The Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) said in a statement yesterday that the second phase of its “Arraial na Ervanários” (關前薈), which starts today, has added new augmented reality (AR) interactive features.
Arraial na Ervanários takes place from Rua dos Ervanários (關前正街) to Rua da Tercena (果欄街).
According to the statement, the four new AR features combine technology and the community’s scene to make tourists’ experience more interesting. The statement said that the aim of the activity is to attract tourists, revitalise the community and encourage consumerism.
The statement said that the second phase will run until June 24. The statement pointed out that one of the new features allows tourists to interact and take photos with Macau’s mascot Mak Mak, while the remainder can recreate the old scenery in the area.
The statement said that 15 more businesses are participating in the new phase, totalling 30 shops from the area. The statement added that the shops provide various kinds of discounts, while the bureau is also holding a lucky draw, the prizes of which include electronics, hotel stays and vouchers, for residents and tourists to participate in after completing certain tasks.
The statement noted that “Arraial na Ervanários” started in November last year, adding that until Wednesday 26,000 people had participated in the AR interactive events, which has given out over 35,000 coupons. The statement pointed out that according to a recent survey, over 80 percent of the respondents said that the AR events had extended their stay in the area and encouraged spending. The statement said that the events have positively impacted the community.
“Arraial” is a fun fair or festival in Portuguese-speaking countries. “Ervenários” is the Portuguese word for “herbalists”.
This undated handout photo provided by the Economic and Technological Development Bureau (DSEDT) yesterday shows one of the AR activities at the “Arraial na Ervanários” featuring a virtual Macau mascot Mak Mak.
