China and Portugal jointly support Macao’s role in the Belt and Road Initiative p.6

US$2.3 billion in subsidies for Macao in 2019 p.32

Up close and personal with Macao’s precious art p.66

Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 01/2019 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019

Contents

From the Editor 2018 Golden Lotus award winner 05 A decade of showcasing 46 The highest honours in Macao Macao to the world for outstanding contributions

Politics Economy

Portugal's place in China's Macau Oasis and “Happy Sports China Plan” 06 Belt and Road Initiative 50 Transforming Macao’s parks President Xi Jinping visits Portugal into innovative destinations to build stronger co-operation

Macao to hold crucial position in Culture 16 Portuguese­‑Chinese relations Exclusive interview with Portuguese Central library of Macao President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa 56 Local architect Carlos Marreiros plans to rejuvenate the Old Court Building Macao strengthens participation 20 in Belt and Road Initiative South Korean film Clean Up wins New agreement between Macao and National 62 at Macao film festival Development and Reform Commission Red carpet rolled out for acclaimed directors and performing talents

China Up close and personal 66 with Macao’s precious art Magnificent artwork on display Zhaoqing given new lease at Macao's hotels 24 of life by Greater Bay Area Discovering the potential of Zhaoqing as a resourceful destination History

Social Affairs Grandson of Macao gambling mogul 76 publishes biography Adrian Fu shares the rollercoaster life Macao government to spend of his late grandfather Fu Tak Iam 32 US$2.33 billion on subsidies in 2019 Chief Executive Chui Sai On’s 2019 Policy Address during his final year in office Zoom Honing talents through the STEM path 36 A new avenue to promote 2018 Macao International Parade talent among local students 83 “Love, Peace, and Cultural Integration” Over 150,000 people join to celebrate 19th Anniversary of Macao’s handover to China

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Macao Magazine 50 January 2019

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Director Copy Editor Translator Victor Chan Chi Ping Anna O’Connor John Bradford

Executive Editor Designer Lead Photographer Amelia Leong Man Ieng Fernando Chan António Sanmarful [email protected] Editor Photographers Eva Lei Sao Iok Contributing Writers Cheong Kam Ka Andrea Lo Eric Tam Publisher Annie Lao José Martins Government Information Bureau (GCS) Cathy Lai Leong Vai Keong of the Macao SAR Christian Ritter Mércia Gonçalves 15th Floor, China Plaza Building, Fernando Correia Avenida da Praia Grande, 762 – 804, Macao Hélder Beja Advertising T. +853 2833 2886 F. +853 2835 5426 Jamie Ha [email protected] C [email protected] João Guedes José Carlos Matias Subscriptions M José Luís Sales Marques macaomagazine.net Producer and Distributor Y Macaolink News and Louise do Rosário [email protected] Information Services, Ltd. Luo Xunzhi CM 10th Floor I, The Macau Square, Marco Antinossi Printers MY Av. Infante D. Henrique, 43 – 53A, Macao Maria João Janeiro Welfare Printing Company, Ltd. Macau T. + 853 2835 5315 F. +853 2835 5466 Mark O´Neill CY Otávio Veras ISSN 2076 – 5479 All rights reserved CMY Editor‑in­ ‑Chief­ Ou Nian­‑le Gonçalo César de Sá Paulo Figueiredo Cover Photo K [email protected] Ricardo Neto Chinese President Xi Jinping and Portuguese Sha Kai Sa President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa by Agence Business Development Manager Thomas Chan France‑Presse­ (AFP) Mariana César de Sá [email protected]

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2 3 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019

From the Editor

A decade of showcasing Macao to the world

As the Chinese saying goes, “At 50, de Sousa reaffirms Portugal’s desire I knew my destiny.” Macao Magazine to strengthen its relations with China has yet to reach its 50th year of and to cooperate in the Belt and Road establishment. However, with 50 issues Initiative (BRI). published since October 2009, we have Meanwhile, Macao’s role in the certainly established a purposeful nation’s overall development was path: showcasing the best of Macao to reiterated in the Beijing agreement the world. between Macao and China’s National Through nearly a decade of in­ Development and Reform Commission ‑depth reporting and beautiful (NDRC), as well as President Xi’s photography, Macao Magazine has expectations on developing the city brought to local and international through proactive participation in the readers the very essence of Macao Greater Bay Area and the BRI. – its unique culture and traditions, Macao Magazine has also focused economic development, regional on issues closer to home, showing integration and relationships with the world how Macao has developed foreign countries, particularly within economically and socially based on the Portuguese­‑speaking world. the strong relationships between With the 50th issue, we hold to our communities in the city. This issue mission in addressing global issues sheds light on the new budget that that impact Macao. This includes a proposes MOP2.3 billion in social detailed report on Chinese President Xi support to share the fruits of Macao’s Jinping’s visit to Lisbon, during which success with its people. We also speak the two countries’ leaders agreed on to the architect in charge of designing supporting Macao’s role as a platform the new Central Library of Macao, for Sino­‑Portuguese relations. In an which promises to be a tranquil haven exclusive interview, the President of the for learning and community in the Portuguese Republic Marcelo Rebelo heart of Macao.

ONGRATULATIONS TO ACAULINK ON Gonçalo César de Sá C M Editor­‑in­‑Chief TH THE 50 ISSUE OF MACAO MAGAZINE

4 5 Politics

Portugal’s place in China’s Belt and Road Initiative

Text Paulo Figueiredo Photos Patricia de Melo Moreira/AFP and Xinhua News Agency

Chinese President Xi Jinping and Portuguese 6 President Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa in Lisbon Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Politics

From the outset, the visit to Portugal by according to international rules.” The goals Chinese President Xi Jinping, 4–5 December include promoting the growth of the blue 2018, was regarded by both governments as a economy, by deepening the “blue partnership,” landmark in the existing strategic cooperation. which aims to promote collaboration between Indeed, China’s head of state returned the two countries’ governments, science and to Beijing with assurance of Portugal’s technology sectors, businesses, and general participation in the Belt and Road Initiative public in related fields. (BRI), a position that promises Portugal a In terms of articulation, the two valuable role in the strategy, which is already sides committed to promoting bilateral shaping global connectivity in the 21st century. cooperation guided by the principles of Macao’s own role was also ensured, at the “extensive consultation, joint contribution highest level by both China and Portugal. and shared benefits, with respect for each A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) other’s core interests and deepen mutual signed during the visit solidified Portugal’s trust and beneficial cooperation for common participation in the BRI document lasts for development and prosperity.” This, in five years, and is valid for extension through accordance with their respective international further five­‑year periods unless terminated by obligations and applicable domestic laws and one of the parties. In addition to being a key regulations, ensures the safe and smooth point for the BRI in the Iberian Peninsula – progress of related cooperation projects and Spain shied away from signing a similar MoU promises to energise their economic and social – Portugal emerged from President Xi’s visit development. as a key partner in Europe. In accordance with the concept of The document addresses both countries’ cooperation, development and win­‑win support for synergies between the BRI and progress under the BRI, Portugal and China “priorities defined in the investment plan for also undertake in the MoU to “make full use Europe and the EU Strategy on Connecting of existing bilateral cooperation mechanisms, Europe and Asia, including the Trans­‑European multilateral mechanisms and institutions Chinese and Portuguese delegations meeting Networks, and [welcomes] the outcomes of that they both joined.” Leveraging entities the discussion in the EU­‑China Connectivity including the World Bank, the European Platform.” This should help to allay concerns Bank for Reconstruction and Development, The second – air, land and A Memorandum country, for the BRI. Now, Chinese expressed by Portugal’s European partners the Asian Development Bank, the Asian maritime transport, logistics, and players, working within the BRI, will regarding a harmonious articulation between Infrastructure Investment Bank and effective port infrastructure – will take of Understanding have a word to say over the future China and the EU’s projects. regional cooperation platforms – in particular into account the role of the Port (MoU) signed of Sines, including the new Vasco Under the agreement, the two sides the EU­‑China Connectivity Platform – “to form of Sines and other ports may fill de Gama terminal. According to CL will work together within the BRI to realise synergy and provide each other support.” in the implementation of the BRI, during the visit Brief, contacts are open between the goal of enhancing development and Stating their will to “promote global given their “privileged geographic solidified Portugal’s the Portuguese government and translating mutual complementary strengths connectivity in sectors of common interest position,” realising Portugal’s Chinese maritime operator COSCO into advantages for practical cooperation in an harmonious, balanced and respectful wish to give its ports a major role participation in corporation, among others. and sustainable growth. They also agreed manner,” Portugal and China established in the initiative. the Belt and Road Development of air transport to strengthen cooperation and promote seven key areas of cooperation. The first – Prior to the signing of the links between the two countries Europe­‑Asia connectivity, in part by jointly policy coordination – will complement all agreement, the Portuguese Initiative. will also be fostered, according to establishing “an economic cooperation subsequent cooperative actions, ensuring government was already in full actual market demands, as well framework which is open, inclusive, balanced, that both countries adopt policies aimed at steam promoting the use of the Sines as strategic rail connections, as fair, transparent and beneficial to all, achieving their shared goals. port, located in the southwest of the foreseen in the bilateral agreement.

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further states the two countries’ private capital, “provide investment determination to actively and financing support through cooperate on investment projects diversified models, and strengthen in the electric mobility sector in exchanges and cooperation to Portugal. ensure safety of the projects.” The sixth cooperation area is Factors like the sustainability of finance, encouraging respective debts will be considered when financial institutions to “provide mobilising funds. financing support and financial services for production capacity, 500 years in 24 hours investment and trade cooperation.” Portugal and China also established President Xi’s whirlwind the goal of strengthening 24­‑hour visit to Lisbon began with exchanges between their currency Portuguese President Marcelo and financial regulators. Rebelo de Sousa inviting him to The final area of cooperation feel “at home” in the capital. covers people‑to­ ‑people­ The official visit, which de connectivity. This includes Sousa will reciprocate in April sister cities networks, education, 2019, also served to highlight culture, health, tourism and public 40 years of bilateral diplomatic welfare, among others, through relations between the two the enhancement of cooperation countries whose ties, with Macao at between local governments, media, the epicentre, are now more than think tanks, and youth. 500 years old. Beyond defining areas, the MoU Capturing newspaper also sets out modes of cooperation, headlines and live on Portuguese including high­‑level visits and news channels, the visit by the exchange mechanisms, currently Chinese head of state took place in place or to be created, all with in an atmosphere of official pomp, the aim of “building a multi­‑tiered but also popular participation: information sharing platform the Chinese community residing for communication, increasing in Portugal mobilised in large transparency, and encouraging numbers to support Xi at the participation of people in all main public moments of the visit, sectors of society.” The sides including the military parade in further committed to carry out joint front of the Jerónimos Monastery, plans, economic and technological the visit to the National Assembly President Xi Jinping and his wife Peng Liyuan received a warm welcome from President Rebelo de Sousa exchanges and cooperation, joint with military honours and even research and pilot programmes in the arrival at the Hotel Ritz in key areas, as well as information central Lisbon, which served The third area of cooperation established In the energy sector, the fourth area of ‑way investment and trade sharing, capacity building, as the Chinese president’s in the MoU signed during Xi’s visit is cooperation, the two countries will combine flow.” The agreements seeks personnel exchanges, and training. headquarters for the duration of mobility and connectivity, with both sides forces namely through the exchange of to “further deepen investment, To support the implementation his visit. committing to enhance initiatives aimed knowledge and experience in the integration trade and industrial cooperation, of major programmes, such as Supporters wore flags of both at promoting R&D, production and use of of renewables, sustainable and smart as well as cooperation in related infrastructure, energy, transport countries and carried bright red electric vehicles, as well as the setting up electricity transmission, as well as in grid third country markets,” which and digital programs under posters with phrases in Chinese of other energy­‑efficient infrastructure and management. bodes well for the Portuguese­ the BRI, the two sides set out extolling Xi. In conversation intermodal transport solutions, including the The fifth area of cooperation, trade and ‑speaking countries, many of to “explore mutually beneficial with journalists, they expressed establishment of strategic rail connections investment, promotes both “on the basis whom are actively seeking outside models of cooperation,” in enthusiasm for the high­‑level with the Trans­‑European Transport Network of a level playing field, and internationally investment and development. accordance with market principles. understanding between the two and the sustained development of direct air agreed upon norms and standards, market Tying back into previously They will also work to promote countries, as well as satisfaction transport links. rules, with a view to expanding the two­ mentioned areas, this section cooperation between public and with Portugal as a host country.

