Prof. Hoipang Wong
“Soft Connectivity” between Hengqin and Macao: Solving the Problems of Cross-Border Living and Employment (upper)
Recently, Prof. Hu Weixing, Dean of the Faculty of Social Sciences (FSS) at the University of Macau (UM), and Prof. Hoipang Wong, Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics of FSS at UM and member of the Macao Economy team at the Asia-Pacific Academy of Economics and Management, co-authored an article in Macao Daily News, addressing the challenges of cross-border living and employment between Macao and Hengqin. The scholars put forward policy recommendations to deepen integration between the two regions. Drawing on sociological and economic theories, alongside empirical data and Hengqin’s development status, the professors conducted an in-depth analysis across four key areas: transportation connectivity, cross-border healthcare resource allocation, expansion of Macao associations’ activities in Hengqin, and cross-border labor mobility.
The article highlights that improving transportation efficiency is fundamental to regional connectivity. Proposals include designating dedicated parking zones for private vehicles at the Hengqin border checkpoint and piloting a cross-border ride-hailing service to enhance residents’ commuting convenience. For healthcare integration, the scholars recommend establishing high-standard medical facilities in Hengqin while allowing residents to partially utilize Macao’s healthcare system for cross-border medical payments, ensuring better access to healthcare services.
Additionally, the article emphasizes strengthening Macao community organizations’ presence in Hengqin to foster a sense of belonging. This includes setting up multi-functional community centres that offer one-stop lifestyle services, promoting social cohesion. Regarding labor mobility, the study suggests prioritizing high-value-added and labor-intensive industries in Hengqin, offering competitive salaries to attract Macao professionals. This strategy aims to create a virtuous economic cycle, boosting regional development. By advancing Macao-Hengqin integration and improving livelihood connectivity, the proposals seek to enhance the attractiveness of both regions, supporting Macao’s economic diversification goals.
For further details, please read the original news via this link.