Consultative committee praises CNY activities in the community

The Cultural Development Consultative Committee convened for its inaugural plenary meeting yesterday.

The meeting, chaired by Deland Leong, director of the Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC), focused mainly on the activities planned to celebrate the upcoming Lunar New Year (CNY).

According to information aired in a press briefing after the meeting, the committee members praised the activities brought to community neighborhoods, which they noted promoted community engagement and cultural exchange.

In her opening remarks at the press briefing, Leong emphasized the committee’s dedication to enhancing the region’s cultural offerings. “We all hope to experience our Chinese New Year with our citizens,” she said.

Among the events planned and previously unveiled by the Macao Government Tourism Office, the IC president noted a series of special performances, workshops, and traditional elements from the Chinese Provinces of Hebei and Guizhou that will be showcased in different community neighborhoods in the Peninsula and Islands.

“We hope to create a better festive atmosphere and celebrate the New Year in harmony,” Leong added. She also highlighted the importance of linking these cultural activities with the development of local small and medium-sized enterprises, further positioning Macau as a hub for cultural exchange.

Ieng Weng Fat, a member of the Cultural Consultative Committee, expanded on the planned activities, stating, “The members here were very refreshed and happy to hear it.” He detailed the three-day series of events during the Spring Festival.

The committee member also noted the initiative that will open to the public 29 cultural venues during the Spring Festival, a move expected to enhance the celebratory atmosphere. “These three days will bring a very good and joyful atmosphere to our Spring Festival this time,” Ieng remarked.

Questioned on the topic by the media, Leong noted that the cultural performances from the two Chinese provinces are the main difference from this year’s celebrations, noting that these ethnic performances come in line with the call from the National Ethnic Affairs Commission to promote and emphasize the disclosure of the traditions of these two regions.

Responding to another media inquiry, Leong said integrating cultural initiatives within local neighborhoods is vital. “Bringing our culture to our different communities is a long-term task,” she said. She highlighted plans to showcase performances in various areas, including Taipa and the Macau Peninsula. Victoria Chan