National Games viewed as window to experience modern China

Macao resident Kinki Chan Tong-ieng expected the coastal attractions when she visited Shanwei, Guangdong province, but she was equally impressed by the convenience and modernity of everyday life on the Chinese mainland.

She visited Shanwei, host of the sailing events in the ongoing 15th National Games — jointly staged by Guangdong and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions — on Oct 25 and 26.

Her son Chan Man-hin was representing Macao in the games' regatta.

The sailing competition spectators were able to check in to the viewing area by using options including facial recognition technology, which she described as efficient, smooth and providing a high level of security. Spectators could also check real-time competition results through a mobile app.

Kinki Chan Tong-ieng said that compared with Macao, the use of technology in everyday life on the mainland, especially for transportation and payments, is more widespread. Ride-hailing services have struggled to get a foothold in Macao, where transport authorities acknowledge a shortage of taxis.

"We used Didi ride-hailing service for transportation, which is transparent in pricing and quick to respond," Chan said of her experience.

Her son Chan Man-hin said he was honored to compete for Macao, and added it was a great opportunity to gain a glimpse into the country's rapid development.

"I had many chances to talk to athletes from the mainland and Hong Kong during the games, and received various helpful advice from other competitors," he said.

While participation in the games meant a detour from senior high school studies, Chan Man-hin said he took a great deal away from competing in such a large-scale regatta and encountering "tricky" sailing conditions, with waves reaching 2 to 3 meters in Shanwei.

Despite the personal challenges, Chan felt there was a strong comradery among competitors at the games, which he encouraged his fellow Macao residents to experience one day.