First Macau Forum on Emotional Artificial Intelligence held at UM

The Institute of Collaborative Innovation (ICI) of the University of Macau (UM) held the first Macau Forum on Emotional Artificial Intelligence on 16 April 2025. The forum brought together renowned scholars from the fields of computer science, robotics, cognitive neuroscience, linguistics, communication studies, and psychology, who presented the latest advancements in affective computing and emotion-aware artificial intelligence (AI), and explored how innovative technologies can detect human emotions through verbal, non-verbal cues, and even brain signals. Around 200 people attended the forum.

In his speech, UM Rector Yonghua Song said that the forum would serve as an important platform for interdisciplinary collaboration and innovation in emotional AI, and enhance human-AI interaction through shared insights. He also noted that with the advancement of technology, emotional AI is playing an increasingly important role in promoting mental well-being by providing emotional support. Research in this area is attracting increasing attention and will have an even greater impact on social life in the future.

The forum addressed practical computational, philosophical, and ethical challenges in developing emotion-aware AI systems to enhance human-AI interactions. A list of keynote speakers spoke at the forum. Erik Cambria, professor at Nanyang Technological University, presented various academic and industrial research on sentiment analysis and affective computing. Lu Bao-Liang, professor in the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at Shanghai Jiao Tong University, discussed multimodal emotion detection and affective brain-computer interfaces. Hu Bin, dean of the School of Medical Technology at Beijing Institute of Technology, shared insights into affective AI for diagnosis and treatment of mental disorders. Johan F. Hoorn, professor in the Department of Computing at The Hong Kong Polytechnic University, explored emotional AI models for the development of innovative and socially sensitive robots. Huang Minlie, deputy director of the Foundation Model Research Center at Tsinghua University, examined how large language models can enhance the social and emotional intelligence of AI. The following UM scholars also presented their research findings at the forum: Xu Cheng-Zhong, dean of the Faculty of Science and Technology (FST); Christian Montag, associate director of ICI; Michiel Spapé, associate professor in the Centre for Cognitive and Brain Sciences (CCBS); Wu Haiyan, assistant professor in CCBS; Steven Morad, assistant professor in FST; and Zhong Junwen, assistant professor in FST.

ICI is dedicated to promoting interdisciplinary research among higher education institutions in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and beyond, cultivating innovative talent, creating an environment conducive to innovative thinking, innovative capabilities, and innovative industries, and fostering industry-academia collaboration. The forum exemplified ICI’s commitment to achieving its objectives by bringing together experts to discuss the latest trends and challenges in emotional AI, and facilitating discussions and exchanges among scholars.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60971/

Jiangsu Province Vice Governor Zhao Yan leads delegation to visit UM

A delegation led by Zhao Yan, vice governor of Jiangsu Province, visited the University of Macau (UM) today (16 April) and was warmly received by Yonghua Song, rector of UM. The two parties had in-depth discussions on deepening exchanges and cooperation between UM and higher education institutions in Jiangsu Province.

Song highlighted UM’s commitment to nurturing talent who love the country and Macao and producing more research results to help the Macao SAR promote economic diversification and integrate into national development. He mentioned that in recent years, UM has actively strengthened cooperation with universities in Jiangsu Province in various fields, including launching dual bachelor’s degree programmes, promoting talent cultivation and technological innovation, and establishing the Jiangsu-Hong Kong-Macao University Alliance. Song also expressed hope that UM will continue to join hands with universities in Jiangsu Province to make more contributions to the development of higher education in the Yangtze River Delta and the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60954/

UM scholar gives talk on accurate detection of toxic substances using nanochannel sensors

The University of Macau (UM) held the 26th UM Scholar Research Forum today (16 April), where Zhang Xuanjun, assistant dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences at UM, gave a talk titled ‘Nanochannel Sensors for Accurate Detection of Toxic Substances and Food Additives’. The talk attracted a full house, with many secondary school students and teachers attending online.

