The fifth East Asian Games will break with tradition next month when Victoria Harbour will become the stage and backdrop for the opening ceremony.
The ceremony, on December 5, will cost about HK$40 million. It will take place on a floating stage and feature cultural performances, the lighting of the cauldron and a fireworks display. The harbour will be closed for 3? hours.
The Games are being staged from December 5 to 13, the first time Hong Kong will have hosted a regional multi-sport event on this scale.
Secretary for Home Affairs Tsang Tak-sing said the amount spent on the opening ceremony was suitable. 'It is not only the opening ceremony of the Games. It can also show the spirit of Hong Kong to the world.'
Tsang said the opening ceremony would break with tradition.
'As a tradition, opening ceremonies of major Games are held at sports stadiums.
'But this ceremony will break the tradition and will be presented in an innovative manner,' he said. The floating stage will be set up off the Cultural Centre in Tsim Sha Tsui.
