Low birth rate, aging population top 2027 agenda as O Lam consults associations

Macau’s low birth rate, aging population, elderly care and support for vulnerable groups are among the priorities being considered for next year’s policy agenda, following consultations between Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture O Lam and representatives of nine local associations.

Among the organizations consulted were associations representing women, the business and labor sectors, youth, education, residents and the overseas Chinese community.

According to Secretary O Lam, these organizations are essential partners in implementing public policies and play an important role in identifying the needs of the population.

The meetings addressed topics such as the low birth rate, the aging population, incentives to boost the birth rate, and strengthening care for the elderly. Proposals also included improving support for vulnerable groups, social security, medical services and the quality of social services.

In education, participants advocated for a more diverse and innovative system, the widespread teaching of artificial intelligence, and greater integration among education, science, technology and the training of qualified professionals.

They also highlighted promoting values such as love for the motherland and Macau, youth development, and bringing the lives of Macau and Hengqin residents closer together.

After the meeting, O Lam said the suggestions will be organized, studied and analyzed to serve as a reference for defining the government’s priorities for next year.

On maintaining continuous communication with civil society associations and groups, the secretary also noted the launch, this year, of an initiative that aims to establish a regular communication platform titled “Esplanade: Talks on Social and Cultural Issues,” which she said has been bringing together the two sides and strengthening public consultation.

It was also noted that policies for 2027 are expected to align with the national 15th Five-Year Plan and be guided by Macau’s third Five-Year Plan, with key projects including the construction of the Macau-Hengqin International Education University Town, designed to attract highly qualified international professionals and promote integration among education, research and innovation.

The government also intends to move forward with the Macau International Integrated Tourism and Culture Zone, thereby revitalizing the cultural and tourism sectors.

Other topics discussed included preserving intangible cultural heritage and further developing Macau as a cultural hub.

According to O Lam, the government will continue to refine policies in education, health, social security, youth, culture and sports. The goal, she said, is to “respond to demographic changes and realize the vision of a ‘dynamic, cultural, and happy’ Macau, thereby enhancing the population’s well-being and sense of fulfillment.”