@jaysonq_2: thanks for emailing Emirates. It's nice to know the requirements as some websites say that anyone can still apply. I hope that Emirates is clearer on their site on the specifications that they want instead of wasting a lot of money just for plane tickets (not to mention TIME). Glad that Emirates was responsive to your query. They haven't answered my email back.
@maria16: thanks a lot for the information! I won't bother going to HK anymore as it seems like the chances are very slim. If we have to go through SASS Atlantic first, then it would be too aggravating knowing that you won't be given a chance unless you know how to speak Chinese.