Secretary for Home Affairs Tsang Tak-sing has applauded the public for enthusiastically supporting the 2009 East Asian Games and making it a success.

Concluding the event today, he said games participants were happy with the event's arrangements and congratulated Hong Kong on hosting it successfully.

"It is not only an event organised by the Government, but an activity hosted by the whole city," he said, adding a host of public sectors contributed to the success.

Noting it was the first time Hong Kong has hosted an international multi-sports event, Mr Tsang said the games has helped the Government promote sports culture in the city, creating many legendary moments.

"One of the legendary moments is the Hong Kong men's soccer team, with the support from all Hong Kong people, beating its opponents to take the gold medal. Another is Hong Kong athletes achieving their best-ever result in the games, winning 110 medals including 26 gold," he said.

Hosting the opening ceremony on Victoria Harbour was also groundbreaking, he said, adding the Government did a lot of co-ordination work to realise the creative idea which won praise from participating delegations.