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Hong Kong is expected to receive significant intangible benefits from the establishment of Hong Kong Disneyland, in addition to the economic benefits such as more jobs, more tourists, and increased spending by both local people and incoming visitors.

A briefing paper prepared by the Tourism Commission outlines six "non-quantifiable" benefits that will flow from the theme park and its associated facilities - quality standards; technological innovation; quality of life; image; training; and environmental sensitivity.

The Commission says that given Walt Disney's reputation for creativity, operational excellence and delivering high levels of guest satisfaction, the operation of Hong Kong Disneyland will set a new standard for the service sector in Hong Kong. It would also showcase the best of cutting-edge technology in its attractions and shows.

On quality of life, the paper says this will be enriched by Hong Kong Disneyland which will provide quality family entertainment, and quality entertainment and recreational facilities. In addition to the theme park, the project includes the construction of three to four Disney-themed resort hotels with up to 2,100 rooms on completion of Phase I.

"Hong Kong Disneyland will no doubt enhance the international image of Hong Kong as a vibrant, cosmopolitan city, and specifically enhance the status of Hong Kong as a key tourist destination in Asia and the world." The theme park's marketing and sales efforts, in combination with those of Hong Kong in general would help make international tourists aware of the multiple reasons for travel to Hong Kong.

In training, the Tourism Commission believes that Walt Disney's commitment to employee training and development, especially in the area of guest service, will provide an added resource and leadership presence to Hong Kong's expanding service sector.

The paper says the commitment of Disney to environmental sensitivity in its theme parks around the world will help set a new standard for Hong Kong. "The company will bring its experience in environmental awareness and education to this project, including environmentally friendly operating practices such as recycling, energy conservation, and waste and water management."

Interviewed on radio earlier today, the Commissioner for Tourism, Mr Mike Rowse, emphasised the importance of the environmental processes and procedures to be followed.

"This project is going to be scrutinised absolutely from top to bottom by everybody .......the whole thing has to go through a very rigorous process before it's allowed to go ahead and that's exactly what we're launched into now. You can't get the go ahead at any step of the way without a full environmental impact assessment and clearance from the Advisory Committee on the Environment," he said.

End/Wednesday November 3, 1999

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