The second edition of the “New Art Studies in Filming Macau – Micro Movie Support Program” opened in Macau with an energetic ceremony in January. Organized by the Creative Industries Promotion Association of St Lazarus Church District (CIPA) and supported by Sands China for the second year running, the program drew applications from 20 aspiring filmmaking teams with five teams selected by a professional judging panel to win sponsorship for their micro movie production.

The ceremony saw guests and representatives of this year’s funded teams officially launch the production of their movies, namely Parents, Even as an Adult, Performance, Seventeen and Sweet Pie.

During the event, Dr Wilfred Wong, Executive Vice Chairman of Sands China, presented a MOP 300,000 check to CIPA Chairman Vong Sek Kuan and praised CIPA’s efforts in nurturing young cinematic talent. He reinforced Sands China’s commitment to the program’s mission while expressing his hope that the micro movie teams enjoy a smooth process and his anticipation for seeing Macau’s rising filmmakers make their mark on the Asian stage.

Driven by a vision to foster the local film, television and cultural scene, CIPA has been offering “New Art Studies in Filming Courses” annually since 2012, providing aspiring professionals with valuable skills and knowledge. CIPA recognized the need for practical experience and launched the “New Art Studies in Filming Macau – Micro Movie Support Program” in 2022 to provide a platform for young filmmakers to translate their learning into tangible projects. The inaugural batch of five microfilms produced through the program successfully premiered at The Londoner Macao in March 2023.