Local cultural heritage leaders recognized in national intangible cultural heritage list

Two prominent figures from Macau have been named among the 942 national-level representative transmitters of intangible cultural heritage by China’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism. Miguel de Senna Fernandes, a key figure in Patuá Theatre, and Lo Seng Chong, a leader in the Tou Tei belief and customs, were honored for their contributions to preserving and promoting Macau’s unique cultural traditions.

The recognition, part of the sixth group of national intangible cultural heritage transmitters, highlights the importance of safeguarding and transmitting cultural practices that reflect Macau’s rich multicultural identity. The selection process involved rigorous evaluation, including expert reviews, public consultations, and assessments by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

Miguel de Senna Fernandes, a renowned public figure in Macau, is celebrated for his work in Patuá Theatre, a traditional performing art performed in the Macanese Creole dialect, Patuá. This unique form of theater blends multiple languages and cultural influences, offering comedic performances that resonate deeply with the local community. Fernandes, a founder of the Dóci Papiaçám Theatre Group, has been instrumental in preserving this art form since 1993. As the group’s leader, scriptwriter, and director, he has created new plays annually and organized performances at the Macau Arts Festival. His efforts extend to mentoring young actors and raising public awareness of this cultural heritage, which was added to the National Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2021.

Lo Seng Chong, president of the Foc Tac Chi Tou Tei Mio Temple Association, has dedicated himself to preserving the Tou Tei belief and customs, a cornerstone of Macau’s Chinese community. These traditions, which reflect residents’ aspirations for peace, prosperity, and familial well-being, are celebrated annually during the Tou Tei Festival on the second day of the second lunar month. Since 2006, Chong has overseen temple rituals and organized festivities, while also promoting the culture through youth engagement and the publication of related books and cultural products. The Tou Tei belief and customs were also recognized nationally in 2021.

The Cultural Affairs Bureau (IC) of Macau played a pivotal role in supporting the nominations, facilitating applications, and coordinating evaluations with local experts and the Cultural Heritage Council. The IC emphasized its commitment to fostering platforms for cultural expression and nurturing future generations of heritage transmitters. Victoria Chan