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Bilateral negotiations were Celebrating the 20 years of The objectives for the near Speaking at a press conference ongoing during the visit and Macao’s administration return to future are clear: to maintain the along President Xi, Prime Minister culminated on 5 December with China in 2019, the final declaration trend of frequent high­‑level visits; Costa reiterated his government’s the signing of a joint declaration also highlights the role of the hub and to strengthen exchanges wish – which had already been at the Palace of Queluz (known as for the Lusophone community, between governments, parliaments, expressed by his Economy minister the “Portuguese Versailles” for recognising “the remarkable political parties, and at local level – to receive “new root investments its luxurious interiors) outside development successes” that between peoples by generating by Chinese companies” in the of Lisbon. The set of bilateral the MSAR has achieved since “understanding and mutual support production sector. Several industrial agreements between the two its inception and emphasising on matters of vital interest,” and logistic parks all over the countries address a number of “Macao’s important role in the explained Xi. The ultimate goal, country, namely in Sines, have important topics, from climate Luso­‑Chinese relationship.” he said, is “to continually raise the expressed interest in receiving change to trade. The two countries expressed level of mutual trust.” them. Those in the Portuguese “a willingness to strengthen Without explicitly referring business and scientific community Macao’s role as a bridge and link Both leaders were to the biggest deal that currently with ties to China were particularly to promote Portugal­‑China long­ involves companies from pleased with the seventh article ‑term friendship,” in addition to “a effusive in expressing both countries – China Three of the document which states that willingness to continue to support their satisfaction with Gorges (CTG) offer to acquire “Portugal welcomed and expressed Macao’s role as a service platform for the capital of EDP (Energias de its interest in participating” in the trade cooperation between China and Portugal’s cooperation Portugal) – Costa underlined the Belt and Road Initiative. Portuguese­‑speaking countries.” in the BRI, which government’s openness to the The MoU on this initiative The same recognition is “reinforcement of investment [by “enshrines the deepening of the extended to Forum Macao, 15 years already includes Chinese companies] in assets political dialogue and promotes after its establishment, with the Eastern European where [they] have been investing sustainable connectivity between two countries reiterating their in Portugal.” The Portuguese Europe and Asia in the field of commitment to the implementation countries like government has already given its transport,” in particular “through of the fruits achieved in their Hungary and Greece approval for the takeover of EDP the development of direct Ministerial Conferences, and to by CTG, valued at EUR9.07 billion strategic free and fair trade, closer continue to promote pragmatic in the Mediterranean. (US$10.28 billion), although it cooperation and understanding cooperation in all matters with still has to be approved by the between peoples in areas of concrete actions within the “We will insist on the spirit of regulatory authorities of countries common interest, on a harmonious, framework of the Forum. openness, inclusiveness and shared where the Portuguese company is balanced, and respectful basis of After a lunch with Portuguese interests; create more synergies present, namely those in Europe international commitments equally Prime Minister António Costa between development strategies; and North America. accepted by each of the parties.” at the Palace of Queluz, and the reinforce the construction of the BRI With Portugal’s public debt The two sides also reaffirmed their signing of almost two dozen and successfully implement existing still high at over 125 per cent of interest in fostering cooperation official and business agreements, projects; improve cooperation GDP, the Portuguese government with third countries in regions Xi described the visit as “a great mechanisms; expand collaboration also welcomed the suitability of such as Africa and Latin America. success,” which has “[engendered] areas; and jointly explore third party Portuguese bonds emission in yuan, This point perfectly driving forces for the development markets,” he said. after the Chinese rating agency, encapsulates the aspiration of of the bilateral strategic For Portugal, which is still Dagong, gave its green light to such the Portuguese government – partnership.” recovering from the 2011 economic financial operations. and a large part of the business “As we feel the bilateral crisis, inclusion in the BRI promises Both leaders were effusive in community – to bring to Portugal relationship is at its best point to make the country more central in expressing their satisfaction with infrastructure projects linked in history, we will seize the 40th global transport and logistics routes, Portugal’s cooperation in the BRI, to BRI, while also incorporating anniversary of bilateral relations as taking advantage of its strategic which also includes countries like scientific initiatives by creating a new point of stability to deepen location in the Atlantic region. It Hungary and Greece. bases for cooperation. The explicit our friendship and cooperation also increases the country’s status As President Xi Jinping flew reference to cooperation with and elevate our global strategic as an investment destination for away from Lisbon, he could be Africa and Latin America not only partnership to a new level,” said Chinese companies, which already assured that he now had in Portugal advantages Portugal, but Macao the Chinese president, speaking have a significant presence in key another BRI partner, facing the and the rest of the Portuguese­ against the bright red background sectors such as energy, banking, Atlantic, and with direct links to ‑speaking world. of the two countries’ flags. insurance and health. Africa and South America.

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Chinese President Xi Jinping and Portuguese Prime Minister António Costa

A flurry of deals

Located in the heart of the Atlantic, the Azores laboratory spread across three facilities in China archipelago is set to become a central point for (Shanghai) and Portugal (Peniche and Matosinhos). Portuguese­‑Chinese cooperation. The project, set to open in March, aims to develop Terceira Island, home to the Portuguese Air Force technologies and engineering systems to improve the base Lajes Field, is the focal point for both countries. knowledge, management, and sustainable exploita- According to Prime Minister António Costa, Portugal tion of oceans and space. Over the next five years, is open to China using the base, which has seen a the two Portuguese facilities will use a joint EUR50­ drawn down of US forces in recent years. ‑million (US$56.68 million) investment by both coun- China has expressed interest in Portugal’s Atlantic tries to manufacture microsatellites; CAS is already a International Research – or AIR – Centre in the Azores, leading investor in the sector worldwide. which monitors climate change and its effects, par- In terms of business cooperation, Chinese e­‑com- ticularly on the Atlantic and surrounding countries. merce platform Alibaba took centre stage in the Research conducted there aims to contribute to a wake of Xi’s visit to Portugal, signing a deal with more sustainable future, and to generate jobs for a Portuguese trade agency AICEP to place Portuguese local economy hit hard by the partial withdrawal of products on its e­‑marketplace. Alibaba also presented the US. its widely used payment service Alipay, now available While not part of the initial workshops to estab- for Portuguese businesses, while in Lisbon. lish the AIR Centre, China was represented at the More than a dozen business deals were signed High­‑level Industry­‑Science­‑Government Dialogue in during the Chinese president’s visit. AICEP also signed April 2017 and sent a delegation from the Chinese an agreement with China’s biggest food distribution Ministry of Science and Technology and the Chinese company that will create a service centre for Europe Academy of Sciences (CAS) to the Azores in December in Matosinhos. Other deals include those between 2017. The Portuguese government regards China and EDP and China Three Gorges; REN and its shareholder India as important partners for the AIR Centre. State Grid; and Portuguese state bank CGD and Bank Another point for scientific cooperation will be of China, which will combine for the issuance of so­ STARlab, a research and technological development ‑called panda bonds from Portugal, in yuan.

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Macao to hold a crucial position in Portuguese­‑Chinese relations

Text Paulo Figueiredo Photos Rui Ochoa

In an exclusive interview with Macao Magazine, the President of the Portuguese Republic, Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, speaks about relations with China, the role that Macao continues to play, and the opportunities for Portuguese entrepreneurs in the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative.

This will be a year of commemorations. a festival of Portuguese culture in China and What are the main lessons to learn from the another one of Chinese culture in Portugal. four decades of diplomatic relations between The main lessons to learn are the same Portugal and China, and the two decades ones we had learned during more than 500 of Macao’s integration into the People’s years of relations between Portugal and Republic of China? Chinthat respecting the inherent differences Indeed, 2019 will mark 40 years since of each nation’s culture and lifestyle Portugal and China re­‑established diplomatic ensures that there is plenty of space for all relations. Despite being the oldest such ties the interests and prospects that bring us between a Western European country and China, together. We do not have to be the same to they had been circumstantially interrupted understand each other, and we understand between 1949 and 1979. It will also mark 20 years each other well and with mutual esteem. since Macao returned to Chinese rule. The resumption of diplomatic ties and What is the significance of Chinese our relations over the last 40 years are very President Xi Jinping’s visit to Portugal in positively appraised by both China and 2018? And what are the objectives of your Portugal, as well as how we negotiated and visit to China in 2019? implemented Macao’s retrocession to China. President Xi Jinping’s visit to Portugal was Proof of that common positive assessment is of paramount importance for the vitality and the fact that during the state visit of President strength of the two countries’ relationship. Xi Jinping, the two countries signed a It made a historic contribution to those two commitment to hold, over the course of 2019, aspects, singularly helping enhance contacts

16 Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa, President of the Portuguese17 Republic Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Politics

and commitments to develop partnerships between the two countries’ public and private sectors. Today, we have more agreements and more joint commitments for the future, The ever­‑friendly and special clearly a result of that visit. It was the third relations between Portugal time since we re­‑established diplomatic ties that a Chinese president came to Portugal and China would never have on a state visit, which by itself indicates the happened without Macao’s special attention given to our country by Chinese policy, of which we are naturally unique contribution. very proud and content. Marcelo Rebelo de Sousa

Given the current level of bilateral relations, which both governments consider The future establishment of the to be “at the highest level in their history,” Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay is China’s rising status in the world an Area promises to create one of the world’s advantage for Portugal? biggest markets, open to Portuguese The increasing affirmation of China companies. Is Portugal aware of these new is a result of its own merit, of the arduous opportunities in southern China? and selfless labour of the Chinese people, Portugal and Portuguese entrepreneurs and the persistent choice of development are certainly very aware of this stimulating policies which have brought about economic regional economic integration project in wellbeing and a pace of growth unparalleled what will be one of the world’s most dynamic in the history of China – unparalleled in the regions, there in the Pearl River Delta. world of today. That is why the progressive The population density, productivity, and affirmation of China in the international consumption capacity have already made the scene will always be advantageous for the region one of drivers of the global economy, world as a whole, and certainly for Portugal and all countries and companies naturally as well. Portugal sees many opportunities in pay attention to those figures. this development of China. Chinese companies have invested in Has Portugal known how to benefit sectors of the Portuguese economy such as from the Portuguese­‑Chinese ‘link’ of energy, banking, health, and insurance. Beyond those companies, companies in third countries, The Belt and Road initiative the Macao SAR to project its economy Has Portugal become an important gateway Portugal is surely capable of specifically in Africa and Latin launched by President Xi Jinping and culture, or are there still aspects to for China in the European Union? attracting new investment, ideally America? in 2013 is a major infrastructure improve? Which ones? The Chinese investors you refer to are in other areas and with other more That is a good question to ask and trade connection project, Macao will always hold a very central three: State Grid, which has invested in the industrial characteristics, with the Chinese companies that seek basically oriented toward what we position in the picture of Portuguese­ domestic power distribution network; China the creation of structures from us to develop partnerships in third call ‘Eurasia.’ It is a very promising ‑Chinese relations. The ever­‑friendly and Three Gorges, which has invested in energy the ground up. Finally, we cannot countries. Factors and comparative initiative and has kindled debate special relations between Portugal and production; and Fosun, which has invested forget that Portugal is neither the advantages indicated to us by our about the development of trade and China would never have happened without in banking, insurance, energy, and health. first nor the second nor even the Chinese counterparts usually transport frameworks linking Asia Macao’s unique contribution. On the other These are very important investments in key third ranked destination of Chinese include our deep­‑seated knowledge and Europe, with branches to other hand, the special identity of Macao has areas of our economy and our society. They investment in Europe – we are the of the economic and legal systems continents, namely Africa and created the conditions enabling the Special are investments that result from the fact fifth. We must therefore keep the of those countries and the ease of the Americas. It complements the Administrative Region of China to continue that in the respective tenders the Chinese facts in mind and continue working interpretation and communication European connectivity initiative playing a unique role in China as a platform investors presented proposals that were more based on a rigorous understanding with the respective societies. launched by the European Union, for dialogue with Portugal and with all advantageous for Portugal than those of the of the realities. as well as other partners. Surely, the Portuguese­‑speaking countries. The other interested parties. In other words, they How do you assess the we all stand to gain from the relationship between Portugal and China won due to their own merit and are making a What advantages can importance of China’s new Silk success of these complementary extends beyond the relationship via Macao, major contribution to sustaining employment Portugal, particularly its Road strategy for development initiatives, which should together though Macao can always play a unique role in our country. Like other investors, with economic players, bring to of the global economy and for foment global trade, development, by boosting or optimising that relationship. other origins; all are welcome. partnerships with large Chinese Portugal in particular? and prosperity.

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Macao strengthens participation in Belt and Road Initiative

Text José Luís Sales Marques Photos Government Information Bureau and Xinhua News Agency

With the agreement signed between the Macao government and the National Development and Reform Commission, Macao is ready to strengthen its participation in the Belt and Road Initiative. In early December 2018, A clear priority: development The most innovative aspect of Chief Executive Chui Sai On of Macao’s financial services to the arrangement deals with Macao and National Development and transform itself as a platform becoming an important modal Reform Commission (NDRC) between China and the Portuguese transport, trade, and logistics Chief Executive Chui Sai On (left) and NDRC Chairman He Lifeng (right) Chairman He Lifeng signed an speaking Countries (PSC), centre in the Maritime Silk Road. agreement to support Macao’s “full advancing the internationalisation This objective, not clearly indicated participation and contribution to” of the yuan. There are no specifics before, could take different forms the construction of the Belt and Road on which financial services since it implies moving people Initiative (BRI). will be given priority, although and cargo around in a network of Officially known as the previous statements by the Macao connectivity linking the GBA with “arrangement,” it seeks to foster government point toward further South East Asia and beyond. It also development and reform between development of financial leasing signals that tangible conditions will the NDRC and the government of services, which play into the city’s have to be built up for the purpose, the MSAR, defining priority areas financial strengths. based on historical legacies and where Macao must decisively The MSAR government also immaterial condition the city already move forward and attain results. announced significant fiscal has. In fact, this purpose conveys It also offers new clues as to incentives to boost economic ties in a single stream two features of the contribution expected from between Macao and the PSC for Macao’s history, past and present. Macao, particularly in regard to private businesses, by exempting In centuries past, Macao served the building up of the 21st Century income earned or generated by as a trade hub and a node in the Maritime Silk Road. Macao companies in PSC from trade network linking China with It aims “at giving full play payment of supplementary income North and South Asia, not to mention to Macao’s strengths in serving tax in 2019. Europe by way of Portugal. Intriguing the [BRI], and generating fresh Other areas covered by the then that, a day before the signing of competitive advantages for the arrangement include encouraging said arrangement, President Xi was city and its economy,” according Macao’s participation in regional in Portugal where both governments to a statement from the Macao trade organisations, as well as agreed on Portugal’s participation Government Information Bureau. non­‑sovereign international in the BRI. Xi said in Lisbon that It comes as no surprise that a professional bodies; high­‑level “Portugal is the important junction good deal of measures included forums and international­‑level that links the Silk Road and the in the arrangement are aimed exhibition relating to the promotion Maritime Silk Road,” referring to the at complementing Macao’s of BRI; developing Macao’s role as overland economic corridors and the established strategic roles. a base for multicultural exchange sea route of the BRI. The arrangement clearly promoting Chinese culture; In modern times, Macao’s establishes that Macao will cultivating bilingual Portuguese­ relations with the peoples and “organise the liaison between the ‑Chinese talents; and further countries of South East Asia is service platform and the Belt and promotion of the construction of well known. The city is home to Road Initiative, clearing the path for the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao many families and businesses further developments to take place.” Greater Bay Area (GBA). with links to a whole spectrum of

