Author: Ye Qing, Long Yuemei, Luo Yunpeng 

Publisher: Science and Technology Daily  

Date: December 24, 2024

The Greater Bay Area's rapid development has created a robust foundation for technological cooperation between Guangdong and Macao, enhancing the confidence of Macao's researchers. This blueprint outlines key strategies and initiatives to deepen collaboration in scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer, fostering a synergistic relationship between the two regions.

1. Strengthening Collaborative Research Initiatives

Objective: Enhance joint research projects and innovation in key areas.

- Joint Research Projects: Promote collaborative projects like carbon emissions research and smart tourism applications, leveraging the strengths of both regions.

- Interdisciplinary Collaboration: Encourage partnerships between universities and research institutions in Guangdong and Macao to tackle major scientific challenges, such as climate change and sustainable development.

Example: The collaboration between Jinan University and the University of Macau on the Aomi app for smart tourism demonstrates effective joint efforts in addressing local needs.

2. Establishment of Innovation Platforms

Objective: Create platforms for technological innovation and knowledge exchange.

- Joint Laboratories: Expand the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Joint Laboratory initiative, currently comprising 31 facilities, to facilitate joint research and development.

- Innovation Hubs: Develop innovation hubs in Zhuhai and Macao that focus on high-tech industries, fostering an environment for startups and technology transfer.

Example: The Guangdong Hong Kong Macao Environmental Quality Collaborative Innovation Joint Laboratory has already made significant strides in climate change research.

3. Facilitating Personnel Exchanges

Objective: Streamline processes for personnel movement and collaboration.

- Talent Exchange Programs: Establish programs that allow researchers and students to work across borders easily, enhancing skills and knowledge transfer.

- Joint Training Initiatives: Develop training programs that cater to the unique needs of both regions, focusing on project management, research methodologies, and innovation practices.

Example: The introduction of high-level talents with backgrounds from Hong Kong and Macao in joint projects exemplifies effective personnel collaboration.

4. Enhancing Funding and Resource Allocation

Objective: Provide financial support and resources for collaborative projects.

- Joint Funding Programs: Continue and expand the Guangdong-Macao Science and Technology Innovation Joint Funding Program to support more projects, aiming for at least 100 project proposals annually.

- Resource Sharing: Facilitate access to research facilities and resources across both regions, ensuring that researchers can utilize the best available tools and technologies.

Example: The successful joint evaluation of projects between Guangdong and Macao has already broken previous barriers in funding processes.

5. Promoting Technology Transfer and Commercialization

Objective: Accelerate the transformation of research outcomes into market-ready technologies.

- Technology Transfer Offices: Establish dedicated offices in universities to assist researchers in commercializing their innovations and connecting with industry partners.

- Industry Partnerships: Foster partnerships with local enterprises in Guangdong and Macao to ensure that research aligns with market needs and can be effectively implemented.

Example: The collaboration of the State Key Laboratory of Moon and Planetary Science in Macao with national deep space exploration programs illustrates the potential for impactful research applications.

6. Building a Supportive Regulatory Framework

Objective: Create an environment conducive to innovation and cooperation.

- Harmonization of Standards: Work towards aligning regulatory standards and evaluation mechanisms for scientific research projects between Guangdong and Macao.

- Policy Support: Advocate for policies that encourage investment in joint research initiatives and provide incentives for collaboration.

Example: The successful navigation of differing audit standards for project acceptance showcases the potential for regulatory synergy.

This blueprint for Guangdong-Macao technological cooperation emphasizes the importance of collaborative research, innovation platforms, personnel exchanges, funding, technology transfer, and supportive regulations. By leveraging the unique strengths of both regions, this cooperation can drive significant advancements in scientific research, contribute to the economic development of the Greater Bay Area, and position Macao as a key player in global technological innovation.