HKJC pledges HK$1b to support post-earthquake reconstruction in Sichuan

11 July 2008

The Hong Kong Jockey Club announced today (11 July) that it has pledged to contribute HK$1 billion towards suitable post-earthquake reconstruction projects in Sichuan.

This is in response to the needs of victims of the recent Sichuan earthquake, and Government's efforts in leading Hong Kong's response. The Club looks forward to working closely with the Hong Kong SAR Government and relevant Mainland authorities to identify specific projects and ensure that the Club's contribution will be put to best use for the benefits of the Sichuan people. The Government will assist the Club in identifying suitable reconstruction projects. Subject to further discussions with the Central and Sichuan authorities, the Club will finalise the selection of specific projects, monitor its contributions and bring in its project management expertise in the implementation of the projects.

Club Chairman John C C Chan commented that although the Sichuan earthquake happened almost two months ago, scenes of the disaster were still fresh in people's minds. "We are now entering an important stage of reconstruction. Making good use of the Club's rich experience in major construction and in organising community projects, we want to help the victims rebuild their families and their lives as soon as possible," he said.

Upon the onset of the disaster, the Club made an immediate contribution of HK$30 million to the Red Cross Society of China. The Club followed this up from 14 to 28 May by setting up collection boxes at the Club's Off-Course Betting Branches, clubhouses and racecourses, as well as the Headquarters building at Happy Valley, to call on the public to donate money for the earthquake victims. A further HK$9.5 million was collected in this fund-raising drive and passed on to the Red Cross Society of China.