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cities and regions within this area, as well as strong and massive investments in related infrastructure enterprising communities of mainly Chinese compatriots along six overland economic corridors to Europe of Southeast Asian origin. and maritime routes through the Indian Ocean to Chief Executive Chui described his May 2018 Europe, other regions – including the PSC – could be visit to the Southeast Asian nations of Cambodia and integrated into the BRI in the near future. Thailand as “productive and fruitful, particularly in The BRI is the cornerstone of China’s development terms of expanding Macao’s contribution to the BRI” strategy and foreign diplomacy, connecting its domestic through these key partners. In June 2018, a delegation economic development agenda with its engagement, of mainland and Macao professionals and entrepreneurs at various levels, with the world economy. It is a grand in the construction sector visited Myanmar and Thailand multi‑state­ cooperative project, involving multilateral seeking opportunities to cooperate and invest in and bilateral relations, economy, culture, security, and infrastructure related projects. people­‑to­‑people dialogues. The signing of this new agreement comes With the newly signed arrangement moving into after lengthy, comprehensive consultations and the implementation phase, observers are optimistic background work developed by government and about the Macao government and private sector private think tanks, mostly linked or coordinated furthering the city’s active participation in the to higher education institutions and the Macao BRI as a way to promote economic diversification Foundation. The Macao Silk Road Association and the and international competitiveness, improving the Institute of European Studies of Macau are among the economic wellbeing of its population. President Xi Jinping (right) and Chief Executive of Macao Chui Sai On (left) organisations that contributed to the discussion of Macao’s role in the BRI. The BRI is a comprehensive Chinese strategy of ABOUT THE AUTHOR economic development and international cooperation, José Luís Sales Marque is an economist, President of the Institute President Xi praises Macao’s role in national initiatives involving over 100 countries and organisations. of European Studies of Macau and Vice­‑President of the Maritime Originally focused on building connectivity through Silk Road Association (Macau). Text Christian Ritter Photos Xinhua/Government Information Bureau

President Xi Jinping, during a December 2018 meeting with The arrangement is aimed at complementing Macao’s stra- Meeting between Macao government and NDRC in Beijing Chief Executive Chui Sai On in Beijing, said that over the past tegic roles as a world centre of tourism and leisure, and as a year, the Macao government has improved the institutions and commercial and trade cooperation service platform between mechanisms for safeguarding national security and proactively China and Portuguese­‑speaking countries (collectively known taken part in the development of the GBA and in the BRI. as the Centre and Platform policies). These roles complement The president also said that the Macao government pro- the overall development of the BRI. moted the proper diversification of the local economy and im- High­‑level forums and international­‑level exhibitions proved the livelihood of the residents. He believes that the res- themed on topics relating to the BRI will be held in Macao. The idents of Macao will seize the opportunities, expand the space arrangement also seeks to help develop Macao’s role as a base of development, and foster new drivers of growth by integrat- for multicultural exchanges and cooperation with the goal of ing Macao’s own development into the development of China. further promoting Chinese culture. Xi recalled that, over the past year, the Macao government, Macao will receive backing from the central government to under Chui’s leadership, has faithfully fulfilled its duties, been develop as an incubator for cultivating talents proficient both prudent and steady in its work style, and implemented the in Chinese and Portuguese. “one country, two systems” policy and the Macao Basic Law. The Macao government officials outlined the progress of “The central government fully endorses the work by Chui work relating to the city’s contribution to the BRI during the and the MSAR government,” Xi said. conference, where several ideas and policies designed to ad- vance such an effort were proposed. New deal strengthens role in the BRI According to the agreement, the NDRC and other central authorities will remain in close touch with the Macao govern- Ten days prior to the meeting with President Xi, the ment in order to implement policies outlined in the arrange- Macao government signed an agreement with the National ment and to support Macao’s participation in, and contribution Development and Reform Commission (NDRC) aimed at giving to, the BRI. full play to Macao’s strengths in serving the BRI, and generat- Speaking after the signing, Chief Executive Chui said that the ing fresh competitive advantages for the city and its economy. agreement paved a clear path for Macao’s contribution to the BRI Chief Executive Chui and NDRC Chairman He Lifeng signed and provided new impetus for Macao’s economic development. the deal in Beijing, after which the two sides held the first joint Chui pledged that the local government would spare no conference to coordinate works under the new agreement. effort in advancing cooperation with Guangdong and Fujian Under the document signed, Macao is to become as a ma- provinces, concerning joint contributions to the BRI, while also jor transport hub and important logistics centre of the 21st encouraging further involvement from Portuguese­‑speaking Century Maritime Silk Road. countries regarding the Chinese initiative.

22 23 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 China

China Zhaoqing given new lease of life by Greater Bay Area

Text Mark O'Neill Photos Eric Tam Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 China

Inclusion in For the city of Zhaoqing, inclusion in the Greater Bay Area (GBA) Initiative Natural strengths wealth. It is the most important Looking to the future promises the opportunity to catch up with other cities in Guangdong that gold producer in the province, the GBA offers developed faster during the reform area. Zhaoqing not only has the with mines concentrated in Gaoyao Zhaoqing has six key traditional Zhaoqing the Located in the central­‑western part of Guangdong province, most of largest land area within the GBA, district, and Huaiji and Fengkai industries: textiles and garments, Zhaoqing sits north of the Xijiang River, nestled between plains and mountains. its soil is less contaminated by counties. Its non­‑metallic mines food and beverages, furniture, chance to develop It has the largest land area of any city in the GBA, coming in just under 15,000 sq industrial pollution. It can meet include limestones for flux and building materials, metal products, more rapidly, km, with a population of 4.12 million. With a GDP of CNY220 billion (US$31.93 the demand of middle­‑class GBA gypsum, granite for overcoating and home appliances. In total, billion) in 2017, it accounted for only 2.45 per cent of the province’s GDP. residents for high­‑quality and and construction, porcelain clay, these six industries contributed 33 partnering Zhaoqing is, along with Jiangmen, the least developed of the 11 GBA cities. specialty foods. These residents ink­‑stone, mineral and geothermal per cent of the city’s value­‑added with its richer While both cities boast a per capita GDP above the national average in China, also want new leisure activities, like water. It leads the nation in industrial output in 2017. they fall well below that of Shenzhen and Guangzhou, as well as the unofficial weekends away, scenic tours, and production of ink­‑stone, a unique The city’s 13th Five Year Plan neighbours to offer threshold for developed countries. The two SARs, by comparison, have per second homes. It has spectacular ornamental stone. (2016–2020) designated five complementary capita GDPs well above many developed countries. scenery. Dinghu Mountain, Zhaoqing also boasts a well­ industries as priorities for future Although manufacturing is a staple for Zhaoqing, primary industry – located in the south­‑eastern part ‑development transport system, development: new materials products and agriculture, forestry, and fisheries – account for 14.8 per cent of its GDP, more of Zhaoqing, was the first nature with eight external ports. Its industries, high­‑end new­‑type services. than any other GBA city. Conversely, the service sector makes up a far smaller reserve in China and is listed New Port is one of the 28 most electronic information industries, per cent of the GDP than other GBA cities, at 38.3 per cent. by UNESCO as an international important inland ports in China. biomedicines, advanced equipment Inclusion in the GBA offers Zhaoqing the chance to develop more rapidly, biosphere reserve. With its natural It has three national expressways, manufacturing, and energy­‑saving partnering with its richer neighbours to offer complementary products and beauty and property prices among plus three more in the pipeline, and eco­‑friendly industries. services. Each city in the GBA belongs to a cluster of two to three cities centred the lowest of GBA cities, Zhaoqing is and two high­‑speed railways, with It is developing three industrial around a stronger ‘core’ city to encourage stability and growth. Zhaoqing, well positioned to meet these needs. an intercity railway connecting clusters worth over CNY100 billion along with Foshan, is clustered around Guangzhou, which boasts a GDP nearly The mountains of Zhaoqing it directly with Foshan and (US$14.51 billion) that specialise nine times that of Zhaoqing, at CNY1.95 trillion (US$283 billion). also hold considerable mineral Guangzhou. in the areas of the advanced

Seven Star Crags equipment manufacturing, focusing on new energy vehicles, as well as environmental protection equipment and intelligent equipment. Each of these clusters will eventually produce goods worth hundreds of billions of yuan. The city is also looking to promote cloud computing, Big Data, and industrial robotics in order to boost the smart capabilities of its manufacturing sector and to improve its overall technology. In agriculture, Zhaoqing’s Huaiji county is one of Guangdong’s primary grain production bases. The 13th Five­‑Year plan calls for adoption of the “internet + agriculture” production and operational mode, harnessing new technologies to modernise farming. Capabilities range from collection and analysis of data on things like crop yields and weather conditions, to e­‑commerce and the development of more specialised farm products for consumers in the Pearl River Delta.

26 27 Zhaoqing’s cityscape

Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 China

Economic performance the earliest contact point for the When the centre of power Maritime Silk Road during the shifted to Guangzhou in the late In January 2018, in his annual Western Han dynasty (206BC–9AD). Qing dynasty (1644–1911), the city report on the city’s economy, Mayor Several hundred and up to 1,000 went into decline. Fan Zhongjie said that Zhaoqing’s years ago, the county of Huaiji, GDP in 2017 was CNY220 billion also in Zhaoqing, was an important Passed over by (US$31.93 billion), an increase of trading point on the Maritime Silk manufacturing boom 5.2 per cent over the year before, Road. with an average per capita GDP of The first European­‑style map With the growth of trade in CNY53,674 (US$7,790). He said that in Chinese originated from the Macao, which linked Guangzhou industrial added­‑value, fixed asset city, published by a Jesuit priest and the PRD to the intercontinental investment and retail spending rose named Matteo Ricci in 1584. The and trans­‑Pacific Ocean trade by 4.9, 9, and 10.6 per cent year­‑on­ map aroused enormous interest routes, the export economy ‑year respectively. among the residents who learned of production and services in He reported that the 366 for the first time of countries that Guangzhou prospered at the Industrial Development Project they had never heard before. Two expense of Zhaoqing. Over the was proceeding smoothly, with an years earlier, in 1582, an agreement following centuries, Guangzhou increase in the proportion of GDP signed in Zhaoqing established expanded into a world metropolis; of the three priority industries: new the Portuguese trading centre of it is the centre of the PRD and energy vehicles, modern equipment Macao; Ricci was living in Macao at connected by railways, sea, and air manufacturing, and environmental the time. to a much larger hinterland than protection and energy saving. Zhaoqing served as the seat the regional economy. Traditional industries accounted of the provincial governorship Meanwhile, Zhaoqing was for one­‑third of the increase in of Guangxi and Guangdong, a relegated into a provincial town industrial added­‑value in 2017. position it held for nearly 200 years lying idle on the outskirts of Production of furniture rose and of beginning in the 16th century. Guangzhou. The Xijiang River construction materials, 6.1 and 17.5 During this period, it was the centre and its tributaries were unable to per cent respectively, while textile of south China, largely due to the help Zhaoqing to modernise and and garment production fell 18.5 inland water navigation system that industrialise. per cent. linked Zhaoqing at the Xijiang to The export­‑oriented Retail sales rose 10.6 per cent to waterways in Guangxi and the north industrialisation drive of the PRD CNY80.99 billion (US$11.75 billion). and downstream to Guangzhou and over the last three decades centred Exports fell 28 per cent to US$22.23 the Pearl River Delta (PRD) region. on the relocation of industrial billion and imports fell 9 per cent Its importance in trade stemmed processing manufacturing from to US$13.57 billion. Contracted from its prosperous agrarian Hong Kong and beyond, using an foreign investment fell 80.2 per and craft economies that had for army of migrant peasant workers cent to US$267 million and actual thousands of years specialised in from all over China. The export foreign investment fell 51.1 per cent stationery, textiles and handicrafts, nature of the industrialisation to US$181 million. The number of and later in sugar; these were concentrated manufacturing in visitors rose 2.4 per cent to 519,400. commodities sold to the rest of the areas bordering Hong Kong; this The average disposable income country as well as for export. Its made Shenzhen, Dongguan, and of the city’s residents in 2017 was local population density had been Guangzhou the ‘world factory’ for CNY22,360 (US$3,245), an increase higher than that in the Guangzhou labour‑intensive­ products. of 8.7 per cent. area for centuries. There was no significant Its military strategic location industrial spillover to peripheral From Ancient to – at the junction of the PRD plains Zhaoqing. In recent years, when Modern Silk Road and the Dinghu Mountain of industrial processing has seen cost the Dayunwu Mountain Range inflation and depressing external When the West first encountered – also allowed it to lead the local demand and many foreign­ China, Zhaoqing served as the hub government to face the challenges ‑invested firms in Dongguan, of the famed Silk Road. The county of pirates and the newly arrived there was no chance for less of Fengkai, part of Zhaoqing, was European maritime powers. competitive firms to relocate to

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Seven Star Crag Scenic Area

C

M Zhaoqing. Its local cost structure Remaking its economic future a national leisure and tourist resort. Y and policy regime were not Zhaoqing has a good ecological attractive enough to compete The development of the GBA environment, large space for CM with overseas low­‑cost production marks a new economic era in development and rich tourism MY centres like Vietnam, Indonesia the region, one that promises resources. Only a fraction of its CY and, more recently, Myanmar Zhaoqing many new opportunities. total land area – just 5 per cent – has and Bangladesh. The miracle of It has been designated as the been developed. Its mountainous CMY the export­‑oriented industrial major supply base of agricultural area includes four counties – K processing manufacturing never products for the GBA, capitalising Fengkai, Deqing, Guangning, and quite reached Zhaoqing. on its plentiful cultivatable land. Huaiji – that cover 72.1 per cent of Beginning in 2003, Zhaoqing Urban residents in the GBA have the city’s land area but have only tried its own industrialisation; become affluent enough to become around half of its population. it developed indigenous heavy more concerned with food safety The city will be greatly helped industry to replace the industrial and freshness, making them an by its excellent transport network processing dominated by ideal market for organic and locally of inter­‑provincial high­‑speed foreign investors. Guangzhou grown food products. railways and expressways. The did the same with some success, Another opportunity is leisure city is only 70 minutes from benefitting from greater human and holidays. Where Macao Guangzhou. It has major highways and capital resources than promises glitz and glamour, connecting to neighbouring Zhaoqing. Zhaoqing provides a more relaxed Foshan and Jiangmen, as well as The push for industrialisation getaway with its lower‑density­ the city section of the Pan­‑Pearl turned out to be a mixed blessing development and natural beauty, River Delta Highway. High­‑speed for Zhaoqing. Heavy industry especially in the mountains railways run north to Guiyang, replaced light industry as the surrounding the city. Perfect for capital of Guizhou province, and engine of growth of the local weekends away in accommodations west to Nanning, capital of the economy; but it was achieved by or a second home, both high Guangxi region. excessive investment – the ratio priorities for the burgeoning This wealth of land links will of fixed asset investment to GDP middle class in the GBA. facilitate the arrival of visitors and has reached over 50 per cent since It is developing the Qixingyan­ tourists, as well as the delivery 2003, with individual counties at ‑Dinghu tourism and leisure area as of Zhaoqing products to markets over 90 per cent in some years. a centre of tourism in the GBA, and elsewhere.

