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Following is the speech by the Chief Secretary for Administration, Mrs Carrie Lam at the Hong Kong "M" Mark Sports Event Awards presentation ceremony today (March 19):
William, distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good afternoon. Welcome to the Hong Kong "M" Mark Sports Event Awards presentation ceremony. We're here today because we all love sports - as players, organisers, sponsors, promoters and spectators alike. You can put me in the badminton-playing category, under "determined amateur".
First of all, my thanks to all of you here, who have dedicated your time, talent, enthusiasm and resources to further Hong Kong's success in the international sports arena and promote sports throughout the community.
This afternoon, we celebrate the 10th anniversary of the "M" Mark system, presenting awards to the winning "M" Mark events of the past year. We're here, as well, to salute the concerted efforts of those involved in staging quality sports events in Hong Kong.
Over this past decade, we have seen the evolution of "M" Mark events, the number of which has grown from four in 2005 to 13 last year. Beyond their sheer growth, we should also applaud the sports culture they have helped instill in our community.
Many of the "M" Mark events have become signature events, attracting tens of thousands of participants and spectators locally and from around the world, bringing tangible benefits to the community. Event organisers and their sponsors have also rolled out well-received promotions which have been taken into the community, embraced by people from all walks of life. I'm also pleased to note that "M" Mark events promote not only elite sports, but also community sports, fuelling participation in and appreciation of sports of all kinds.
The Government will continue to support our national sports associations in organising international sports events and upholding our position as one of Asia's major sports hubs. We are also keen to see greater involvement from the business sector. Business sponsorship helps ensure the success of an event, while making a strong statement about an event's quality and value as well as the company's strong commitment towards corporate social responsibility. That can only assist the sport and the sports event, as well as the Hong Kong community.
At this most joyous occasion, I wish you all an enjoyable and memorable afternoon. May I also wish you all the best, in sports, business and life.
Thank you very much.
Ends/Thursday, March 19, 2015
Issued at HKT 15:40
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