On 17 June 2025, Fo Guang Shan New Zealand hosted the promotion ceremony for Inspector Anson LIN of the New Zealand Police, who also serves as a director of the BLIA North Island Chapter. Abbess Manshin of the FGS NZ led the guests in prayers, offering blessings for Inspector LIN’s continued dedication and success in his new role. Following this, Abbess Manshin and Nicole adorned Insp LIN with the three-star shoulder epaulettes signifying his new rank, and presented him with a calligraphy scroll of the character Auspicious (吉祥), by the Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun. In addition, Counties Manukau East Area Commander, Insp Rodney Honan and Insp Rakana Cook, presented LIN with a Māori greenstone, symbolising strength and courage. The ceremony was attended by 150 people, including police officers, staff, community leaders, family, friends and BLIA members. The ceremony exuded tranquillity and dignity, adding profound meaning and value to this milestone.
Abbess Manshin shared that she served as the patron for Wing 261 at the Royal New Zealand Police College in 2010, where Anson LIN was one of the recruits. Over the 15 years since, Abbess has proudly witnessed his growth and development. Abbess mentioned police officers as Bodhisattvas in the human world, and encouraged LIN to continue embodying compassion and wisdom in his service to society. Abbess concluded with a 12-word teaching from the Founding Master: “Do, do, do; endure, endure, endure; suffer, suffer, suffer; wait, wait, wait” — reinforce him to stay true to his aspirations, let go of past grievances, offer help proactively and adapt with equanimity.
Insp Honan commented on LIN as an exceptional officer who demonstrated strong professionalism, assuring him that he would thrive in his new position, broaden his service’s scope and assist even more members of the public. Furthermore, Superintendent Scott Gemmell, District Commander of the Waikato and LIN’s former supervisor, conveyed his pride and heartfelt congratulations on LIN’s achievements.
Officers of the Neighbourhood Policing Team praised LIN as a dependable leader with a clear vision who leads by example and actively fosters community engagement. Otara-Papatoetoe Local Board Chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia thanked LIN for his long-standing service to the community and praised him as a vital bridge between the Police and the public. Numerous police and community leaders gathered at the Temple to express their respect and sincere blessings, hoping he will continue to excel in his new position and bring positive energy to society.
“It is deeply meaningful to hold my epaulette ceremony at Fo Guang Shan,” said Inspector Anson LIN in his speech. He thanked the Police for their support and trust and for laying the foundation of his professional growth. He also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the Temple for the spiritual support and wise guidance from the Abbess, who constantly reminded him to uphold his initial aspiration and dedicate himself to serving humanity. He affirmed that this strength will support him in facing future challenges and remaining committed to the community.
To celebrate the occasion, BLIA members performed a traditional Māori POI dance, adding festivity to the ceremony. The Temple thoughtfully prepared vegetarian refreshments for the guests, creating a warm and harmonious atmosphere. Many attendees commented that the ceremony brought peace and serenity, evoking a feeling of being at home. This historic event demonstrated the longstanding collaboration between the Police and Fo Guang Shan in fostering a harmonious society.