30 31 Social Affairs

Social Affairs security and development interests, Incentives to work, as well as the “grand mission to build, innovate promote Macao’s lasting stability Government subsidies and prosperity.” MOP18.75 billion The Chief Executive also The 61­‑year­‑old Chief Executive, US$2.33 billion announced the continuation of Macao government to spend whose second and constitutionally a string of tax allowances and final consecutive five­‑year term incentives, as well as four new ones US$2.33 billion on subsidies in 2019 ends in December this year, targeted toward facilitating specific delivered the policy address seated goals, including the development next to Legislative Assembly (AL) of the Greater Bay Area (GBA). Text Christian Ritter Infographics Fernando Chan President Ho Iat Seng. Total budget for the year To encourage innovation, Many of the targeted subsidies MOP122.38 billion enterprises will enjoy a triple benefit the most vulnerable in US$15.21 billion reduction in profit for the first Macao – the elderly, people with MOP3 million (US$372,825) of disabilities, and disadvantaged joint venture R&D expenditure, families – while more broad­‑based and a double reduction in profit subsidies go to all permanent and tax for additional expenditure, non‑permanent­ residents. subject to a ceiling of MOP15 Residents’ wealth­‑sharing cash Wealth­‑sharing million (US$1.86 million). handouts were increased by 11 per cash handouts for permanent Waivers of profit tax on cent from MOP9,000 (US$1,118) residents investment income from local to MOP10,000 (US$1,243) for MOP10,000 bonds issued by the mainland permanent and from MOP5,400 US$1,243 authorities and state­‑owned (US$671) to MOP6,000 (US$746) for enterprises (SOEs), and exemption Wealth­‑sharing non‑permanent­ residents. cash handouts for non­ from stamp duty for issuing and This marks the first increase ‑permanent residents acquiring the respective bonds in the cash handout since 2014. MOP6,000 aim to promote the development Chui cited the MOP40­‑billion US$746 of specialised financial services (US$4.97 billion) surplus last in the city. As does a profit tax year, describing the increases as waiver regarding local enterprises’ a means of sharing the fruits of income received or generated in economic development with the Portuguese­‑speaking countries. public. Senior residents’ pensions An increase in the basic Subsidies to seniors and new MOP3,630/month allowance for personal income parents were raised by 5.2 per cent, US$451/month tax for seniors and people with with senior residents’ pensions disabilities, up to MOP198,000 increasing from MOP3,450 Old­‑age allowance (US$24,606), seeks to encourage (US$429) to MOP3,630 (US$451) a MOP9,000 employment among these groups. month and the government’s birth US$1,118 To increase supply in the real allowance increased to MOP5,260 estate leasing market, the property (US$654). Both parents are entitled tax rate for leased properties will to apply at the same time. drop to 8 per cent (non­‑leased Other subsidies continue properties remain at 6 per cent). In his 2019 Policy Address – themed “Seizing Opportunities for unchanged, including those for Government’s birth allowance Chui also announced a raft of Balanced Development” – Chief Executive Chui Sai On announced that his electricity bills, tap water tariffs, MOP5,260 measures on the public housing US$654 government will spend MOP18.75 billion (US$2.33 billion) on subsidies, and bus fare concessions. The front, including the construction an increase of 45 per cent from the 2018 budget. old­‑age allowance will stay at of 28,000 flats in four phases in The total budget for the year, according to the 2019 General Integrated MOP9,000 (US$1,118) per year and the Zone A land reclamation area Budget of Public Expenditure, amounts to MOP122.38 billion (US$15.21 healthcare vouchers, available near the Hong Kong–Zhuhai–Macao billion) with subsidies accounting for about 15.3 per cent of the total. to permanent residents only, will Bridge (HZMB) and 10,000 flats Electricity bills, tap water Speaking to the legislature’s hemicycle, Chief Executive Chui remain at MOP600 (US$75) per tariffs, and bus fare concessions spread across three sites in Macao emphasised that it is Macao’s duty to protect the nation’s sovereignty, person for 2019. subsidies unchanged and Taipa.

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Local focus on national initiatives The recently opened

Chief Executive Chui reiterated HZMB and the broader Macao’s commitment to proactive Permanent residents GBA development participation in the nation’s GBA healthcare vouchers project and Belt and Road Initiative MOP600 concept will be a boom US$75 (BRI). Chui told lawmakers that to Macao’s position the recently opened HZMB and the broader GBA development concept as a world centre for will be a boom to Macao’s position tourism and leisure. as a world centre for tourism and Enterprises leisure, citing examples including Triple reduction in profit for the the launch of multi­‑destination first MOP3 million (US$372,825) of travel initiatives by the tourism joint venture R&D expenditure. stand at MOP554.9 billion (US$80.72 authorities in the 11 GBA cities. Double reduction in profit tax for billion), up nearly MOP50 billion additional expenditure, subject Chui highlighted four areas to a ceiling of MOP15 million over 2017. of possible GBA cooperation: (US$1.86 million) To better withstand the sort innovation and entrepreneurship of Basic allowance for personal of adverse conditions associated young people; mutual recognition income tax for seniors and people with uncertainty, in May 2018 his with disabilities up to MOP198,000. of professional qualifications (US$24,606). government adopted a “defensive by the three GBA jurisdictions investment strategy” concerning C (mainland, Hong Kong, and its fiscal reserves by reducing M

Macao); development of healthcare in its portfolio the proportion of Y industries; and the extension of local investment in stocks to 17 per cent, CM residents’ medical welfare rights to Real estate leasing market from 20 per cent previously. He said MY the other two GBA jurisdictions. Property tax rate for leased the government would continue The government, he said, was properties will drop to 8 per cent to focus its investment strategy on CY (non­‑leased properties remain at studying the feasibility of setting bonds with strong credit ratings and CMY 6 per cent) up a medical insurance scheme yielding high interest rates. K for Macao residents living in other GBA cities and also looking into Joint progress other welfare benefits that could be arranged for Macao residents Public housing front This year marks important living there. Construction of 28,000 flats in milestones for both Macao and the Chui noted that both the local four phases in the Zone A land mainland, Chui noted, with the and Guangdong governments reclamation and 10,000 flats 70th anniversary of the founding spread across three sites in Macao were pleased with the impact and Taipa of the People’s Republic of China of their CNY20 billion (US$2.91 and 20th anniversary of the billion) cooperation development establishment of the Macao Special fund. He vowed his government Administrative Region. would further promote the Chui pledged that Macao development of the Guangdong­ Macao and Guangdong will proactively contribute to the ‑Macao Cooperation Traditional governments cooperation realisation of the Chinese Dream Chinese Medicine Science and development fund of National Rejuvenation and be an Technology Park in Hengqin, as well CNY20 billion engaged participant in the nation’s US$2.91 billion as the establishment of a traditional New Era. Chinese medicine (TCM) museum He stressed that the better and the promotion of the various the mainland’s situation is, the aspects of TCM. better Macao’s situation will be as He also underlined Macao’s Macao’s financial reserves well, underlining the mainland’s solid finances, pointing out that the MOP554.9 billion important role as Macao’s government’s financial reserves US$80.72 billion “backup.”

34 35 Honing talents through the STEM path Text Cathy Lai Photos António Sanmarful Macao’s Pui Ching Middle School finds new ways to promote talent diversity and creates new educational trends among local schools. Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Social Affairs

The LEGO Education Laboratory

A turbulent origin

Pui Ching College originated in Guangzhou in 1889, the first modern school established by Chinese Christians. In its early decades of operation, the school weathered a financial crisis only to come under assault in the Second A visionary take Sino­‑Japanese war. Following the Mukden Incident in 1931, the school be- Arguably originating in the came a local force of resistance against the Japanese inva- US, STEM education dates back sion. Its teachers and students organised rounds of cam- paigns to promote patriotism and raise funds – the school to the mid 90s when entities such even provided a free education to refugee children. as National Research Council However, as military conflicts between China and assisted educators in the country Japan intensified, Pui Ching College was forced to relocate to develop curriculum in STEM to Macao in 1938 in order to maintain the quality of teach- fields by establishing standards ing. It rented parts of Lou Lim Ieoc Garden to host classes. In 1950, Pui Ching College was renamed as Macau Pui and guidelines. It gradually Ching Middle School with Lei Yim Leng as the principal. became a leading trend in the Two years later, sponsored by Chong Chi Kwong and Ho field of education after a number Yin, a prominent Chinese philanthropist in Macao, the of conducive measures such as school purchased the mansion of Lou Lim Ieoc Garden and the Educate to Innovate initiative, parts of the garden to build a permanent campus. Today, the dynamic and spacious campus of Pui Ching launched by the then President Middle School is a far cry from its humble beginning at the The LEGO Education fabrication laboratory, or Fablab – Barack Obama in 2009, which historic garden. Whilst maintaining a Christian influence, Laboratory is one of the most an upgraded version of the LEGO provided billions in additional the school now comprises kindergarten, primary school vibrant learning spaces at the Pui Lab – to build robotic machines, federal funding for STEM education and secondary school, and accommodates an average of Ching Middle School in Macao. develop applications, and prepare programs across the country. 3,000 students and 300 staff. There, you will find colourful for major tech competitions in the In China, STEM education has LEGO models, lab tables and a city and beyond. also gained prominence in recent group of curious students, all Despite its long history, having years due to the country’s rapid around 12 years old, surrounding fled the war in Guangzhou to technological advancement. In their teacher as he explains settle in Macao in 1938, the Pui 2015, Premier Li Keqiang visited the algebraic equations about distance Ching Middle School strives to Chaihuo Makerspace in Shenzhen and speed with robotic cars. stand at the forefront of innovation – one of the first collaborative work You may wonder, is this too through a holistic approach to spaces in China that provides high­ complicated for students at this education. Students of Pui Ching ‑tech electronic equipment such as age? Yet from the eagerness stand out in different areas and 3D printers and laser cutters. Two they expressed while answering frequent the podiums of local months later, ‘makerspace’ debuted questions, the effect of an and overseas contests in sports, in the central government’s annual interactive learning environment literature, and science. work report, being regarded as an is clear: there is no limit to a young But in 2012, Pui Ching found important platform for promoting mind if the teaching is engaging a new avenue to further promote critical skills in the fields of STEM. and motivating. diverse talent among its students: Meanwhile, the government’s Made In a few years’ time, these STEM (science, technology, in China 2025 strategy published students may develop a clearer engineering, and math). When in May of that year laid out a plan to vision for their future. Should it was introduced to the school’s promote innovation­‑led economic they decide to pursue a path academic program, STEM had yet growth, and to change China’s focus of technology, they will join to become a buzzword of education from low­‑cost manufacturing to their senior schoolmates in the in Macao and even across China. innovation, creativity, and design.

