The government of the Macau Special Administrative Region (MSAR held a solemn opening ceremony yesterday for a monthlong exhibition commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
The exhibition is officially titled “For National Liberation and World Peace – Exhibition of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War”. It will run until September 24.
The opening ceremony was held at the Grand Hall of the Complex of Commerce and Trade Cooperation Platform for China and Portuguese-speaking Countries in Nam Van.
Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai and Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the MSAR Zheng Xincong addressed the ceremony, which was also attended by Macau-based Foreign Affairs Ministry Commissioner Liu Xianfa, PLA Garrison Political Commissar Lin Qinghua, Legislative Assembly (AL) President Kou Hoi In, Court of Final Appeal (TUI) President Song Man Lei, Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture Wallis O Lam and other senior local government officials and civic leaders, as well as senior officials of the central government.
The exhibition is supported by the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.
In his address, Sam paid tribute to the martyrs of the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. Sam emphasised that compatriots in Macau shared the nation’s destiny throughout the fourteen-year war, writing a unique chapter in history through their patriotic and salvation-driven actions.
According to Sam, President Xi Jingpin has previously pointed out that “history is the best textbook, as well as the best dose of sobriety”. Sam also pointed out that the spirit of the War of Resistance remains a vital force for national rejuvenation and called for embracing the challenges of the new era with patriotism and love for Macau.
He urged steadfast adherence to the “One Country, Two Systems” principle, thereby contributing Macau’s strength to the nation’s revival. The exhibition aims to remind civil society to remember history, cherish peace, and especially inspire Macau’s youth to carry forward the patriotic spirit, Sam said.
Sam underlined that a series of activities will be held to engage local residents, especially the younger generation, in recalling the nation’s hardships and glory, honouring the sacrifices of their predecessors, and transforming historical memory into a source of strength.
Meanwhile, Zheng said that his office was paying deep tribute to the war’s martyrs and honouring all the patriotic compatriots.
Zheng pointed out that the exhibition highlights the brave deeds of local citizens during the war, who participated with unwavering devotion in national salvation efforts and frontline support, demonstrating their profound patriotic commitment and national righteousness.
Zheng also said that it was imperative to promote the great spirit of the War of Resistance. He emphasised that Macau needs to focus on economic development, plan for growth, continue to forge new paths forward, steadfastly implement the “One Country, Two Systems” principle, safeguard national security, advance Macau’s high-quality development, inspire youth to inherit revolutionary traditions, and shoulder the mission of national rejuvenation by collectively writing a new Macau chapter in the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.
Looking back at the War of Resistance, Zhen expressed hope that all sectors of local society will carry forward the great spirit of resistance. He also encouraged Macau’s youth to become builders and successors of the “One Country, Two Systems” principle for a stronger motherland and better Macau.
During the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Macau’s then Portuguese administration maintained neutrality in the conflict. While Hong Kong was occupied by the Japanese in 1941, they imposed indirect control over Macau through naval blockades and economic pressure between 1943 and 1945.
Irrespective of Portugal’s proclaimed neutrality in the war, many Macau residents risked their lives to help the nation fight the Japanese aggression, historians have pointed out.
According to historical records, about 35 million Chinese military personnel and civilians were killed or wounded during this war between September 18, 1931* and September 2, 1945.
According to an introductory presentation held during the ceremony, the exhibition showcases the arduous 14-year history of the War of Resistance through rare historical photographs and video materials, interpreting the significance of the victory and conveying its core ideals. It focuses on Macau’s contributions and support efforts during the war, highlighting the profound connection between Macau and the people of the entire nation and carrying the message of “remembering history, honouring martyrs, cherishing peace, and creating the future”.
Admission to the exhibition, which is open daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., is free of charge.
For further details, please refer to the dedicated thematic website. https://www.kzsl80.gov.mo/?s=a&p=0&l=zhhant
*On September 18, 1931, the “Mukden Incident” occurred, when Japanese forces staged an explosion on a railway line in Manchuria and used it as a pretext to invade and occupy all of Northeast China. This is widely considered the start of Japan’s murderous aggression against China.
Macau SAR Chief Executive Sam Hou Fai addresses the opening ceremony of the Exhibition Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, at the Forum Macao complex in Nam Van yesterday. – Xinhua
Liaison Office Director of the Central People’s Government in the Macau SAR Zheng Xincong addresses yesterday morning’s opening ceremony, at the Forum Macao complex. – Xinhua
