The Chief Executive of the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR), Sam Hou Fai, stated that national security will be integrated into all areas of governance and throughout the implementation of the Macao SAR’s Third Five-Year Plan, during the National Security Education Day ceremony held on April 15, at the Service Platform Complex for Trade Cooperation between China and Portuguese-Speaking Countries.
Sam Hou Fai, who also serves as chairman of the State Security Defense Committee, emphasized that “we do not live in a peaceful world, only in a peaceful country,” warning of global instability and advocating for constant vigilance against internal and external risks, in the context of international conflicts and growing security challenges.
Sam Hou Fai indicated that the Government will rigorously implement the overarching national security framework, integrating this principle into the new Five-Year Plan and strengthening coordination between economic development and social stability.
Among the measures highlighted, he pointed to the continuous improvement of the legal system and enforcement mechanisms, the modernization of security infrastructure, and the strengthening of institutional response capabilities across all sectors.
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He also noted that the State Security Commission Law and its implementing regulations came into effect in March, consolidating central leadership in this area and strengthening the legal and operational foundation of security policies.
The Chief Executive stated that the authorities will combat external interference and crack down, in accordance with the law, on activities that undermine Macao’s stability, while strengthening social consensus around the defense of national security.
At the strategic level, Sam Hou Fai presented three lines of action: enhancing risk awareness and preparedness for adverse scenarios, developing a high-quality security system with coordinated participation from various branches of government, and promoting a development model that consolidates long-term security.
He emphasized that national security is an essential condition for the stable implementation of the “one country, two systems” principle and for Macau’s economic and social development, stressing that “there is no room for bystanders” in this matter.
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On the same occasion, Zheng Xincong, Director of the Central Government’s Liaison Office in the Macao SAR, stated that Macau has achieved significant results in promoting national security education over the past 11 years, earning widespread recognition.
Zheng Xincong noted that this year’s theme, “Balancing Development and Security,” requires an integrated approach, arguing that the Macau SAR should strengthen risk prevention, plan development with a strategic vision, and deepen coordination with the national plan.
He outlined three key directions: drawing on historical experience in risk management, strengthening planning aligned with national development, and promoting reforms and innovation to ensure a balance between economic growth and security.
The ceremony also marked the start of a series of public activities, including exhibitions, educational sessions, film screenings, and a drone show, aimed at raising public awareness of the importance of national security.
The National Security Education Exhibition will be open to the public from April 16 to May 15, featuring multimedia content and information on policy developments in this area, and will also be available in digital format.
