More than 30 Sands Cares Ambassadors and their family members joined an educational outing Sunday to the Former Chong Sai Pharmacy at Rua das Estalagens, organised by Sands China.
The event commemorated the centenary of Dr. Sun Yat-sen’s passing, honouring his establishment of the pharmacy in 1893.
Chong Sai Pharmacy stands as a symbol of Macao’s historical connection to Sun, who was the first Chinese doctor to practice Western medicine in the city.
The guided tour aimed to deepen participants’ understanding of Sun Yat-sen’s contributions and the evolution of Rua das Estalagens.
Beginning with a docent-led introduction, the tour showcased the connection between Sun and Macao, the perseverance that defined his pursuit of national revitalisation, and the architecture of traditional shophouses.
Participants explored the exhibition, absorbing the historic and cultural richness of the area.
The visit continued with a tour of some of Rua das Estalagens’ traditional shops, along with new businesses launched through Sands China’s Entrepreneurship Recruitment Programme.
The programme, initiated a year ago, has revitalised the street by bringing in six thriving new establishments, including cafes, bakeries, and restaurants.
This segment of the outing strengthened the team’s support for local SMEs and the ongoing revitalisation of the neighbourhood’s economy.
Dr. Wilfred Wong, Executive Vice Chairman of Sands China Ltd., highlighted the significance of the visit, describing it as a journey blending historical reflection with community integration. Wong noted that exploring the Former Chong Sai Pharmacy offered participants an opportunity to appreciate Sun’s enduring spirit and Macao’s historical role as a cultural crossroads.
In line with its revitalisation efforts, Sands China also introduced a bilingual book in March titled In Search of Its Roots – An Illustrated History of Rua das Estalagens.
The publication, shaped through conversations with residents and business owners, chronicles the neighbourhood’s vibrant history and cultural tapestry.
Available at the Cultural Affairs Bureau’s Macao Public Library and online, the book aims to preserve and share the district’s legacy with future generations.
To explore the digital version of the book, visit here.





