Regulation of cultural venues stirs controversy

The Legal Affairs Bureau (DSAL)’s latest proposal suggests that theaters and cinemas should only be permitted to operate in hotels or licensed commercial places. The suggestion has been met with fierce opposition from the art sector.

Currently, Macau has numerous arts groups based in industrial buildings.  However, according to the provisions of the current policy, these groups will likely have to cease operations.

The art sector has criticized the proposed restrictions on performance venues as an act that would suffocate the industry.

DSAL held a public consultation meeting last Friday. Some participants suggested that the government can supervise theaters and cinemas by regulating the safety of these sites and the number of people accommodated in each venue.

Other participants commented that the suggestion is an unnecessary blanket option and does not apply equally to all situations.

DSAL’s deputy director Carmen Maria Chung responded that the ordinance needs to have a broader scope because it is now necessary to consider regulations for small theaters. She added that industrial buildings are only for businesses in the manufacturing industry.

“Performance […] should not be that kind of activity which should be carried out on industrial premises. The existing laws also have such regulations,” said Chung.