38 39 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Social Affairs

Since then, the momentum subject in 2012. The programme The LEGO Education Lab at The programme has become a popular of STEM education has grown was later extended to Primary 5 Pui Ching, launched in 2016, now subject, which today sees applications Underwater Robotics Team stronger than ever, as cities, and 6, from which students will serves as the major STEM teaching from more than 150 students at each level, communities, and schools at acquire fundamental knowledge space for students from Primary making up 60 per cent of the students from all levels respond with various and hands­‑on skills related to 5 to Form 1. Through combining the entire level. However, just as every endeavours. In 2017, Shenzhen, programming, information and mathematics, science and design opportunity needs to be actualised by hard one of China’s leading technology design technology. skill, the students learn to build work, so does an enticing programme hubs, inaugurated the Greater Bay “This is for meeting the needs simple robots with LEGO kits. It require a fair amount of effort to get into. Area Innovation and Science Youth of students with different strengths is also the first experiment base For those who want to embark on a STEM Education Base ( and interests,” explained Kou Kam established within the campus path at Pui Ching, they will need to go 粵港澳大灣區青少年 ). Aiming to recruit Fai, principal of Pui Ching Middle of basic education institutions in through interviews, write short essays, 創新科學教育基地 more than a hundred schools in School since 2006. Such difference, Macao and Hong Kong. demonstrate DIY skills and, inevitably, to the regions, the education base according to Kou, can be observed Vice Principal Chan Keng Lim experience success or failure (if declined). seeks to promote the quality and in students who have just reached is the driving force behind the “We think it is important for them to go integration of STEM education Primary 1: “Some students score STEM programme. He believes through such an experience at an early age within the region. well on exams while others perform that through making their own – to fight for something they desire,” Chan Back in Macao, Pui Ching’s better at cooperation or creativity.” robots, students will develop explained. “This will help them know more response to the tech trend actually As the programme allows students critical thinking habits that drive about themselves, and be better prepared for The way Form 6 student Lam Ian Iong found her passion for engi- began a few years earlier, when to work together on tech projects, the them to ask questions and look for the future.” neering may resonate with a lot of engineer buffs: “I remember I dis- mantled a lot of toys when I was a child. I wanted to understand how STEM education was introduced visionary educator believes that their answers. “We hope that they can they worked, and how to repair them when they ceased to function.” to the curriculum of its Form ability to create, cooperate, and solve have the mind of a scientist and the An unlimited journey When Lam got to secondary school, she found a perfect place for 1 and 2 students as an elective problems will be greatly enhanced. creativity of an artist,” he said. herself in the Underwater Robotics Team. Comprising 30 students from As the students advance to Form 3 at different levels of secondary school, the team specialises in marine ro- Pui Ching, they will be required to choose bot development. One of the major projects is the underwater robot. Equipped with between three main streams – science, arts, four cameras and LED lights, it has a changeable floating system and an or art­‑science stream – a common practice arm that can be mounted with different tools. in most of Macao’s secondary schools. “This is for joining the annual MATE [Marine Advanced Technology However, for those who have developed Education] International ROV competition. We keep optimising the ro- a strong passion for STEM, their journey bot in accordance with the mission assigned by the competition,” Lam Chinese Cultural Arts Gallery explained. “This time, our goal is to make sure that the robot is able to doesn’t end there. collect samples in the water and assist with underwater repair work.” “A lot of people think that the strength of Pui Ching Starting from Form 3, STEM education Meanwhile, the team is also developing an autonomous boat to lies in science and mathematics, but I think we are is streamlined into the art­‑science stream assist in disaster relief, inspired by the typhoons that strike Macao in equally strong in history and culture,” said (uniquely created by Pui Ching to combine summer. “The boat is smaller and faster than the normal one controlled Vice Principal Chan Keng Lim. With subjects from both the science and arts by human,” Li Hei from Form 3 explained. “Equipped with facing scan- strength in both areas, Pui Ching is ning system, it will cruise around the flooded area looking for survivors determined to integrate science fields in one stream). Experiment and and send signals back to the station whenever a survivor is detected.” into Chinese culture. tech projects are conducted at the Fablab, The primary model of the boat is completed and has been sub- For example, since 2017, stu- where students will be exposed to hands­ mitted to Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (Intel ISEF) dents of Pui Ching have been col- ‑on engineering experience from operating for evaluation. lecting spring water around the high­‑tech equipment, through to designing Greater Bay Area. After confirm- Technical drawing of the underwater robot ing that the water supply is suit- and building complex, medium­‑sized robots able for drinking at its Chinese with metal. Cultural Arts Gallery, the stu- Launched in 2015, the Fablab of Pui dents will pair the samples with Ching is also the first makerspace in Macao different kinds of tea in order to determine the best combination. and Hong Kong. The lab offers a range of The school is aiming to publish a sophisticated machines for 3D­‑printing, thesis on this study. laser cutting, circuit production, and CNC Meanwhile, the school is also and precision milling. It is now a member developing a lion­‑dance robot. of the international Fab Lab community, a Through programming, the robot can be instructed by mobile apps network of around 1,000 fab labs in more to perform different moves. “It than 40 countries, managed by the Center will be a dancing lion that never feels for Bits and Atoms of MIT (Massachusetts tired,” smiled Chan. Institute of Technology) in the US.

41 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Social Affairs

A regional leader

In August 2018, Pui Ching was Now that Pui Ching has honoured with the first prize in become a leading power state­‑level teaching achievement award by the Chinese Society of in a certain field, we feel Education. It was the first school committed to bolstering in Macao SAR to receive the prestigious award, and the only progress in the region. school to be awarded for STEM Chan Keng Lim education in the entire country. Chan believes that this is largely attributed to the school’s relentless effort in promoting STEM education in Macao and beyond. “Now that Pui Ching has become a leading power in a certain field,” he said, “we feel committed to bolstering progress in the region.” As an example, Chan referred to one of Pui Ching’s biggest accomplishment in robot The Fablab is also an important development: underwater robots. base for many Pui Ching students to “With years of experience in prepare for local and international building [these robots], we are tech competitions. Wong, currently keen on sharing our skill with a Form 6 student, is a two­‑time other local schools and have hosted contestant on FIRST Tech Challenge multiple workshops for their (FTC), an annual international students to attend throughout the event designed for students from years.” around the world to compete in This included the World Robot teams by designing, building, and Olympiad (WRO) workshop which programming a robot. took place at Pui Ching in June The competition last year took 2018. The WRO is an annual global her team to Australia, where they robotics competition for young made it to the Final 8. Before that, people, and the workshop aimed Wong and her team had devoted to prepare Macao students for the many evenings to ready their robot 2018 competition held in November for multiple challenges, such as in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The projecting and moving objects. two­‑day workshop in June was “It was an eye­‑opening attended by more than 100 students experience, being able to compete and teachers from 22 local schools. outside Macao and meet a lot Chan described it as a fruitful of outstanding young people,” exchange of knowledge between she reflected. “I’ve also made a the students of Pui Ching and the lot of good friends throughout other schools. the process. We shared the Meanwhile, the school has been same passion, and spent hours proactive in organising educational together learning new things and exchanges across the region. Since building our robots. This is truly Fablab September 2012, it has received unforgettable.” more than 4,000 guests from

42 43 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019

Astronomical and Meteorological Association

On 16 September 2018, as the citizens of Macao waited anx- iously for the passing of Typhoon Mangkhut – one of the most powerful storms to hit the region in decades – the core members of Pui Ching’s Astronomical and Meteorological Association had an important duty to fulfil: they had been monitoring the move- ment of Mangkhut since six in the morning. The No 10 signal was hoisted for nine hours, the longest period since 1968. A year earlier, the Astronomical and Meteorological Association had launched a website, together with a Facebook page, to pro- vide updated meteorological information to Macao citizens. The association gets particularly busy when bad weather strikes, but on normal days, they continue to research on credible meteoro- logical websites and share useful information on their own page. It may easily take them two hours to prepare for the publication of one single post. That hard work has paid off: the efficient broadcasting of the latest developments with Typhoon Mangkhut earned them nu- merous ‘likes’ and page shares, along with compliments such as “I can’t believe this is done by secondary school students!” and “This is so professional! Good job to the dedicated students!” The association also saw a rapid increase of membership ap- plications from students since the typhoon. To promote interest in meteorology and astronomy, the association also works with Macao Science Center and local universities to organise a range of outreach activities such as seminars and star observations for its members.

Principal Kou Kam Fai (left) and Vice Principal Chan Keng Lim (right)

200 organisations across mainland China, It has also conducted numerous exchanges of Hong Kong, and Taiwan. The visitors included visits with other schools within the GBA. officials from Ministry of Education, Beijing According to Chan, the achievement made Municipal Commission of Education, and other by Pui Ching in STEM education has often central government agencies. left the visiting guests in wonder. “They keep The Greater Bay Area (GBA) Initiative asking, how did we do this?” he smiled, noting also motivated Pui Ching to build stronger how they commended the school’s willingness connection with education institutions in to break new ground. “The STEM programme, the member cities. In collaboration with the together with other extra­‑curriculum Association for Promotion of Science and activities, enable our students to devote more Technology of Macao, Shenzhen Institutes of than 10 hours each week to focus on creative Advanced Technology and Maker Institute, projects. This is a great way to motivate them CAS, Pui Ching reached out to a number of to learn,” Chan pointed out. schools within the GBA in 2017 and invited But to Kou and Chan, there is a bigger them to visit its labs and STEM classes. In ambition behind the STEM initiative: “We hope the same year, it was appointed as a ‘pilot that the STEM programme is a solution to lift school’ of the GBA Innovation and Science the hidden talents that have been obstructed Youth Education Base, alongside with 13 other by the traditional system, where only students schools in Hong Kong and mainland China. making high marks in exams are considered Since then, Pui Ching has been an active outstanding,” Chan explained. “It is our aim to participant of the seminars, exchanges, and be a leading institution in the entire country to competitions organised by the education base. promote educational reform.”

Installed on the rooftop, the weather station of Pui Ching collects weather data 44 such as wind speed, wind direction, humidity, and the amount of precipitation Social Affairs

Macao businessman Chan Meng Kam, public health, social welfare, and disaster and a former lawmaker and current Executive poverty relief. Council member, was awarded the Golden Awarded the Gold Medal from the Fujian Lotus, the highest award given this year. government for his charitable contribution in Chan is widely seen as the de facto leader 2004, Chan also received the China Charity 2018 Golden Lotus award winner of Macao’s Fujianese community, which Award from the Ministry of Civil Affairs and Photos Cheong Kam Ka and Government Information Bureau accounts for about one­‑fifth of the city’s China Charity Federation the following year. population. Born in Jinjiang, Fujian Province, In 2008, he received the World Outstanding in 1962, Chan immigrated to Macao in the Chinese Award from United World Chinese early 1980s. Association. The Macao government also Today, he holds a number of political and recognised him in 2008, awarding Chan the social positions in both mainland China and Order of Merit in Benevolence. Macao. Chan chairs the private City University Chan received the Golden Lotus in a of Macau and he is a member of the National ceremony headed by Chief Executive Chui Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Sai On in January 2019. Four other Macao Consultative Conference. residents were awarded the Silver Lotus He is also vice chairman of Macao Region decoration: businessmen Davis Fong Chi China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful Keong and Ho Hao Tong, former lawmaker National Reunification, deputy director of the Kwan Tsui Hang, and wushu practitioner Committee for Promotion of Fujian­‑Taiwan Huang Junhua. Economic Cooperation, chairman of the Macao’s 2018 honours list also included Executive Committee of the Goddess A­‑Ma the head of the local Roman­‑Catholic diocese, Foundation of Macao, and a trustee of the Bishop Stephen Lee Bun Sang; the city’s best­ Macao Foundation. ‑selling Chinese­‑language daily, Macao Daily; In his professional life, Chan serves as and the former Portuguese consul­‑general in president of Golden Dragon Group Co Ltd and Macao, Vitor Sereno. Huan Yu Group Holding Company Limited, Macao’s top honour, the Grand Lotus dedicated to the tourism sector. decoration, was not awarded in 2018. Over the years, Chan has been linked to The 2018 honours list comprised 46 people charitable causes and made many donations to and entities, with 41 medals and certificates of both mainland China and Macao for education, merit awarded in addition to the 5 decorations.

The 2018 honours

Chief Executive Chui Sai On (left) presented the Golden Lotus Award to Chan Meng Kam (right) 47 macao January, 2011 1

50 issues bringing Macao to the world.

July, 2014 1 September, 2014 1 November, 2014 1 November, 2014 1 March, 2015 1 May, 2015 1 July, 2015 1

1 1

THE PLATFORM

COVER WOMEN OF MACAO Belt and Road, a priority for Macao China and São Tomé and Príncipe re ‑establish relations

JANUARY 2016 SEPTEMBER 2016 Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 9 / 2016 Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 03/2017

Power ahead: China Macro potential within Contemporary architecture and Mozambique p.22 a microchip p.46 in historic Macao p.04

All ‑female art biennale: women can do it too p.58 Macao entrepreneur bets Untold stories of on Portuguese wine p.16 Macao’s workers p.92 A 20 ‑year maritime plan for the future p.40

Revealing Macao’s Hong Kong ‑Zhuhai ‑Macao Bridge hidden nature brings new era of integration Government policy priorities for 2018 Risking it all. The story Ruins of St. Paul’s ancient of a typhoon hero p.38 statues brought back to life Macao Fashion Week takes the spotlight Guangzhou ‑ the centre of From oyster sauce to global empire innovation at our doorstep p.82

Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 11/2017 Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 01/2018 Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 03/2018 Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 05/2018 Macao MOP 30 | Hong Kong HKD 30 | Mainland China RMB 30 | International USD 4 09/2018 Economy With the evolution of to put the Plan into action in Macao, each park a “mini­‑attraction,” technology, it’s become natural transforming local public parks into a destination to draw the for us to turn to our devices for modern and innovative destinations community’s interest as they work Macau Oasis and “Happy entertainment. Children as young that draw the community outdoors to unravel the underlying story as three years old are beginning for fun activities – and a little within the games. to use electronic toys that are both friendly competition. “It’s like taking video games and Sports China Plan” enjoyable and educational. But all “Right now, the public park making them into reality, where this time with our eyes fixated on is a place for people to hangout; the community can simultaneously Text Jamie Ha Photos António Sanmarful and courtesy of Macau Oasis screens can take away from the there’s not much to do there. be physically and mentally active,” time we could spend doing more Instead, people resort to cafes for Chan said. Each game provides an active exercises to improve both meal dates or gyms for exercise. adventure for children to improve Partnering with Dao Pureland, an e­‑sports company our mind and physical body. We want to make the parks more their educational levels, get active, based in Qingdao, Macau Oasis aims to transform By leveraging our love of attractive to the community, so and form friendships. Multiple electronic games and blending they desire to spend quality time players can enjoy each station local parks into innovative destinations that draw the them with physical activity, the there,” Chan said. together rather than play separately community outdoors for fun and healthy activities. Happy Sports China Plan aims to These new smart parks will on their own. get people of all ages outside and be fundamentally different from While this type of innovative fully engaged. Oscar Chan, founder the parks we have come to know recreation and modern construction and director of Macau Oasis, aims nowadays. The goal is to make may be new to the city, Macau Oasis

50 51 Economy

SUTU

It is an Interactive Soccer Wall, containing impact­ ‑sensitive panels which measure and react to ball impact. Vivid LED lights and audio speakers give players feedback and encouragement on their performance. The soccer wall is perfect as a low­‑barrier entertainment device for public area or commercial locations. It is also for professional soccer training at the elite levels.

