Macau may well be one of the safest places to live right now.
Macau has been called the Las Vegas of the East. With gross gaming revenues surpassing Las Vegas by 6-7 times, it is most known for its gaming. More recently, the opening of huge resorts is helping to change that image. But the real story is how Macau managed the covid-19 outbreak.
With the densest population in the world (21,340 people per square kilometer), if the virus became uncontrollable, it would be catastrophic.
Effective Leadership
In the early stages of the pandemic, the Chief Executive of Macau, Mr Ho Iat Seng Seng made the unprecedented move of closing all casinos for 14 days.
Good move !
Masks, Mask and more Masks
Besides public health information on using masks, the government made mask available at low cost. US$1 for a pack of 10. And no one using public transport can enter without a mask.
Digital Health Code
To enter and use public facilities, we use a QRCode to create a safe QRcode by answering two questions. Very effective and efficient.
Daily Updates in the Media
For a long time, residents received daily updates of any new cases and if there are any outbreaks in neighboring regions. If there is any outbreak in a neighboring region, an alert is immediately made.
Quarantine - in the Sheraton!
Anyone coming into Macau must submit to a 14 day quarantine. Designated hotels were assigned to do the job. At one point you might have stayed at the Sheraton! (the world's largest Sheraton!) Macau residents are free. Non-residents pay US$60 a day.
Tax relief, SME boost and eConsumer cards
The government quickly implemented tax rebates, appropriated funds to relieve SME's and issued eConsumer cards to boost local consumption and help local SMEs. Every resident gets the card and it is loaded with US$120 a month. It can be used in most retail outlets and sepnding is capped at $35 a day. Two rounds were issued and the final round ends on December 31, 2020.
Regular Updates and Excellent Public Support
The government has been providing well-designed and timely updates. Macau citizens have complied with the guidelines and made Macau one of teh safest places on earth.
How Safe is Macau?
Macau has had a total of 46 cases. ) deaths. And no new cases for over 180 days. (Data as of December 19, 2020.
Sorry - You can't move here.