The 2011 Population Census of Macao will be conducted from 12 to 26 August, and the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) is engaging in the final planning of the upcoming Census operation. Dr. Paul Cheung, Director of United Nations Statistics Division (UNSD) of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs, visited Macao just four months before the Census, on the occasion to oversee the planning of Macao’s population census.

DSEC accords great importance to Dr. Cheung’s visit. Mr. Mark Mak, Chief of Demographic, Social & Employment Statistics Department; and Mr. Frankie Lao, Chief of Computer and Information Department of DSEC explained to Dr. Cheung on the latest progress of the Census planning, the IT systems developed in-house and the IT equipment to be used in the 15th Population Census and the 5th Housing Census (2011 Population Census), while Dr. Cheung also gave comments and suggestions to the Census preparation. Besides, Dr. Cheung gave a keynote address to more than 70 DSEC staff who will participate in the 2011 Population Census, briefing them on Census experiences and the latest developments in official statistics. Ms. Vanessa Kong, Director of DSEC, pointed out that Dr. Cheung’s visit has profound significance in providing expert advice to ensure smooth operation of the 2011 Population Census and strengthening the professional capacity of the Macao Census team.

Prior to his appointment as Director of UNSD, Dr. Paul Cheung served as the Chief Statistician of the Government of Singapore (1991-2004), and has been the National Statistical Coordinator as well as the Chief Executive of the Singapore Department of Statistics. In his role as Director of UNSD, Dr. Cheung facilitates the development of the global statistical system and coordinates the work of the United Nations Statistical Commission. Currently, he is also the Senior Advisor to the National Bureau of Statistics of China. Dr. Cheung is well known in Asia and the Pacific region for his pioneering research in the fields of manpower, population, social planning and official statistics. His professional contribution has been recognized by the following national and professional awards: The Von Neumann-Spallart Medal awarded by the International Institute of Statistics (1999); The Public Administration Medal (Gold) awarded by the President of the Republic of Singapore (2001); The Honorary Doctorate Degree by the National University of Mongolia (2008).