As Macao celebrates the 25th anniversary of its reunification with the motherland, the region stands at a crossroads of retrospection and forward-thinking ambition. The return to the motherland in 1999 heralded a new era, with the city taking great strides in the economic, social and cultural domains. These achievements are intrinsically woven into the fabric of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area’s economic narrative. Macao’s integration into this dynamic consortium presents a tapestry of opportunity and complexity.

Historically, Macao’s prosperity has been buoyed by the flourishing gaming and tourism sectors. Yet the shifting global economic climate and heightened competition signal a note of caution against reliance on a monolithic economy. For Macao, sustainable growth lies in diversifying its economic portfolio. Here, the Greater Bay Area’s strategic vision unfolds as a beacon of opportunity, fostering resource synergy and fostering multicity cooperation for diversified industrial evolution.

Collaborative ventures with urban hubs like Guangzhou and Shenzhen empower Macao to absorb cutting-edge technologies and managerial prowess. Tapping into the manufacturing prowess and innovation of these metropolises bolsters Macao’s industrial competitive edge. The region’s transportation infrastructure, a linchpin of the Greater Bay Area, is a catalyst for Macao’s seamless economic integration into the broader regional economy.

Macao’s rich cultural tapestry and tourist allure form the cornerstone of its identity. As the Greater Bay Area blueprint materializes, Macao is poised to amplify its cultural resonance on a grand scale, leveraging its status as a cultural conduit. By orchestrating joint cultural initiatives and tourism ventures with its neighbors, Macao enhances its allure, crafting distinctive cultural tourism experiences that spark new consumer interest.

In concert with its Greater Bay Area counterparts, Macao will navigate the economic, cultural and social currents, seizing new opportunities. By leveraging the collective resources and strengths of the Greater Bay Area, Macao’s future is set to sparkle with even greater intensity on a broader stage

Recent years have seen Macao hosting an array of grand-scale events, bolstering its entertainment sector. These initiatives are not merely a showcase of cultural vibrancy but a vital infusion of dynamism into the local economy. Moreover, Macao’s commitment to sustainability aligns with the Greater Bay Area’s green economic model, embracing renewable energy and green technology to sculpt an eco-friendly economic paradigm.

Innovation remains the lifeblood of economic momentum. Macao’s proactive engagement in technological innovation and industry modernization within the Greater Bay Area landscape is imperative. Collaboration with academic institutions and research entities is key to unlocking breakthroughs in nascent industries and the digital economy, heralding a new era of comprehensive economic revitalization.

Yet a critical challenge confronts Macao: transportation. Despite recent advancements, such as the light rail system, peak-season travel can be daunting, with taxis in short supply. Enhancing connectivity with other Greater Bay Area cities, through initiatives akin to “Hong Kong vehicles going north” and “Guangdong vehicles going south”, could be transformative. Such integration would invigorate Macao’s economy and tourism, fostering robust business exchanges.

The silver jubilee of Macao’s reunification is more than a commemorative milestone; it is a foundation for progressive development. Within the Greater Bay Area framework, Macao is positioned not only to catalyze its own economic metamorphosis but also to contribute significantly to regional flourishing. In concert with its Greater Bay Area counterparts, Macao will navigate the economic, cultural and social currents, seizing new opportunities. By leveraging the collective resources and strengths of the Greater Bay Area, Macao’s future is set to sparkle with even greater intensity on a broader stage.

The author is a Hong Kong-based commentator and a member of China Retold, a local youth academic group.

The views do not necessarily reflect those of China Daily.