Zonta Club defends Smart Nursery closure, rejects mismanagement claims

The Zonta Club of Macau has defended its decision to close Smart Nursery, saying the move was necessary to avoid what it described as “unpredictable risks” to the organization, while rejecting government allegations of mismanagement.

In a statement posted on its official Facebook page, the organization denied misusing public subsidies, falsifying documents or unjustifiably closing bank accounts. It said its actions had always been aimed at protecting the collective interests of the organization and the children under its care.

The Zonta Club said continued operation of the nursery had become “completely unviable” due to accumulated difficulties and increasing administrative pressure. It cited delays in renovation work caused by restrictions imposed by various government departments as one of the main challenges.

The organization also pointed to staffing difficulties caused by maternity leave and high employee turnover, which it said affected the nursery’s day-to-day operations.

The closure followed a July investigation by the Commission Against Corruption (CCAC), which found no irregularities in the Social Welfare Bureau’s (IAS) decision to terminate its cooperation agreement with the nursery and revoke its operating license. The decision followed audits that identified shortcomings in the organization’s financial reporting.

The dispute between the Zonta Club and the government dates back to mid-2025, when the IAS sought to end funding. The organization appealed to the Court of Second Instance, but the government terminated the agreement in June.

Despite the dispute, the Zonta Club said it was proud of Smart Nursery’s work and thanked the government for its support and funding over the years.