HKTB Showcases Hong Kong As ‘Events Capital Of Asia’ At Hong Kong Sevens 50th Anniversary

KUALA LUMPUR, April 20 (Bernama) -- The Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) is promoting Hong Kong’s position as the “Events Capital of Asia” by leveraging the 50th anniversary of the Cathay/HSBC Hong Kong Sevens under its “Hong Kong Mega 8” campaign.

In a statement, HKTB said the globally renowned rugby tournament serves as a key platform to attract international visitors, highlighting the city’s ability to host world-class events that combine sports, culture and innovation.

Adding a technological dimension to the celebrations, China-made robots previously featured on CCTV’s Spring Festival Gala performed at the opening ceremony, delivering a dynamic showcase alongside traditional elements such as a dragon dance and cheerleading routines.

HKTB Chairman, Dr Peter Lam said the Hong Kong Sevens has evolved into a major international sporting event over the past five decades, drawing global attention and reinforcing the city’s appeal as a premier destination for large-scale events.

Blending tradition with innovative elements, the opening performance of the 50th edition was packed with highlights. Following a dragon dance, 10 robots teamed up seamlessly with a cheerleading squad, kicking off the event with dynamic choreography and precise coordination.

After the cheerleading performance, lasers danced across the Main Stadium pitch and displayed the participating nations over the years, the names of legendary Sevens players, and the effect of twin dragons soaring over Hong Kong, celebrating 50 years of the Hong Kong Sevens development.

The closing ceremony also featured a spectacular pyrotechnic display launched from the stadium roof, bringing the three-day tournament to a dazzling finale.

Beyond the stadium, HKTB extended promotional efforts by featuring the robots at iconic locations including the Avenue of Stars in Tsim Sha Tsui and the East Coast Boardwalk in North Point, creating content to boost Hong Kong’s global visibility.

To further strengthen outreach, HKTB collaborated with Hong Kong China Rugby to host international key opinion leaders (KOLs), alongside representatives from the travel trade, MICE and cruise sectors, offering firsthand experience of the event and the city’s tourism offerings.

-- BERNAMA