No plan for ‘time bank’ system, says Sports Bureau

The Sports Bureau (ID) has stated that it has no plan to implement a “time bank” system. Sports director Pun Weng Kun explained that “time banks” are typically operated by non-governmental organizations, with the government providing assistance, guidance, and supervision to ensure effective operation and sustainable development.

However, since the concept is not widely embraced in Macau, the government has no current plan for its implementation.

The topic of “time banks” was raised by lawmaker Lam Long Wai, who suggested studying their introduction to enhance volunteer services and address the issue of insufficient social service teams. Pun responded that establishing a “time bank” requires careful consideration of practical experience from mainland China and other places. The success of a “time bank” relies on complex institutional guarantees and operational arrangements.

In terms of volunteer services, the ID has focused on professional development and collaboration. The bureau took advantage of its participation in the 15th National Games to create a platform for encouraging widespread participation in volunteer services. It collaborated with ten tertiary institutions and eight societies in Macau to recruit and train volunteers.

Over 9,000 volunteers have been successfully recruited for the National Games in Macau. These volunteers have participated in various sports activities and gained practical experience. The SAR government plans to evaluate the volunteer service experience from the National Games and use it as a reference for future similar events. howard tong