Chief Executive John Lee will announce Hong Kong's first Five-Year Plan and the 2026 Policy Address this Wednesday (Sept. 16). Speaking to the media before the Executive Council meeting this morning (Sept. 15), a reporter asked what preparations the SAR government has made for visitor reception, given the large number of tourists expected during the upcoming National Day holiday. Lee responded that the government has done extensive preparation work. First, on cross-departmental coordination, the Chief Secretary for Administration and the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau have both convened cross-departmental coordination meetings to align the efforts of the industry and various government departments, with particular focus on conditions at various boundary control points. During the Golden Week period, the Security Bureau's Emergency Monitoring and Support Centre will also be activated.
Lee noted that authorities will also strengthen information dissemination, including weather, transport arrangements, event information, and real-time conditions at various control points. On tourism information, the Tourism Board will deploy dedicated staff to assist during Golden Week. Regarding popular attractions and related transport arrangements, Lee pointed out that popular spots include Ocean Park, Disneyland, the Hong Kong Palace Museum, and Ngong Ping 360. Information such as whether these attractions will extend opening hours, whether additional staff will be deployed, how queue times will be managed, and whether MTR operating hours will be adjusted all needs to be released in a timely manner.
On crowd management, Lee cited Po Pin Chau as an example, saying the trial booking system there has been running smoothly. With visitor numbers expected to rise further during Golden Week, he hopes to use a registration system to manage crowds, and the Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department will deploy additional staff to ensure order.
Regarding reports of some tour groups forcing tourists to shop, Lee said such incidents damage Hong Kong's reputation. The government will crack down hard on forced shopping, and he urged residents to welcome visitors with a warm and courteous attitude.
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