The Chief Executive, Mr Chui Sai On, today praised local media for their efforts – as experienced recently during several severe-weather events – in disseminating timely information to the public.

Addressing a reception hosted by the Macao Media Workers Association, Mr Chui praised local journalists for displaying an admirable spirit of professionalism and working in the front line during incidents, in order to give out up-to-date information.

Mr Chui added that their long-term efforts in promoting social harmony helped ensure the successful implementation of the principles of “One country, two systems”, “Macao people governing Macao” and a high degree of autonomy.

During his speech, Mr Chui reviewed the Government’s response effort to recent adverse-weather events, including Typhoon Hato – the strongest recorded typhoon in Macao for 53 years. It struck the city on 23 August.

Mr Chui said the Government decided to initiate procedures next year to formulate a 10-year Macao plan on disaster reduction and mitigation. The plan would take account of advice offered by experts from the National Commission for Disaster Reduction.

The Government always put maintenance of the public’s safety as its top priority. Mr Chui said the Government was stepping up the allocation of additional resources – and coordination of short-, medium-, and long-term measures – in order to enhance Macao’s overall ability either to prevent disasters where possible, or to minimise the impact of any that might occur.