Sam Hou Fai, Macao's incoming chief executive, outlined a five-year development plan for the Macao Special Administrative Region (SAR), emphasizing the sectors of culture, tourism, and scientific research.
Sam was elected the sixth-term chief executive designate of Macao SAR on Oct 13, and will assume office on Dec 20.
In an interview with media outlets, Sam introduced his vision for development for Macao SAR in the next five years.
"In 2019, President Xi expressed his hope, or rather a requirement, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of Macao's return to the motherland and the inauguration of the fifth-term government of the Macao Special Administrative Region. He said specifically that on the basis of Macao's realities and through rigorous feasibility studies, the Macao SAR needs to identify the main focus and key projects for its economic development. He said Macao needs to take a multi-pronged strategy in terms of policy, financial support and human resources, and resolve the most difficult issues through synergy," he said.
Sam emphasized positioning Macao as "one center, one platform, one base," with a particular focus on the concept of "one base." He underscored the goal of establishing a cultural base that reflects Macao's unique blend of Chinese and Western cultures.
"For example, in terms of culture and tourism, during my campaign, I discussed with friends in the cultural and tourism sectors about whether we could genuinely explore the idea and reach a consensus of creating 'one base' that embodies Macao's unique character while integrating Chinese and Western cultures. This will demonstrate Macao's position of building 'one base', establishing a large-scale cultural and tourism complex that positions Macao as an attractive destination in the Asia-Pacific region. It will also serve as a base for cultural integration, highlighting Chinese culture as the mainstay while promoting exchanges and mutual learning between Chinese and Western cultures," said Sam.
He also mentioned aligning with the development of the Guangdong-Macao in-depth cooperation zone in Hengqin, particularly in the area of scientific research.
"In terms of scientific research, we are considering whether there are significant modern technologies and innovations that can be introduced to Macao. We could connect these advancements with the technology industry in Hengqin, fostering collaborative development between the two regions," said Sam.
Macao's incoming chief executive lays out local development plan
