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MGTO's representatives from around the world joined the Macau Government Tourist Office (MGTO) Annual Marketing Meeting held from June 18th to 22nd in Macau to report and discuss upcoming promotion plan and strategies. Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Cheong U attended the welcome dinner. MGTO and the representatives also had a meeting with Hong Kong Tourism Board to strengthen cooperation and promote multi-destination itinerary. 54 MGTO representatives from various countries and regions arrived Macau on the 18th to attend the MGTO Annual Marketing Meeting. On the night, Secretary Cheong was present at the welcome dinner and met with the representatives. During their stay in Macau, the representatives participated in the Public Release of PATA/Macau Task Force Report "Towards a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure" and a mini mart organized by MGTO to communicate with local travel trade for exchange and update. MGTO also arranged the representatives to inspect the newly-opened tourist facilities in Macau. MGTO department heads met with different representatives to review their work over the past year, while to discuss future projects and plan in order to launch promotion activities more effectively. Directors of MGTO conveyed the latest information and directions to the representatives, hoping that the promotion work in different countries and regions can go well in accord with Macau tourism development and facilitate the goal of developing Macau into a World Centre of Tourism and Leisure. Led by Chairman Anthony Lau, representatives from Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) took the opportunity to meet with directors, department heads and representatives of MGTO to exchange ideas regarding marketing strategies and probed into the prospect of further cooperation and jointly promote multi-destination itineraries while sharing best practices in marketing.
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University of Macau (UM) Prof. Fan Jianhong from the Faculty of Law and Dr. Zhao Yuan, a postdoctoral student at UM, published a book entitled "Law of Corporations and Partnerships in Macau" via Kluwer Law International, a world-famous publishing company. The book has also been included in the International Encyclopaedia for Corporations & Partnerships. ( Suppl. 63 ) . Prof. Fan's PhD student Lao Io Keong, who is a lawyer in Macao, also contributed to the introduction to the book. Kluwer Law International is now part of Wolters Kluwer Law & Business. Legal practitioners, corporate counsel and business executives around the world rely on its journals, looseleafs, books, and electronic products for comprehensive information in many areas of international legal practice. Wolters Kluwer Law & Business is a leading provider of research information and workflow solutions in key specialty areas. The strengths of the individual brands of Aspen Publishers, CCH, Kluwer Law International and Loislaw are aligned within this Wolters Kluwer division to provide comprehensive, in-depth solutions and expert-authored content for the legal, professional and education markets.
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Information from the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) indicated that visitor arrivals decreased by 6.5% year-on-year to 2,146,542 in May 2012; same-day visitors (1,109,995) accounted for 51.7% of the total. The average length of stay of visitors decreased by 0.1 day year-on-year to 1.0 day, with overnight visitors and same-day visitors staying 1.8 days and 0.2 day respectively. Analyzed by place of residence, visitors from Mainland China decreased by 4.2% year-on-year to 1,271,540, coming mostly from Guangdong Province (616,540), Fujian Province (58,585), Hunan Province (48,807) and Zhejiang Province (48,607). Mainland visitors travelling to Macao under the Individual Visit Scheme (IVS) fell by 0.9% to 526,279. At the same time, visitors from Hong Kong (540,435); Taiwan, China (78,834); and the Republic of Korea (31,292) decreased by 11.8%, 23.2% and 2.1% respectively, while Japanese visitors (33,655) increased by 17.6%. Besides, long-haul visitors from the Americas (26,783), Europe (19,515) and Oceania (9,417) also recorded year-on-year increase of 5.7%, 3.2% and 0.5% respectively. In the first five months of 2012, visitor arrivals increased by 3.7% year-on-year to 11,471,018. Visitors from Mainland China (6,890,366), the Republic of Korea (184,993) and Japan (171,519) increased by 9.8%, 12.6% and 12.5% respectively; long-haul visitors also registered year-on-year increase. However, visitors from Hong Kong (2,915,451) and Taiwan, China (414,366) decreased by 6.0% and 15.2% respectively.
