A salute to the Public Security Police Force flag-raising team (Photos: Siu Yat Chung)

Government Information Bureau

2023-09-29 12:37

The flag-raising ceremony is the most symbolic event during the National Day celebrations. This series of photographs features the flag-raising team of the Public Security Police Force, highlighting the importance of the art of ceremonial flag-raising.
The flag-raising team is comprised of regular police officers. They take part in special training in ceremonial flag-raising. As part of the team, they also assist in publicity and educational work related to flag-raising events. Such diligent effort shows the members’ dedication to promoting the spirit of "patriotism and love for Macao".
The flag-raising ceremonies held at Golden Lotus Square respectively on National Day and on the anniversary of the establishment of the Macao Special Administrative Region (MSAR) are the most important performances carried out by the flag-raising team. The team members often rehearse during weekdays to ensure that everything runs smoothly during these two important events.
During the flag-raising ceremony, the moment the flag-bearer raises the flag is critical – the action must have been practised countless times.
The Golden Lotus Square is where members of the flag-raising team often gather for training. Whether during rehearsals or official flag-raising ceremonies, they are always formal and focused.
Members of the flag-raising team must show attention to detail during the flag-raising ceremony, and must also be meticulous when marching.
The flag-raising team also assists in publicity and educational work, visiting local schools for exchange activities. These activities aim to enhance students' understanding of the flag-raising ceremony and of the country, strengthening the youth's sense of national identity and love for the country and for Macao.
Members of the flag-raising team demonstrate every procedure of a flag-raising ceremony to a group of teachers and students.
In a school’s auditorium, the national flag and the MSAR’s flag are raised while the national anthem is being played. Teachers and students stand in silence and facing the two flags.
Students actively participate in question-and-answer sessions hosted by the flag-raising team. Members of the flag-raising team hope that via these activities students can deepen their understanding of the national flag and the MSAR’s flag, and strengthen their sense of belonging to the country and to Macao.