Gov’t explores expansion of volunteer services ahead of 2025 National Games

As Macau prepares to host the 2025 National Games, local officials are highlighting the growing role of volunteer services in the city.

Luís Gomes, deputy director of the Sports Bureau and deputy secretary-general of the National Games Macau Organizing Committee, has highlighted that the event will be a significant milestone for the development of sports in Macau.

In preparation, Gomes, speaking at the TDM Forum recently, shared that volunteer recruitment began in February 2023 and has received strong support from civil society organizations and universities. So far, nearly 10,000 people have signed up and over 30 training and practical activities have been conducted.

He described the volunteers as publicity ambassadors who could play a role in promoting the development of Macau, and that these training activities ensure that volunteers know and understand Macau’s history and culture so that they can present it to future visitors. They can also let the world know about Macau’s “golden business card.”

Meanwhile, Fan Ka Wa from the Unitary Police Service (SPU) also discussed the role of civil defense volunteers. These volunteers provide support and help with civil defense education and publicity.

The SPU has recruited 217 civil defense volunteers this year, with the latest round expected to be completed in early July.

Fan said these civil defense volunteers are not categorized as official civil defence workers who are often tasked with post-disaster recovery work that is organized by the government, but rather serve as auxiliary support in case of bad weather or when a state of civil defense is declared. Howard Tong