Casino operators donate MOP40 million for Xizang mudslide relief

Macau’s six casino concessionaires and integrated resort operators have pledged a total of MOP40 million to support emergency relief and recovery efforts after a severe mudslide struck Gyirong County in Xigaze, Xizang Autonomous Region.

Wynn Macau, Melco Resorts & Entertainment, MGM China Holdings and SJM each announced donations of MOP5 million on Friday, channeling funds through the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao Special Administrative Region. Sands China and Galaxy Entertainment Group, together with the Lui Che Woo Family Charitable Foundation, each contributed MOP10 million, with Galaxy announcing its donation on Thursday and the others following on Friday.

In prepared remarks, Linda Chen, president, vice chairwoman and executive director of Wynn Macau, said the company stands “closely with the community during this challenging time” and hopes the donation will provide meaningful support for relief, resettlement and reconstruction.

Lawrence Ho, chairman and chief executive officer of Melco, said the company is “deeply saddened by the tragic loss of life” and hopes its contribution will bring practical help to the affected area.

Daisy Ho, managing director of SJM, described the company as a “patriotic enterprise with deep roots in Macau for more than 60 years” and said it hopes its donation of MOP5 million will support ongoing relief and recovery efforts.

Pansy Ho, chairwoman and executive director of MGM China Holdings, said MGM stands in solidarity with those affected and expressed gratitude to frontline rescue workers in the company’s disaster relief announcement.

Wilfred Wong, executive vice chairman of Sands China, said the company remains “deeply connected to the motherland” and hopes to play its part through the MOP10 million donation.

Francis Lui, chairman of Galaxy Entertainment Group, said the response reflects the “Chinese nation’s enduring spirit of solidarity, mutual assistance, and unity in times of adversity.”