Macau

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The Macau Special Administrative Region of the People's Republic of China (Traditional Chinese: } [[in Mandarin], [in Cantonese]] ; Portuguese: Região Administrativa Especial de Macau da República Popular da China [[in Portuguese]], abbreviated as RAEM), commonly known as Macau or Macao (Traditional Chinese: }, or informally known as 馬交; see Names), is a small territory on the southern coast of China. Administered by Portugal until 1999, it was the oldest European colony in China, dating to the 16th century. The administrative power (in Portuguese "poder administrativo") over Macau was transferred to the People's Republic of China (PRC) in 1999, and it is now one of two special administrative regions of the PRC, together with Hong Kong. As stipulated in the Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration of 1987 and provided for under the Basic Law of Macau, Macau is guaranteed its special administrative region status for at least 50 years starting from December 20, 1999. Macau has played a unique and influential role in relations between China and the West, especially between the late 16th and 19th centuries.

Residents of Macau mostly speak Cantonese natively; Portuguese, Mandarin, English, Fujianese, Filipino, Thai, and several other languages are also spoken. The Macanese language, which is generally known as "Patuá", is a distinctive Creole that is still spoken by several dozen Macanese, an ethnic group of mixed Asian and Portuguese ancestry that accounts for about two per cent of Macau's population. (However, Macanese is sometimes also used in the broader sense to describe any permanent resident of Macau.)

Besides historical Chinese and Portuguese world-heritage relics, Macau's biggest attraction is its gambling industry and casinos. Though many forms of gambling are legal here, the most popular game is baccarat, which generates over two thirds of the gaming industry's gross receipts. Gamblers from Hong Kong often take one-day excursions to Macau; ferry service by hydrofoil to and from Hong Kong is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Most gamblers come from mainland China, Hong Kong and Taiwan.

Genesis

While Àomén/Ou3 Mun4 is the traditional Chinese name of the place, it is common among the Cantonese-speaking population of the territory to use the Portuguese name when speaking in Cantonese, pronouncing it Maa3 Gaau1 (Jyutping romanization), occasionally rendering it phonetically as 馬交 in Chinese characters.

The form "Macao" was the original Portuguese spelling, and has been retained in most European languages. In modern Portuguese, the correct spelling is "Macau". During the 20th century, the official spelling "Macau" became more and more common in English-language sources, including most print media.

Since the handover of administration in 1999 (Portugal had unilaterally relinquished its sovereignty over the enclave in 1974 already), the government of Macau considers both "Macao" and "Macau" to be the official English spelling of the name, whereas "Macau" remains the official spelling in Portuguese. This dualism is visible in many government publications and documents, sometimes even within the same paragraph. For example, the traditional English spelling of "Macao" appears in the SAR's passports, while the government's official explanatory note on the passport spells it as "Macau" [link].

In comparison, the central government of the PRC consistently spells its name as "Macao" in English. Less commonly used, is the pinyin transcription of Aomen, but its usage is not used officially.

The Chapel of St. Francis Xavier (聖方濟各聖堂) on Coloane island, with a forecourt displaying the territory's distinctive striped tiling.

As prescribed by the Basic Law, Macau participates in international organisations and international sport events as Macau, China.

Brief History

16th - 18th century

In 1535, the Portuguese, by bribing Guangdong local officials, obtained the right of Portuguese ships anchoring in Macau harbours and carrying out trading activities. In 1553, the Portuguese went ashore and settled there on the excuse of drying goods drenched by sea water. In other accounts, the Portugese were allowed to settle Macau as a reward for defeating pirates, and to serve as middlemen for trade with Japan and India. Also, it should be noted that China's Ming Dynasty was much more tolerant and open to foreigners than the later Qing Dynasty.

In 1557, the Portugese began permanent settlement in Macau.

Beginning in 1670, Portugal leased the territory although there was no transfer of sovereignty. Macau prospered as a port and was the subject of repeated attempts by the Dutch to conquer it in the 17th century.

After the House of Braganza regained control of Portugal from the Spanish Habsburgs in 1640, Macau was granted the official title of Cidade do (Santo) Nome de Deus de Macau, Não há outra mais Leal [[Listen]], which means City of the (Holy) Name of God of Macau, "There is none more Loyal".

The motto "There is none more Loyal" was granted in honour of the fact that the territory of Macau (Amacao, in older Portuguese writings) never recognized Spanish sovereignty, and thus it is considered by historians as a (now former) part of Portugal that was never surrendered. Realistically, the Habsburgs could never have changed this situation anyway since they were heavily involved in European wars and Macau was far away. Additionally, the successful, decades-long resistance against Dutch privateers demonstrated that Macau was not a soft target.

