By ASIM SHERAZ
PESHAWAR: The 26th Annual Congress of AIPS Asia was held in Hong Kong, China. The Asian Sports Journalists Federation represents 30 member countries across Asia and organises its annual Congress in a different host country each year. The primary purpose of this gathering is to host delegates from member countries, offering them insights into the development and promotion of sports and the welfare of sports journalists in the host nation. It also serves as a platform to discuss the challenges faced by sports journalists and explore practical solutions.
The opening ceremony was a grand affair, graced by Hong Kong’s Secretary for Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Rosanna Law, who was the chief guest. Prominent figures such as Hon. Kenneth Fok, Member of the Legislative Council of Hong Kong and vice president of SF&OC, AIPS President Gianni Merlo, and AIPS Asia President Hee Don Jung were also present. The event began with a vibrant cultural performance and a traditional lion dance that warmly welcomed the guests.
In her address, Rosanna Law welcomed all distinguished guests and highlighted Hong Kong’s growing stature as a global sporting hub. She applauded the city’s achievements and shared exciting updates, including details about the Kai Tak Sports Park – a world-class sports facility that has already hosted major events like the Hong Kong Rugby Sevens and international concerts.
AIPS President Gianni Merlo, in his remarks, stressed the importance of unity among journalists to advance sports. AIPS Asia President Hee Don Jung expressed his delight at the outstanding organisation of the Congress by the Hong Kong Sports Press Association, adding that this 26th Congress would be remembered as a landmark event in AIPS Asia’s history.
One of the key highlights of the opening day was the presentation of the ‘Legends of Asia Awards’. This award, initiated in 2023, honours veteran journalists who have dedicated their lives to sports journalism. This year, six distinguished journalists received this honour: Abu Bakar Atan (Malaysia), Otgonbater Chultem (Mongolia), Nim Seong Fong (Macao), Ms. Ming Chu Chien (Chinese Taipei) and from the host Hong Kong, Kenneth Fok and Paul Kwan Kai. The awardees expressed their gratitude and reaffirmed their commitment to promoting sports through journalism.
In addition, the Chinese Taipei Sports Journalists Association was honoured as the ‘Best Sports Media Association of 2024’, an award received by its president and secretary.
Delegates, including young sports reporters from various countries, were given a guided tour of the iconic Kai Tak Stadium – a state-of-the-art venue for international competitions. The tour included the grand opening of the Champions Bar. CEO John Sharkey, an experienced administrator, remarked that the Champions Bar is among Hong Kong’s largest sports bars, designed to celebrate the city’s rich aviation history and sporting triumphs. Its logo is inspired by the iconic Kai Tak Airport, symbolizing past and present successes and reflecting the stadium’s mission to be a hub of victory and entertainment. The journalists enjoyed the stadium’s modern facilities and a live music session, making the visit an unforgettable experience.
During the Congress, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was also signed between AIPS Asia and the Hong Kong Sports Press Association. Under this MoU, both associations will cooperate with each other during the Young Sports Reporters Training Program in Hong Kong, with the aim of providing annual training to young sports journalists from across Asia.
The Congress participants and young sports reporters were also taken to the Hong Kong Jockey Club, where they observed horse races. This visit was highly impressive for the participants, who were also briefed in detail about the club. The participants thoroughly enjoyed their time at the Jockey Club. During the Congress, young reporters participating in the Young Sports Reporters Training Program visited the Hong Kong Sports Training Centre. A colourful ceremony celebrating World Sports Journalists Day was also held aboard a cruise ship. The event was graced by Captain Husain Al-Musallam, Director General of the Olympic Council of Asia and President of World Aquatics, who highlighted Asia’s major strides in hosting large-scale sporting events, referencing the legacy of the Asian Games. He appreciated the vital role of sports journalists and commended AIPS Asia’s continued efforts. AIPS Asia President Hee Don Jung presented him with a commemorative shield, while the Pakistan Sports Writers Federation honoured him with a traditional turban. A similar turban was also presented to Hong Kong Sports Press Association President Chiu Chan Fai Raymond.
Two insightful sports forums were organised during the Congress, providing a platform for athletes and administrators to reflect on their achievements and share their visions for the future.
A significant moment of the Congress was the selection of the host country for the 2026 AIPS Asia Congress. Malaysia, Kuwait, and Qatar were in the running. After Malaysia withdrew, Kuwait and Qatar went head-to-head, with Qatar receiving 11 votes and Kuwait securing 15 votes, while two countries abstained. Thus, Kuwait earned the honour of hosting the 2026 AIPS Asia Congress.
