Macao ushered in the Year of the Snake back in February, along with the rest of China and many other places around the world. There may have been extra notes of both anticipation and reflection to the holiday in the Special Administrative Region (SAR), however. For the Chinese New Year came on the heels of an incredibly celebratory end of the calendar year.

The SAR commemorated the 25th anniversary of its return to the motherland in late December, marked by a special visit from President Xi Jinping. Decorations for the jubilee were still up on some city streets, intermingling with the red lanterns and snake-themed adornments of the Chinese New Year. Memories of Xi’s time here remained fresh. 

The anniversary also saw Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai start his term as leader of Macao’s government. In his Chinese New Year message to the public, Sam noted that the snake symbolises wisdom, sensitivity, flexibility and auspiciousness in the Chinese zodiac. Having expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Macao’s residents, civil servants and the Central Government, Sam urged the population to join hands and embrace the Year of the Snake together.

“With our creative and innovative thinking and our willingness to reform in order to cope with changes, we will seize all opportunities and pave our way for the future,” he said.

Testament to Sam’s belief in solidarity, the chief executive personally marked the new year with a lengthy walk through the city. Along the way, he engaged with the public, wishing them happiness and success in their endeavours. 

His tour took in Conde de São Januário Hospital, border checkpoints, and parts of both Macao Peninsula and Taipa. Wherever he went, he encouraged people to participate wholeheartedly in the latest chapter of Macao’s development. 

The chief executive received positive feedback regarding government initiatives and reiterated his commitment to improving the region’s economic and social conditions, in line with plans set by the Central Government. As Macao entered the new year, Sam made it clear his focus would be on collaboration and progress.