19th century

With Hong Kong established as a British Crown Colony, Macau's status as the major regional trading centre declined due to the fact that larger ships were drawn to the deep water port of Victoria Harbour. In 1849, Portugal declared the colony independent of China.

Lin Zexu, a national hero in China modern history who was renowned for cracking down on smuggling of opium into China, stayed in the Lotus Temple when he came to Macao on an inspection tour on September 3, 1839. The pavilion in which Lin Zexu worked and the desk he used are still in the temple. A stone statue of Lin was erected in front of the temple in 1989. The Lin Zexu Memorial Hall was built at the temple in 1997.

The Templo de Kun Iam was the site where, on July 3, 1844, the treaty of Wangxia (named after the village of Mong Ha where the temple was located) was signed by representatives of the United States and China. This marked the official beginning of Sino-US relations.

Before 1960's

In 1955, the fascist Salazar regime declared Macau, as well as other Portuguese colonies, an "Overseas Province" of Portugal.

Although Macanese culture had always been a mixture between Chinese and Portuguese this did not always come about peacefully. Chinese citizens' efforts to establish their own identity were often counter to the aims of the Portuguese government.

Fortaleza do Monte

After 1960's

The Chinese people adopted a "three no's" approach as a means to continue their struggle with the Government — no taxes, no service, no selling to the Portuguese. They were successful and on January 29, 1967 the Portuguese government of Macau signed a statement of apology. This marked the beginning of equal treatment and recognition of Chinese identity and of de facto Chinese control of the colony, as an official apology underlined the fact that after 1949, administration of Macau continued only at the behest of the Mainland Communist government. (Like Hong Kong, militarily the colony was indefensible.)

The Ruins of Saint Paul's, one of the main historical tourist attractions of Macau

After the leftist military coup of 1974, the now democratic Portuguese government was determined to relinquish all its overseas possessions, but the People's Republic of China did not favour Macau's immediate return to Chinese sovereignty. In 1976, Lisbon redefined Macau as a "territory under Portuguese administration," and granted it a large measure of administrative, financial and economic autonomy. The Chinese Government stated on many occasions that Macao has always been Chinese territory and the issue left by history should be settled through negotiations when the condition was ripe.

Transitional period, handover

After four rounds of talks, "the Joint Declaration of the Government of the People's Republic of China and the Government of the Republic of Portugal on the Question of Macao" was officially signed in April, 1987. The two sides exchanged instruments of ratification on January 15, 1988 and the Joint Declaration entered into force. During the transitional period between the date of the entry into force of the Joint Declaration and December 19, 1999, the Portuguese government will be responsible for the administration of Macao. The Chinese government has already resumed the exercise of sovereignty over Macao since December 20, 1999.

Thus the history of European colonization of Asia ended where it began. Although offered control of Macau in the 1970s, the Chinese deemed the time "not yet ripe" and preferred to wait until December 1999--the very end of the milennium, two years after the Hong Kong Handover--to close this chapter of history.

Legal system & Judiciary

In order to implement the principle of high degree of autonomy, the basic and original framework of the legal system of Macau must also be preserved for at least 50 years after 20 December, 1999 according to the provision made by the Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration on the Question of Macau.

The legal system is based largely on Portuguese law or Portuguese civil law system.

The territory has its own independent judicial system, headed by the Court of Final Appeal (CFA), which makes final judgments on court cases. Judges are selected by a committee and appointed by the chief executive.

No death penalty is currently imposed in Macau SAR.

Ampliate reformations in legal system in Macau can be seen after handover. The prominent example is using Chinese language in courts, in addition to the process of legislation. Due to the executive body (government) occupied the eximious position, chief executive can directly appoint judges and the location of power in final appeal.

Government and Politics

More information on politics and government of Macau can be found at the Politics and government of Macau series.

Edmund Ho Hau Wah (何厚鏵)

Introduction

The status of Macau since reverting to People's Republic of China sovereignty on 20th December 1999 is defined in the Sino-Portuguese Joint Declaration and the Basic Law, Macau's constitution promulgated by China's National People's Congress in 1993. The Joint Declaration and the Basic Law specify that Macau's social and economic system, lifestyle, rights, and freedoms are to remain unchanged for at least 50 years

Under the principle of "one country, two systems" articulated in the Basic Law of Macau, Macau enjoys a high degree of autonomy except in defense and foreign affairs. Macau officials, rather than PRC officials, run Macau through the exercise of separate executive, legislative, and judicial powers. Macau maintains its own separate currency, customs territory, immigration and border controls, and police force.

