1. What made you originally decide to move to Hong Kong and then Macau?

I was a national karate coach in Iran. The Macau Karate Federation invited me to come to Macau to train the Macau karate team. 

2. What was your initial impression of Hong Kong, and how has your perception of the city changed from when you first moved here to now? How easy has it been to immerse yourself in the local culture?

Since I came to Macau in 2002, there have been a lot of changes, more people, and Macau has developed a lot. Many luxury hotels have opened, and lots of tourists visit Macau every year. And, for me, since I am living here for over 15 years, I am familiar with the Chinese culture, as all my friends, sports team members and my students are local, so I am well adapted to the local culture and law. 

3. How would you describe the Iranian community in Hong Kong and Macau? Which Iranian associations are you mostly involved with?

In regards to the Hong Kong Iranian community, I engage with it, and join the Iranian Consulate’s activities and events throughout the year, which is mostly related to Iran’s special events. It is always great to attend these events, given the great hospitality of Iranian Consulate members.

4. As one of the few Iranians having resided longest in Hong Kong and Macau, has this experience reshaped your identity? How would you identify yourself today? 

Even though I have lived in Macau for a long time, I always know and consider myself Iranian, but we have a lots of similarities with Chinese culture. I just try to respect the culture and law of any country I live in, but, of course, after living here for long time, I have become used to the culture here as well. 

5. What is one thing you miss most about Iran? If Hong Kongers had 24 hours in Iran, what do you suggest they do?

I miss everything about Iran, especially family and friends, and all the great places in Iran. If anyone wants to go to Iran, I suggest them to try Iranian food, and also visit some nice, historical places in Iran, such as Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, Yazd and many other cities, which all have great and generous people, great weather and great food.