Letters | Commercialisation of Hong Kong’s public venues must come with a caveat

The Leisure and Cultural Services Department’s plan to introduce market-driven operations at eight public venues, including the Hong Kong Cultural Centre piazza and Kai Tak Station Square, is a welcome move. Many government-run venues remain underused during weekdays, and professional operators could bring in new ideas, attract events and make better use of these taxpayer-funded public assets.

However, commercialisation must not come at the expense of the public interest. International experience shows that when public spaces are opened to private operators, safeguards such as a “community quota” are essential. Hong Kong should require operators to reserve affordable or free time slots for local arts groups, non-profit organisations and community events.

This is not simply a gesture of corporate social responsibility; it addresses a long-standing challenge many cultural groups face in securing suitable and reasonably priced venues.

These spaces should also be seen as strategic assets for Hong Kong’s ambition to build a more vibrant event economy. Better use of harbourfront venues, for example, could enhance visitor experiences. A convention held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition and Centre in Wan Chai, followed by a harbourfront reception at the Hong Kong Museum of Art, connected by a boat ride on the Aqua Luna, would offer a distinctive experience that strengthens Hong Kong’s competitiveness as an events destination.

That said, the details will determine success. Not all venues should fall under a single operator, as landmark locations and community spaces serve different purposes and should be matched with operators who understand their unique audiences.