MACAO IN A GLOBALISING WORLD: THE CHALLENGES AHEAD

Macao, a quaint and tiny city with a history of more than 400 years, has been experiencing unprecedented economic growth and urban development, an outcome which has been facilitated by the opening up of its once monopolised gaming industry and preferential policies from the central government since its return to China in 1999. During the process of internationalisation, however, many challenges and problems have surfaced as barriers to social cohesion never occurred before. In order to sustain and further Macao's growth, the fledgling Macao SAR government needs to draw up new development strategies and policies with a long-term vision. With the dedication and whole-hearted cooperation between the government and its people, a refreshingly new and sustainable Macao can be anticipated.