The government on Sunday announced a new round of enhancement measures for its “M” Mark System to maximise the benefits of government spending to support high-quality major sports events.

Changes to the scheme – which promotes major sports events held in Hong Kong – will ensure the quality and attractiveness of “M” Mark events, and “strengthens events’ appeal to spectators and visitors as well as enhances economic benefits”, a government statement said.

They include the adjustment of vetting criteria, which will be refined to “better reflect the importance of sports development contribution for major sports events”.

Under such changes, the total funding ceiling for each event will range from HK$6 million to HK$15 million, meaning that not every approved application will receive the maximum funding.

Another enhancement includes the adjustment of selection criteria, to allow the exploration of long-term partnerships with sports events that are able to bring significant economic benefits to the SAR.

Mechanisms for monitoring and reporting on such events will also be strengthened, with organisers required to appoint an independent agent to conduct surveys with participants and visitors and submit reports to evaluate the events’ effectiveness.

Speaking to reporters earlier on Sunday, Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Rosanna Law, said she understands that the public expects government resources to be used more effectively.

She also said improvements to the scheme would help it prioritise major international events, especially those that affect global rankings.