2024 Charity Gala Dinner
The France Macau Chamber of Commerce (FMCC) successfully hosted its prestigious 2024 Charity Gala Dinner on 20th September 2024, themed “A Journey Through Time and Space,” at the Grand Ballroom of MGM Macau. This event brought together approximately 300 VIPs, executives, and government officials from Macau, Hong Kong, and the Greater Bay Area to celebrate 60 years of Sino-French diplomatic relations, marking a remarkable milestone in the shared history between the two nations.
In alignment with this historic occasion, FMCC continued its commitment to sustainability and community development by presenting the Macau ESG Awards 2024. The awards recognized outstanding achievements in Environment, Social, and Governance (ESG), with winners from the categories of Best Project: MGM, Best SME: C&C Lawyers & Notaries, and Best NGO: Oxfam in Macau announced during the gala. These winners exemplified innovation and leadership in advancing sustainable practices within Macau.
This year’s gala also raised significant charitable funds, amounting to MOP 60,910, in support of Oxfam’s “Paper Recycling” initiative. This project aims to enhance Macau’s paper recycling efforts through community involvement, education, and environmental stewardship, perfectly aligning with FMCC’s dedication to sustainable practices and positive environmental impact.
FMCC Chairman Mr. Rutger Verschuren expressed his gratitude to the distinguished guests, including:
• Mrs. Christile Drulhe, Consul General of France in Hong Kong and Macau
• Mr. Zhang Guanyu, Deputy Director-General of the Economic Affairs Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao SAR
• Mr. Zhang Yinan, Deputy Head of Policy Research Department in the Commissioner’s Office
• Ms. Maria Helena Senna Fernandes, Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office
• Mr. Tai Kin Ip, Director of the Economic and Technological Development Bureau
• Mr. Antonio Lei, Director of the Economic Development Bureau of the Co-operation Zone
… and many more honored guests.
In his keynote speech, Mr. Verschuren highlighted the significance of 60 years of China-France diplomatic relations, coinciding with the China-France Year of Culture and Tourism. He emphasized FMCC’s role in strengthening these ties through cultural and business exchanges, fostering greater understanding and collaboration between China and France. He also acknowledged Macau’s strategic importance as a gateway linking Mainland China to the rest of the world, and stated that Macau is blessed to benefit from GBA’s prosperity, with Hengqin as it’s industrial hinterland.
A key announcement during the event was the introduction of “LeBooster Macau Hengqin,” a new initiative aimed at accelerating international business development, well-aligned with Macau SAR diversification targets. This platform offers services such as market research, product testing, company setup and office space, designed to support French and other global companies in expanding their presence in Macau and Hengqin. This project highlights FMCC’s commitment to fostering economic growth and innovation within the Greater Bay Area, solidifying Macau’s role as a dynamic business hub.
The evening was further enriched by performances from Alice & The Wanderers, a Sino-French jazz band flown in from Shanghai. Despite the challenges of a typhoon disrupting their travel, the band exemplified the resilience and collaboration that is central to the story of Le Petit Prince, which was the inspiration of the theme of the event. When their bass player’s flight was canceled, they teamed up with a local musician, embodying the true spirit of human connection and creativity.
FMCC Chairman Mr. Rutger Verschuren remarked, “This event is not only a celebration of our long-standing Franco-Sino relations but also a demonstration of our chamber’s commitment to fostering sustainability, innovation, and cross-cultural collaboration. Our launch of LeBooster Macau Hengqin further strengthens our position as a bridge for international business and cultural exchanges between China and France.”
The event would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors:
• Gold Sponsors: MGM, One Central Macau, SJM Resorts, Shun Tak Group
• Silver Sponsors: Light & Wonder, Melco Resorts & Entertainment, SUEZ Macao Water, Top Builders Group, Premium & Collectibles Trading Company
• Bronze Sponsors: BNU, Galaxy Entertainment Group, Sands China
Reports:
FMCC Charity Gala Dinner 2024 - Macau Closer
https://www.macaubusiness.com/fmcc-gala-over-mop60k-raised-for-oxfams-paper-recycling-initiative/
macaonews.org/news/community/fmcc-macau-charity-gala-dinner-2024-macao/
https://macaudailytimes.com.mo/fmcc-gala-2024-celebrates-leaders-in-sustainability.html
asgam.com/2024/09/24/fmcc-charity-gala-dinner-celebrates-60-years-of-china-france-relations/