Macao people govern Macao

Ten years since its return to China, the Macao Special Administrative Region has made tremendous changes in a variety of sectors. Zeng Siwei explains how the policy of "Macao people governing Macao" has overseen rapid social and economic progress.

Macao native, Edmund Ho Hau Wah, became Macao SAR's first chief executive on December 20th, 1999.

On the heels of his swearing-in, major members of the SAR government took their oaths to form the S-A-R's first cabinet.

"Macao people governing Macao" had become a reality.

Edmund Ho Hau Wah said, "We did our utmost to do the work that required to be done by the SAR government."

The Macao SAR government comprised a young team of civil servants when it was established in December 1999. The average age was younger than 40. They assumed their posts despite limited administrative experience.

Before its return, Macao had registered negative growth. People's living standards were also in decline. The jobless rate was climbing and public order was unstable.

Upon its return to China, Macao's residents anticipated change.

The SAR government introduced a policy geared at "consolidating foundations and ensuring stable development".

Effective measures were adopted to restore public order, and reforms were introduced to increase competition in the economic sector.

Macao's economy rebounded strongly in less than a year after its return.

The Chinese mainland and Macao SAR inked a free trade deal in 2003.

The Closer Economic Partnership Arrangement has served as a driving force for the regional economy.

Macao's economic growth in 2004 surged more than a quarter. And the growth sustains.

Resident Macao, said, "Macao is more and more beautiful."

"Our business is getting better and better."

The Macao SAR government has also expanded the social security system and deepened reform of the welfare system.

Resident Macao, said, "Medical care are free of charge. Each person has a pension of more than one thousand pacata every month."

The World Health Organization has recognized Macao for having one of the healthiest populations in the world.

But inroads have been made in education, too. Macao is the only region in Asia - and one of the few regions in the world - to have introduced 15-year-free education.

Speed, vitality and harmony have come to sum up the progress made during the past decade of "Macao people governing Macao"

MACAO SAR GOV'T STRUCTURES

Chief Executive

Executive Council

Administration & Justice

Economy & Finance

Security

Social & Cultural Affairs

Transportation & Public Works

Commission Against Corruption

Audit Commission