Life in Macao has improved dramatically since Macao’s return to the motherland in 1999. That is thanks to the successful implementation of the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ policy. With the strong support of the Central Government, the Macao SAR’s government and people from all walks of life have worked together to create the best development situation in Macao’s long history.
During a three-day trip to the country’s capital in November, the Central Government officially appointed Sam Hou Fai as Macao’s sixth-term chief executive. In Beijing, President Xi Jinping conveyed his trust in Sam to fully and faithfully implement the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ policy.
Five Golden Lotuses were conferred at an awards ceremony in November, along with more than two dozen other accolades for achievements, contributions and distinguished services to society. Two of the Special Administrative Region’s loftiest institutions – the Holy House of Mercy and Conde de São Januário Hospital – were recognised in this year’s honours, as were a number of Executive Council members.
One of Macao’s most iconic landmarks and a classified historical monument in its own right, the Government Headquarters celebrated the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China and the 25th anniversary of the Macao Special Administrative Region with an open day led by Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng.
Sam Hou Fai has been a guiding force in Macao’s legal system since the early 1990s. Now, after a decisive election result, the former judge is preparing to lead the Special Administrative Region into its sixth-term government. Sam has pledged to champion a dynamic Macao while safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests.
During his National Day speech in October, Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng reflected on the work of the fifth-term government. His words radiated gratitude for the Central Government’s staunch support of the Special Administrative Region, and appreciation for the Macao people.
Macao recently had the honour of hosting a large delegation of the nation’s top-performing Olympians. The national heroes, many of them gold medalists, offered candid advice and encouragement to young residents eager to make their own marks in sporting history.
The annual Feast of Na Tcha pays homage to one of Macao’s most revered deities while offering a vibrant portrayal of the historic traditions, values and beliefs that thrive in the SAR today.
The new Zhuhai Jinwan Civic Art Centre exemplifies the GBA’s commitment to innovative, sustainable architecture, partnering again with Zaha Hadid Architects to build on the region’s growing reputation for bold, forward-thinking design.
When representatives from the 10-member forum met in person earlier this year for the first time in eight years they pledged to cooperate on a raft of new measures – spanning trade, aid, the environment and more.