CE Vows to enhance non-local worker approval system

[Photo; Renato Marques]

While acknowledging the low overall unemployment rate, Chief Executive (CE) Sam Hou Fai has announced plans for a comprehensive review and enhancement of the non-local worker approval system to better regulate the number of non-local workers.

The CE recently attended the 76th anniversary gala of the Macau Federation of Trade Unions. During his address, he expressed five hopes for the union, stating, “Assist citizens in engaging in diversified industries, support local workers – especially young people – in enhancing their professional skills and competitiveness, actively promote the moderate diversification of Macau’s economy, and make greater contributions to the long-term development of the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) and the Guangdong-Macau In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.”

According to him, Macau’s current economic development remains stable and positive, with all major economic indicators showing improvement. He stated, “Since its return to the motherland, Macau has maintained steady economic growth, continuously improved people’s livelihoods, and ensured overall social stability.”

The government prioritizes safeguarding residents’ employment rights, emphasizing that promoting high-quality employment for residents is a key priority in this year’s administration.

The CE stated, “Whenever local residents are capable and willing to perform a job, they will be given priority in hiring.”

In emphasizing efforts to address employment issues for Macau residents, Sam’s speech proposed the continuous improvement of labor-related laws and regulations, along with further strengthening job-matching programs, vocational training, and initiatives focused on occupational safety and health.

Meanwhile, the CE emphasized that, with the central government’s strong commitment and support for Macau’s development, he encourages, according to the statement, the union to unite and lead the workforce in supporting his government in lawful governance, collaborating to enhance governance effectiveness.

He further urged the union to continue actively providing constructive suggestions for the government’s policies and to serve as a bridge in governance.

He also called on the union to support Macau’s integration into the national development agenda by focusing on the new positioning of “Macau + Hengqin” to improve living standards, labor services, and talent development in the Guangdong-Macau In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area.