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In this issue of Macao Image, we examine the Outline Development Plan for the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, which was unveiled by the Chinese authorities in February 2019. This plan defines the strategic positions, development objectives and spatial layouts of the Greater Bay Area. Macao, together with Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Shenzhen will drive the transformation of the Greater Bay Area into a global technology innovation hub; an important source of emerging industries; and support the convergence of the Silk Road Economic Belt and the 21st Century Maritime Silk Road.
Macao Chief Executive Chui Sai On said the Macao SAR will play a crucial role in driving the Greater Bay Area region forward by stepping up efforts to support the growth of the science and technology sectors; building the “Guangzhou-Shenzhen-Hong Kong-Macao innovation and technology corridor” and encouraging local educational institutions to strengthen their efforts in the areas of science and technology. Macao will also contribute to the “Belt and Road” initiative while integrating itself with the Greater Bay Area. By improving collaboration with other Belt and Road countries and places, especially Portuguese-speaking Countries, Macao and other Greater Bay Area cities will strive to turn the Greater Bay Area into a key pillar for “Belt and Road” development.
Expansion plans for the Macau International Airport are also underway in accordance with the Outline Development Plan. The Macau International Airport Co., Ltd (CAM) tells Macao Image that with passenger traffic continuing to rise with 8.26 million passengers in 2018 (up from just 4.49 million in 2012), it plans to improve its services and infrastructure, push ahead with its development master plan and explore business jet services in future.
This issue of Macao Image also features an exclusive interview with Ma Chi Ngai, President of the Science and Technology Development Fund (FDCT). Mr Ma reveals the future of Macao as a smart city and efforts being made to improve traffic, medical care and education.
This issue of Macao Image also gains insights into several major Macao events that took place during the first half of 2019, such as the Macao International Environmental Co-operation Forum and Exhibition (2019MIECF); the 10th International Infrastructure Investment and Construction Forum (IIICF) and ‘Let’s Hang Out’ Bazaar. Two of these events, MIECF and IIICF highlighted the importance of sustainability. Themed “Promoting Ecological Civilization and Green Development”, 2019MIECF featured eight Green Forums and one keynote speaker special session highlighting the importance of environmental sustainability.
This year also marked the 10th Anniversary of IIICF, which was themed “Promoting Quality and Sustainable Development of International Infrastructure”. The event welcomed the official launch of the IIICF Steering Committee and the Mainland China-Macao Belt and Road Business and Professional Services Council and its keynote forum focused on “Pursuing for Quality and Sustainable Infrastructure – from Goals to Practice”. The Portuguese-speaking Countries and Macao Products Bazaar known as ‘Let’s Hang Out’ attracted many return exhibitors, who are pleased with the way in which the bazaar successfully helps them promote their products and explore new business opportunities.
Macao Image also meets an award-winning local design firm with the ambition to make a name for Macao through its designer products. We also meet a young entrepreneur who is riding the wave of emerging new media to drive online retailing through WeChat.
