Lai see and Gifts (issued Tuesday, 17 January)

As Chinese New Year approaches and everyone plans to share wishes of luck and good fortune through “lai see” red packets and tokens of appreciation, we know our Members are especially generous in spirit and often wish to show their gratitude to our staff. We would like to provide some guidance on the most appropriate way to do so.

Members visiting the Clubhouses and Racecourses are welcome to give nominal amounts, but are also reminded that the giving of lai see is strictly discretionary -- Members' appreciation of our staff is already amply demonstrated through the annual contribution to the Chinese New Year Gratuity Fund. Employees working at Clubhouses and Racecourses (in both Hong Kong and mainland China) may accept lai see within the first 15 days of Chinese New Year only; that is, from 22 January until 5 February 2023 inclusive.

We abide by the Hong Kong government’s Prevention of Bribery Ordinance which prohibits our acceptance of gifts, rewards, cash tips, or advantages, which otherwise could lead to sanctions against the Club employee, Member or guest. However, as the giving of lai see packets at Chinese New Year is recognised as an important tradition, a temporary exception is made during the above period.

Also, to protect our employees fully from any appearance of a Prevention of Bribery Ordinance infraction, they are required to declare lai see over $500 and the excess amount is contributed to the Chinese New Year Gratuity Fund for the benefit of all staff.

The Club has already instructed all employees that under no circumstances should they solicit lai see. If you should happen to receive a solicitation, please let us know immediately.

Our intention with this policy is to allow Members and staff to fully enjoy the time-honoured spirit of lai see giving while ensuring the highest standards of integrity.