During the talk, Prof Zhang discussed the amplification effect of nanoconfinement on ion current signals. He revealed, for the first time, the critical role of wettability in achieving high-performance formaldehyde sensing from an innovative perspective of hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance. Prof Zhang also introduced several products developed by his team, such as the ‘Janus structure’ nanochannel sensors for accurate detection of toxic substances, molecular probes for bioimaging and sensing, and photosensitisers for effective photodynamic therapy of cancer.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60952/

UM, Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine establish Joint Laboratory for Chinese Medicine Research and Development inaugurated

The Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences (ICMS) and the State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine (SKL-QRCM) of the University of Macau (UM) and Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine held a plaque unveiling ceremony for the Joint Laboratory for Chinese Medicine Research and Development. The joint laboratory will integrate the natural, technological, and human resources of Macao and Guangxi to promote the development of the Chinese medicine industry in both places and enhance the international influence and competitiveness of Chinese medicine.

The ceremony was officiated by Wang Xinfu, head of the United Front Work Department of the CPC Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Regional Committee; Yao Chun, president of Guangxi University of Chinese Medicine; Yonghua Song, rector of UM; and Chen Xin, director of ICMS. The two parties had in-depth discussions on promoting technological innovation and talent cultivation in Macao and Guangxi.

Wang Xinfu and other guests also visited SKL-QRCM and spoke highly of UM’s research platform and achievements in Chinese medicine.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60943/

UM experts and scholars discuss and analyse policy address for fiscal year 2025

The Centre for Macau Studies (CMS) of the University of Macau (UM) held the Seminar on Policy Address for the Fiscal Year 2025 of the Macao SAR Government today (15 April). During the seminar, several experts and scholars interpreted the Policy Address for the Fiscal Year 2025 and made suggestions for the future governance of the SAR government.

The seminar was chaired by Agnes Lam Iok Fong, director of CMS. The experts and scholars agreed with the policy direction of the policy address titled ‘Innovate to elevate; forge ahead to break new ground’. They also agreed that as this year is the first year of the new administration and against the backdrop of the ‘new situation, new demands, and new missions’ facing Macao, the two main directions of development are to strengthen the coordination mechanisms and promote the integration of Macao and Hengqin. They also suggested that raising awareness of the rule of law with responsibility and action among civil servants can improve the governance capacity and effectiveness of the SAR government. This, in turn, will enhance Macao citizens’ sense of participation, satisfaction, and happiness, and fulfil their aspirations for a better life.

Tong Kai Chung, president of the Macau Institute of Management, made suggestions on optimising fiscal policy, facilitating the flow of factors within the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and promoting the integration of Macao and Hengqin to support Macao’s economic diversification.

Wong Seng Fat, associate professor in the Department of Electromechanical Engineering of the Faculty of Science and Technology at UM, provided policy recommendations for smart cities and technological innovation.

So Siu Ian, associate professor in the Department of Integrated Resort and Tourism Management of the Faculty of Business Administration at UM, shared insights on how to promote Macao’s tourism industry.

Fong Hoc Nang, associate professor in the Department of Integrated Resort and Tourism Management of the Faculty of Business Administration at UM, stressed the need for policies to cater sub-industries, promote interdisciplinary development, and boost the local retail market.

Lei Chun Kwok, associate professor in the Department of Finance and Business Economics of the Faculty of Business Administration at UM, discussed the economic situation of Macao, the integration of Macao and Hengqin, and the development of small and medium-sized enterprises.

Kwan Fung, assistant professor in the Department of Economics of the Faculty of Social Sciences at UM, discussed the suspension of the sandwich-class housing scheme, the newly-introduced childcare allowance, and the lack of measures to improve economic output of the Greater Bay Area.

Lam Ka Ian, assistant professor in the Department of Government and Public Administration of the Faculty of Social Sciences at UM, discussed the future development direction of the integration of Macao and Hengqin, the welfare measures regarding the elderly and the young, and the accountability of civil servants.

