2011 Population Census (2011 Census) will take place from 12 to 26 August. Taking advantage of the fishing moratorium period, the Statistics and Census Service (DSEC) conducts the marine population census for the next six days starting 1 July in order to collect accurate information on the marine population.

Kong Pek Fong, Director of DSEC, says that the 2011 Census officers, put on Census uniform and carry a Census ID Card, will visit every vessel that berthed in Macao’s custom maritime area between 1 and 6 July, to collect demographic data such as year and month of birth, place of birth, educational attainment and occupation of the marine population, as well as information on the locations and frequency of operation. For enquiries or appointment scheduling, the fishermen can call the Census Hotline at 8809 8809; alternatively, they can go to the temporary census station at the South Sampan Wharf to complete the questionnaire on-site or make an appointment during this six-day period.

Ms. Kong indicates that the scale of the fishing industry and number of fishermen have been decreasing over the years, with about 170 vessels at present. The marine population is an important component of the total population of Macao. DSEC calls for the support of the fishermen to give accurate data to the marine population census.

To facilitate smooth operation of the 2011 marine population census, Kong Pek Fong, Director of DSEC; Ieong Meng Chao and Cheng I Wan, Deputy Directors; Mak Hang Chan, Chief of Department; and Cheang Lai Seong, Chief of Division went to visit the Macao Custom and Maritime Administration, to introduce the 2011 Census and the marine population census, as well as to extend the gratitude for their support and assistance in providing marine transport to the Census officers.

In addition, DSEC took the opportunity to promote the marine population census and schedule appointments with some of the fishermen during the fishing moratorium courses organized by the Labour Affairs Bureau, to ensure successful conclusion of the marine population census.