In a significant political development, Sam Hou Fai, the former President of the Court of Final Appeal in Macau, declared his candidacy for the sixth term of the Macau Chief Executive election. During a press conference held on Wednesday, Sam underscored his vision for the future of Macau, emphasizing the necessity for economic diversification beyond the dominant gaming industry.
The Press Conference and Key Announcements
The announcement came in a well-attended press conference that lasted approximately an hour. During this time, Sam Hou Fai shared his motivations for entering the political arena and outlined his priorities should he be elected as the Chief Executive.
He highlighted that the existing over-reliance on the gaming industry poses significant risks to Macau’s long-term economic stability. “Having only the gaming industry dominate is detrimental to Macau’s future development,” he stated, stressing that the Special Administrative Region (SAR) requires “moderate and diversified economic development” to ensure sustainable growth.
Sam also shared insights into his decision-making process, revealing that his candidacy was a result of “careful consideration and discussion” with his family, indicating a thoughtful and deliberate approach to this new chapter in his career.
The Need for Economic Diversification
A central theme of Sam’s address was the imperative of economic diversification in Macau. He pointed out that after the return of sovereignty to China in 1999, Macau’s open tender for the gaming industry led to rapid development in both the tourism and gaming sectors. However, he noted that this growth was, at times, “uncontrolled,” leading to negative impacts on the region’s economic landscape.
“The disorderly development of the gaming industry has affected Macau’s manpower resources and the development of employment opportunities for young people,” Sam remarked. This statement reflects a critical concern about the socio-economic impact of the gaming industry’s dominance, particularly on younger generations and the availability of diverse employment opportunities.
He further stressed that the Central Government’s proposal for Macau to develop its economy in a more diversified manner is not merely a suggestion but a “mandatory question” that the Macau SAR Government must address. “No matter how difficult and hard the future may be, we have to do it (economic diversification). Only if we try will there be hope, otherwise society will lose the momentum of development,” he asserted, conveying a strong sense of urgency and commitment to this cause.
A Vision for Macau’s Future
Sam Hou Fai’s campaign appears to be grounded in the belief that Macau must pivot towards a more balanced economic model. He articulated a clear vision that prioritizes economic reform and diversification as essential for the SAR’s future. According to Sam, the path forward is clear: “Economic diversification must move forward, there is no way back.”
His remarks reflect a recognition of the challenges that lie ahead, but also an unwavering resolve to face them. He acknowledged that transitioning to a more diversified economy will not be easy, but emphasized that it is a necessary step for Macau’s continued development.
Election Timeline and Potential Challenges
The nomination period for the Macau Chief Executive election begins on Thursday, August 29, and will run until September 12. The election itself is scheduled for October 13. At this point, Sam Hou Fai is the only declared candidate, but it remains to be seen if others will enter the race in the coming weeks.
Despite his extensive experience in the judiciary, having served as the President of Macau’s Court of Final Appeal since the handover of Macau on December 20, 1999, Sam faces some questions about his suitability for the role of Chief Executive. Critics have pointed out that he lacks direct experience in public administration and economics, areas that are crucial for leading a government and driving economic policy.
However, Sam’s long tenure in Macau’s highest judicial position, along with his roles as Chairman of the Judges’ Committee and a member of the Independent Commission for the Recommendation of Judges, suggests a deep understanding of Macau’s legal and institutional frameworks. Whether this will translate into effective governance and economic strategy remains a key question for voters and political observers alike.
Sam Hou Fai’s entry into the race for Macau’s Chief Executive marks a pivotal moment for the region. His focus on economic diversification addresses a widely acknowledged need for Macau to reduce its dependency on the gaming industry and to foster a more varied and sustainable economic base. As the election date approaches, it will be crucial to see how his platform resonates with the electorate and whether additional candidates will present alternative visions for Macau’s future. The outcome of this election could significantly shape the trajectory of Macau’s development in the coming years.