Controversial cross-strait arts exchange

A cross-strait calligraphy and painting exchange exhibition held in Taiwan this year did not see attendance from one side of the exchange; namely those artists from mainland China, Macau and Hong Kong. According to Taiwan’s Central News Agency, the calligraphers and painters could not attend the event because they were unable to organize the relevant paperwork in time, however their absence has sparked speculation about other motives. Shen Rong-hwai, head of the Taiwan Chinese Calligraphy Society told the broadcaster that he suspected the absence was due to misunderstanding over the political situation following the inauguration of President Tsai Ing-wen. The exhibition, held in Macau in 2015, moved to Taiwan this year and is being hosted at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall until May 30.

Yip appointed new SmarTone CEO

Hong Kong-based SmarTone Telecommunications Holdings Ltd. announced that Anna Yip has been appointed as executive director and chief executive officer of the company, commencing June 16. Stephen Chau will cease to act as the interim chief executive officer from the same date. Yip is currently the head of the Hong Kong and Macau division of MasterCard Asia-Pacific, a role she has held since March 2014. She is responsible for the overall performance of MasterCard across both markets. Originally from Hong Kong, Yip joined MasterCard in 2013 as the head of Greater China for MasterCard Advisors, the professional services arm of the organization.

UM to hold graduation ceremony

The University of Macau (UM) will host its ‘Congregation 2016’ on May 28 at the institution’s Sports Complex, according to a statement from UM. More than a thousand students will receive their graduation certificates at the event. Nearly 1400 students are to be awarded bachelor degrees at the ceremony, including 46 outstanding students who have completed programs of the Honours College. Chief Executive Chui Sai On will officiate the ceremony and oversee the presentation of degrees to the students. Graduating students’ families and friends will need to present admission tickets to enter the venue. Tickets can be collected at the UM’s Registry between May 19 and 25 during office hours, or at registration desks on the day of the ceremony.