Francis Lui was one of the gaming operator representatives included in the Macau delegation
Gaming operators highlighted Macau’s exponential growth over the past fifteen years, but believe that efforts toward diversifying the MSAR’s economy are now crucial. Representatives of various gaming operators traveled to Beijing on Sunday to attend the opening ceremony of the MSAR’s 15th anniversary exhibition, which is intended to portray the city’s achievements since its handover to China in 1999.
Co-chairman of MGM China Holdings, Pansy Ho, acknowledged that the exhibition showcases Macau’s successful development. Balance is the key word, she hinted, as “we need to diversify our general economic development, [while] also addressing social sustainability [issues.]”
Being part of a family whose history and business is linked to Macau’s development as a gambling hub, Ms Ho said they feel the responsibility to do more. “We always keep saying that it’s our absolute honor and obligation to help in Macau’s development, not only in terms of creating more types of business, but also on the ability to raise the whole economic development platform,” she said.
Ms Ho believes that it is important to build a solid base for the next generation. “The next phase would have to focus on improving our capabilities, including helping diversify and letting our young people acquire further skills, so that they can find within their career path what they would like to do. [Because] they have jobs but there aren’t that many jobs they can chose from,” she recalled.
Stanley Ho’s daughter believes there’s a market for diversified skills in Macau, as China becomes the biggest outbound market for tourism across the globe. She recalled that there has been an increase in the number of Chinese tourists looking to visit different nations in Asia, which means “they are seeking new experiences.”
“So if we can also re-develop and re-create what we can offer, I am sure we can still attract more Chinese tourists,” she acknowledged, adding that it’s not enough to offer a “one-dimensional experience.” “Gaming is very good but beyond that [tourists] need more.”
Deputy chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, Francis Lui, agrees that Macau should not only be about gaming, but also “enjoyment and leisure.” In the next development phase of his property, Mr Lui said that the non-gaming component will be highlighted.
“In our next phase of development we will make sure that we emphasize our non-gaming segment and make sure that we bring other sectors into the market, such as conventions and family entertainment,” he stressed.
Mr Lui said that the new Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau bridge will allow more flexibility to bring in more visitors and businessmen to Macau. Therefore, he advocated for the development of the convention sector.
Nevertheless, he acknowledged this is not a one man mission. “It’s an entire job for Macau, knowing that we need to diversify and try to help develop the industry together.”
He wishes he could make use of a crystal ball to know when the city’s economy can truly reach diversification. Still, Mr Lui recalled that at least consensus has been built over Macau’s need to diversify its economy. “We need confidence that we will be successful [in meeting this goal] in the next three to five years,” he added.
Exterior view of the venue where the exhibition is taking place
Also attending the opening ceremony of the MSAR’s 15th anniversary exhibition in Beijing was the chairman and CEO of Melco Crown Entertainment Limited group, Lawrence Ho, who told reporters that the exhibit highlights the city’s achievements and how Macau has worked toward economic diversification.
Although he finds the recent gaming revenue drop concerning, Mr Ho said he’s confident in the long-term development of his company.
As a new government is soon taking office, Mr Ho restated his confidence in Chui Sai On’s ability to deal with local challenges. He welcomed the Hengqin border’s new operating hours, but stressed that the development of particular infrastructures such as the LRT and a new ferry terminal are crucial to improving residents’ quality of life as well as making tourists happier.
Incumbent Chief Executive Chui Sai On headed a mission of several government officials, lawmakers, businessmen and media to Beijing for the exhibition’s opening ceremony, which took place on Monday.
The sun shone over the Beijing Exhibition Center, despite the mercury dropping to minus five degrees. An installation of Macau’s Guia lighthouse and a lotus flower outside the venue gave us a hint of what the MSAR’s 15th anniversary exhibition would entail.
Set to show the MSAR’s development and path toward prosperity, one of the first pictures we see outside the Beijing Exhibition Center portrays famous British rock band The Rolling Stones performing at the Venetian Macao Cotai Arena earlier this year.
Chinese Boxing star Zou Shiming and sporting traditions like the Dragon Boat race are also being showcased at the exhibition being held until December 28.
In his opening speech, Chui Sai On recognized that Macau’s development was possible due to the growth experienced by mainland China and because of “a correct implementation of the ‘one country, two systems’ principle.”
Zhang Dejiang: Beijing happy with outgoing secretaries’ work
The Chairman of the National People’s Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, Zhang Dejiang, said the central government is satisfied with Macau’s outgoing top officials, as they’ve contributed to the territory’s prosperity and development.
“After the new government takes office, some of you [outgoing secretaries] might transfer to other positions. I truly believe and sincerely hope that no matter what you’ll be doing, your affection for Macau and our country will remain unchanged,” he stressed.
Mr Dejiang met with incumbent Chief Executive Chui Sai On in Beijing on Monday, ahead of the inauguration ceremony for the MSAR’s 15th anniversary exhibition, to be held at the Beijing Exhibition Center.
Mr Dejiang added the central government is happy with the new lineup announced last week and hopes they will continue “loving Macau and their nation.” However, he chose not to comment on their suitability for Macau’s highest government posts, as he would like to further discuss the matter with incumbent Chief Executive Chui Sai On.
Mr Dejiang acknowledged that Macau witnessed great changes over the past 15 years, with its path toward economic prosperity leading “to the improvement on people’s quality of life.” Moreover, he recognized that Macau’s Basic Law and the “one country, two systems” are valuable.
Chui Sai On said that the MSAR is stepping up its efforts to diversify the economy and reinforce regional cooperation. Macau’s leader added that over the past 15 years “we have built a solid base” for the city’s future. Catarina Pinto, Beijing
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