The Hong Kong Police Force has been recruiting more ethnic minority officers to promote diversity and inclusion, and among them is Pakistani auxiliary police officer Masha, who has served in the force for three years in districts with sizable ethnic minority populations, including Yau Ma Tei and Jordan.
Born and raised in Hong Kong, Masha previously worked as an English teacher. He said he was inspired to join the force after visiting a friend during Ramadan, who encouraged him to apply.
Seeing another South Asian officer featured in the media for helping the public further convinced him that he could contribute to the city and support its growing ethnic minority community.
Although fluent in Cantonese, Masha said the journey was not easy. He struggled with the complex legal knowledge required for the job and at one point doubted whether he could complete the training. He eventually persevered with the help of instructors and classmates.
“On the first day of class, my instructor took the initiative to tell me that he would offer his full support if I needed help or faced any difficulties. My classmates were also happy to clarify my doubts, help me revise for exams, and prepare for assessments. I am truly grateful for their support, which allowed me to pass all the tests smoothly,” he said.
Now stationed in the Yau Ma Tei Division, Masha uses his ability to speak Chinese, English, Urdu, Hindi, and Punjabi to assist both local residents and ethnic minorities. He said he also offers translation and communication support even when he is off duty.
He recalled a case in which his language skills played a crucial role when police responded to a report of a South Asian man who was attempting to jump from a building. Masha volunteered to speak with him in his mother tongue and learned that the man was distressed over his wife’s request for a divorce and had previously attempted suicide. After hours of conversation, he persuaded the man to step away from the ledge.
“It was precisely my identity and language that allowed me to comfort and console him, making him feel that at least someone could understand and communicate with him,” he said.
As a Muslim, Masha said he is grateful that the force respects his religious practices, noting that halal food is arranged for him during large-scale operations and that colleagues understand customs such as Ramadan fasting.
“Whether within the Police Force or among the local community, when people hear me speak fluent Cantonese, they see me as a local Hong Kong police officer. I see myself the same way. I want to serve Hong Kong society with all my heart,” he said.