SONA

It is an interactive Dance & Play Arch. More specifically; it is an audio­‑guided playset, The 3D rendering of Happy Sports China Plan’s innovative parks especially designed for outdoor. Games are played by motion. It has a motion detection camera on top, which registers the has been working alongside DAO new smart parks, called Memo. a space around 100–150 sq metres birds and players have to hit specific movement of the children on the playing floor underneath. Pureland, an e­‑sports company With upbeat music and LED lights in size. The football game, Sutu, panels to score. Using bright lights As perhaps the most based in Qingdao, for the last to illuminate the senses, players features an electronic goal and sound effects gives players the versatile and inclusive decade to promote such parks in must chase around to tap on the comprised of 16 luminous panels same type of sensory feedback many interactive playset, over a 100 mainland China. Their efforts correct colour showing on each that enable players to hone their of the young generation have grown have been placed in schools, ramped up with the Happy Sports podium throughout the circular skills and compete against friends used to with their devices. the public areas, recreational facilities and even senior China Plan. Officially launched in playing field in order to win. – or players around the world. Along with Sutu, the Macao homes. 2014, the Plan is the brainchild of Taken to the next educational “If one person is playing at community will soon get to DAO Pureland, aimed at building a level, numbers replace colours the Sutu football goal in Macao, experience two other software people­‑oriented, environmentally as players compete to correctly they can challenge their friend in, interactive games: Sona and Memo. friendly sports system that solve equations and tap the let’s say, Shanghai or Chengdu,” Chan stressed that “players don’t promotes play and learning while corresponding podium first. Chan explained. Using the WeChat have to be really enthusiastic about MEMO building community. Players can choose what level application, the prevalence of Sutu football or sports, they can still Since the launch, Macau Oasis or type of game they want to play, football walls means Macao players enjoy the games simply because it Although primarily an exciting and fun playset that gives kids (and adults) and DAO Pureland have completed making each game appropriate can compete just easily against challenges them.” plenty of physical exercise, it also contains an educative dimension. The 50 park projects in 30 cities across for a variety of ages. Developing a people in places like mainland Macau Oasis and DAO Pureland balanced mix between being fun and physically challenging is achieved through sporty games. the mainland that continue to draw range of different types of games China or Germany as they do have been working in close people of all ages. and flexibility within each game against their neighbourhood connection with Dutch sport and is key to the Plan, which aims friends. The app already hosts a game equipment supplier Yalp for New games, more fun to engage all members of the tournament for players around the 10 years. Yalp is responsible for community in active play. Chan world to record their scores and both the hardware and software Chan represented Macau Oasis has found that even middle­‑aged compete for prize money. used in games throughout at the 2018 Macao International adults still love the parks already Macau Oasis has many ideas the smart parks to make them Trade and Investment Fair, installed in the mainland. regarding the football games. Angry interactive. While most of introducing visitors to one of the For the parks in Macao, Chan Birds, for example, has been an their interactive equipment is many interactive playground plans to focus on football with entertaining theme for many, where concentrated in Europe and Asia, games that will be installed in the training games that only require footballs replace the titular cartoon new locations are popping up in

52 53 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Economy

as well. If all goes as planned, they expect to have this project completed in 2019, meaning one of the two Macao parks will become the first interactive park to be completed in the Greater Bay Area. Macau Oasis aims to have 2–3 main locations of these new parks in the city, each covering around 5,000 sq metres while the rest will be smaller “pocket parks” of around 100 sq metres. “At the moment, we predict to have 30–40 pocket parks,” Chan said, increasing access for communities throughout the city. Not only will the parks be used for active play, Macau Oasis plans to host social events around once a week for anyone to come and experience. Chan believes this will be a great way to draw attention to the parks and build interest. Looking towards the future, Chan sees the parks becoming the heart of developing communities, Oscar Chan, founder and director of Macau Oasis drawing in new residents, connecting neighbours, and driving economic growth as the US, Australia and New Zealand. Investing in the future business follows. Sona, Sutu and Memo being the “In total, we aim to have around most popular interactives – more Macau Oasis kick­‑started the CNY20 million [US$2.93 million] than 500 worldwide – means Happy Sports China Plan in Macao invested into making a park first. more opportunities for Macao by directly investing around Once the community – especially players to connect and compete CNY2–3 million (US$293,000– the kids with their parents – come internationally. 440,000). Since all of the park to spend more time there, it Another strong contributor projects will require the approval becomes a key selling point for real of the technology, software, and and support of the Macao estate growth,” Chan explained. database used is the well­‑known government, they will equally split He believes that the Happy Sports China company, Huawei. With the costs with Macau Oasis. China Plan has the potential to be the ability to collect data and Currently, Macau Oasis is a great marketing scheme to draw record the usage of the parks, working with Macau Tower to attention to the more secluded or in six months, Macau Oasis will update existing parks in the vacant areas in the city. be launching a device called the surrounding area. Already one of With two children of his Elderly Angel Guard for people the most popular tourist attractions own, Chan has experienced aged 65 and over. The device in the city, Macau Tower hopes first­‑hand the minimal amount will monitor people's movements to draw more visitors with an of entertainment available to and reward them for meeting innovative and interactive park. children at the outdated parks exercise goals. It will also be able The Macao government has also around Macao. He is dedicated to to alert the database if anything expressed their goal to transform changing that, creating a more dangerous has occurred on the the existing playground and park progressive community for present park grounds. area within the Camões Garden and future generations.

54 55 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Culture

Culture Central library of Macao

Text Hélder Beja Photos António Sanmarful Sketches and 3D rendering Courtesy of MAA Marreiros Architectural Atelier Limited

Carlos Marreiros’ architecture firm has been selected to design the new Macao Central Library. “It’s an important project and also a pleasure to contribute with such a building to my hometown.”

“I have always imagined Paradise as a “As you know, the land there is quite kind of library,” wrote Argentine poet Jorge sloppy, rocky, and it moves from Praia Luis Borges in his “Poem of the Gifts.” Grande Avenue – the main entrance of Designing such a paradise, with all of the the Old Court Building – to Rua Central, particularities and functions of a library, is no where we can find the former building of small task. Local architect Carlos Marreiros, the Judiciary Police,” he continued. The lot a confessed lover of books and literature is 3,524 square metres with a plot ratio of himself, is taking up the challenge in 2019. 6:4, a “low occupation usage of the land,” He leads the team that will design the new according to Marreiros. Macao Central Library during this year, an The architect sees it as a big responsibility 11­‑storey building meant to change Macao’s to intervene in such a big lot, right in the cultural landscape and bring new life into the heart of Macao. “The challenge was to build city centre. something which is clearly contemporary, Macao’s new Central Library will be formed simple, that metaphorically resembles by the current Old Court Building, the former book shelves and drawers of file archives Judiciary Police headquarters, and a brand – the organisation of knowledge through new structure that will bring all three pieces compartments – so you can share it with the together and rise to a maximum of 45.8 metres. people using this building,” he explained. Marreiros’ architecture firm, MAA Marreiros “That was the idea for the facade.” Architectural Atelier Limited, won among The striking facade recalls medieval nine bids accepted by the Macao government, structures – narrow interior apertures presenting a cost of MOP18.68 million (US$2.3 expanding out, deepened by the thick facade million) and a design period of 268 days. – as well as the modern architectural lines “We had three main aspects to take into of famed Brutalist Le Corbusier’s Chapel of account here: the characteristics of the lot, the Notre Dame du Haut in Ronchamp, France. urban context, and the pre­‑existent heritage “The constraints of developing this project building,” said Marreiros, sitting in his offices with the pre­‑existent building are very The 3D rendering of Macao’s new Central Library in the São Lázaro district. specific,” Marreiros stressed.

56 57 Macao Magazine 50 January 2019 Culture

Front facades Side facades

“I know many libraries, and Sometimes architecture should white, with dramatic shades and its own charm to attract people.” new floors won’t touch the Old dramatic positions to give a sense have visited several, but I have no be more joyful, colourful – speak shapes, sculpted by the sun during The architect intends to work Court Building,” Marreiros noted, movement and, in the middle of it knowledge of a library that was built a little bit loudly to be noted – but the day and with simple lights in with geometric shapes and light “we’ll build them with a technique all, a large atrium that will serves as from a pre­‑existent building like there are times when you don’t need the evening.” colours, very much in line with called cantilever, projecting and the “new heart” of the building. this,” he remarked. architecture to speak so loudly; it The Old Court Building is “too his Brutalist inspiration. Some sustaining the new building.” While the old Judiciary can be contained.” interesting,” an element Marreiros elements, such as distinctive Touring the different floors Police building is expected to be Blending old and new Marreiros and his team steered would rather complement than horizontal lines, appear in the of the architectural project while demolished, the winning project away from added colours and LED compete with. Besides, he said, existing buildings and the new checking his pile of papers on the for the new Central Library “can Carlos Marreiros had one thing lights in favour of developing a “in that area, all the surrounding construction, and two large table, Marreiros kept pointing out protect around 80 per cent of the very clear from the beginning: “We more nuanced visual interest. “Our buildings are high rises, so I wanted columns will be erected to support different elements: rooftop gardens, pre­‑existent Old Court Building,” wanted to do a very simple building. idea is to have something quite something serene, tranquil, that has the new structure. “These six photovoltaic panels, escalators in according to Marreiros, though he

58 59 Culture

facilities, a cafeteria and snack by kids and young adults, citing “I went several times to Paris to see phase by phase. In the future, bar – there’s even the possibility the Centre Pompidou in Paris as a the evolution of that building, it was Marreiros would like to see the of having a restaurant. “We’ve good example. one of my passions.” Central Library still being used positioned it in the terrace roof of He also applauded that Books and architecture are two by local theatre troupes and other the existent building, to use the roof building’s architects, Renzo Piano passions Marreiros is now able to artistic groups. “I think that as an extension of the restaurant, an and Richard Rodgers, for their combine in this library project. For concentrating different art forms esplanade,” said Marreiros. take on Brutalist design. “They 268 days, a team of 40 to 60 people and activities at the library is very The building is designed with showed all the services as part of – plus external experts for some good,” he said. seating for around 2,000 people. the architecture speech: they didn’t specific matters – will be working Working with a team that is There are 1,120 seats in the reading hide the aircon boxes, they didn’t on deepening the design studies. 100 per cent local makes Carlos areas and some more specialised hide the ventilation, the cabling and “This is only a preliminary study, Marreiros “proud” and that is rooms for research, plus another so on; they’ve used them, they gave now we’ll detail a lot,” he added. If something he can’t stress enough. 800 seats in different recreational them a new importance, and most all goes according to schedule, the That and the pleasure of conceiving spaces – a small theatre for 300 of the beauty of that building is public tender for construction could such a landmark as the new Macao people and rooms for interactive precisely the services.” be launched by 2020. Central Library. “Sometimes you activities, exhibitions, and more. Their approach, while During the long and complex may do a very large building, “This equipment, in this part challenging to some, resulted in building process, the architect but not a very interesting one. of the city, is and will be very an iconic piece of 20th­‑century hopes that the Old Court Building Everything about this one is very important because as far as I know, architecture that nonetheless can keep being used by local artists interesting – it’s an important we don’t have a large, significant conveys to visitors “the idea of groups, as it is now, something project and also a pleasure to space for festivals, exhibitions, informality, like a train station. This he believes to be possible if the contribute with such a building to talks and so on. Without this, the was in the 70s,” Marreiros reflected. construction works are planned my hometown.” city centre would lose a bit of its spirit. Theoretically, we could have almost 2,000 people inside if all the seats are used, but then you’ll have people moving around, so it will be more than that. We will further study the circulation around and inside the building,” he added. Part of the library’s circulation of people will run for 24 hours a day, with a part, accessing from Carlos Marreiros Rua Central, that will always be open. “We haven’t studied it,” he admitted, but statistics gathered believes that some elements may not as a public good. “I hope we can from the Patane Library showed be worth keeping. “The staircases, deliver a good project for the “that the reading habits of the for example, are amazing. But pride of local people, and also an local population are good, even the tiles on the floor are not good equipment in the sense that you during the evening.” With that in enough. The facade is in Shanghai can train young generations for mind, the government included a Plaster, a material used a lot free thinking, civic education, and demand for “a 24­‑hour area, easy because it resembled granite, and good habits of reading.” for surveillance and without having was cheaper and very fashionable, much staff” in bids for the project. and they’re great.” A multifunctional library Regular business hours will How much will go? “We’ll see. feature a much larger staff at the For some things, I think we can do Visitors will be able to do much new library: “They expect to have better.” more than just reading inside the 120 to 130 workers – this ratio is The goal is to blend old walls of the new Central Library. In quite interesting, having one staff elements and new to produce a addition to the already announced for every 16 users.” Marreiros relevant “cultural and educational Judiciary Police Museum, the project hopes they adopt a “very informal” building” that serves its purpose features recreational and cultural management style for areas used

60 61 South Korea’s Clean Up, from writer­‑director Kwon Man­‑ki, took the top prize at the 3rd International Film Festival & Awards Macao (IFFAM) held South Korean film Clean Up in December at the Macao Cultural Centre. A graduation project of Korean Academy of Film Arts student Kwon Man‑ki,­ Clean Up centres on two characters, and the emotional fallout when circumstances bring them together 12 years after she kidnapped wins at Macao film festival him as a child. Jury members lauded Clean Up as a powerful, visceral film which Text Cathy Lai Photos Courtesy of IFFAM is “symbolic and naturalistic at the same time…The director unfolds a psychological drama with simmering intensity, humanising the criminal without condoning her heinous crime in any way.” The festival screened 54 films this year, including 11 films competing for nine awards in the Competition section: School’s Out, The Guilty, The Good Girls, Ága, Scarborough, Suburban Birds, White Blood, All Good, Jesus, The Man Who Feels No Pain, and Clean Up.

