Hong Kong Jockey Club has achieved another first, being given the highest level of accreditation for responsible betting by the World Lottery Association (WLA) for a fifth time.

The club was the first organisation in Asia to be recognised as having reached Level 4 in 2011, and was recertified in 2015, 2018, 2021, and again this year, becoming the first in the region to hit that mark five times in a row.

In a statement released on Thursday, the club said the accreditation underscored its “unwavering commitment to promoting responsible gambling in support of Hong Kong government policy”.

“Indeed, responsible gambling is an essential component of the club’s integrated business model through which racing and responsible sports wagering generate substantial tax contributions, charity support and employment opportunities for Hong Kong,” the statement said.

“Above all, it reflects the club’s determination to protect the community from the dangers of illegal gambling.”

According to the WLA’s guidelines, the top level of accreditation requires an organisation to incorporate their commitment to responsible gaming in their daily operations, while also consistently evaluating and improving any associated initiatives.

During the most recent recertification process, the WLA’s independent assessment panel commended the club for the “quality, scope and strategic alignment demonstrated throughout its submission, reflecting a mature and deeply embedded commitment to responsible gambling across the club.

“The panel particularly commended the club’s stringent internal responsible gambling governance and improvement mechanisms, including the establishment of a responsible gambling committee,” the club’s statement said. “The club was also recognised for its sustained efforts to prevent gambling-related harm among underage and young individuals covering a wide range of age groups.”