To enhance the understanding of university students towards the Basic Law, Nationality Law, and Consular Protection and Assistance, the Student Affairs Office of Macao Polytechnic University on March 22^nd, organised a seminar on “Basic Rights and Obligations of Macao Residents, Nationality Law and Consular Protection and Assistance”. The seminar featured keynote speakers Wang Xiao Chu, the first secretary of the Department of Consular Affairs from the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in Macao Special Administrative Region, and David Lau, the Head of Department of Residents Identification from the Identification Services Bureau. Lei Vai Fong, Secretary-General of Macao Polytechnic University and 150 teachers and students attended the seminar and engaged in lively discussions, creating a pleasant atmosphere.

The seminar was divided into two parts, with David Lau introducing the “Macao Basic Law” as a national law and the highest constitutional law in Macao, safeguarding the rights and freedoms of Macao residents, and providing a simple and comprehensive explanation of the definitions of Macao residents and Chinese nationals. And Wang Xiao Chu shared with the students the situation of consular protection work related to Macao and typical cases of unexpected incidents encountered by Macao residents abroad. The seminar mentioned the recent telecommunications fraud cases and students were urged to strengthen their safety precautions while abroad and protect their personal information.

The students who attended the seminar, said that they will go to Portugal for exchange as scheduled in their study plan. The seminar provided comprehensive and practical insights, covering topics such as pre-departure preparations, key considerations while overseas, consular protection services, and available avenues for seeking assistance when abroad. The Student Affairs Office, which was responsible for organising the event, aims to foster a stronger sense of national and social identity and belonging among students through these thematic seminars, while also promoting the values of patriotism and love for Macao.

The Head of Department of Residents Identification from the Identification Services Bureau, David Lau, introduced the content of “Basic Rights and Obligations of Macao Residents, Nationality Law” to students

The first secretary of the Department Consular Affairs from the Office of the Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People’s Republic of China in the Macao Special Administrative Region, Wang Xiao Chu, introduced the “Consular Protection and Assistance”