Chief Executive

The chief executive is appointed by the People's Republic of China's central government after election by an election committee, whose members are nominated by corporate and community bodies. The chief executive's cabinet comprise five policy secretaries. He is advised by an Executive Council that has between 7 and 11 members. Edmund Ho Hau Wah, a community leader and former banker, is the first China-appointed chief executive of the Macau SAR, having replaced General Vasco Rocha Vieira at midnight on December 19, 1999.

Legislative body

The legislative organ of the territory is the Legislative Assembly, a 29-member body comprising 12 directly elected members, 10 appointed members representing functional constituencies and seven members appointed by the chief executive. The Legislative Assembly is responsible for lawmaking and like many other legislatures, it has power to impeach the Chief Executive. It has power to amend the method of electing the chief executive after 2009.

The democratic infrastructure of Macau SAR remains powerless. The ability of the legislature to initiate legislation is limited, although it plays a role in shaping legislation. There is little public pressure for democratization.

According to the Basic Law of Macau, the number of directly elected legislators will increase from 10 to 12 in 2005, while the number of legislators will also increase by 2 more to 29. After 2009, the selection of the Chief Executive may be changed by ⅔ endorsement of the Legislative Assembly and approval by the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee.

To change the method for forming the Legislative Assembly require a ⅔ endorsement of the assembly, agreement by the Chief Executive, and notification to the NPC Standing Committee. Civic organizations in Macau are not well-developed. The ability of Macau residents to change their government is significantly restricted.

Work had been underway to draft national security legislation, as required by Article 23 of the Basic Law of Macau, but Chief Executive Edmund Ho announced that 2004 would not be the proper time for the government to propose Article 23 legislation. Ho indicated that the government would continue drafting the legislation and would conduct public consultations in good time.

Political Association

Political associations in the Legislative Council of Macao are mainly including: New Democratic Macau Association, United Citizens Association of Macau, Union for Development, Union for Promoting Progress, Alliance for the Development of Macau, New Hope, General Union for the Good of Macau, Convergence for Development.

Election

The general requirements of suffrage for direct election in Macau is an adult at or over 18 years of age and he or she must be a permanent resident in that region. For indirect election, it is only limited to organizations registered as "corporate voters and a 300-member Election Committee drawn from broad regional groupings, municipal organizations, and central governmental bodies.

The administrative division within Macau

Administrative Divisions

Macau comprises two administrative subdivisions:

• The Macau District (澳門區): The Macau Peninsula
• The Islands District (離島區, 海島區): Taipa and Coloane

Geography and Climate

Terrain

The peninsula is formed by the Zhujiang (Pearl River) estuary on the east and the Xijiang (West River) on the west. It borders the Zhuhai Special Economic Zone in mainland China.

Macau has a generally flat terrain resulting from extensive land reclamation, but numerous steep hills mark the original natural land mass. The Macau peninsula was originally an island, but gradually a connecting sandbar turned into a narrow isthmus. Land reclamation in the 17th century made Macau into a peninsula.

With a dense urban environment, Macau has no arable land, pastures, forest, or woodland. Because of this deficiency, Macau's people traditionally have looked to the sea for their livelihood.

The Macao Peninsula is narrow in shape but varies in terrain:

The East Ocean Watching Hill, West Ocean Watching Hill, Persimmon Hill, Lotus Hill, Luosi Hill and Qingzhou Hill are famous scenic spots in Macao. The Persimmon Hill used to be a fortress surrounded by stone walls. The fortress, which resembles an imposing European castle, is now a tourist attraction. Standing on the Persimmon Hill, one gains a panoramic view of both Macao and the nearby Zhuhai.

The West Ocean Watching Hill, a tranquil scenic spot, is noted for the cathedral and the bishop's mansion on its top. Viewed from the Nanxi Bay in the distance, particularly against the evening glow, the cathedral and the mansion stand in their full splendor. From the top of the Persimmon Hill, one sees the Nanxi Bay and the high rise buildings there as well as the sea and the sea - spanning bridge.

Climate

During the transition period from northeast monsoon to southwest monsoon (March and April), the weather is moist and foggy. It is Macau's spring season. Summer is from May to September, when the southeast and southwest monsoon prevailing. It is rather hot and rainy. The weather in autumn (the end of September and October) is sunny and warm, when the southwest monsoon withdrawing gradually and the northeast monsoon advancing south. Winter is from November to February next year, when the northeast monsoon prevailing.

