The Road Towards a Sustainable Legal Order —Reflections on the Eve of the 25th Anniversary of the Macau SAR

This article delves into the evolution and sustainability of Macau’s legal order as it approaches the 25th anniversary of its establishment as a Special Administrative Region (SAR). It examines the intricate interplay between Portuguese colonial legacies and the Chinese sovereignty framework under the ‘One Country, Two Systems’ policy. The discussion begins with an analysis of Macau’s legal status during the transitional period leading up to the 1999 handover, highlighting strategic governance measures aimed at preserving its unique socio-legal structure. The article further explores the challenges of legal reform, including the aging legal framework and the complexities of a bilingual legal order. It assesses the impact of legal education and professional development on the judiciary and legal professions in Macau, emphasizing the shift towards a more balanced and locally integrated system. Through a detailed examination of Macau’s legal culture, the article illustrates the ongoing discourse and power dynamics shaping its legal identity. The study concludes with an epilogue that reflects on the future path of Macau’s legal order, advocating for clear objectives, targeted improvements, and the importance of maintaining a bilingual legal framework to support the SAR’s unique position as a bridge between East and West.