19 June 2025 – SJM Resorts, S.A. (“SJM”) continues its commitment to promote and preserving traditional Chinese culture. Recently, the GLP Arte, an integrated cultural and creative space at Grand Lisboa Palace Resort Macau, hosted two experiential workshops. The sugar-blowing workshop was led by renowned Hong Kong artist Mr. To Wun, who guided participants through the intricate techniques of this delicate craft. Meanwhile, a rod puppet experience workshop was conducted by seasoned puppeteer Ms. Tang Wen Yuan, offering participants hands-on insights into the artistry of traditional Chinese puppetry. These interactive sessions provided participants with a deeper appreciation for the artistic and cultural significance of these cherished intangible heritage practices.

With a history spanning more than 600 years, the traditional art of sugar-blowing was inscribed into the Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Hong Kong in 2014. Affectionately known as “Sugarman,” Mr. To is dedicated to preserving and modernising the art. He has pioneered the use of plant-based, sugar-free ingredients to align with contemporary health-conscious trends. During the workshop, Mr. To demonstrated essential techniques—including sugar boiling, kneading and blowing—to transform molten sugar into vivid artistic creations. This hands-on experience allowed participants to appreciate the delicate craftsmanship of this traditional Chinese skill.

Rod puppetry, an art form dating back to the Han Dynasty and flourished during the Tang and Song Dynasties, transcends time as a dual-listed heritage—inscribed on the Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of China (2008) and the Inventory of Intangible Cultural Heritage of Hong Kong (2014). The workshop immersed participants in the origins of this millennium-old craft by showcasing precious puppet collections, tracing its historical evolution, teaching basic manipulation techniques, and engaging attendees in hands-on puppet crafting. Participants received a commemorative “Intangible Cultural Heritage Research Certificate,” as they experienced the cultural delight of bringing puppets to life.

Following last year’s well-received FORTUNE REALMS: Pop-Up Museum of Chinese Culture & Arts exhibition, which featured intricate Chinese paper sculptures at Grand Lisboa Palace, SJM continues to strengthen its positioning as “a base for exchange and cooperation where Chinese culture is the mainstream and diverse cultures coexist.” By promoting traditional arts and fostering cross-cultural dialogue, SJM enriches Macau’s cultural tourism offerings.

GLP Arte integrates a wide spectrum of artistic elements and creative themes, supporting the development of Macau’s cultural and creative industries. The venue invites guests of all ages to engage with the city’s vibrant arts scene, underscoring Macau’s unique appeal as a “World Centre of Tourism and Leisure.”