Macau’s historic districts, revitalised through partnerships with casino operators, have attracted over 1.7 million visitors during events and performances since 2023. The initiative, tied to the city’s 10-year casino license agreements, requires operators to contribute to rejuvenating older areas.
According to local media reports, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Elsie Ao Ieong highlighted the success of the programme during a Legislative Assembly session, citing over 750 arts and cultural events that provided opportunities for more than 200 service providers.
Additionally, the revitalisation projects have offered platforms for over 200 cultural and creative businesses to showcase and sell their crafts, further boosting the local economy and cultural landscape.
Last month, Macau reported it maintained its recovery momentum in the third quarter of 2024, with a 4.7 percent year-on-year increase in GDP, according to the Statistics and Census Service.
Enhancements in key districts
The revitalisation efforts include upgrades to several districts. The Barra zone, under the care of MGM China, now features an expanded late-night food and beverage scene, catering to both residents and visitors. Meanwhile, the Lai Chi Vun shipyards, managed by Galaxy Entertainment Group, are set to open new family-friendly attractions, an outdoor leisure area, and a performance venue later this month.
Other infrastructure improvements include renovations at Piers 23 and 25 near the Inner Harbour, overseen by Melco Resorts & Entertainment. These upgrades aim to enhance visitor accessibility and experience. Wynn Macau is also transforming Rua da Felicidade with the installation of canopies to attract more visitors to the historic Street of Happiness.
Preserving cultural heritage
Efforts to revitalise these districts are not solely about infrastructure. The government is focusing on preserving and promoting cultural heritage, such as the Cheng Peng Theatre, Macau’s first theatre built during the late Qing dynasty. Once a hub for Cantonese opera, the theatre is being repurposed into a training centre with facilities for performances and educational activities. However, progress has been slow, with revitalisation efforts for the theatre dating back to 2015.
Challenges and prospects
Despite the progress, the revitalisation initiative has faced challenges. Both the government and casino operators have encountered obstacles in addressing the complexities of rejuvenating these areas. However, the programme’s initial success in drawing visitors and fostering cultural and economic activities suggests a promising future for Macau’s historic districts.
With ongoing projects and new developments in the pipeline, these casino-backed initiatives aim to blend economic growth with cultural preservation, creating a dynamic and vibrant environment for both locals and tourists.
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