The average annual temperature of Macao is 22.3C. July is the hottest month, with average monthly temperature being 28.6C (mostly above 30.0C in reality). The coldest month is January, whose average monthly temperature is 14.5C Located in the coastal region of south China, Macao has ample rainfall, with average annual precipitation being 2,030 millimeters.

Economy

The legal tender is the pataca (MOP). Hong Kong dollars (HKD) are also accepted. Like Hong Kong, traveller's cheques can be exchanged at any bank and major hotel. Credit cards or Mastercards are widely accepted. ATMs are widely available.

Preface

Macau's economy is based largely on tourism, namely gambling. Other chief economic activities are export-geared textile and garment manufacturing, banking and other financial services. The clothing industry has provided about three-fourths of export earnings, and the gaming, tourism and hospitality industry is estimated to contribute more than 50% of Macau's GDP, and 70% of Macau government revenue.

From 9.1 million in 2000, arrivals to Macau has grown to 18.7 million in 2005 [link], with over 50% of the arrivals coming from mainland China. This recent growth has been driven by gambling and related tourism. Tourists from Hong Kong remain numerous, representing about 30% of arrivals. Since the 1999 return to Chinese rule, Triad underworld violence, a dark spot on the economy, has virtually disappeared, to the benefit of the tourism sector. The average growth rate between 2001 and 2005 has been approximately 10% annually. The GDP per capita in 2005 was USD $24,300. In the last quarter of 2005, the unemployment rate stood at 3.9 %.

Gaming, offshore banking, investment

With the opening of the Sands Casino [link] in 2004 gambling revenues from Macau's casinos were for the first time greater than those of Las Vegas (each about $5 billion), making Macau one of the highest-volume gambling centres in the world. Other casinos slated to be opened through 2008 are the Wynn Macau Casino [link] in 2006, the Venetian Macau [link] in 2007, the Galaxy [link], Crown Macau and others. As a result, the small economy is growing rapidly due to gambling related tourism from mainland China and construction from the new casino entrants.

Amongst Bermuda, British Virgin Islands or Bahamas, Macau is one of the most well-known offshore financial centres and tax havens in a worldwide sense. Banco Nacional Ultramarino [link] , Banco Delta Asia [link] , Seng Heng Bank [link] or Tai Fung Bank [link] are among the most influential banks in Macau, to name a few. There are also many foreign banks registered and established in Macau as well, e.g. Bank of America - Macau [link] , HSBC - Macau [link] , etc. Macau is a free port and no policy of monetary control [link] is imposed.

To operate offshore service business is entirely feasible in Macau as related offshore law has been in effect since 1999. The offshore finance business is regulated and supervised by the Monetary Authority of Macao [link], while the regulation and supervision of the offshore non-finance business is mainly controlled by the Macau Trade and Investment Promotion Institute [link].

For foreign investors from overseas who want to obtain the status of permanent residence in Macau (i.e. after 7 years of obtaining the status of permanent residence, one may apply for a Macau SAR passport [link]) should purchase fixed assets with no less than 1 million Pataca. Besides, with no less than half million Pataca should be additionally deposited in certain appointed credit institutions in Macau before landing document/identity card will be granted. This governmental policy has been successfully attracted an influx of billions of Pataca and foreign capital that created a positive effect in the Macau SAR's economy especially in the sphere of real estate.

Trade with the EU

Trade with the US

Trade with Mainland China

The mega-project's social and economic impact on Macau will be tremendous. For the first time in its long history as a Chinese harbour and meeting place between East and West, Macau will have a direct road - and possibly even rail - link with the delta's economic superpower, Hong Kong. Macau's relatively small size and unique Sino-Latin heritage call for special measures by all parts involved to tackle the multifarious challenges expected to follow the opening of the bridge.

The bridge project, which promises to be one of the world's greatest engineering challenges at the start of the 21st century, should also be seen as part of Mainland China's Closer Economic Partnership Arrangements CEPA with both Hong Kong and Macau, which will entail an ever-growing demand for more efficient transport networks within the delta.

The bridge project i.e. Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge is just one facet of Macau's promising development in the coming years, including an innovative trans-border park in conjunction with the adjacent Zhuhai Municipality and a host of large-scale infrastructure and entertainment projects, such as a two-level bridge between the Macau Peninsula and Taipa Island and several mega-casino resorts, convention centres and de luxe hotels.

Following its smooth return to the China, Macau has, indeed, become an integral part of the transformation of the Pearl River Delta into one of the world's so-called "super zones." Macau is charging ahead to become important player in the New Pearl River Delta Super Zone, based on its centuries-long experience as a hub for trade, business services and cultural ties between China and the rest of the world.