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The Monetary Authority of Macao starts in the current month to disseminate mortgage loans statistics on a monthly basis. According to statistics released today, new approvals of residential mortgage loans (RMLs) rose whereas commercial real estate loans (CRELs) dropped in April 2012. With regard to outstanding balance, RMLs and CRELs witnessed slight increases. New Lending Approved In April 2012, new RMLs approved by Macao banks grew 2.5% month-to-month to MOP2.8 billion; of which, 91.7% was extended to residents. In terms of value, new RMLs to residents edged down 0.2% whereas those to non-residents grew 45.9%. New RMLs collateralised by uncompleted units (i.e. equitable mortgage) rose 49.2% month-to-month to MOP96 million; of which 97.1% was extended to residents. The equitable mortgage to residents rose 118.7% whereas that to non-residents dropped 87.0%. New CRELs declined month-to-month by 59.5% to MOP1.5 billion; of which, 91.4% was granted to residents. In terms of value, new CRELs to residents and non-residents contracted 49.8% and 86.7% respectively from one month earlier. Outstanding Balances As at end-April 2012, the outstanding value of RMLs reached MOP79.2 billion, an increase of 1.7% from one month earlier. The resident component made up 92.3% of the total. Outstanding RMLs to residents and non-residents grew by 1.7% and 1.6% respectively over one month earlier. Concurrently, the outstanding value of CRELs grew 1.2% from end-March to MOP61.8 billion. Residents accounted for 90.1% of the loans. Compared with one month earlier, outstanding CRELs to residents edged up 0.7% while those to non-residents rose 6.0%. Delinquency Ratios At the end of April 2012, the delinquency ratio for RMLs stood at 0.09%, up 0.01 percentage point from one month earlier. The ratio for CRELs remained unchanged from end-March at 0.09%.
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To develop the safety management concepts of the operators, and further ensure that the operators comply with the Macao aviation regulations and the Standards and Recommended Practices (SARPs) of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to implement their Safety Management Systems (SMS), the Civil Aviation Authority (AACM) organized an SMS course on 19 to 21 June 2012 and invited an ICAO expert to conduct training to the local airlines and the airport operators. The three-day course aimed at developing the knowledge of the participants on SMS concepts and also strengthening the importance of complying with the relevant Macao regulations on SMS and the ICAO SARPs to implement the different tasks in SMS. In addition, the operators should understand their responsibilities within SMS, and how SMS can enhance aviation safety, improve service quality and operation efficiency to ultimately deliver success to the company on the long run. The course was divided into 10 modules and was carried out in lectures, group discussions, practical exercises and case study tests. The main topics covered were SMS concepts, hazard and risk identification and management, safety management requirements in the annexes of the Convention on International Civil Aviation, relationship between State Safety Programme (SSP) and SMS, planning and implementation of SMS and so on. The speaker invited by AACM was the Chief Technical Advisor, Cooperative Development of Operational Safety & Continuing Airworthiness Programme – South East Asia (COSCAP-SEA), ICAO, Mr. Kim Trethewey, who is also the Project Coordinator and Flight Operations Expert in COSCAP-SEA. Mr. Kim Trethewey has enriching experience in lecturing SMS. He has been invited by Macao in the past to lecture similar topics and is familiar with the safety management environment in Macao. He is able to convey to the Macao participants the experiences in other countries as reference for application in Macao. The SMS course was conducted in AACM office with participation of more than 30 people, most of whom were management and technical staff responsible for flight safety, quality control, security and aircraft maintenance. These participants came from AACM, Air Macau Co. Ltd., East Asia Airlines Ltd., JetAsia Ltd., Macau Jet International Co. Ltd, Administration of Airports Ltd., and Menzies Macau Airport Services Ltd. To work together with the industry to strengthen the management of safety and create a good safety culture, AACM being the regulatory body in aviation safety in Macao organizes regular training courses for the industry to allow the latter to better understand Macao's aviation regulations, ICAO requirements as well as their own company responsibilities. AACM has already conducted a number of SMS courses lectured by ICAO experts for over 150 industry people. The SMS is a systematic approach to managing safety and is implemented by the airlines, maintenance organizations, air traffic service providers and airport operators. Its components include organization structure, accountability, policies and procedures. In compliance with the Convention on International Civil Aviation, Macau International Airport, all local airlines and the ground handler have implemented their respective SMSs in or before 2009. In addition to implementing SMS by the operators, AACM commenced the drafting of the Macao SAR Safety Programme (Macao SAR SSP) in 2010 and has since then devised the Macao SAR Safety Policy, the SSP Manual, the SMS Audit Guidelines and the SMS Requirements Update. As the Macao SAR SSP should interact with the operators' SMSs, AACM will collaborate with the operators to implement the two systems, with the objective of contributing to the long-term and effective management of safety in Macao.
