Over the past 18 months, the Macao government has made every effort to protect the city and its people from Covid-19 and even under the cloud of an international pandemic, the government has continued to invest heavily in social housing, healthcare, infrastructure projects and Macao’s integration into the Greater Bay Area, particularly Hengqin – a combination that’s radically changing the face of the city.
Staying consistent with our editorial purview, Macao Magazine’s July edition unpacks recent political decisions and events. For instance, we explore new measures to deepen relations between Macao and Guangdong in Hengqin, as well as a large exhibition organised by the government to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Communist Party of China.
At the socio-cultural level, this edition highlights Beijing’s decision to include Macanese cuisine, Patuá theatre, and the beliefs and customs of Tou Tei on its National List of Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Continuing our ode to culture, we also visit a fascinating museum: the Xian Xinghai Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to Macao-born musician Xian Xinghai. Best known for his ‘Yellow River Cantata’, the famous classical composer gained a following in China and Russia in the 20th century.
Hundreds of years after the Portuguese introduced the art to Macao, it’s once again seeing a revival thanks to support from local institutions. Contemporary culture also takes centre stage with local manga artists whose work has elevated Macao’s reputation as a hub of creativity across the region, as well as raised awareness on the Public Security Police’s crime prevention work. In terms of gastronomy, we tell the story of the century-old Chinese pastry shop, Pastelaria Fong Kei, which is now recognised as a must-visit landmark in Taipa Village.
Turning an eye on the current situation, we also applaud the government’s recent decision to test all the population to guarantee that the virus have not spread in the community and the efforts to increase Covid-19 vaccination rates – an initiative that’s been supported by civil society, companies and social groups alike.
Finally, an inspiring story that speaks to humankind’s relentless pursuit of progress and adventure. We chronicle the experience of Portuguese pilots who, in 1987, made the first aerial journey between Portugal and Macao. Their single-engine plane still rests in Seac Pai Van Park park in Coloane today.
*Photo by Cheong Kam Ka
