Sam Hou Fai rules out new public hearing session, citing ‘lack of time’

Sam Hou Fai, the sole candidate in Macau’s sixth Chief Executive elections, has dismissed the possibility of hosting another public hearing open to the general population.

Speaking on the sidelines of his current tour across Macau, Sam said that there was not enough time to host more public hearing sessions. He noted that his focus is now on engaging with different sectors of society and connecting with local communities.

“As everyone knows, I only announced my candidacy on Aug. 28, and there is a lot of work to complete between now and the elections. I am doing my best to understand the concerns and worries of the population and residents. They can still share their opinions through different channels, such as e-mails or letters,” he said.

During a visit to Taipa yesterday, Sam highlighted the need for the new government to make better use of the area’s land resources, acknowledging the lack of leisure spaces throughout Macau and particularly in areas with a higher population density.

Another issue raised by the community is deficiencies in local public transportation, which Sam also acknowledged as a reality.

When asked whether he would consider extending the pedestrian flyover of Taipa Central District to Edifício do Lago, Sam said that it is on the agenda for future discussion, along with traffic optimization and improvements to public transport.

Despite these challenges, Sam believes that Taipa has developed well over the past few decades, noting that it has become a new center for social and economic activities, helping to decentralize from the Peninsula.

Today, the CE candidate will continue to tour Macau, extending his visit to Coloane Island and the Seac Pai Van area.