Speaking at a reception marking International Women’s Day organised by the Women’s General Association of Macau, Sam Hou Fai stressed that women’s development is an integral part of the successful implementation of “One Country, Two Systems” in Macao, recalling the guidance given by President of the People’s Republic of China, Xi Jinping, on this issue.
He noted that since Macao’s return to the Motherland, women’s rights have been legally protected, with increased political participation, higher levels of education, and greater presence in the labour market, placing Macao among the regions with the highest levels of gender equality.
Among ongoing measures, he highlighted the Childcare Subsidy Scheme, the increase of the Birth Subsidy to 6,500 patacas, support for medically assisted reproduction, and the strengthening of childcare services. He also referred to the preparation of the MSAR’s Third Five-Year Plan and the new edition of the Macao Women’s Development Objectives.
Facing new challenges, the Chief Executive outlined four key directions: deepening research and policy proposals on women, children and family issues; strengthening talent development and services; innovating working methods and promoting healthy family values; and enhancing regional and international cooperation, particularly within the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area.
