【Talk At Sunset】Macao Grand Prix: Beyond the Races

Topic: Macao Grand Prix: Beyond the Races
Speaker: Eng. João Manuel Costa Antunes, Former Director of Macao Government
Date: 28th Nov, 2024 (Thurs)
Time: 18:30 – 20:00
Venue: Vasco Bar, Artyzen Grand Lapa
R.S.V.P.: info@iaamacao.com

About the Talk
Eng. João Manuel Costa Antunes, a big legendary figure of Macao, will share his stories and insights in an upcoming talk titled “Macao Grand Prix: Beyond the Races,” highlighting how this legendary sports spectacular serves as a catalyst for Macao’s global development and its impact on the region’s tourism landscape.

Admission:
• Free for IAA members
• MOP 100 for partners
• MOP 150 for non-members
The event includes 1 drink per participant.
Participants enjoy 50% discount on drinks after the first drink, until 20:30

About Talk At Sunset
It is a series of regular events connecting professionals from around the world to share their insights and be inspired with their passion and dedication.

About Eng. João Manuel Costa Antunes
Born in Lisbon, Portugal, Eng. João Manuel Costa Antunes is a distinguished figure in the field of tourism and public works, endowed with a career spanning several decades in both the private and public sectors. Upon graduated in Structural Civil Engineering from I.S.T. in Lisbon, he began his professional journey in 1974, initially working in the private sector before transitioning to the Portuguese government in 1975.

Since 1983, Eng. Antunes moved to Macao and commenced his three decades of journey in servicing the Macao Government. He started as an adviser for the Macao Government, focusing on public works, and quickly rose to prominent positions, including Vice President of Leal Senado (Municipal Council) in 1984 and adviser for the Macao Marine Department in 1987. His most significant contributions came during his tenure as the Director of the Macao Government Tourism Office (MGTO) from 1988 to 2012. In this role, he coordinated major cultural and tourism projects, including the International Music Festival, Miss Macau Pageant, Dragon Boat Races, and the International Fireworks Festival.

Eng. Antunes has been an integral part of the Macao Grand Prix, serving as its Coordinator from 1988 to 2015. His leadership in this prestigious event has played a vital role in promoting Macao as a global destination and enhancing its tourism sector. Additionally, he coordinated the “Handover Ceremonies Office” in 1999 to witness the remarkable moment in Macao’s history for its return to Mainland China.

Aside from the governmental works, Eng. Antunes remained active in the tourism industry and cultural landscape. He served as President of the East Asia Travel Association (E.A.T.A.) in 1994 and as Chairman of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (P.A.T.A.) in 2012. He was also the founder of “Casa de Portugal em Macau,” a Portuguese association established in 2001. Recent years, he also acted as the President of SKAL International Macau from 2016 to 2022, garnering deep respect and recognition in the industry.