Relationship with Portuguese-speaking countries

In order to strengthen the economic co-operation and development between China and Portuguese speaking countries and improve the international status of Macao SAR, the first “Economic Co-operation Forum between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries” was held by the Central Government of the People's Republic of China with the Macao SAR Government being the event coordinator. It is mainly for the economic co-operation and development of the both sides and is non-political. The “Economic Co-operation Forum between China and Portuguese-speaking Countries” will be held every three years and the first was in Macao in October 2003.

Transportation

It was the first time for Macau International Airport [link] in 2004 reached the Top-100 (placed 82nd) in global standard for the total volume of goods transportation. In 2003, the airport has altogether processed 140,000 tons of cargos and in 2004, 220,000 tons of cargos. The capacity of cargos processing in the airport largely grew more than 56%. In 2005 Macau International Airport had the honor to receive the prize of best airport in the Asian and Pacific area; again in 2006 received the remarkable prize of global air freight.

In order to go together the need of public and give satisfaction for those passengers who would like to go to other places of Zhujiang Delta; or to transfer to the mainland in a more convenient way, the policy of Two Customs, One Checkpoint (or AIR-TO-LAND Flow Express Bus - Two Customs, One Checkpoint) was introduced by Macau International Airport. Passenger can request the "Express Link" service at the check-in counter of that airline . When arriving at Macau International Airport, they may follow the "Express Link" (i.e. signages to gate No.8) for registration and boarding the Air-to-Land transfer. No immigration and customs procedure are required for passengers taking Express Bus until the final destination have been reached.

Bus

In Macau visitors will find an efficient bus service, not only in the city but also in the islands. Visitors can look for the destinations, itineraries and stops in the information panels located at every bus stop. All the buses have air conditioning. Between Macau and Taipa visitors can catch buses 11, 22, 28A, 30, 33, 34 and also the airport bus AP1. Buses 21, 21A, 25, 26, and 26A connect Macau, Taipa and Coloane. There are other buses circulating around the Macau peninsula.

Taxi

There are plenty of taxis, the flagfall charge is MOP$10.00. There is no surcharge between Macau and Taipa island, but between Taipa and Coloane, a MOP$2.00 surcharge applies. Between Macau and Coloane there is a MOP$5.00 surcharge. Moreover there is a MOP$3.00 surcharge for each piece of luggage carried in the boot. In order to eliminate the language barrier between taxi drivers and passengers, the Tourist Office has provided most taxis with a destination guide which includes the names of the most requested destinations in Chinese, Portuguese and English. When used together with a map, this guide will reduce many of the usual misunderstandings.

Junk trips:

In the past, Macau Maritime Museum [link] used to arrange 2 sailing vessels in which they were re-modelled into a new shape from the ancient one, touring the inner and outer harbours. Along the trip, the general lifestyle and custom of boat dwellers was introduced. Food and drink were occasionally provided in that trip. However, due to the land reclamation works in the harbour and the boat maintenance, all junk trips have been temporarily suspended. The exhibition building and the open-air café esplanade of the Maritime Museum are open as usual (close on Tuesdays).

Tricycle:

This kind of transportation is quite unique. Its design is immemorial and the speed of ride is pretty slow. Nowadays jinrikisha has not served as the tool of mass transit in Macao anymore. However, it is a good idea to use the jinrikisha to roam in particular area of Nanwan or other interesting places. There is no standard fee for such kind of service and thus one may need to negotiate first with the tricycle owner.

Car Hire:

Anyone who wishes to hire a car will have to provide an I.D. or passport, valid driver's licence (or international driving licence for some countries), a credit card for deposit and one must be 21 years of age or above.

Demographics

Street scene in Macau

Considered as a special administrative region or dependency, Macau is one of the most densely populated region in the world.

Introduction

Languages

Though the residents commonly speak Cantonese, both Cantonese and Mandarin are de facto official. English is widely taught and used as a language of instruction in schools and tertiary education establishments and widely spoken in tourism, trade and other businesses, being Macau's de facto "lingua franca" among its different ethnic communities.

Macanese (Patuá), a Portuguese-Asian Creole dating back to the mid-16th century, is nowadays spoken by just several dozen, mostly elderly residents. FIlipinos invariably speak English as well as Filipino, while the Thais generally speak Thai or other Thai language.

Work Force

Other Surveys

These above figures have been verified that the general standard of living and the qualities of medical technologies/facilities for public utilities in Macau are quite comparable to any industrial nation in the developed world.

