Ella Lei vows continued effort as UPD retains two AL seats

The Union for Development (UPD), supported by one of Macau’s largest community associations – the Macau Federation of Trade Unions (FAOM), maintained its standing at the Legislative Assembly (AL), securing two seats but falling short of a third.

With both Ella Lei and Leong Sun Iok re-elected to the Legislative Assembly (AL), Leong noted early Monday, after results were published, that UPD’s vote share had increased slightly since the last election.

He added, “We hope that the general public will continue to encourage our work,” pledging to remain attentive to residents’ concerns.

Speaking to local media and residents at the Red Market yesterday while thanking voters in person, Lei said, “We will continue to carefully consider public opinion and work diligently to meet the expectations of the public. […] This morning (Sept. 15), we clearly heard from the public regarding my work, and they hope we can raise more of these concerns.”

Lei, who received 27,431 votes, has routinely advocated for labor rights during her term at the AL.

She has prioritized local hiring policies, especially in outsourced public works and services, as a way to improve conditions in the local labor market.

Looking ahead, Lei told members of the public that she will continue to push for concrete measures to stabilize employment for young and middle-aged adults facing job difficulties.

She also stressed the need to reduce the number of foreign workers in large corporations to open clerical and financial positions for locals. In her view, this would create broader development opportunities for young people in Macau.

Lei also acknowledged widespread community concerns over education, healthcare, and elderly care.

Despite holding their two seats, Leong expressed disappointment at not gaining additional representation but confirmed his commitment to “continue to work hard” and listen closely to public opinion.

He plans to channel residents’ concerns directly to the government through the parliament in a practical, down-to-earth manner.

Leong won 13,715.5 votes in this election cycle.

Notably, UPD has won one or two seats in every direct legislative election since it first took part in 1992.

Regarding the two re-elected candidates, Lei first entered the Legislative Assembly in 2013 through an indirect election, representing the labor sector. She later ran in the direct election in 2017 as the top candidate for UPD and secured her seat. Meanwhile, Leong Sun Iok became a legislator in 2017 as the group’s second-ranked candidate.

Both were re-elected in 2021 and now again in 2025.