The “International Gastronomy Forum, Macao”, one of the three highlights of the ongoing International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, Macao, took place yesterday at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf Convention and Exhibition Centre, gathering participants for discussions under the theme “Holistic Gastronomy: Eat well, live well”.
The one-day forum gathered delegates from 29 Creative Cities of Gastronomy around the world and seven Chinese member cities of the UNESCO Creative Cities Network (UCCN), as well as members of the catering industry and other participants. A statement from MGTO last night added that over 250 participants attended the opening ceremony.
The forum was held by the Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) in 2016, 2018 and 2019, with yesterday morning’s event marking its return after the COVID-19 pandemic.
In her speech, MGTO Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes noted: “After four years, the ‘International Gastronomy Forum, Macao’ convenes once again in 2024 when we celebrate the 25th anniversary of the establishment of the Macau SAR, making the forum’s return especially meaningful. It is the first International Gastronomy Forum we have hosted after the pandemic, bringing together the most Creative Cities of Gastronomy in Macau over the years.”
Senna Fernandes added that through the event’s panel discussions and the networking sessions joined by UCCN member cities, MGTO hoped that the forum “will spark innovative ideas and inspire thinking in diverse angles, providing great enlightenment for the tourism and catering industries in moving towards sustainable development”.
Moreover, in his video address, Secretary-General of the Chinese National Commission for UNESCO Qin Changwei, said, as translated by MGTO in last night’s statement, that the Macau government has actively forged ahead to foster Macau’s development as a Creative City of Gastronomy, achieving remarkable results. Qin said he was looked forward to the Creative Cities of Gastronomy fully showcasing their unique culinary charms at the event.
After the opening ceremony, keynote speakers Manav Tuli, chef and founder of Leela, a restaurant in Hong Kong, as well as one by Hengqin resort Serensia Woods’ co-founder Amber Li (李佳鳴), delivered presentations.
The event also saw panel discussions after each respective keynote speech, namely “Exploring Holistic Gastronomy: A Journey into Macao’s Culinary and Wellness Landscape” and “Holistic Gastronomy as a Catalyst: A Resilient Future for Businesses and Tourism”.
Moreover, the Exchange Meeting for UCCN Creative Cities Network Members was held in the afternoon.
The International Cities of Gastronomy Fest, Macao is on until Sunday offering various culinary delights and activities. For more details, visit https://www.macaotourism.gov.mo/en/article/events/gastronomy-fest-2024.
Leela chef and founder Manav Tuli delivers his keynote speech during the “International Gastronomy Forum, Macao” at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf yesterday.
– Photos: Rui Pastorin
Macau Government Tourism Office (MGTO) Director Maria Helena de Senna Fernandes delivers a speech at yesterday’s “International Gastronomy Forum, Macao” at Macau Fisherman’s Wharf.
