In this panorama of Macao Peninsula, it shows that the government and the community have worked together to fully implement the Basic Law since Macao’s return to the motherland. The city has thrived in development and the society is brimming with vigour and vitality. The calligraphic inscriptions relevant to the Macao Basic Law displayed in this zone convey the theme of the exhibition.

The many valuable historical photographs proved that Macao has been part of the territory of China since ancient times. In the mid-16th century, the Portuguese gradually occupied Macao, bringing significant changes to its political system, economy, culture, education and architecture. Nowadays, features of cross-cultural integration between Chinese and Portuguese traditions exist everywhere in the city.

The “One Country, Two Systems” policy is the guiding principle which the Chinese government adopts for the reunification of China and to solve the issues remained from the past with regard to Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao. It was originally designed for solving the issue of Taiwan. By the end of the 20th century, China resumed its sovereignty over Hong Kong and Macao in succession under the “One Country, Two Systems” principle.

The photos and objects in this section introduce the signing of the Sino- Portuguese Joint Declaration, as well as the drafting, consultation and implementation of the Macao Basic Law. Moreover, this zone also explains the origin of the national symbols of China, the symbolic significance of their design and related etiquette.etc. An audio player with automatic sensor is installed to make it more convenient for visitors to appreciate the national anthem of the People’s Republic of China.

The Constitution of the People’s Republic of China (hereafter referred to as “the Constitution”) is the fundamental law of the People’s Republic of China. It has the highest legal effect and is the foundation upon which other laws are formulated. No other law, administrative regulation, or local decree should contravene the Constitution. In accordance with the Constitution, the National People’s Congress is China’s highest organ of state power, and it is the only organ that is authorised to amend the Constitution. In 1982, the National People’s Congress amended the Constitution, Article 31 was added, which states that “The State may establish special administrative regions when necessary. The systems to be instituted in special administrative regions shall be prescribed by law enacted by the National People’s Congress in the light of specific conditions.” This article provided the jurisdictional foundation for the establishment of the Macao Special Administrative Region and the formulation of the Basic Law.

Since the handover, the Macao SAR Government has fully implemented the principles of “One Country, Two Systems” and “Macao people administering Macao”. With its high degree of autonomy, the government exercises its power strictly in accordance with the Macao Basic Law. Thanks to the support from the Central Government, the consideration and encouragement from national leaders, and the strenuous efforts of the Macao SAR Government and all residents, Macao has enjoyed steady economic growth and continuous improvement of the standard of living. With “Love the country, love Macao” being one of the key values among the residents, the society confidently moves forward.

Upon the completion of the drafting of the Basic Law, the transition period began, followed by the extensive and in-depth Basic Law promotion campaigns. Since Macao’s handover, the Macao SAR Government involves various institutions, communities and schools in learning the Basic Law in a meticulous and deep-going manner by more diversified means that are rich in content. As a result, Macao residents have gained a better understanding of the Basic Law, which will help to maintain long-term prosperity and stability in the Macao SAR.

The origin of the Macao Basic Law and the achievements brought about by its successful implementation in Macao are introduced through colourful and fun games to help visitors learn while playing.