Integrated resort operator Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) said in a statement earlier this week that it has recently invited nearly 150 members from over 10 local organisations to sessions of its “GEG Sea Cruises”, aiming to deepen their understanding of the cultural history of Macau’s sea-land landscape and related tourism sources.
The sea cruises were launched in October last year to highlight Macau’s landmarks and maritime landscape, while also connecting the revitalisation project, Lai Chi Vun Shipyards, according to the statement.
The statement said that the participants comprised Macao Institute for Tourism Studies (IFTM) students from the Bachelor of Science in Cultural and Heritage Management Programme, members and families of the Macao Heritage Ambassadors Association, Macau Federation of Trade Unions, (FAOM, known as Gung Luen in Cantonese), Macao New Chinese Youth Association, Macao Gaming Industry Employees Home, Association of Parents of the People with Intellectual Disabilities of Macau, Richmond Fellowship of Macau, Association of Rehabilitation of Drug Abusers of Macau (ARTM), Macau Down Syndrome Association, and the Macau Autism Association.
The participants were joined by GEG Volunteer Team members for the maritime experience, which also had professional docents onboard and saw an onsite performance of “Saltwater Songs” by Ho Kim Pui, the statement said. The songs are dialectal folksongs listed as one of Macau’s pieces of intangible heritage, to “recreate and reminisce the daily life of local fishermen in the past”, the statement said. Participants asked questions and exchanged views “in a warm ambience”.
The statement added that GEG also extended the Sea Cruise experience to the Lai Chi Vun Shipyards, enabling participants to visit the fishing boat models and themed exhibitions to gain insights into the history and artistry of Macau’s shipbuilding industry and broaden their horizons and knowledge of Macau’s cultural heritage.
Kenny Ng, a participant from the Macao Heritage Ambassadors Association, was quoted in the statement as saying: “Through the sea cruise arranged by GEG, we have gained a new understanding of Macau’s unique sea land scenery and cultural landscape through a different perspective. The visit to the historic Lai Chi Vun Shipyards, which is dedicated to revitalising traditional shipbuilding techniques and cultures, has further enhanced our knowledge of cultural heritage and related history, whilst deepening my connection with Macau”.
This undated handout photo provided by Galaxy Entertainment Group (GEG) earlier this week shows participants of the GEG Sea Cruises posing for a group photo.
