZF has consistently highlighted that many government-supported sports programmes (through the Leisure and Cultural Services Department) are primarily delivered in Cantonese, creating barriers for some ED children and youth. We have recommended ensuring that sports participation is not restricted because of language barriers. [From TZF 2023 and 2024 Policy Recommendations] II. Recognise the contribution of ED athletes a. TZF has noted that Hong Kong’s ED communities have long contributed to sports including cricket, rugby, hockey and equestrian sports. Sport serves as an important platform for social cohesion, integration and international achievement. The Government has emphasised the promotion of sports, including elite sports and more international sports events. The ED community should be included in working groups, committees and on sports-related promotional materials. [From TZF 2023 and 2024 Policy Recommendations] III. Ensure language does not prevent participation a. Recommendations: i. Government-funded and publicly supported sports programmes should ensure that information, registration materials and coaching support are available in English as well as Chinese where appropriate. No child should be prevented from participating in sport because of language barriers. ii. Housing estates, schools, NGOs and sports organisations should design inclusive sporting opportunities that bring together participants from different backgrounds.

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

Sport remains one of the most effective ways of building social cohesion. iii. Particular attention should be given to ensuring that information, coaching and participation pathways for international and emerging sports are accessible in English alongside Chinese. Opportunities to represent Hong Kong in sports should be determined by talent and ability, not language barriers.

29.International Branding and Cultural Exchange I. Reflect the diversity of Hong Kong in public campaigns a. TZF has advocated for government media, international roadshows and tourism campaigns to reflect the ethnic diversity that exists within Hong Kong. This is important for both local inclusion and international perception. [From TZF 2022-2025 Policy Recommendations] b. As Hong Kong positions itself as a gateway to Belt and Road markets and an East-meets-West centre for international cultural exchange, public campaigns should visibly reflect the diversity of the city’s population. Representation sends a powerful signal that Hong Kong is welcoming, international and inclusive. II. Ensure major cultural events are accessible a. Recommendation: Information relating to major cultural, tourism and arts events should be available in both Chinese and English. This will improve accessibility for international visitors, new arrivals and local ED communities.

30.Multicultural Festivals and Cultural Participation I. Promote cultural understanding and inclusion a. TZF has consistently promoted initiatives that strengthen understanding between communities and celebrate the diversity of Hong Kong society. Recognition of different cultural traditions contributes to social cohesion and a stronger sense of belonging. [From TZF 2022-2026 Policy Recommendations] II. Recognise major multicultural festivals within Hong Kong’s cultural calendar a. Recommendations: i. Hong Kong should explore opportunities to support and promote culturally significant festivals that are already celebrated by large local communities. Events such as Holi and other major cultural celebrations can contribute to tourism, cultural exchange and community engagement. ii. Many multicultural cities around the world recognise and support the celebration of cultural festivals as part of their broader social cohesion and community-building efforts. iii. As Hong Kong seeks to deepen engagement with Belt and Road countries and strengthen its position as an East-meets-West Centre for International Cultural Exchange, multicultural festivals can also serve as platforms for cultural diplomacy, tourism and people-to-people connections. iv. These opportunities should be considered as part of Hong Kong’s broader cultural strategy, reinforcing its role as a global city connecting China with the world.

THE ZUBIN FOUNDATION Improving the lives of Hong Kong’s ED individuals by reducing suffering and providing opportunities

31.Muslim-Friendly Hong Kong I. Promote Muslim-friendly infrastructure and services a. TZF has highlighted the importance of Muslim-friendly facilities within tourism, education and public services. This becomes even more important as Hong Kong seeks to engage Belt and Road countries and attract visitors, students and talent from Muslim-majority regions. [From consultation inputs and TZF’s longstanding community engagement work] II. Expand halal food options a. The Government should encourage the availability of halal-certified food across major tourist attractions, public venues, universities, cultural facilities and large-scale events. Such provision supports both local communities and visitors. III. Promote Muslim-friendly tourism a. Hong Kong should continue developing prayer facilities, halal dining options and Muslimfriendly visitor services. These initiatives align with Hong Kong’s tourism development objectives and support stronger engagement with key international markets. IV. Incorporate Muslim-friendly considerations into major events a. Large-scale cultural events, exhibitions and tourism initiatives should consider dietary requirements, including halal and vegetarian options. Simple measures can significantly improve accessibility and create a more welcoming environment. V. Clarity request for Hong Kong Courts handling of divorce where marriage took place in nonmonogamous marriage jurisdictions a. With the continued growth of Hong Kong’s Muslim population, including local communities, students and talent from the Belt and Road countries, there is increasing interest in how family matters involving overseas marriage are handled within Hong Kong. Hong Kong needs to clarify its courts’ position in handling divorces in non-monogamous marriage jurisdictions. As is the case around the world, the number of divorces is on the rise.

32.Anti-Discrimination and Social Cohesion I. Strengthen anti-racial discrimination efforts a. TZF has repeatedly highlighted concerns regarding racial discrimination in schools, housing, workplaces and daily life. We have consistently advocated stronger public education, awareness campaigns and visible government leadership on inclusion. [From TZF 2023 and 2024 Policy Recommendations] II. Promote a stronger message of inclusion a. As Hong Kong seeks to strengthen social cohesion, public campaigns can reinforce the principle that ED communities are part of Hong Kong. Inclusion supports both social harmony and Hong Kong’s international competitiveness.

Enquiries For further information and discussion, please contact: • Shalini Mahtani, Founder and CEO, email at mummy@zubinfoundation.org • Matthew Yu, Director of Core Functions, email at matthew@zubinfoundation.org - End -