For the purpose of protecting Macao’s Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) and establishing a comprehensive ICH list, the Cultural Affairs Bureau is now calling for entries to be included in the declaration of ICH, which may be submitted by all entities, groups and organisations in Macao. Work on the declaration will be co-ordinated and executed by the Macao Museum. Application forms for additions to the ICH list may be submitted at any time. The Cultural Affairs Bureau will evaluate all submitted items by 31^st March, 2011.

In order to acquaint the public with the declaration procedures and related tasks, briefing sessions on the Declaration of Macao’s Intangible Cultural Heritage will be hosted by the Macao Museum on the 13^th and 14^th November, 2010, from 3pm to 5pm, in the Macao Museum Auditorium. ICH experts from China have been invited to present briefs on topics including the ICH preservation policies of both UNESCO and the People’s Republic of China, the cultural value of Macao’s ICH from the point of view of China and the criteria for consideration on the National ICH list. A question and answer session will follow.

Mr. Qi Qingfu (13^rd Nov.), a Professor at China’s Minzu University, will focus on the category of traditional events. Mr. Wu Wenke (14^th Nov.), Director of the Quyi (Singing and Narrative Arts) Department at the Academy of Arts of China, will focus on the category of performing arts. Mandarin, Cantonese and English simultaneous interpretation will be provided throughout the session.

Interested parties may download Macao’s Intangible Cultural Heritage application forms from www.macaumuseum.gov.mo or call Mr. Chan at 8394 1221 for enquiries and seat reservations.