Macao students benefit from its return, see changes and expect more

Memory of the day

Dec 20, 1999 is indubitably a historic day for Macao, marking a shift of destiny for the former Portuguese colony. Though the students born near the turn of the millennium are too young to remember, precious memories of the day have been passed on to them by their parents.

"On the eve of Dec 20, 1999, my parents prepared a nice family dinner to celebrate the event. Gathering before the television, they watched the solemn Macao Handover Ceremony. Actually, they didn't expect that such transformative changes would take place in Macao so they didn't have that strong feelings that night. But looking back, they came to realize that it was a really truly memorable moment," Ho said.

"On the day of Macao's return, my parents went on the street in crowds to welcome the People's Liberation Army Macao Garrison as it entered Macao in armored vehicles. They also watched the mass parade on television and a fireworks display at night. Grand celebrations continued the whole day and they felt very delighted and excited," Lam said.

"In my memory, almost on every year's return anniversaries, a spectacular fireworks show would be put on near the Sai Van Bridge, attracting a huge number of people to watch. Brilliant fireworks explode in the music, creating a festival atmosphere. Since individuals are not allowed to set off fireworks in Macao, the firework ritual is especially popular," Wong added.