Riichi Mahjong Meetups Tournament Update Announcement

Dear Mahjong Enthusiasts,

The Hong Kong Mahjong Association team is implementing updates to the competition structure for both the A and B divisions of the Riichi Mahjong Meetups Tournament. We hope these changes will enhance the competition experience for everyone. As the tournament is a platform beloved by many, we aim to better meet your needs through these adjustments. Below are the details of the updates:

Noise Control in the Venue

Recently, some private groups have caused excessive noise, affecting the experience of other participants. To maintain order and ensure all participants can focus, we will take stricter measures to control noise levels. We kindly ask everyone to comply with venue regulations and maintain a quiet, professional competition environment. Violators may face warnings or other disciplinary actions.

Prohibition of Gambling Invitations

The association strictly prohibits any participant from inviting others to engage in gambling activities within the venue, whether inviting general attendees or private guests. If such behavior is discovered, the individuals involved may be expelled. We hope all participants will help maintain a fair and just competitive environment by adhering to the association's rules.

Tournament Updates

Unified Competition Rules

The A and B divisions will adopt a unified set of "Hong Kong Mahjong Association Riichi Mahjong Meetups Tournament Rules."

A Division: Starting points at 30,000 and return points at 35,000.
B Division: Starting points at 25,000 and return points at 30,000.

Both divisions will implement negative point continuation. This adjustment aims to simplify the rules and create consistent competition standards between the two divisions, facilitating better communication and competition among players.

Time Limit for Matches

Each hanchan will now have a time limit of 60 minutes plus one final round. This change is intended to reduce unnecessary waiting times, increase player participation rates, and allow every competitor to showcase their skills fully.

Seasonal Reform

The tournament will shift to a monthly competition system. The minimum number of hanchans will be adjusted to:

A Division: 9 hanchans
B Division: 16 hanchans

This adjustment is expected to provide more flexibility and allow players to gain more experience through shorter but more frequent competitions.

Promotion and Relegation Mechanism

To increase competitiveness and motivation, the bottom three players in the A Division will be relegated each month, while the top three players in the B Division will be promoted to the A Division. We believe this will encourage players to continuously improve their skills and feel a sense of achievement in the competition.

Match Day Adjustments

To make it more convenient for players to participate on holidays, starting next season, tournament matches will also be available on Saturdays and Sundays. The previously scheduled "National Mahjong Club Ranking Matches" will not be canceled, and players may inquire with the staff for table arrangements.

Fee Adjustment

Per Hanchan Fee: Reduced to HKD $50 per session.
Maximum Fees:
- Monday to Thursday: Maximum HKD $140
- Friday, Saturday, Sunday: Maximum HKD $160

Monthly Competition Rewards

Starting in April, the top three players in each monthly competition will receive the following rewards:

Champion: 60 Credits (HKD $360)
Runner-up: 40 Credits (HKD $240)
Third Place: 20 Credits (HKD $120)

We sincerely hope these changes will gain your understanding and support. These improvements aim not only to enhance the quality and competitiveness of the matches but also to create a fair and enjoyable competition environment for all participants.

Thank you for your continued support and dedication. If you have any feedback, feel free to contact the Hong Kong Mahjong Association.

We look forward to seeing your exciting and competitive performances in future matches!

Best regards,

Hong Kong Mahjong Association

Riichi Mahjong Meetups Tournament Team

March 28, 2025