A dazzling event

The IFFAM Awards Ceremony, staged at the Macao Cultural Centre on 14 December, brought together around 800 guests and industry professionals from around the world. Award­‑winning actor Aaron Kwok dazzled as one of the event’s Talent Ambassadors, along with renowned Indian film director Shekhar Kapur and Chinese writer­‑director Xue Xiaolu as IFFAM Ambassadors. Famed Hong Kong emcees Bob Lam and Astrid Chan played host for the evening. Internationally acclaimed directors and acting talent rubbed elbows with Macao government officials and socialites such as Alexis Tam Chon Weng, secretary for Social Affairs and Culture; Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, director of Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) and president of the IFFAM Organizing Committee; and two of the executive vice presidents of the IFFAM Organizing Committee, Alvin Chau and Mok Ian Ian, who also serves as head of the Cultural Affairs Bureau.

62 63 Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes Chen Kaige Kwon Man­‑ki Alvin Chau Nicolas Cage Aaron Kwok

Not content to merely celebrate Chinese film director Chen Kapur commended all of the Adaptation (2002) to Hollywood existing films, the week­‑long Kaige, who first garnered films as “heartfelt” and “moving” blockbusters like The Rock Winners of IFFAM festival, 8–14 December, actively international fame with his portraits of “real things, real life (1996) and the National Treasure facilitated future projects. Senna critically­‑acclaimed masterpiece and real experiences.” series – during the one­‑hour class Best Film: Clean Up (presented by IFFAM Jury President Chen Kaige) Fernandes, speaking at the Yellow Earth (1984), accepted the More accolades were also moderated by Mike Goodridge, Best Director: Gustav Möller, The Guilty (presented by Jury member for Local Awards Ceremony, touted their Spirit of Cinema Achievement presented at the Awards Ceremony artistic director of IFFAM and View Power, Phillip Noyce, and IFFAM Ambassador Shekhar Kapur) achievements: 400 individual Award from Secretary Tam. His film to commend outstanding films and former Protagonist Pictures CEO. Best Actor: Jakob Cedergren, The Guilty (presented by IFFAM Jury member Project Meetings aligned Farewell My Concubine (1993) made filmmakers. The NETPAC Award On the sideline of the master Tillotama Shome) production teams with investors in Chen the first Chinese director to went to Suburban Birds while the class, Cage spoke to local media Best Actress: Aenne Schwarz, All Good (presented by Talent Ambassador face­‑to­‑face dialogues, while the receive the highest prize at the Asian Blockbuster Film 2018 went outlet Macau Daily Times about Aaron Kwok) new Work­‑in­‑Progress Presentations Cannes Film Festival, the Palme to the film Crazy Rich Asians, the the cinematic potential of opened doors for filmmakers in d’Or, and earned him two Academy highest grossing romantic comedy Macao, with a promise to return Best Technical Contribution: Kaloyan Bozhilov, cinematographer of Ága (presented by leading actor and actress of Aruna & Her Palate, Oka search of partnership opportunities Award nominations. in a decade. For the second year for filming projects. “It’s the Antara and Dian Sastrowardoyo) for projects close to completion. Chen also served as the chair in a row, IFFAM partnered with wonderful confluence of the “We are eager to see the film for the Official Programme Jury, Variety to spotlight young talent in Chinese and Portuguese cultures Best Screenplay: Barnaby Southcombe, screenwriter of Scarborough (presented by IFFAM Ambassador Xue Xiao Lu) festival bring bright opportunities alongside Hong Kong director­ the continent with the Asian Stars: that makes for the perfect place for filmmakers in Macao and from ‑producer­‑writer Mabel Cheung, Up Next Award, recognising five to shoot a film. The combination Best New Young Actor/Actress: Abhimanyu Dassani, The Man around the world,” she enthused. Australian producer­‑director Paul actors and actresses: Anne Curtis of the architecture, the food, and Who Feels No Pain (presented by IFFAM Jury member Mabel Cheung and film director Cheang Pou Soi) Currie, Indian actress Tillotama (Philippines), Iqbaal Ramadhan the people is fantastic. I would Celebrating Chinese film work Shome, and Bosnian director (Indonesia), Zaira Wasim (India), not hesitate to come back,” he Best New Chinese­‑language Film of the Year: Up the Mountain Danis Tanović. Xana Tang (New Zealand), and Ryan commended. (presented by Jury members for New Chinese Cinema, Stephanie Bunbury, Nick James, and Shu Kei) This year saw the unveiling To support local film Zheng Kai (China). Kwok shared his own plans of a new competition section for production, IFFAM partnered with for future shoots with local media Jury Prize: White Blood (presented by IFFAM Jury Chinese­‑language films, New Local View Power (LVP) to show A cinematic backdrop during an interview session at the member Danis Tanović and Artistic Director of IFFAM Mike Goodridge) Chinese Cinema, which pitted six 14 films by Macao filmmakers in Awards Ceremony. The long­‑time films against each other: Dear Ex, public screening sessions during Another star attraction of the amateur motor racer touted the great Special Mention: Jesus (presented by IFFAM Jury member Paul Currie) Baby, Xiao Mei, Up the Mountain, the film festival this year. Lei film festival was Academy Award­ potential for Macao as a setting for Fly by Night, and The Pluto Moment. Cheok Mei took the Jury Prize ‑winning actor Nicolas Cage. high­‑speed action, revealing that, Macao Audience Choice Award: The Good Girls Zhang Yang’s Up the Mountain, a for Best Film for The Melancholy Named Talent Ambassador this a few years ago, he even drew up a (presented by Director of Galaxy Entertainment Group Philip Cheng, Vice President of Communication and rumination on the push and pull of Gods, a deeply personal year alongside Aaron Kwok, Cage storyboard for his own movie with a Content Marketing of Sands China Ltd Jeffrey Jiang, and of change in China with stunning exploration of depression in the reviewed his decades­‑long career scene shot in Macao. “It is an action Senior Vice President of Business Development of MGM composition and colours, took home territory, while Halfway by Ng Ka and major contributions to cinema scene – a racing scene, because Brian Fiddis) the award for Best New Chinese­ Lon received Special Mention at – from critically acclaimed turns Macao is so beautiful, especially at ‑language Film of the Year. IFFAM. LVP Jury member Shekhar in Leaving Las Vegas (1995) and night,” he said.

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Macao’s hotels and gaming Among the works, the Chairman’s of sculptures being “solid and operators are well known for Collection comprises over 40 grounded,” Lu’s hollow sculptures providing an abundance of contemporary art pieces selected by are inspired by the movement of restaurants and entertainment MGM chairpersons Pansy Ho and Jim water and appear in the shape of facilities, yet you might be Murren, who worked with renowned gravity‑defying­ waves. Up close and personal surprised to find that some of them Hong Kong gallerist Calvin Hui. Around the corner, the large­ also showcase historical art pieces Organised around the theme “A ‑scale collage Eight Views of Macau with Macao’s precious art and contemporary works of art. World Linked Through Art,” there’s dominates one wall. The brainchild The best part? These displays an emphasis on the connection of Chinese artist Xue Song, this piece Text Andrea Lo and Jamie Ha Photos António Sanmarful aren’t designed to be admired between East and West, as well as features eight of the city’s landmarks, from afar. Much of the artwork between people and places. such as the Ruins of St Paul’s and the inside hotels is placed in locations “We’ve always embraced arts Kun Iam statue. It’s created entirely with high foot traffic, and and culture as a very important from printed materials about each of most lack the glass enclosures part of our company,” said Cristina the sights, like newspaper clippings, Take a long look at rare works of commonly found in museums – so Kuok, director of Arts and Cultural which were burned before being art and contemporary pieces inside it’s well worth slowing down to Development at MGM. The hotel’s applied to the canvas. take a closer look. sister property, MGM Macau, has In the Lion Lobby, Journey Macao’s gaming establishments. a dedicated art space, she noted, to the Great West by Taiwanese MGM Cotai: immerse yourself and with the opening of MGM artist Hung Yi was inspired by the Cotai, the team decided to take a legendary 16th­‑century Chinese Opened this year, MGM Cotai new approach: “There’s a story… novel, Journey to the West. The four boasts an art collection numbering [behind] why the art is put there, characters of the novel are brought more than 300 pieces – from or why the artist has created that to life as baked enamel statues paintings and sculptures by piece of art,” she explained. with a modern approach. A fifth contemporary artists in Asia, to a In the main lobby, guests will statue depicting a camel completes series of antique carpets that date find Water in Dripping, a pair of the piece: it pays tribute to the back to the Qing dynasty (1644– steel sculptures by Beijing artist backdrop of the story, which takes 1911) in China. Zheng Lu. Challenging the notion place across a desert.

Eight Views of Macau, Xue Song

Water in Dripping, Zheng Lu

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Wynn Palace: a modern take on chinoiserie

From a rare collection of 18th­‑century vases from the Qing dynasty to a giant three­ ‑ton sculpture by American artist Jeff Koons, historic pieces and contemporary art are found in the midst of Wynn Palace’s fine­‑dining restaurants and designer boutiques. It’s part of an effort to ensure that the pieces are not placed at a formidable distance. “The philosophy about art at Wynn Palace has always been that it is meant to be shared with everybody,” explained Roger Thomas, executive vice president of design for Wynn Design and Development. “This is why all art pieces are not protected in special glass containers at the resort.” The collection was acquired over six years and at a cost of US$125 million. Of the 14 pieces on display, the majority appear in the hotel’s public spaces, while others are in garden villas The four characters (top) and and penthouses. the camel (bottom) of Journey There are different inspirations behind the to the Great West, Hung Yi Kuok noted there isn’t necessarily a “rigid system” curation, but first and foremost, there’s a desire behind where pieces are positioned: it depends on the to “honour Chinese culture,” said Thomas. style and purpose of the location and the art itself. “Wynn Palace is designed to showcase a 21st­ The 28­‑piece imperial carpets collection is displayed ‑century reinvention of chinoiserie, the great in the Emerald Lobby. These historic carpets, once used artistic encounter between East and West in at the pavilions of the Forbidden City, feature intricate the 17th and 18th centuries.” designs and motifs that have symbolic meanings – think Take the Buccleuch vases, a set of Qing­ dragons and phoenixes. ‑dynasty antiques that date back to c 1750. Made using silk, gold, silver or copper threads, they They once belonged to – and are named after were created by the imperial workshops of Beijing – notable 19th­‑century Scottish art collector, and Xinjiang, which were established under the Dragons and leaves, Imperial Elizabeth Montagu, Duchess of Buccleuch. carpet from Qing Dynasty reign of Kangxi (1661–1722) and responsible for manufacturing furniture for the imperial court. There’s also interactive digital art installed at the Spectacle, a large space near the main lobby. Twenty­‑five LED screens display ever­‑changing images Tulips, Jeff Koons of Asia – its nature, art, music, languages, and cultures – and digital art from around the world, but that’s not all: “Depending on the movement of the people, the camera actually picks up on that and translates [them] into a mosaic or kaleidoscope effect on the screens,” Kuok explained. MGM Cotai offers guided art tours, which are “about the aesthetics as well as providing context.” “It’s not just about the artist or the art,” she said. “It’s also [about] explaining the whole aesthetics of the artwork, [how it] blends into the particular location, and the story behind it.”

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The philosophy about art at Wynn Palace has always been that it is meant to be shared with everybody.

Roger Thomas

Made with porcelain, the vases feature Buddhist and Taoist designs. What stands out about the quartet of vases is not only their historical value, however. They sit on mounts that are believed to have been created by a French artist as a later addition, making them truly one of a kind. Then there’s The Harvesting of Pineapples, a whimsical piece created c 1775 by master weavers at Beauvais, a prominent tapestry workshop in France. The story goes that the tapestry was created by master weavers as a reimagining of the Chinese royal court, after hearing tales of it from French monks who visited. It forms part of The Story of the Emperor of China series, which features scenes that depict life during the reigns of Shunzhi (1644–61) and Kangxi (1661–1722). Located within Wing Lei Palace restaurant, guests can observe the piece at close range. Alongside the chinoiserie theme, said Thomas, art is placed “in the context of a magical escape into a vivid and colourful floral wonderland.” This is evident in Jeff Koons’s Tulips, positioned by one of the entrances. Created between 1995 and 2004 as part of the Celebration series, it depicts massive tulips rendered in shining, colourful stainless steel. The series focuses on bringing grown­‑ups back to simpler times – to allow them to “experience the wide­‑eyed wonderment of childhood and feel small again.” A more tongue­‑in­‑cheek creation is the Fake Antique series by contemporary Chinese artist Liao Yibai, from 2013. Comprising nine pieces, the collection mimics cultural treasures from the imperial dynasties of China with modern, often humorous, details. The intention? To mock the thriving fake antiques market in China while nodding to the artistry of the forgers.

