Macau Ricci Institute Public Forum: A Survey of Food Assistance Programs in Macao
Date:
- Tuesday 9 September 2025
Venue:
- Conference Room (2F, Residental Building) USJ- Saint Joseph Green Campus
- 聖若瑟大學青洲校區宿舍樓2樓會議室
Cooperation Partner:
- University of St. Joseph
Video Record:
Speakers
Karen Araño Tagulao
Karen Araño Tagulao is an Assistant Professor, Chair of the USJ Green Committee, and Programme Coordinator for the Master of Environmental Science and Management at the University of Saint Joseph (USJ) in Macao. Karen is deeply involved in sustainability initiatives and environmental education in Macao and the region, particularly focused on coastal ecosystems, biodiversity conservation, and nature-based solutions. She has been a principal investigator of several significant research projects, including funded studies on coastal water pollution remediation and coastal ecosystem restoration. Her work has earned international recognition, notably with a Highly Commended award in the Nature Positive category at the International Green Gown Awards 2024 for her mangrove conservation initiatives. In addition to research and teaching, she also contributes to community-oriented projects, including initiatives addressing hunger issues, as part of her advocacy for broader sustainability and community well-being.
Alexandre Lebel
Alexandre Lebel is currently an Assistant Research Professor at the Institute of Science and Environment at the University of Saint Joseph, Macao SAR.
He holds a college degree in liberal arts (Cégep du Vieux Montréal, Canada), a bachelor's degree in anthropology (Université de Montréal, Canada), a master's degree in environmental sciences and management (University of Saint Joseph, Macao SAR), and a doctorate in education (University of Saint Joseph, Macao SAR). He is a professionally qualified technician in the field of water treatment technologies (Cégep de Saint-Laurent, Canada), with over 15 years of experience in the environmental sector, including public, private, and academic sectors.
Crystal Lou (盧綺華)
Television Program Coordinator TDM- TELEDIFUSAO DE MACAU, S.A.
Crystal Lou holds a degree in Journalism from Taiwan and has over ten years of professional experience in the media industry. She currently serves as a Television Program Coordinator at TDM-TELEDIFUSAO DE MACAU, S.A., specializing in research and scriptwriting. She is pleased to contribute her expertise to this project.
Introduction
Macao’s GDP per capita ranks among the highest in the world, but the high cost of living can create economic inequality, and poorer residents may struggle to afford necessities, including food. This survey examines the attitudes and policy implications surrounding food insecurity in relation to social welfare programs, community associations, non-governmental organizations, and the private sector. We conducted face-to-face interviews with operators, volunteers, and beneficiaries of various food distribution programs in Macao. While the Macao government subsidizes housing, utilities, healthcare, and transportation, access to food is subject to market forces. The results indicate that food access for low-income households in Macao relies on intricate networking among individuals, interest groups, organizations, and government bodies.
