A signature campaign will be held at the Cultural Centre on October 5 to support Hong Kong's bid to host the East Asian Games in 2009.

Eleven countries and regions will compete in 13 sports in the 5th East Asian Games, making it the largest multi-sports event in the region after the Asian Games.

The East Asian Games Bid Committee, formed in August by Government officials and the Sports Federation & Olympic Committee, is gearing up to present Hong Kong's case to the East Asian Games Association in Macau next month.

Bid Committee Patron, Secretary for Home Affairs Dr Patrick Ho said hosting the games will create job opportunities, boost tourism and enhance Hong Kong's reputation as an events capital.

"It will also increase the popularity of athletic pursuits, promote sports culture and demonstrate that Hong Kong possesses the facilities to host a world-class sports event," he said.

Bid Committee Chairman Timothy Fok said if the bid is successful, Hong Kong's athletic standards will rise and our athletes will go from strength to strength on the international sports scene.

Star sprinter Chiang Wai-hung, who will join dozens of top athletes in supporting the signature campaign on October 5, said it will be such a thrill and honour for local athletes to compete in a major international event hosted by Hong Kong.

"For the sake of Hong Kong's sports development, I urge the public to come and sign," he said.

The signature booth at the Cultural Centre will be open from 9.30am to 11.30am, but people can also sign at Leisure & Cultural Services Department sports centres, swimming pools, sports grounds and Leisure Services Offices until October 26.