1st October 2023 – (Macao) Macao SAR, the special administrative region of China, marked National Day with a series of events on Sunday. The celebrations included a flag-raising ceremony, a fun run, a reception, and a spectacular fireworks show.
The day began with a solemn flag-raising ceremony held early in the morning at the Golden Lotus Square. Distinguished guests in attendance included Ho Hau Wah, vice chairman of the National Committee of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference, and Ho Iat Seng, the chief executive of the Macao SAR. Representatives from the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR, the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of China in the Macao SAR, and the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Garrison in the Macao SAR were also present. The ceremony was well-attended by members of the Macao community from various walks of life.
Following the flag-raising ceremony, a fun run event took place, attracting approximately 3,500 participants of all age groups. The event aimed to promote a sense of unity and camaraderie among the people of Macao.
During the reception that followed, Chief Executive Ho Iat Seng emphasized the significant role of the motherland in ensuring Macao’s prosperity and stability. He acknowledged the unwavering support from the central authorities, which has been instrumental in Macao’s economic recovery. The Chief Executive pledged to enhance the legal system and enforcement mechanisms to safeguard national security, accelerate economic diversification, improve the well-being of the people, and advance the development of the Guangdong-Macao In-depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin, which is adjacent to Zhuhai city.
Chief Executive Ho stressed the Macao SAR government’s commitment to upholding the “one country, two systems” principle and safeguarding the overall jurisdiction of the central authorities over Macao. He also emphasized the importance of promoting the building of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and integrating Macao into the nation’s overall development plans.
In the evening, a dazzling fireworks show took place as part of the 31st Macao International Fireworks Display Contest. The show, organized by Chinese and Portuguese companies, delighted spectators with stunning pyrotechnics and synchronised music. This year’s contest will feature fireworks displays from 10 countries over the course of nearly a month.
Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes, director of the Macao SAR government tourism office and the contest organiser, expressed her enthusiasm for the fireworks events, which resumed after a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic. She encouraged residents and visitors to enjoy the shows and participate in the various games, carnivals, and markets that revolve around the fireworks theme.
The National Day celebrations in Macao SAR showcased the region’s unity, resilience, and commitment to its close ties with the motherland. The events brought joy and festivity to the people of Macao, fostering a sense of pride and patriotism among both residents and visitors alike.