Sports bodies game for changes under new code

Staff reporter

The code of governance announced by the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong has garnered widespread support.

Legislative Council member and Squash Association of Hong Kong president Duncan Chiu Tat-kun said that having clear requirements is a positive development.

Chiu expressed strong support for the code yesterday, saying that establishing a set of rules and guidelines for member associations is key.

The code, unveiled on Wednesday, stipulates that board members cannot serve more than four consecutive terms - totaling over 16 years - and that they should not be more than 70 or 75 years old.

However, Chiu hopes there will be some flexibility, permitting each member association to determine its own "retirement age."

He acknowledged the importance of a smooth succession but highlighted the challenge of finding people willing to volunteer their time and effort.

"Some of our volunteers have dedicated over 10 years of service and are truly passionate. I don't want to lose their contributions," Chiu said.

Fellow Legco member Adrian Ho King-hong described the code as comprehensive and deemed the two-year period for member associations to rectify any issues as "appropriate."

He said the governance code will encourage associations to reform their internal mechanisms with an emphasis on the need for self-monitoring in the long run.

However, Ho said, the retirement age should not be rigidly defined and suggested that the key factors should be an individual's ability, experience, and contributions to the association.

Ronnie Wong Man-chiu, former Olympic swimmer and the current president of the Hong Kong China Swimming Association, who is 72, indicated he is ready to step aside and hand over the reins.

"I'm not concerned about my presidency as long as the sport develops well. If anyone wants to take over, I can transition leadership at any time," Wong said.

He added that age does not necessarily dictate capability, saying that experience and fair practices are paramount, along with the absence of conflicts of interest.

Patrick Lau Wing-chung, who chairs the department of sport, physical education and health at Baptist University, said governance issues within sports associations have persisted for a long time.

"It is crucial to effectively implement the constitution of each association," Lau said.