Recently, through the GEG Cultural & Academic Fund, the Foundation funded the Portuguese Institute of the Orient (“IPOR”) in hosting its “Letras & Companhia”, or “Alphabets and Friends” Literary and Cultural Festival (“the Festival”) for the second consecutive year. Under the theme of “The Sea”, the festival encompassed a host of intriguing events, to promote Portuguese learning in Macau, cultural exchange between the local community and Portuguese-speaking countries, and important messages about protecting the planet.

During the Festival’s “Mini Library” activity, a set of Portuguese books by young Portuguese authors and illustrators, along with their Chinese translations, were donated to nearly 40 primary and secondary schools in Macau. These books are suitable for children and adolescents and provide quality bilingual teaching material, so that teachers can use them to further motivate students’ interest in learning and understanding the Portuguese language, culture, and to broaden their horizons.  The Festival also featured the “Zero Waste” Exhibition, which was held at the Gallery of Orient Foundation in May. 10 art pieces created by local primary and secondary school students and students from IPOR’s Portuguese Workshops for Children and Youngsters using daily waste materials were showcased at the exhibition in hopes of educating the young generation to participate in environmental conservation, and to contribute to building a sustainable environment.

Furthermore, the Festival also included creative writing workshops, book fair, bilingual storytelling sessions in Portuguese and Chinese, music concerts, and arts performances. With the aim of promoting the Portuguese language and culture, the Festival attracted numerous families to participate and enjoy the parent-child moments amid the dynamic ambiance of Portuguese culture. Ms. Patricia Ribeiro, member of the Board of IPOR said, “With the strong and active support from GEG Foundation, our important partner of the literary and cultural festival, we were able to promote and integrate Portuguese culture into the Macau community, elevate the interest of local youngsters in reading and studying Portuguese culture.”

Partnered with the Consulate General of Portugal in Macao and Hong Kong and the Orient Foundation, the Festival received strong support and participation from the Education and Youth Development Bureau and the Cultural Affairs Bureau of the Macau SAR Government.