Sou Kuai Long, assistant professor (by courtesy) in the Department of Psychology of the Faculty of Social Sciences at UM, advocated for diverse policies to address low birth rates and inadequate support for the psychological development of young people.

Pun Chi Meng, secretary-general of Caritas Macau, suggested promoting physical and mental health for all, increasing the opportunities for young people to participate in international exchanges, and raising awareness of the value of life among Macao citizens.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60942/

UM, Fudan jointly offer programme to cultivate talent in culture and tourism in GBA

The University of Macau (UM) and Fudan University will launch the ‘UM-Fudan 2+2 (International Integrated Resort Management—Tourism Management) Programme’ in the 2025/2026 academic year. Students in the programme who meet the graduation requirements will receive bachelor’s degrees from both UM and Fudan, with qualifications widely recognised by authorities in Macao and Shanghai, as well as internationally. The programme aims to integrate the resources of both universities to produce top talent with a global perspective and practical skills for the tourism and leisure industry in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), thereby supporting the development of the cultural and tourism industry in the GBA.

As Macao further promotes its strategy for economic diversification, the integrated tourism and leisure industry has become a key driver of the city’s high-quality development. In response to this development trend and the growing demand for tourism industry leaders, UM and Fudan signed a strategic cooperation framework agreement in 2021 and have been actively exploring the cross-border education model with a focus on the development needs of the GBA. The official launch of this programme marks a substantial step forward in the cooperation between the two universities in the field of tourism and leisure management, while providing a broader platform for young people in Hong Kong and Macao to engage in national development.

The programme is open to first-year undergraduate students enrolled in UM’s Bachelor of Science in International Integrated Resort Management programme with a specialisation in Convention and Hospitality Management. It adopts the innovative ‘2+2’ education model, which allows students to complete a total of four years of study, with two years at UM and two years at Fudan. Upon graduation, students will hold bachelor’s degrees from both universities, greatly enhancing their international competitiveness and laying a solid foundation for their future careers.

The programme has three core objectives. First, to serve Macao’s strategic positioning—the programme focuses on the needs of building Macao into a ‘world centre of tourism and leisure’, nurturing talent in international hotel management, business, convention and exhibition, and culture and tourism, and injecting new vitality into the development of Macao’s tourism industry. Second, to deepen the understanding of the culture and tourism industry in mainland China—the programme, through a systematic curriculum, helps students fully understand the development patterns of the cultural and tourism industry in mainland China, promotes the integration of culture and tourism between Macao and Guangdong, and enhances students’ cross-cultural communication skills. Third, to facilitate career development in the GBA–the programme leverages the resources of both universities to provide students with integrated support for internships and employment, and facilitate their career development in the GBA.

The programme is not only an important milestone in the partnership between UM and Fudan, but also a strong testament to the innovative development of education in the GBA and mainland China. The two universities will continue to deepen their cooperation and work together to produce more outstanding talent for the cultural and tourism industry in the GBA, thereby contributing to the development of the region.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60931/

Founder of New Oriental gives talk on life’s challenges and opportunities at UM

The University of Macau (UM) held a talk titled ‘The Silver Lining of Struggle: Embracing Difficulties and Failures as Life’s Greatest Opportunities’ today (14 April) as part of the University Lecture Series and Guia Lecture. The speaker was Yu Minhong, founder and chairman of New Oriental Education & Technology Group and chairman and CEO of East Buy Holding Limited, who shared how to turn challenges into drivers of growth and how to stay determined in the face of adversity.

Speaking at the event, UM Rector Yonghua Song said that Yu successfully transitioned from teaching to e-commerce industry in the midst of industry changes, and his company East Buy Holding Limited, which has reshaped the industry model through knowledge-based live streaming, is a great example of turning challenges into opportunities.

