In November 2003, Hong Kong won the right to host the 5^th East Asian Games in 2009. The 2009 East Asian Games Planning Committee, with a wide representation with members from the government, the sports, commercial, banking, airline and tourism sectors, was established in June 2004. The committee will plan and prepare for the event, enlist community support, develop publicity and marketing strategies, and advise on the venues and facilities required for the organisation of the event.

For its part, the government will upgrade existing sports venues and facilities to the required standards. A new sports ground that meets international standard will also be developed in Tseung Kwan O and will be used for holding athletic events of the 2009 East Asian Games.

	A computer image of the design of the Tseung Kwan O Sports Ground.

The department will continue to work closely with the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China to organise this first ever multi-sports international games to be held in Hong Kong.

In 2005, a series of promotional activities, including the 2009 East Asian Games Emblem Design Competition, 2009 East Asian Games Slogan Competition, 'Sports Education Programme — Olympism and 2009 East Asian Games' and a series of promotional exhibitions were launched to arouse public awareness and to encourage community support and participation in the 2009 East Asian Games. Moreover, an official web site and a dedicated gallery for spreading East Asian Games related information was rolled out. To showcase Hong Kong and to publicise the hosting of the games in 2009, a Hong Kong Night function, a promotion exhibition and a Hong Kong Tent were staged during the 4^th East Asian Games in Macau. In celebrating the transfer of hosting right of the games from Macau to Hong Kong, a Welcoming Ceremony was staged at the Olympic Square in Hong Kong Park on November 6, 2005. The Chief Executive of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Donald Tsang, received the East Asian Games flag at the ceremony.

	Prize Presentation Ceremony of the 2009 East Asian Games Emblem Design Competition.

		The fireworks design of the 2009 East Asian Games emblem.

	2009 East Asian Games Gallery.

	The reception counter of the Hong Kong Night function held in Macau.

	Musical performances at the Hong Kong Night.

	The Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, officiating at a ceremony at the Olympic Square in Hong Kong Park and swaying a flag newly arrived from Macau, signifying the transfer of the hosting right of the East Asian Games to Hong Kong.

To build up and sustain the publicity momentum towards the 2009 East Asian Games, various publicity activities including development of a mascot, selection of anthem, community events, and cultural programmes will be staged at appropriate times until 2009.