Hong Kong Culture Secretary on Kai Tak Sports Park and National Games Preparations

Kai Tak Sports Park Controversies and Improvements

• 🏟️ The newly completed Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong's largest sports infrastructure project, has faced controversies since its opening on March 1, 2025.
• 💡 The Culture Secretary acknowledges issues like ticket scalping, attributing them to a lack of experience, poor planning, and inadequate communication by organizers and park management.
• 💬 She emphasizes the need for improved communication, contingency planning, and swift decision-making to handle problems effectively.
• 👂 The Secretary actively reads online comments to understand public preferences for concerts and events, using feedback to inform actions.

Preparations for the 15th National Games

• 🗓️ Hong Kong is co-hosting the 15th National Games from November 9-21, 2025, with Guangdong and Macau.
• 🏅 Preparations are well underway, including test events for various sports like handball, rugby sevens, basketball, beach volleyball, and cycling, scheduled from April to June.
• 🤝 Close cooperation is maintained with Guangdong and Macau on issues requiring joint efforts.

Economic Viability and Commercialization

• 💰 The multi-purpose Kai Tak Sports Park, costing HK$31.9 billion, is intended to be commercially viable to generate economic returns, especially during tight financial periods.
• 📈 Events like Rugby Sevens have shown potential for economic benefit through record audiences, increased long-haul visitors, and high hotel occupancy rates.
• 💼 The goal is to commercialize sports and entertainment to bring tangible economic benefits and support job creation, as these sectors are significant employers.

Public Service and Reform

• 🌟 With over 35 years in government service, the Secretary is driven by the mission to serve the people of Hong Kong and improve the city.
• 🚀 She acknowledges that pushing for reforms can be challenging and may disrupt comfort zones, but her commitment to the public service provides confidence and wisdom.