CE optimistic about hosting Olympics in GBA following success of National Games

As the 2025 National Games conclude tomorrow, Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai has stated that the event, jointly hosted for the first time by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macau, has fostered a spirit of “unity in diversity,” inspiring both governments and citizens across the three regions to collaborate and overcome various challenges.

Commenting on the developments brought to Macau by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area’s joint hosting of the National Games, Sam outlined future governance initiatives to advance sports activities and enhance integration.

He reviewed the event’s organizational process, highlighting the exceptionally smooth communication and coordination among government departments.

A total of 3,500 volunteers participated, including some from Hong Kong and Guangdong, showcasing regional synergy. Various public entities, including health, public security, fire services, and cybersecurity, collaborated effectively through thorough drills. “This not only reflects coordination at the governmental level but also strengthens cooperation within the Greater Bay Area,” he noted.

He further emphasized, “Through this opportunity, we aim to elevate the ‘Vibrant Macau’ image by integrating popular sports like table tennis and basketball with the Macau Grand Prix to attract greater attention.”

He highlighted the National Games’ success, noting that it attracted 1,397 athletes, along with coaches and staff, resulting in a total accommodation of 2,486 individuals, including visitors from other regions.

“We will continue to leverage Macau’s unique strengths to showcase its charm through cultural tourism activities and exhibitions,” he added.

Sam noted that integration with Hong Kong and the Greater Bay Area will deepen, expressing hope that this synergy will stimulate greater economic activity, including strong collaboration between the government and the private sector.

He concluded with optimism about elevating the collective strength of the Greater Bay Area to new heights, bringing fresh insights and opportunities for Macau’s development.

“This serves as an excellent inspiration for the earlier media proposal regarding the possibility of bidding to host the Olympics in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area. It also represents the best cross-border experience, offering a model for collaborative thinking that can be replicated in other areas or development zones across the country,” he stated.

Among the organizers, the Macau competition zone managed events such as table tennis, 3×3 basketball, 5×5 basketball (men’s under-18 division), volleyball (women’s senior division), and karate (mass participation events).

Notably, the Macau team achieved a significant milestone by securing its first gold medal in a mass participation event at the National Games, defeating the Hong Kong team in the men’s amateur group kata event in karate. The medals were presented by Sam.