Nationality

Culture

Lead-in

Chinese Traditional Medicine

Chinese medicine (i.e. medical practise) is not only a nonremovable part of culture in the sphere of medical education but also a very common and alternative choice of treatment in Macau for both wealthy class and grassroots. With over 90 percent of its population as Chinese ancestry, Macau has a long history of using Chinese medicine, and Chinese traditional treatment has enjoyed a great popularity. The Faculty of Chinese Medicine [link] , Macau University of Science and Technology [link] was set up in the year of 2000.

A Pan - Pearl River Delta Forum and Exhibition for Chinese Medicine was held in Macau from June 21st to 23rd, 2005, which would hopefully raise Macao's ambition to act as an access for Chinese traditional medicine leading to the international market.

Mass Media

Music

Classic

"Chinese Urheen - 《中國二胡》" Camilo Pessanha (庇山耶) 1867 - 1926

"Collection of Cathedral of Saint Paul -《三巴集》" WuLi (清代 • 吳曆) 1632 - 1718

Renowned playwright Tang Xianzu [link] (明代 • 湯顯祖 1550 - 1616). His works covered "XiangAo Meets Jia Hu" - 《香澳逢賈胡》、"Listens to Xiangshan - Translator" one, "Listens to Xiangshan - Translator" two - 《聼香山譯者 1, 2 》, 《香山驗香所採香口號》, "South Haijiang" -《南海江》 and so on. These works mainly reflected and depicted Macau's local scenery at that time (late Ming dynasty), the human sentiment and international trade.

"The Chart of Maritime Countries - 《海國圖志》" , "Listens to the Dulcimer & Song playing by a foreign lady in the Aomen Garden - 《澳门花园听夷女洋琴歌》" written by WeiYuan (清代 • 魏源 1794 - 1857 ), has displayed his personal feeling and understanding of the Western music.

Cantonese Opera

Cantonese Opera [link] is quite popular especially in the group of eldery. In 2003, the Cultural Institute of the Macao S.A.R Government, in collaboration with the Leisure and Cultural Services Department of the Hong Kong S.A.R organized the exhibition " Fong Yim Fun - The Life and Work of a Cantonese Opera Artiste" [link] . The part of her works (as a well-known actress and opera artiste in Canton, Hong Kong and Macao, Fong Yim Fun performed in more than 150 operas and films) was exhibited in the Museum of Macao [link]at that time.

Facilities

Macau Ricci Institute is a recent foundation of the Jesuits in Macau. Its aim is to continue the process of friendly encounter between Chinese and Western cultures and traditions, which was begun by Matteo Ricci 1552-1610 many years ago. [link]

Religion

Figures

Protection by the Basic Law

Under the Basic Law of Macau, Mainland China does not govern religious practices in Macau. The Basic Law states that "The Government of Macau Special Administrative Region, consistent with the principle of religious freedom, shall not interfere in the internal affairs of religious organizations or in the efforts of religious organizations and believers in Macau to maintain and develop relations with their counterparts outside Macau, or restrict religious activities which do not contravene the laws of the Region.

The Religious Freedom Ordinance requires religious organizations to register with Macau's Identification Services Office. There have been no reports of discrimination in the registration process. The Freedom of Religion Ordinance stipulates that religious groups may maintain and develop relations with religious groups abroad.

Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism

Christianism

The Catholic Church in Macau recognizes the Pope as the head of the Church. A new Coadjutor Bishop for the Macau diocese was appointed by Vatican or Holy See in June, 2003.

Missionaries are free to conduct missionary activities and are active in Macau. More than 30,000 children are enrolled in Catholic schools, and a large number of influential non-Christians have received a Christian education. Religious entities may use electronic media to preach.

The Victoria Diocese of the Anglican Communion, established in 1849, included Macau as well as Hong Kong. When the Diocese of Chung Hwa Sheng Kung Hwei was established in 1912, Macau were included with Hong Kong and Guangdong. In 1951, following the change of the Chinese government, Hong Kong and Macau left the Diocese and established the The Sheng Kung Hui Diocese of Hong Kong and Macau. At the end of British administration in Hong Kong, the Diocese was succeeded by the Province of Hong Kong Sheng Kung Hui (also called the Hong Kong Anglican Church).

Macau was also the first station of the Protestant church for mission in China.

Other

Relations among the various religious communities get along each others. People in Macau generally are very tolerant of other religious views and practices. Public ceremonies and dedications often include prayers by both Christian and Buddhist groups.

Higher Education

Macao is a city of tourism with multicultural blend providing a broad sense and international perspective for college students. The free academic atmosphere and its profound and unique foundation in culture also created favorable conditions for higher education. Most curricula, teachers or the general quality of teaching already reached an international level. English or Chinese language are mainly conducted in universities, some courses or programs are conducted in Portuguese language.

