CE acknowledges challenges ahead in New Year’s message

Chief Executive Chui Sai On has acknowledged that Macau will face “difficulties and challenges” in the near future. He pledged to address the city’s major issues building “a brighter future for Macau,” in a New Year’s message issued last week.
The government will be addressing president Xi Jinping’s four recommendations for Macau as priority guidelines when planning the territory’s policies, said Chui Sai On.
Upon visiting Macau last month to attend MSAR’s 15th anniversary celebrations, Mr Xi advised the government to improve the city’s legal system, further adjusting it in accordance to the Basic Law. He also urged the government to closely follow Macau’s population’s well-being, helping them overcome challenges.
Chui Sai On stressed that his team will work to develop its “governance ability.” In his 2015 Policy Address, to be delivered in March, Macau’s leader will focus on long-term mechanisms, such as promoting “the adequate diversification of the economy,” ensuring the development of Macau as a “World Center for Tourism and Leisure.” The reinforcement of regional cooperation and the development of a more “livable” city, namely by improving population’s living conditions, are among other priorities.
Meanwhile, the chief executive pledged to further develop the city’s education sector, improve the public administration’s efficiency and optimize Macau’s public service quality.
Chui Sai On said the government will continue to hear the population’s opinions and accept society’s suggestions.
An editorial published in the overseas edition of the People’s Daily last week highlighted Macau’s virtues in what is seen as a “warning” to Hong Kong, the Wall Street Journal reported.
“The road is hard for Hong Kong as it is wearing the right shoe on its left foot,” said the headline. The editorial portrayed Macau as having a “harmonious” and “stable” society, highlighting its “stunning” economic growth rate in recent years. CP