Bridging Cultures: A Sikh Lawyer’s Journey in Hong Kong

Each year, on 21 May, World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development serves as a global observance, highlighting the transformative role of inclusion in strengthening economies, workplaces, and international collaboration. Established by the United Nations in 2002 and following UNESCO’s adoption of the 2001 Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity, the day underscores the value of integrating diverse perspectives into business strategy, leadership, and governance.

As a young lawyer of Sikh origin born and raised in Hong Kong, my life journey has been shaped by the intersection of cultures, languages, and identities. Growing up in a city celebrated for its diversity, I often found myself navigating a complex landscape where my ethnic background and language proficiency defined many of my experiences.

While Hong Kong is known as a global hub, the reality for ethnic minorities, especially in terms of education and employment, tells a different story — one that underscores the urgent need for enhanced Chinese language education for non-Chinese speakers.

Q1: Shall we talk about your early life and cultural identity?

From a young age, I was immersed in the vibrant tapestry of Hong Kong’s multicultural environment. My family, deeply rooted in Sikh traditions, emphasized the importance of our cultural heritage, instilling values of hard work, resilience, and community. However, the challenge of being an ethnic minority in a predominantly Cantonese-speaking society was ever-present.

In school, I faced the dual challenge of maintaining my cultural identity while trying to assimilate into a system that often felt exclusionary. While I was fortunate to attend schools that recognized diversity, the lack of structured Chinese language education for students like me created significant hurdles. Having grown up with friends who attended Chinese-Medium and English-Medium schools I was made aware of the challenges faced by individuals who were not proficient in the Chinese language and how that affected their ability to fully engage in the academic and social life of their schools.

Q2: How much of a barrier was Chinese language for you?

The crux of the issue lies in language. In Hong Kong, where Cantonese is the primary language, the ability to communicate effectively is crucial for success in both education and the workplace. Unfortunately, the education system has not adequately addressed the needs of non-Chinese speaking students. Despite various initiatives, such as the “dual-track mode,” many ethnic minority students still encounter significant barriers when it comes to learning Chinese.

From my personal experience, I remember the frustration of being placed in classes where the focus on Chinese language instruction was minimal. As I progressed in my studies, I often found that while my English skills were strong, my Chinese remained inadequate. For many students, this lack of language proficiency can lead to a cycle of underachievement and limited career opportunities.

Q3: Did anything change when you started studying Law?

At university in Hong Kong, I pursued law and this was taught in English. I did not encounter any courses that were taught in Chinese.

However, as I entered the legal profession, I quickly realized that my limited Chinese language skills could hinder my progress. Many firms preferred bilingual candidates, which often relegated ethnic minority graduates to lower-paying positions or resorting to manual labour jobs. This systemic issue highlights the need for a robust framework that supports Chinese language education for ethnic minorities from an early age.

Q4: How important is Chinese language education?

Advancing Chinese language education for ethnic minorities is not just a matter of personal growth; it is essential for societal and economic development in Hong Kong. By equipping young people with language skills, we empower them to participate fully in society, breaking down barriers that perpetuate inequality.

When ethnic minorities can confidently communicate in Chinese, they are more likely to pursue higher education, contribute to the workforce, and engage in their communities. This inclusivity can drive innovation, creativity, and economic growth, positioning Hong Kong as a truly global city that embraces its diverse population.

Q5: What do you reckon the HKSAR Government and all of us as a community do?

As we move forward, it is crucial for the Hong Kong government and educational institutions to prioritize comprehensive Chinese language education tailored to the needs of ethnic minorities. This involves not only improving the curriculum but also providing adequate training for teachers to support non-Chinese speaking students effectively.

Additionally, community engagement and awareness campaigns that celebrate cultural diversity can foster a greater understanding and appreciation within society. By recognizing and promoting the contributions of ethnic minorities in Hong Kong, we can create a more inclusive environment that benefits everyone. It is now more important than ever before to revisit Hong Kong’s history.

Q6: How do you see the path forward?

My journey as a Sikh lawyer in Hong Kong has taught me the importance of resilience and advocacy. While challenges remain, I believe that with concerted effort and commitment, we can create a more inclusive society where everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to succeed. By advancing Chinese language education for ethnic minorities, we not only empower individuals but also enrich the fabric of our city, shaping Hong Kong into a truly vibrant and inclusive global hub.