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The Human Trafficking Deterrent Measures Concern Committee was established in September 2007, aiming to tackle the problem of human trafficking by the Law "Combat the Crime of Trafficking in Person", which is in line with a number of international conventions; as well as working under the 4P framework adopted internationally including prevention, protection, prosecution and partnership. To prevent trafficking in persons, the VITA system is adopted to identify victims. Seminars and campaigns are organized in community and campus. Broadcast is made at the immigration office and Public Health Laboratory to remind foreign workers to be aware of being trafficked. Promotions are made on television, radio, newspapers, buses, taxis and public streets so as to raise the awareness of human trafficking and protection of minors. Hotlines are set up for report and assistance. Nearly 7,000 staffs, including frontline officers are given training on the issue. Moreover, a commissioned study was conducted by the Faculty of Education of the University of Macau. Multi-languages pamphlets and posters are also distributed to the public. In order to better protect the victims, independent shelters for male victims, female victims and minors are established. Victims are being taken care of through social support services, including subsidies, transportation and visa fees, clothing, daily necessities, food, etc. The victims can also receive counseling, physical examination, medical services, language translation and vocational training. If the victim's personal safety is being threatened, protection will be provided. They will also be given permit to stay in Macau until the trial is over and then sent home safely. Macau, together with the Mainland and Hong Kong Police annually carry out joint anti-crime operations, focusing on combating cross-border crimes including human trafficking. Coordinated by the Unitary Police, the Public Security Police and Judiciary Police carry out raids and inspections in casinos, karaoke, bars, Internet cafes, billiard rooms, hotels, motels, games centers, massage parlors and nightclubs. Over the past five years, a total number of 51 human trafficking cases of sexual exploitation are cracked, 77 female victims are rescued and 46 suspects were arrested. The Committee works closely with local and international NGOs, as well as International Organizations. The Good Shepherd Center assists the government in providing translation of foreign languages. The Committee also funds the Good Shepherd Center's propaganda to raise awareness in protecting women and minors. In collaboration with the Women's General Association of Macau, a 24 hour helpline was set up, community education events are also organized in order to prevent trafficking and forced labour. The Committee also works with the International Organization for Migration (IOM) Hong Kong Office in organizing training and escorting victims to return home safely. In addition, a cooperation agreement on human trafficking is signed with the Mongolia government, setting up a point-to-point contact mechanism. By participating in the Bali Process meeting, the Community is given a chance to explore the global trend of human trafficking and illegal immigration, so as to master the changing situation of the environment. Trafficking in persons is an international and cross-border crime which impairs the legal interests of our society. The Human Trafficking Deterrent Measures Concern Committee will never underestimate the rapid change and challenges in the future of the international community and the economic environment, and will continue to enhance our effort in combating human trafficking.
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The Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) sends the 2011 Population Census questionnaires and respective documents to be destroyed at the Macao Incineration Plant on 21 June 2012. Data collection of the 2011 Population Census was conducted in August 2011. In accordance with Article 14 of the Administrative Regulation 15/2011, questionnaires of the 2011 Population Census have to be destroyed within one year after data collection. Following the publication of the detailed results, about 200,000 questionnaires and documents containing data on individuals, households and building units are sent to the Macao Incineration Plant on 21 June 2012 to be destroyed under the close supervision of the DSEC staff.
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The Identification Services Bureau has launched the testing phrase for its two new self-service kiosks for applying for the Certificate of Criminal Record and modifying the contact information of Macao residents respectively since February 2012. The kiosks allow citizens to apply for the Certificate of Criminal Record and modify their contact information on a self-service basis, saving the waiting time needed if they are applying at traditional service counters. The trial period of the abovementioned kiosks ended in May 2012. These kiosks have been entirely put into official use on 1st June 2012. Kiosk for Certificate of Criminal Record Application The testing period of the kiosks for Certificate of Criminal Record Application started on 22nd February 2012. During the pilot period, 2 kiosks were installed at the Identification Services Bureau in the China Plaza. In the first testing month, 820 applications were received at kiosks which accounted for 49% of total applications. Eligible electronic Macao Resident Identity Card holders who are at the age of 16 or above can apply for the Certificate of Criminal Record with the above-mentioned self-service kiosks. During the application process, applicants are required to verify their fingerprints, scan the image of their identity card and sign on the screen directly. Right after the application process, applicants have to pay the application fee to complete the whole application. Moreover, applicants can choose to pay the application fee at the kiosk through online payment with their credit card or in cash at the service counters. In addition, applicants will receive a SMS (Short Message Service) reminder for document collection if their mobile number has been provided during the application. In order to improve services continuously, the Identification Services Bureau will look into the possibility of increasing more different payment methods. According to the statistics, 12,606 applications have been received at kiosks until 15th June 2012, which accounted for 56% of total applications. Among them, 10,591 applications were conducted at the China Plaza and 2,015 applications were conducted at the Government Services Centre, which accounted for 52% and 83% of the total applications of their respective location. Kiosk for Contact Information Modification The testing period of the kiosk for Contact Information Modification started on 22nd April 2012. During the pilot period, kiosks were installed at the Identification Services Bureau in the China Plaza. Eligible electronic Macao Resident Identity Card holders who are at the age of 18 or above can modify their contact information (i.e. address and telephone number) with the above-mentioned self-service kiosks. Furthermore, citizens are required to verify their fingerprints at the kiosks. Once they are identified, they can get access to or modify their current contact number and address. Also, they can choose if they authorize the Identification Services Bureau to provide their contact information to other government entities. Seeing the positive responses to the kiosks, the Identification Services Bureau has extended the kiosk services to the Government Services Centre in Areia Preta since 26th April 2012. At present, a total of 7 kiosks for Certificate of Criminal Record Application and 4 kiosks for Contact Information Modification have been set up at the China Plaza and the Government Services Centre. Among them, 4 kiosks for Certificate of Criminal Record Application and 2 kiosks for Contact Information Modification are installed at the China Plaza, and 3 kiosks for Certificate of Criminal Record Application and 2 kiosks for Contact Information Modification are installed at the Government Services Centre. The introduction of self-service kiosks marked an important milestone on the development of electronic administrative services of the Identification Services Bureau. Moreover, the Identification Services Bureau will continue to further promote electronic services and introduce kiosks for Macao SAR Resident Identity Card Renewal Application and kiosks for Macao SAR Travel Documents Application in 2013.
