In November 2003, Hong Kong won the right to host the 5^th East Asian Games (EAG) to be held in 2009. To ensure the smooth and timely preparation and organisation of the Games, the 2009 EAG Planning Committee was established in June. The committee has wide representation with members drawn from the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China (SF & OC), the sports sector, relevant government departments and related sectors in the community, including business, banking, tourism and airlines. The committee will plan and prepare for the event, enlist community support, develop publicity and marketing strategies, and advise on the venues and facilities.

	Members of the 2009 East Asia Games Planning Committee after their first meeting in July.

For its part, the government will upgrade existing sports venues and facilities up to the required standards. New sports facilities in the public works programme, which will come on stream in the next few years, will also be used for events of the 2009 East Asian Games.

The LCSD will continue to work closely with the SF & OC to organise what will be the first ever multi-sports international games to be held in Hong Kong. The Games will enhance the local sports sector, educate the community on the value of sports and also consolidate Hong Kong's position as a major sports events capital.

	The 2009 EAG Planning Committee visiting Macau where the 2005 Games will be held.

In 2005 and 2006, four competitions will be held to sustain the community's awareness of the Games and to appeal for public participation. The competitions will be for the Games' emblem, mascot, anthem and slogan. The various design competitions will be held in stages as a build up to the staging of the Games. We will also establish web site and exhibition gallery for the event to enhance public knowledge about the 2009 East Asian Games.