The Harvesting of Pineapples, French tapestry, 1775

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Grand Lisboa: fine art in the world. There’s also the Great meets bling Fortune Emerald, weighing 210.34 carats and certified by the Swiss­ An impressive line­‑up of art ‑based gem lab Gübelin as the and jewellery are exhibited at the world’s rarest. Their precise Grand Lisboa’s lobby – the majority value remains undisclosed. borrowed from owner Stanley Ho’s personal collection. Regency Art Hotel: hip, The Art of Taichi, a pair of contemporary art copper sculptures by Taiwanese artist Ju Ming, were inspired by Formerly known as the Chinese martial art practice. the Regency Hotel, this Ju practices tai chi, and he’s known establishment underwent a for a series of works that depict it. rebranding and redesign, There’s a “spiritual aspect” to his emerging in 2016 as an works, according to the Ju Ming art­‑oriented property Museum in Taiwan, and his vision with a contemporary as an artist aligns with the spirit vibe. of the martial art, where there’s a Three eye­ “respect for the existing structures ‑catching pieces sit of nature.” in its lobby, all from Arguably the most valuable the 2013 Champagne Kid series items on display: the Star of Stanley by British­‑Nigerian artist Yinka Ho, a 218.08­‑carat Shonibare. These abstract, life­ diamond, the ‑sized mannequins with globes for largest of its kind heads appear in different positions attached to chairs: “swinging,” “balancing” and “stepping” – all while holding a Cristal champagne bottle. One of the materials used is Dutch wax African printed textiles; the artist is known for exploring themes of cultural Venetian’s armillary sphere identity, colonialism, and post­ ‑colonialism in his works. The hotel’s The Venetian: Return of the Renaissance armillary spheres were developed in China in transformation was the fourth century BC. spearheaded by Sabrina Mega­‑resort Venetian Macao is famously Primarily used to measure sea water Ho, a scion of the Stanley Ho inspired by the City of Water. Gondoliers levels and star positions, they were also used family. She also runs Chiu ferry visitors down San Luca canal, flanked to decide the best time of the day to conduct Yeng Culture, a platform on both sides by shops designed to mimic the certain activities – like gambling! she founded in 2015 to architecture of Venice. The theme continues promote arts and cultural indoors, with opulent Venetian­‑style interiors City of Dreams: Morpheus by Zaha Hadid exchange in Macao. and recreations of famed Renaissance­‑era art. But just because they’re replicas doesn’t With the grand opening this past June, mean they’re boring: a huge, golden Morpheus is officially the world’s first free­ armillary sphere sits atop the lobby fountain ‑form, exoskeleton, high­‑rise architectural in a nod to their prominence during the development. Designed by Zaha Hadid Italian Renaissance (Galileo was said to have Architects, it is a true representation of owned a large collection). The history of these ‘innovation meets luxury’. The hotel lobby devices, however, dates back much further itself leaves guests captivated, resembling

The Art of Taichi, Champagne Kid, – and much closer to home: some of the first the inside of a giant kaleidoscope. As much Ju Ming Yinka Shonibare

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Life. Overtaking the walls are vibrantly colored plants filled with flowers and fruits to represent an abundance of imagination and diversity. The forest­‑like walls lead visitors into an infinite realm of fantasy, to bring back the youth, and represent the diverse personalities of each individual. As a way of making this art exhibition even more exciting and interactive, visitors can follow along the Game of Thrills map to navigate the property and seek out these installations so as to not miss a single one. Endless forms of entertainment and prize­ ‑winning promotions allow guest of all ages to enjoy their stay around the City of Dreams.

In with the new

Hotels and gaming operators are not alone in their efforts to promote fine arts and culture. Today, the arts scene in Macao continues to go from strength to strength. 2018 saw the launch of Photo Macau, which bills itself as Asia’s newest international art fair dedicated to art photography and new media art. It is not the first international arts festival to take place in the city: in 2013, international visual art fair Art MO was established, and 2017 saw the launch of the Women Artists Good Intentions, KAWS International Biennial of Macao, already the largest event of its kind in the world. These are exciting developments as the exterior leaves visitors in To highlight just a few, starting Closer to the northwest alongside the city’s art mainstays, like awe, it’s what’s inside that makes off introducing Good Intentions by entrance is the 200 Litofairhour the Macau Museum of Art, which has it a paramount destination for art the New York based artist KAWS. by Charles Pétillon. It is a grand been open since 1999. Last year, local lovers within the City of Dreams. Many of KAWS works are influenced cluster large of fabric spheres in art association Art for All Society (AFA) – Visitors are free to roam around by popular culture in society, all a wavey­‑like formation, mimicing the non­‑profit responsible for Macao Art Morpheus to enjoy the themed of which are toy­‑like figures that the looks of clouds floating 3.5 to 6 Garden, a building dedicated to artistic exhibition “Art of the City”, a combine the characteristics of metres in the air. The most unique pursuits and exhibitions – celebrated its collection of contemporary work by Mickey Mouse, a clown, and a skull. part of this installation is the title, 10th anniversary, renewing its dedication international artists. Eight of the This particular installation at the based off the fact that 200 litres of to enhancing the development of eighteen art installations for this Morpheus comprises two figures air per hour is requried to sustain; contemporary art in Macao, facilitating exhibition are located specifically acting as companions, sharing a representing our own vital need to local art creation, and assisting the within Morpheus’ parameters. Each human relationship representing for oxygen as humans. government with the development of local piece is integrated smoothly into the that of a parent and child. However, Along with these bold cultural undertakings. With art on the rise luxurious décor and shopping stores; unlike the other pieces, this one is installations, Shinji Ohmaki in so many arenas, the city’s dedication to giving the hotel a fun and quirky specially located on the 23rd floor created Echos of Infinity which diversification and expanding the creative taste, with extra pops of colour. of Morpheus. was inspired by Da Vinci’s Tree of arts has a promising future. Art at the Morpheus Hotel

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History

Grandson of Macao gambling mogul publishes biography

Text Mark O’Neill Photos António Sanmarful and courtesy of Adrian Fu

Adrian Fu depicted the story of Fu Tak Iam, his grandfather and Macao’s former gambling mogul, in a vivid bilingual biography.

The biography of Fu Tak Iam

The first casino in Macao (1937) In January 2019, Adrian Fu published a biography of his grandfather, Fu Tak Iam, whose company held the gambling franchise in Macao between 1937 and 1961, Cutting wood to Casino City ports in the Pearl River Delta. Hong Kong flush with cash from his and who laid the foundation for his family’s business “It was exhausting and many ventures. While horse racing empire today. The story of Fu Tak Iam’s rise dangerous work,” said Adrian. Fu was the only legal form of gambling “This book took three years to write,” said Fu in an from rags to riches is the stuff of used the two and a half years he there, local governments in China interview in Hong Kong, where he lives. “My father died Hollywood films. Born in 1895 to spent with the company learning turned a blind eye. 13 years ago and I saw the many documents Grandfather a poor farming family in a village about mechanical engineering, but Fu met Huo Zhi­‑ting, president left behind about his life. I learnt much I did not know. in Nanhai county, Foshan in even then, gambling had already of the Guangdong Bank and “He spoke little and did not like to socialise. But each Guangdong province, Fu had little caught his fancy. He often spent his founder of the Hong Nin Savings week he wrote letters, to his children, grandson, and formal schooling. He was eight spare time wandering the streets Bank of Hong Kong, in the early business associates.” Fu had four wives, eight sons and years old when drought forced his and gambling when he could. One 1930s. Despite Fu losing out on his seven daughters; Adrian’s father was the eldest son. father to leave the village for Hong day, Fu was gambling in Central bid for the gambling franchise in These letters proved a treasure trove of information Kong where he worked in a metal (Hong Kong) and got arrested after Macao to Huo’s consortium, the about Fu’s life, family, and businesses. Adrian hired shop. Fu himself began working getting into a fight. “His father was two became friends. Huo admired two mainland professors to study them and conduct at an early age, first collecting and very anxious about him.” Fu’s management of gambling and supplementary research in Macao, Hong Kong, Taiwan, selling firewood to help support his Sentenced to 10 months in agreed to fund a large casino in and the mainland. family. prison, Fu made best use of the Shenzhen aimed at punters from “The book is being published by our Fu Tak Iam He made the journey to Hong time in jail and learned much about Hong Kong. Huo had the support of Foundation with 2,000 copies in English and Chinese Kong in 1908, just 14 years old, to gambling from the other inmates. Chen Jitang, a warlord powerful in in the first printing,” he said. Adrian has registered his help his father in the shop. Three After leaving prison, Fu Guangdong. second foundation in Macao and plans to turn two houses years later, he took a job as a stoker moved to cities in Guangdong and There Fu built the largest casino here into a memorial for his grandfather, available for use in the boiler room of a British Guangxi and went into business: in China, involving an investment by the foundation and other local NGOs. Such a move will vessel, working a route between opium, gambling and firearms, all of 10 million yuan. It attracted many require approval by the Macao government. Hong Kong, Macao, Guangzhou, and profitable sectors. He returned to gamblers from Hong Kong, just as

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intended, and badly affected the casinos of Macao. But in 1937, after Japan launched its all­ ‑out war on China, the Nationalist government banned gambling on the mainland. The Shenzhen casino was forced to close, resulting in heavy losses for its investors.

Winning Macao franchise

Fu returned to Macao just in time to make a second attempt at the franchise in the city. He partnered with Kou Ho­‑neng, who had made a fortune from a chain of pawnshops, to form the Tai Heng company. Their bid of 1.8 million patacas a year won in 1937; they promised three casinos, the largest in the newly renamed Hotel Central in downtown Macao. Tai Heng would hold the gambling monopoly for the next 24 years. Their bid turned out to be an excellent investment, especially during World War II, when Macao was the only city in East Asia not under Japanese military occupation. Thousands of wealthy people from Hong Kong, the mainland, and overseas took refuge there to escape the war. Japanese business people, officials, and military officers were also frequent visitors to the Hotel Central , patronising its bars and restaurants and the other casinos. There was little alternative entertainment. Fu used the profits to invest in passenger ships, the Number 16 pier, and trading. After the fall of Hong Kong in Hotel Central December 1941, thousands of refugees flooded into the city, joining those from the mainland. The city struggled to cope, its did everything,” said Adrian. “He gave money population ballooning to to buy rice for the refugees. He also had a rice around 700,000, more mill to provide a staple diet for them. than four times what it “He did not sleep at night. He stayed up was before the war. until all the cash from the casinos had been Food, medicine, collected and safely stored. He would sleep and shelter were at four or five in the morning and get up at in short supply, midday. He did not drink but smoked opium leaving hundreds every day. He believed it was good for his to die of health.” starvation on the Fu kept the Japanese officials at a streets. distance, dealing with them indirectly “During through representatives. While technically World War II, unoccupied, Macao was hardly free from Document signed in 1958 by then Portuguese President Francisco Higino Craveiro Grandfather Japanese interference during the war. Lopes, granting Fu Tak Iam Portuguese nationality with the name José Fu

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Adrian Fu The mansion of the Fu family at Avenida da República

Danger of wealth Enraged, the kidnappers cut and trading. He decided that the shareholders; his daughters stands as the flagship property quality of life for those who off the top of Fu’s right ear and the next generation should not did not go into the business. development for the company, are deprived. For Adrian, the Despite being one of the sent it to his family as a warning. follow him in the casino business; There was enormous pressure now part of KHI Holdings Group, foundation is “the most meaningful wealthiest men in Macao, Fu did not They also reverted to their original Adrian’s father had no interest in on my father as the oldest son which oversaw construction and interpretation of my father’s love fear for his safety and usually had only ransom demand, prompting the the sector. He was sent to Hong who had to look after and educate management of the hotel. Opened and respect for my grandfather” one bodyguard. On 10 February 1948, family to reach out to another Kong in 1946 to set up an office his siblings,” Adrian explained. in 1973, the property set a new as well as “an effective tool to he went into the Kun Iam Temple, mediator: the famous Cantonese there, establishing Kwong Hing “Grandfather talked little to his standard for business hotels in Asia communicate our family history to leaving his driver outside. A group of opera star, Tang Wing Cheung. Investment (KHI) Holdings the children. My father both feared and yielded significant returns for future generations.” armed men burst in and kidnapped He got the ransom back down to following year. and respected him.” investors when KHI exited in 1997. Those in Macao interested in him. They demanded a ransom of 900,000 Hong Kong dollars; the Adrian was born in 1947. He The company remains family­ learning more about Fu Tak Iam nine million Hong Kong dollars. family paid and Fu was released. Preserving the family legacy attended schools in Hong Kong and ‑owned, with Adrian Fu serving as can visit his former home, located “They did not beat him up,” Police eventually arrested a visited his grandfather in Macao at the current chief executive. Under at 28­‑34 Avenida da Republica said Adrian. “He did not fear the renegade Kuomintang soldier Fu was a workaholic, with Chinese New Year and during the his leadership the company has and owned by the Fu Tak Yung kidnappers. They were people like believed to be the ringleader; he little time for his four wives and school holidays. “He was kind to held to the core values established Foundation, and read two marble him. He knew what they were like.” was sentenced to 18 years in prison. 15 children, and little interest in me. He talked to me and I listened,” by his father, emphasising tablets about his life housed in two The family turned to Ho Yin, While unscathed psychologically, socialising. He spoke little; his Adrian reflected. Fu died in 1960 conservatively managed growth pavilions on the property. Or they a highly influential Chinese and the experience did lead Fu to main method of communication after a period of declining health; and diversification. might pop over to the pavilion in colleague of Fu’s, to mediate increase his own security: “From was letters, which he wrote he was 65 years old. Adrian also seeks to perpetuate Chong San Memorial Park on Guia negotiations for his release. With then on he carried a gun and was each week, to his children Adrian’s father, Fu Yum his family’s legacy through Hill to read the tablet there. his help, the two sides agreed to a accompanied by two bodyguards.” and employees, mostly with Chiu, also established the the foundation named for his For those looking to dive deeper much­‑reduced ransom of 900,000 After World War II, Fu instructions on what to do. Tak Kee Shipping & Trading grandfather. Their work centres into the biography of the gambling Hong Kong dollars, but when one of diversified his investments in “He was meticulous in his Company in Hong Kong in 1947, on two values: eliminating social mogul, they can read the The Fu Fu’s children brought in the police, Hong Kong, moving into property, work, with detailed plans. He set diversifying early on into property injustice and prejudice through Tak Iam Story ( ), published 傅德蔭傳 the deal fell apart. shipping, construction, cinemas, up a company and made his sons development. The Furama Hotel education, and improving the by his namesake foundation.

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Zoom

2018 Macao International Parade “Love, Peace, and Cultural Integration”

Text Cathy Lai Photos Eric Tam and Courtesy of Cultural Affairs Bureau

Opening ceremony

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Dancers and performers paraded through well as Mainland China, Hong Kong, France, Macao on 16 December 2018 at the annual Spain, Russia and the Portuguese­‑speaking Macao International Parade to celebrate the countries including Portugal, Brazil, Guinea­ 19th Anniversary of Macao’s return to China. ‑Bissau and Mozambique. Embracing the theme “Love, Peace, and The Parade highlighted the cultural blend Cultural Integration”, the parade began at the between China and the Portuguese­‑speaking Ruins of St.Paul’s and continued down Sai Van countries and drew over 150,000 people to it. Lake Square. For those who missed the event or would like More than 1,700 entertainers participated a second chance to appreciate it, please have in the event. 76 groups were from Macao as a look at our Zoom section!

Closing ceremony

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