Online application is now possible to make in the University of Macau [link] Gaming Management is an unique program newly offered under the umbrella of the faculty of business administration. Besides, there are many other traditional options for students to choose namely accounting, business information systems, economics and international finance, finance, international business, management, marketing. For English studies, teaching areas cover English literature, linguistics and translation, etc. For communication, it basically includes journalism, public relations, advertising, video production.

Entrance examination is a must for the admission of undergraduate/graduate programs in the University of Macau and sometimes, personal interview may also be required. Candidates may check their results/marks of the entrance examination online although results will be sent to individual applicants by mail at the beginning of June. As quotas basically set every year and competition is keen, one who meets the minimum score of entrance examination or other requirements of admission may NOT automatically be offer a place.

Recently Macau University of Science and Technology [link] (MUST) together with colleges/universities from Europe, Australia, New Zealand and other countries signed agreements of co-operation that they will use the model of 2+2 or 3+1 in which students may get double degrees after graduation in Macau and aboard.

Sport

Grand Prix

Macau Grand Prix [link]

Each November, hundreds of racing drivers (i.e. including both cars and motorcycles ) will take part the Formula 3 event in Macau. Macau Grand Prix has become a stepping stone for future Formula 1 drivers. Famous drivers include Ayrton Senna, Michael Schumacher, Mika Hakkinen, David Coulthard and Ralf Schumacher. All these Formula 1 drivers having graduated from the narrow, twisting Guia street circuit.

Grand Prix Museum in Macao is available for those who want to visit and feel back on track. The museum encourages a closer relationship between the local people and this sports event as well as to enable foreign visitors to know more about this famous international championship. Many internationally famous race car drivers came here and participated in the races since the beginning of 1954. Today, it has become an exciting international sports event in Macau.

More than 20 racing cars famous for being driven by world class drivers, electric-operated motor cars and accessories related to the Grand Prix displayed in the museum. Visitor can carry up the history of car race in Macau in the past 40 years. The museum also displays many historical pictures of wonderful car races. 2 racing simulators will be provided for visitors who feel interested in car racing [link] .

East Asian Games

The 11th East Asian Games Association (EAGA) Council meeting held in Guam in March 1996 awarded Macau the right and honour to host the 4th East Asian Games, marking an important milestone in the sporting history of Macao.

The Fourth East Asian Games was held in Macau (host city) on 29th October, 2005. The closing date is 6th November, 2005. Many nations took part in the games, namely China, Japan, South Korea, North Korea, Hong Kong, Mongolia, Chinese Taipei, Guam. More than 2,800 athletes and officials from these above mentioned nations participated.

17 sports and 235 events was brought into play, namely:

Aquatics, Athletics, Basketball, Bowling, Dancesport, Dragon boat [link] , Football, Gymnastics, Hockey, Rowing, Karate-do[link], Shooting, Soft tennis, Taekwondo, Tennis, Weightlifting, and Wushu [link]

The Emblem of 4th East Asian Games: [link] By utilizing and swirling the five symbolic colors from the Olympic Rings together. The emblem displayed the Olympic Spirit in a new guise. It also reflected the dynamic power of the Five Elements - Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth - generating a complementing and influential upswing in East Asia that will bring forth with the rest of the world to forge a new era.

The Mascot of 4th East Asian Games: [link] The athletic and adorable squirrel mascot of the Macau 2005 East Asian Games. The name of that squirrel mascot is "Pak Pak (柏柏)". "Pak Pak" comes from Macau's famous Guia Hill where there are lots of Fir trees, also the site of the oldest lighthouse on the China coast - the Guia Lighthouse.

Facilities

Macao East Asian Games Dome situated in Cotai [link] , the Macao East Asian Games Dome [link] will be Macao's largest and most modern sport facility, a three-story multi-purpose sport complex covering a total area of 45,000 m2 and has been designed with two separate functional indoor pavilions ideal for different indoor sports and activities, as well as a large exhibition hall that can accommodate up to 2,000 people.

Pavilion 1: With a total seating capacity of more than 7,000, one of this pavilion's main features is the dedicated indoor track and field set-up; ideal for different activities, from the important ceremonies to various sporting events.

Pavilion 2: This pavilion can seat up to 2,000 and is designed with a central stage that offers an U-shaped spectators seats setting, audiences are provided with a perfect view of the exciting activities on the stage, especially suitable for different exhibition sports, including dance sport and others.