During the talk, Yu emphasised that in an era filled with uncertainty, resilience is the most crucial ability for entrepreneurs, and a positive mindset is the key to resilience. He highlighted four key qualities that entrepreneurs should have: the ability to be in tune with the times, resilience, innovation, and leadership. He also shared the development of New Oriental and personal insights from his experience of running a business, and encouraged the audience to strive for their career and life with forward-looking vision, wisdom, and the ability to choose what is good and hold fast to it. In addition, Yu actively engaged with the audience in the Q&A and discussion session moderated by Yu Xingzhong, director of the Institute of Advanced Studies in Humanities and Social Sciences of UM.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60930/

UM hosts forum for mainland, Hong Kong, and Macao scientists to discuss basic research for application and cutting-edge research

The University of Macau (UM) hosted a forum for scientists from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao. The forum was jointly organised by UM, the China Women’s Association for Science and Technology, the Foundation for the Development of Science and Technology in China, the Association for Promotion of Science & Technology of Macau, and the China Association for Science and Technology. It brought together academicians, industry leaders, and leading experts from mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao, as well as esteemed scholars from institutions such as Peking University, Zhejiang University, and UM.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, UM Rector Yonghua Song said that the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area serves as an important engine for the national innovation system, and there is a need to break down disciplinary and regional boundaries and promote cross-sector collaboration to translate research results into tangible products. Kuong Wai Man, vice chairman of the Association for Promotion of Science & Technology of Macau, said that building an internationally oriented research ecosystem will be an important gateway for scientific cooperation between mainland China, Hong Kong, and Macao.

During the forum, experts, scholars, and researchers provided in-depth interpretations of the latest advancements in fields such as biomedicine and life sciences, and shared their achievements in innovative Chinese medicine research and Internet of Things technologies for smart city. They also discussed the challenges and opportunities in their respective fields, shared their cutting-edge research, and explored new approaches to talent development.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60910/

Delegation from People’s Procuratorate of Guangdong Province visits UM

A delegation, led by Feng Jian, chief prosecutor general of the People’s Procuratorate of Guangdong Province, visited the University of Macau (UM) today (11 April) and was warmly received by Yonghua Song, rector of UM. Song gave the delegation an overview of UM’s history and development plans. He also highlighted the university’s commitment to nurturing talent who love the country and Macao and supporting the development of the Macao SAR and its integration into national development.

Accompanied by UM members, the delegation visited the UM Library and the Faculty of Law (FLL). They had discussions with FLL representatives and learned about the teaching and research activities of the faculty. The two parties also discussed ways to enhance the training of foreign-related legal professionals, promote cooperation in theoretical research between procuratorates and universities, and conduct in-depth studies on foreign, Hong Kong and Macao-related procuratorial theories and issues. Feng and his delegation spoke highly of UM’s recent development and gave recognition to its research achievements. They also expressed hope for further cooperation and exchanges between procuratorates and universities.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60911/

CAS academician gives talks on interface mechanics and intelligence-based biomimetics at UM

The University of Macau (UM) held the talk titled ‘Interface Mechanics and Intelligence-Based Biomimetics’ today (11 April) as part of its University of Lecture Series. The speaker was Duan Huiling, academician of the Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), who discussed the integration of interface mechanics with artificial intelligence (AI) and the trends in AI development.

Speaking at the event, UM Vice Rector Ge Wei mentioned that Prof Duan, in addition to being Boya Chair Professor and dean of the College of Engineering at Peking University, holds important positions in several national and international organisations. He also highlighted Prof Duan’s research achievements in interface mechanics, fluid-structure interaction, and advanced manufacturing technology.

During the talk, Prof Duan said that a deeper understanding of the interface mechanical behaviours and evolutionary patterns of biological entities facilitates the rapid development of physical intelligence, and provides new research directions and application prospects for basic research and engineering technology advancement. In addition, Prof Duan engaged with the audience during the Q&A and discussions session moderated by Xu Cheng-Zhong, dean of the Faculty of Science of UM.

To read the news on UM’s official website, please visit the following link:
https://www.um.edu.mo/news-and-press-releases/press-release/detail/60909/