Hong Kong officials have reaffirmed their commitment to the longstanding ban on surfing at public beaches, stating they will not consider any changes to the policy. This confirmation comes from the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau (CSTB) following discussions with Adrian Pedro Ho King-hong, a lawmaker from the New People’s Party.
Ho had sought a meeting with government officials to discuss potential amendments to the ban, which has recently seen increased enforcement. However, he was informed that the CSTB believes allowing surfing could lead to complaints from the public. “They said they cannot open LCSD beaches for surfing because they think there will be complaints from the public,” Ho told the South China Morning Post.
The ban has been in place across Hong Kong’s 42 public beaches for many years, primarily aimed at protecting swimmers. However, enforcement has intensified this year, leading to heightened scrutiny of the policy. Violating the ban can result in fines of up to HK $2,000 (approximately $260 USD) and possible imprisonment for up to 14 days. According to Chris Tang Ping-keung, Secretary for Security at the Leisure and Cultural Services Department (LCSD), there have only been a few prosecutions for illegal watersports in recent years. This statement followed an investigation into two surfers caught “illegally surfing at Big Wave Bay” on October 25.
The appearance of “No Surfing” signs on public beaches this year has sparked questions from local surfers, journalists, and lawmakers like Ho about the timing of this crackdown. Ho expressed his desire to find a solution that would allow surfers to enjoy the waves without fear of prosecution. He suggested that there could be designated areas or specific times for surfing at various beaches.
“I specifically asked if there was a way to craft out a certain area or allow surfing at a certain time at any beach, and the LCSD said they could not because that would create a public outcry,” Ho stated. He emphasized that with so many beaches available in Hong Kong, there must be at least one where residents would be more accepting of surfing. He urged officials to conduct a survey or feasibility study rather than dismissing the idea outright.
In response to inquiries about modifying the ban, an LCSD spokesperson reiterated that current regulations prohibit bringing or using surfboards in waters adjacent to designated bathing beaches. “In other words, surfing activities have always been prohibited at LCSD-gazetted public beaches,” the spokesperson clarified.
As it stands, Hong Kong’s surfing community remains frustrated by the ban and its enforcement, leaving many questioning whether there is room for compromise in a city known for its vibrant coastal culture.
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