Macau's Historic Districts Revitalized by Gaming Operators

Macau's ambitious plan to rejuvenate six historic districts in collaboration with gaming operators is proving successful, as highlighted by a recent update from Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Elsie Ao Ieong. During a Legislative Assembly plenary session, Ao Ieong shared that these revitalization initiatives have thus far attracted over 1.7 million visits during performance and exhibition periods. This collaborative effort aligns with the non-gaming commitments stipulated in the 10-year gaming license concession granted to Macau's casino operators. As reported by the Macau Daily, the revitalization has spurred over 750 arts and cultural performances since 2023, creating job opportunities for more than 200 local service providers. Additionally, this initiative has supported over 200 cultural and creative enterprises, offering them platforms to market and sell their crafts and artworks.

New Developments and Cultural Revival

Significant developments continue to unfold within these renewed districts. For instance, the Barra area, under the oversight of MGM China, has launched several new culinary and beverage venues open late into the night. Meanwhile, the Lai Chi Vun shipyard complex, managed by the Galaxy Entertainment Group, is on the brink of unveiling a series of family-friendly attractions, outdoor recreational spaces, and a new performance venue. Scheduled to be completed this month, these projects are expected to enhance the area's appeal. Infrastructure improvements are also a priority, with Melco Resorts & Entertainment renovating two piers—Piers 23 and 25—near the Inner Harbour to attract a greater number of locals and tourists.

Challenges and Future Vision

Wynn Macau is leading efforts in Rua da Felicidade by installing canopies to draw visitors, aligned with a broader goal of revitalizing this historic location. This area, which includes the site of Macau's first theater, the Cheng Peng Theatre, has faced setbacks. Although initially envisioned as a Cantonese opera training center, complete with exhibition spaces and activity rooms, the reconstruction was anticipated to conclude in the third quarter of 2025. Despite these challenges, Secretary Ao Ieong acknowledged that revitalizing these historic areas remains a complex task. Public and private sector partners are working tirelessly to overcome these hurdles, ensuring that their collective vision for these districts can be realized, albeit with some delay.

Source: Macau gaming operators-led revitalization projects bring 1.7M visits: Secretary, Asian Gaming Brief, December 4, 2024. 

Posted by Wizard
Dec 05 2024