Responding to an oral interpellation by lawmaker Loi I Weng on Wednesday, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture O Lam outlined the strategy to integrate a “children first” philosophy into Macau’s policymaking and urban planning.
To implement the policy, the government will establish the “Promoting Child-Friendly Construction Working Group” under the Women and Children Affairs Committee. This dedicated cross-departmental team will oversee the integration of child-friendly concepts into public works, spatial planning, public services, and safety and protection.
Authorities will also launch a comprehensive child-friendly map for residents. This tool will integrate and highlight the locations of rest areas, playgrounds, family restrooms, libraries, and youth centres across the city.
Furthermore, a Children’s Council will be created to consolidate existing feedback platforms from various government departments and non-governmental organisations. This unified system aims to better capture the voices of the younger generation and cultivate their civic engagement.
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“The Municipal Affairs Bureau is actively optimizing children’s play spaces,” O Lam was quoted as saying by the Macao Daily. She cited the Toi San Leisure Area restructuring plan as an example, noting that it “incorporates all-age design, barrier-free access, parent-child inclusion, and adventure elements into safe facilities.”
Urban planning and transportation departments are set to adjust future public facilities, public spaces, and transit systems. These developments will specifically consider the needs of children alongside other community groups.
Moving forward, the Macau government will draw on domestic and international experiences to introduce a “one-meter height” perspective in urban design, working alongside the public to create a highly accommodating living environment for children.