Macao Olympic Aquatic Centre [link] Inaugurated on 28 March 2003, the Macao Olympic Aquatic Centre is covering a total area of 3,220 m2 and has a seating capacity of 1,500, the Aquatic Centre has been built with a diving pool of 25 meters by 25 meters that has an adjustable base reaching a maximum depth of 5 meters, and a 10-lane standard swimming pool, 50 meters in length.

IPM Multi-sport Pavilion [link] The state-of-the art IPM Multisport Pavilion covers a total area of over 6,200 m2 and has a seating capacity of 3,800. This modern Pavilion is ideal for different indoor sports, from a variety of sports to assorted ball games. It is connected to the adjacent Macao Forum via a flyover and a short underground passage.

Tap Seac Multisport Pavilion [link] [link] A modern indoor multi-sport complex that will cover a total area of more than 5,500 m2, it is built within a couple of minutes walk from a separate warm-up hall and offers a seating capacity of more than 4,000. This pavilion is suitable for a variety of indoor sports, from aerobics, gymnastics to different ball games.

Macao Forum [link] Connected to the adjacent IPM Multisport Pavilion and Media Centre, the Macao Forum is a popular and functional indoor venue, and has two pavilions and ample exhibition space. The main pavilion can seat up to 4,000 and offers a competition area of 45 meters by 25 meters and a ceiling height of 12 meters, it is ideal for different sports and cultural activities. The second pavilion offers a space of 30 meters by 15 meters, with its theatre style-seating format, which can accommodate over 300 people; this is suitable for different spectator sports and shows.

Landmarks

• Ruins of Saint Paul's Cathedral
• Casino Lisboa
• Macau Tower
• Macau Fisherman's Wharf
• Old Protestant Cemetery

A fountain in the shape of a lotus which is the symbol of Macau, outside the Macau Tower.

Macau Tower

Miscellaneous Topics

• Like Hong Kong and the United Kingdom, but unlike both mainland China and Portugal, traffic in Macau travels on the left, and the majority of vehicles are right hand drive. (Portugal and southern provinces of China also originally drove on the left.)

• Like Hong Kong, Macau also has a flower to represent the territory. While the representative flower of Hong Kong is the Bauhinia, the representative flower of Macau is the lotus. The lotus is always used as a symbol of the Macau Special Administrative Region.

• Sister cities [link]
• *Concelho de Macau: Lisbon, Portugal; Porto, Portugal; São Paulo, Brazil; Brussels, Belgium
• *Concelho das Ilhas: Linköping, Sweden; Coimbra, Portugal

Macau boasts eight Chinese-language and three Portuguese-language dailies, as well as one English-language daily (The Macau Post Daily).

Macau-related topics

• Communications in Macau
• Crime and Police in Macau
• Education in Macau
• Gambling in Macau
• Foreign relations of Macau
• Legal system of Macau
• List of universities in Macau
• Macau Grand Prix
• Macau Law
• Macau gaming law
• Military of Macau
• Transportation in Macau
• Postage stamps and postal history of Macau
• The Scout Association of Macau

External links

• MacauHub - a designated economic information portal to promote business ties between China and the Portuguese speaking world.
• * () [Simplified Chinese page]
• * () [Portuguese page]
• * () [English page]
• () [Documentary by RTHK on fifth anniversary of Macau SAR]
• [Profile of Macau] on BBC News
• [Profile of Macau] on the CIA World Factbook
• [Expatriate Guide]
• () () () [Portal of the government of Macau]
• Government Information Bureau of the Macau Special Administrative Region
• * () [Traditional Chinese page]
• * () [Portuguese page]
• * () [English page]
• Government Printing Bureau
• * () [Traditional Chinese version]
• * () [Portuguese version]
• * () [English version]
• [Guide to Macau]
• [Hongkong-Macau.info]
• [Macau Hotels and Resorts tours]
• [Library of Congress - Country Study: Macau] data as of August 2000
• [BlogMacau.info (an independent weblog about Macau)]
• [MacauCasinoWorld.com :: Macau Gaming News & Directory]
• [Nate's guide to Macau]
• [Open Directory Project - Macau] directory category
• [Yahoo! - Macau] directory category
• [Entry for Macau] on Catholic Encyclopedia
• [Macau Heritage Net - List of Historic Centre of Macau]
• Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macau Special Administrative Region
• * () [Traditional Chinese version]
• * () [Simplified Chinese version]
• * () [Portuguese version]
• * () [English version]
• [Satellite map of Macau] from Google Maps
• [info.mo A discussion forum in Chinese]

Portuguese Empire — Former colonies & present overseas territories''' 

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[[zh-yue:澳門]]

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