Children as young as eight, as well as youths in school uniforms, will be able to access nine billiard establishments in the territory under a relaxed entry rule announced by the Leisure and Cultural Services Department for the venues.
This initiative, which began accepting applications on February 25, aims to promote the development of billiard sports in the city.
The LCSD reviewed a total of 35 applications. Following assessments by various government departments—including the police and the Department of Health's Tobacco and Alcohol Control Office—nine venues were selected based on their operational conditions and surrounding environments.
The approved establishments are located across multiple districts, including Mong Kok, Tsim Sha Tsui, Tsuen Wan, Sheung Wan, and the Eastern District.
The list also includes the Police Sports and Recreation Club and the Billiards Section of the South China Athletic Association.
Under the relaxed rules, children aged eight and above will be permitted entry, and the previous restriction barring entry between 11pm and 7am will be lifted for these youths. Students will also be allowed to enter while wearing their school uniforms.
Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law Shuk-pui, emphasized the growing popularity of billiard sports in Hong Kong, noting the recent influx of world-class players.
She reiterated that the policy change is aimed at ensuring young people can enjoy the sport in a healthy environment.
Law also noted that many applications were not approved, primarily due to high rates of smoking violations or because the venues shared entrances with mahjong parlors.
The LCSD will shortly notify the approved establishments, and Law expressed hope that these changes will further enhance the growth of billiard sports in Hong Kong.
