The award ceremony for the “Legacy in Ink & Light : Exploring 5000 Years of Chinese Culture and Financial History” Essay and Microfilm Competition, jointly organized by the Centre for Macau Studies (CMS) and the Centre for Chinese History and Culture (CCHC) of the University of Macau (UM), as well as Well Link Bank, was recently held at the N1 Multifunction Hall of UM.
Marking the second edition co-organized by UM and Well Link Bank, this year’s competition introduced a micro-film category for the first time. By adding a new visual medium to the traditional essay competition, the event aims to encourage young students in Macao to express their understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture through diverse creative approaches. The competition was divided into three categories: Junior High, Senior High, and Tertiary, attracting nearly 200 submissions.
Agnes Lam Iok Fong, director of the CMS, stated that the competition’s theme reflects the hope of using the power of writing and the beauty of film to explore the roots of 5,000 years of Chinese civilization and to reflect on how culture has evolved and been transmitted through financial transformations across history. She pointed out that throughout Chinese history—from shell money and copper coins to traditional draft banks and the digital RMB—finance has been more than just a transactional tool; it reflects national wisdom and the cultural spirit. She hopes students will use this opportunity to look back on history, reflect on the present, and look to the future, ensuring that cultural heritage is vividly brought to life through text and lenses rather than remaining confined to textbooks.
Huang Ruisheng, executive director and chief executive officer of Well Link Bank, noted that as a bank rooted in Macao, Well Link Bank adheres to the principle of staying true to its original aspirations and sincerely serving society. The bank actively promotes smart banking and fulfils its social responsibilities by supporting youth cultural heritage and talent cultivation. Highlighting the competition as a significant initiative to support youth development, he expressed his hope that students will innovate boldly while honoring tradition, thereby demonstrating the responsibility and commitment of the new generation.
Guests attending the ceremony also included Cen Jiayi, director of the Higher Education Division of the Education and Youth Work Department of the Liaison Office of the Central People’s Government in the Macao S.A.R; Paul Pang Chap Chong, dean of students at UM; Lao Pun Lap, independent non-executive director of Well Link Bank; Tang Ling, vice president of Well Link Bank; Leong Kam Yuan, senior director of Well Link Bank; as well as the winning students, their instructors, and parents.