The Kai Tak Sports Park has faced multiple controversies since its opening, including the ejection of spectators during a snooker tournament and unauthorized access by ticketless individuals. In an exclusive interview, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law, described the incidents as "fundamental mistakes" stemming from poor communication between the organizer and the venue operator. While acknowledging the mistakes, Law expressed confidence that both parties would learn from these experiences.
Law pointed out that the management team of Kai Tak Sports Park is largely composed of overseas professionals who need time to adapt to Hong Kong's situation. She emphasized the importance of close collaboration and operational mechanisms between the government and the Sports Park. The government, she said, is responsible for supervising and guiding the venue, offering advice when necessary. Meanwhile, the Sports Park is in charge of daily operations and must promptly notify the government if any crises or challenges arise.
Chief Executive John Lee recently proposed that the Sports Bureau and the Sports Park establish a regular meeting mechanism. Additionally, the Sports Park should implement systems for handling emergencies and designate an official spokesperson.
Law agreed, stating that lessons from the snooker tournament incident highlight the need for a high-level response mechanism, allowing immediate contact with senior management during crises. Both event organizers and the venue must ensure senior-level coordination, with decisions effectively communicated to frontline staff.
She also revealed that the government has urged the Sports Park to quickly appoint a spokesperson, ideally someone with media experience, to enhance communication and crisis management.
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