On the eve of the 30th anniversary of the enactment of the Macao Basic Law, the Macao SAR Government and various sectors of the community organized a series of activities to promote understanding of the Basic Law and the advantages of the “One Country, Two Systems” policy.
The Constitution of the People’s Republic of China and the Basic Law form Macao’s foundation and constitutional order, providing comprehensive rule of law protection for economic development, social livelihood and residents’ rights.
Within the framework of economic recovery and sustainable and balanced social development, it is still necessary to follow the wisdom and spirit of our predecessors, making good use of the foundations and institutional strengths of the rule of law enshrined in the Basic Law.
Familiar phrases that residents hear on a daily basis, such as “governing according to the law” and “governing Macao according to the law”, refer to the implementation of the Basic Law and strict compliance with its legal provisions on the basis of governance. Members of the Legislative Assembly are also obliged to strictly comply with the legislative procedures stipulated in the Basic Law to supervise the Government and to fight for the legitimate rights and interests of residents. “To uphold the Basic Law is to uphold one’s rights and freedoms,” said Lok Wai Kin, a recognized expert on Macao’s Basic Law.
Therefore, it is the responsibility of the Macao SAR Government and the community to continue to promote the Basic Law. Since its implementation, achievements in national security, socio-economic development, construction and well-being have been obvious to all. This is entirely due to its consistent implementation.
Even in the face of social changes, Macao has been able to manage them, relying on the conditions laid down in the Basic Law. For example, Article 105 of the Basic Law stipulates that the Government must adhere to the “principle of keeping expenditure within the limits of revenue” in order to give priority and continuity to the well-being of the people.
In terms of economic development, it is even more important to make the most of the institutional advantages under the Basic Law. Article 110 states that “the Macao Special Administrative Region remains a free port”. On the other hand, through the optimized management of vacant land and the introduction of preferential policies to attract investment, quality companies from the country and abroad should be attracted to Macao, in order to open new sectors and increase job opportunities.
In particular, Article 114 states that the Macao SAR “encourages investment and technological progress, as well as the exploitation of new industries and the conquest of new markets”, in order to gradually improve the financial legal system, the business environment and support the development and survival of local businesses. The Basic Law of Macau has already provided us with answers and guidance in the face of major challenges, such as an aging population, global economic instability, the development of Macau and the Mainland. As long as all sectors of the community join hands and support the Basic Law, we believe a new way forward will be found.
Macao Livelihood and Economy Alliance*