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Consumer Council released its latest 'Supermarket Price Survey' dated 15th June, surveying over 310 items. In comparison with last month's data, prices of over half of the surveyed items, mainly beverages, snacks, and seasonings, have decreased. Dairy products, which recorded price increases previously, record minimal decreases in prices of cheeses and other dairy products/drinks this month. Prices of many rice and cooking oil brands have also dropped by 1 to 2 percent. Prices of 108 items, mainly insecticide and personal hygienic products, have increased. For a more comprehensive survey, Consumer Council chooses one specific branch from each supermarket chain as regular surveyed points while randomly selects different branches each month to compare their differences in selling price. This month's survey shows that two branches of San Miu Supermarket, located at Rua dos Mercadores and Nape, were found to have different selling prices for over one third of the items surveyed and those prices varied for about 5 to 10 percent. Further, over 20 different seasoning products surveyed in the mentioned two branches in Macao all recorded price differences, e.g., prices of 'Pearl River Bridge Superior Light Soy Sauce (500ml)' in the two branches varied for over 40 percent. Consumers are advised to check with the data provided by the Council on its website and its 'Supermarket Price Information Platform' iPhone and Android smart phone apps. The latest 'Supermarket Price Survey' is now available on the Council's website (www.consumer.gov.mo) and the 'Supermarket Price Information Platform' iPhone and Android apps. The survey is also available free of charge at the offices of Consumer Council, IACM's Iao Hon and S. Domingos Markets, bookstores and libraries. Consumers may also access the resources through WAP channels on their mobile phones. For enquiries, please call 8988 9315.
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Information from the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) indicated that the Composite CPI (116.85) for May 2012 increased by 6.76% year-on-year, attributable to higher charges for meals bought away from home, as well as dearer prices of vegetable and fresh pork. For the 12 months ended May 2012, the average Composite CPI increased by 6.40% from the preceding period; the average CPI-A and CPI-B rose by 6.29% and 6.62% respectively. In comparison with May 2011, notable increase was observed in the price index of Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco (+31.93%); and Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages (+9.90%) on account of rising charges for meals bought away from home, as well as dearer prices of vegetable and fresh pork. On the contrary, price index of Communication decreased by 6.59%. The CPI-A (116.32) and CPI-B (117.47) for May 2012 increased by 7.18% and 6.94% respectively year-on-year. The Composite CPI for May 2012 increased by 0.66% month-to-month, of which the price index of Clothing & Footwear rose by 3.39% upon new arrival of Summer clothing, while the price index of Transport decreased by 1.02% with lower gasoline prices. The CPI-A and CPI-B increased by 0.74% and 0.64% month-to-month. The average Composite CPI for the first five months of 2012 increased by 6.47% year-on-year, with noticeable increase in the price index of Alcoholic Beverages & Tobacco (+28.59%); Food & Non-Alcoholic Beverages (+9.65%); and Miscellaneous Goods & Services (+8.07%). On the other hand, price index of Communication registered a decrease of 6.48%. The CPI-A and CPI-B rose by 6.55% and 6.74% respectively year-on-year. The 2008/2009-based Composite CPI reflects the impact of price changes on the general population. The CPI-A relates to about 50% of the households, which have an average monthly expenditure of MOP6,000 to MOP18,999. The CPI-B relates to about 30% of the households, which have an average monthly expenditure of MOP19,000 to MOP34,999.
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