The Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) hosted an awards ceremony yesterday to express its gratitude to all sectors of the public for promoting mental health initiatives, according to an IAS statement.
The ceremony was held at the Macau Science Centre (MSC) in Nape.
IAS Family and Community Services Department Chief Lei Lai Peng said in a speech that over 11,200 people have trained as “Gatekeepers of Life”* over the years.
The ceremony was also attended by representatives of a raft of other public entities as well as social service organisations.
According to Lei, a “Mental Health Support Group,” jointly formed by the bureau and six social service organisations, implemented a programme to promote mental health information in the first nine months of the year. Lei said that over 600 training sessions and community activities were organised during that period, involving more than 35,000 participants. At yesterday’s awards ceremony, she noted, nearly 100 small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), associations, the city’s six integrated resort operators, and public entities that collaborated with the group were formally recognised, thanking them for their efforts in building a happier Macau.
Lei pointed out that mental health is closely intertwined with everyone’s daily life, and good mental well-being can enhance the happiness of individuals and families. She also said that the bureau will continue to collaborate with all sectors of society to encourage citizens to care more for themselves and those around them through companionship, listening and caring, integrating them into their daily life. “Even a simple greeting or a smile can convey warmth and support to others,” Lei said.
The Chinese name of the event “心理健康伙伴計劃”, translated through DeepSeek, is “Mental Health Partnership Programme.”
According to group representative Mok Chi Ian, the group acknowledged the collaborative achievements of all sectors this year. Mok said that by integrating mental health into public services, workplaces, and community networks, a community-based care and support system is gradually being woven together. Mok said she hoped to continue working hand-in-hand with civil society in the future, safeguarding each other’s psychological well-being through actions like listening and giving support, and jointly building a kind and liveable community.
*The term “Gatekeepers of Life” doesn’t have a universally standardised definition and can vary by context. Generally, it refers to entities, systems, or individuals that control or regulate access to vital resources, opportunities, or processes essential for life, survival, or progress. – Grok
Social Welfare Bureau (IAS) Family and Community Services Department Chief Lei Lai Peng addresses yesterday’s awards ceremony at the Macau Science Centre (MSC) in Nape. – Photo: Armindo Neves
