Melinda Chan Mei Yi, Member of the 12th Executive Committee of the ACWF and  President of Sin Meng Charity Association [For Women of China]

Forty years ago, my grandmother took me to visit our relatives in Zhuhai, in South China's Guangdong Province. That was my first time to visit the Chinese mainland.

Since I began working, I have made frequent trips between Macao and the Chinese mainland. What I remember most is the time from 2007 to 2008, when I spent basically more than half my time living and working in Beijing, to participate in the building of the Legendale Hotel. I was impressed by the efficiency of our compatriots in Beijing, and by their close cooperation and clear division of labor. Everyone was busy because the hotel had to be put into use before the opening of the Beijing Olympic Games. I appreciated that opportunity to work with our compatriots in Beijing. It always reminds me to work hard, and diligently.

China has undergone dramatic changes during the past 70 years. Our country is the second-largest economy, and the largest industrial country, in the world. China also has the world's largest foreign-exchange reserves. China has not only achieved an exciting leap forward, it has also greatly boosted global economic growth and made a vital contribution to globalization.

Expressways, high-speed trains and urban-rail transit have greatly facilitated people's lives. When we first visited Zhuhai 40 years ago, the transportation was inconvenient, and it took us more than half a day to reach Zhuhai. But now, it only takes 30 minutes.

Macao has experienced great changes since its return to the motherland 20 years ago. Guided by the "one country, two systems" principle, the Macao SAR government has led its residents in living better lives. We feel safe as we live in a stable society.

Residents of Macao have greatly improved their lives in recent years. For example, Macao has a 15-year compulsory education system, and more students now study at universities. The medical expenses of seniors are covered by the government, and seniors receive very good care after they retire.

Looking ahead 20 years, I believe Macao and our mother land will achieve greater changes. Along with the implementation of the BRI and the development of the GBA, the space for development of young people in Macao will be greatly expanded. I also hope people's livelihoods will be further improved in Macao.

A group photo of an inspection tour organized by Melinda Chan Mei Yi [For Women of China]

(Women of China)