The Chief Executive, Mr Ho Iat Seng, led today Government officials to stand in a three-minute silence, in tribute to the victims in China of the novel coronavirus and its associated infection COVID-19.

The silence tribute in Macao is a part of a national mourning in compliance with arrangements guided by the State Council.

The ceremony in Macao was held at 10am at the Government Headquarters prior to a work meeting chaired by the Chief Executive. The Secretary for Administration and Justice, Mr Cheong Weng Chon; the Secretary for Economy and Finance, Mr Lei Wai Nong; the Secretary for Security, Mr Wong Sio Chak; the Secretary for Social Affairs and Culture, Ms Ao Ieong U; the Secretary for Transport and Public Works, Mr Raimundo do Rosário; and the Chief-of-Office of the Chief Executive’s Office, Ms Hoi Lai Fong, took part in the silence tribute.

The public in Macao also observed a three-minute silence this morning. This is in order for the Macao community as a whole to express its condolences regarding those who lost their lives amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

In addition, the national flag, along with the flag of the Macao Special Administrative Region, displayed at the Government Headquarters and the Golden Lotus Square, were lowered to half-mast today to mourn the COVID-19 victims.

The instruction applied on all buildings of the Government; on buildings of legislative and judicial bodies; and at representative offices abroad. School premises and public facilities also took part in the gesture of mourning.

Public recreational activities, and of any events intended to be of either a celebratory or festive nature scheduled today were due to be suspended as suggested in the State Council notice.