Review of Hong Kong Coliseum and Queen Elizabeth Stadium utilization underway: Rosanna Law

During a recent meeting, Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism Rosanna Law Shuk-pui addressed the ongoing review of the roles of key performance venues in Hong Kong, specifically the Hong Kong Coliseum and Queen Elizabeth Stadium. 

This discussion was sparked by suggestions from Kitson Yang Wing-kit of the A4 Alliance during a special finance committee meeting of the Legislative Council. Yang proposed increasing the number of concerts at these venues, especially with the upcoming opening of the Kai Tak Sports Park.

In addition, Yang advocated for the implementation of a real-name ticketing system to prevent ticket scalping. Secretary Law acknowledged the necessity of discussing this proposal with concert organizers to assess its feasibility and implications.

Enhancing trail tourism, and concerns over transportation and ecological impact

The meeting also touched on tourism and transportation issues, particularly concerning the MacLehose Trail and the High Island Reservoir East Dam in Sai Kung. 

Legislative Council member Yiu Pak-leung expressed concerns about inadequate transportation facilities in these areas. Secretary Law emphasized the importance of integrating facilities naturally to preserve the ecological value, particularly in sensitive areas like Pak Lap.

The Tourism Commission, in collaboration with the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department and the Transport Department, is set to streamline transportation arrangements. These efforts aim to enhance accessibility without introducing large-scale infrastructure that could disrupt the ecological balance.

Preparations underway for the 15th National Games

Looking ahead, Secretary Law reported that preparations for the 15th National Games, co-hosted by Guangdong, Macau, and Hong Kong in November, are well underway. The government is leveraging this event to promote local sports development, with successful test events already conducted and more planned.

Election Committee lawmaker Kenneth Leung Yuk-wai inquired about promotional efforts for the National Games and their potential to boost local tourism. Secretary Law detailed the promotional strategy, which includes negotiations on broadcasting and live streaming of the events, and discussions with travel agencies on facilitating multi-destination visits within Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau. These efforts are expected to increase public interest and enhance understanding of national sports development, while also promoting tourism in the region.