Macao to build science center

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 ◆ Macao to build science center

Initial planning is well under way for the Macao Science Center, a multi-billion-pataca project targeted to be not only a showcase of technical advances, but a study center for students and a new tourist spot.

A source with the Macao Foundation told Xinhua that the Foundation will pay designing fees totaling 3.3 million US dollars for the project. In addition, local government will cover the cost of construction work and exhibit purchases, estimated at 600 million to 700 million patacas (75 million to 87.5 million dollars).

The less-than-20,000-square-meter structure, in line with preliminary designing, will have nine areas with different themes, a multi-function hall that can accommodate 500 people and a host of meeting rooms.

A science, technology and civilization area will show technological modernization drive in Macao, achievements made in ancient China and by overseas Chinese and the latest technology information. In an imitation and fiction area, visitors can make imaginary tours in Macao and other tourist cities in the world.

There will be other areas introducing basic science, environmental science, bio-science, materials and new products, energy, auto-control and consultancy technology.

The center has been slated for inauguration in 2005, the year when the city will play host to the East Asian Games and annual conference of the Pacific Asia Travel Association (PATA).

Widely anticipated as a new tourist mecca, the center will most likely be built on the southeastern tip of the Macao Peninsular, very adjacent to the Macao Cultural Center, the Macao Foundation said.