In a strategic move to rejuvenate historical areas and catalyze economic growth, the Macau Special Administrative Region (SAR) Government is collaborating with SJM Resorts, S.A. (SJM) to introduce a revitalisation plan for San Ma Lo.
Government and Community Engagement
A collaborative effort that encompasses multiple government departments, this initiative seeks to not only restore the charm of San Ma Lo but also create a vibrant cultural and leisure tourism zone. On 27 September, the SAR Government, along with SJM and various public departments, launched the plan, eagerly seeking input from the local community.
Bridging history and advancement for tourist attraction
San Ma Lo, originally known as Almeida Ribeiro Avenue, has stood as a Macau Peninsula landmark since 1918. Its distinctive character lies in the rows of two to four-storey buildings adorned with terraces, representing a captivating fusion of neoclassical and traditional Chinese architectural styles. This historic avenue, alongside adjacent streets like Rua de Cinco de Outubro Street, Largo do Pagode do Bazar, and Praça de Ponte e Horta, once thrived as the heart of Macau’s economic activities and is now an integral part of the city’s rich historical landscape.
The core of the revitalization plan revolves around San Ma Lo, serving as the core for transformation and expansion into the neighboring areas surrounding Inner Harbour, Largo do Pagode do Bazar and Praça de Ponte e Horta. The objective is to inject economic vigor into the northern sector of San Ma Lo by blending traditional cultural elements with innovative activities. This involves optimizing public road spaces, introducing captivating artistic installations, refurbishing heritage buildings and accentuating the area’s unique historical and cultural heritage. The ultimate aim is to curate a captivating and comfortable leisure experience for tourists.
Cultural renaissance
SJM envisions San Ma Lo evolving into a distinguished cultural hub by seamlessly merging its historical identity with contemporary tourism features. This transformational endeavor encompasses revitalizing and preserving iconic landmarks like Pier 14, Pier 16 and the iconic Macau Palace. Moreover, the Kam Pek Community Centre will undergo renovations, with the Macau Palace finding a new home at the refurbished Pier 14. The rejuvenated area will also showcase an array of fashion products at Kam Pek, injecting fresh vitality and providing local SMEs with a platform to promote unique and locally sourced goods.
Enhancing the ambiance of San Ma Lo, luminous lighting installations will adorn the street, casting a dazzling glow, while nearby cross streets such as Largo do Pagode do Bazar and Praça de Ponte e Horta will be transformed into cultural and artistic spaces. These spaces will host regular art and gastronomy fairs, creating a dynamic blend of cultural and touristic offerings. Stay tuned for further updates as more details about these exciting developments are on the horizon.
Road to sustainable growth
In pursuit of sustainable urban development and the optimization of cultural assets, the Macau SAR Government’s dedicated team remains committed to promoting historic area revitalization. Through innovative strategies, this ambitious project aims to cultivate diverse cultural values, infuse vitality into society, and spearhead multicultural, innovative cultural, and tourism projects. This relentless pursuit aligns with Macau’s “One Base” positioning, solidifying its status as a beacon of cultural and economic dynamism.
During the recent press conference, key figures such as Ms. AoIeong U, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, and Ms. Daisy Ho, Managing Director of SJM Resorts (in photo above), expressed their unwavering commitment to this visionary project. The collaborative efforts of multiple stakeholders to promote Macau’s history will attract both tourists and locals alike a reimagined cultural and leisure destination that is not only associated with the gambling sector.
Related topics:
STOP PRESS! SiGMA Europe takes place in Malta between 13 to 18 November.
A national controversy – no end in sight for Okada Manila
