To tie in with the launch of SmartPLAY, the Leisure & Cultural Services Department today reminded the public to take note of the new arrangements for enrolling on its recreation and sports programmes.

For recreation and sports programmes to be held in January 2024 onwards, users can submit an online balloting application within the first seven days of each month for the programmes to be held in the following month by district leisure services offices, water sports centres, the Tuen Mun Recreation & Sports Centre, and the Green Campaign Section.

For sports competitions to be held from February 2024 or later, users need to submit one online balloting application from the eighth to the 14th days of every month to enrol in sports competitions to be held two months later.

In each online application, users can select up to 10 training courses and recreation activities/10 sports competitions. A maximum of three training courses and recreation activities/three sports competitions can be allocated.

The department pointed out that the new arrangement can provide more users with opportunities to participate in recreational and sports activities and cultivate exercise habits. At the same time, applicants need not apply by post or queue at booking counters for popular programmes.

Additionally, the department announced that priority balloting for new applicants will be extended to all training courses as well as recreation activities, except those activities that accept walk-in enrolments only or tailor-made programmes for people with disabilities.

New applicants refers to those who have not enrolled in the same type and level of training courses or recreation activities in the past 12 months.

Successful applicants will receive emails plus notifications through SmartPLAY, while electronic payments or confirmations should be made through SmartPLAY within the designated period. The system will not inform successful applicants by mail.