In November 2003, Hong Kong won the right to host the East Asian Games 2009 (2009 EAG). The 2009 EAG Planning Committee was established in June 2004 with a membership of representatives from the Sports Federation and Olympic Committee of Hong Kong, China, the sports sector, relevant government departments and related sectors in the community including business, banking, tourism and airlines. The committee will plan and prepare for the games, enlist community support, develop publicity and marketing strategy, and advise on the venues and facilities.

The committee launched a series of exhibitions and activities to promote the games in 2005 including the 2009 EAG Emblem Design Competition and the 2009 EAG Slogan Competition. An official website, www.2009eastasiangames.hk, was also launched and a gallery on games with displays featuring the Olympic movement and Hong Kong's sports achievements was established at the Hong Kong Park Sports Centre. Admission to the gallery is free.

The hosting rights of the EAG were formally transferred from Macao to Hong Kong on November 6 at the Macao 4th EAG closing ceremony. The EAG flag was handed over to the Chief Executive, Mr Donald Tsang, in Olympic Square at Hong Kong Park.