Macau Lifestyle
  • What's On

    Categories

    • Events Calendar
    • Macau Weekend
    • Monthly Hotlist
    • Giveaways
    • Entertainment

    Recent Stories

    Macao Arts Festival
    What to Expect At the 31st Macao Arts Festival
    What's On
    Relax and Reward Package Offer Shine Spa
    Weekender: Spa & Staycation Offers, Food Surprises & More
    Macau Weekend
    SICILIAN RED PRAWN and OSCIETRA CAVIAR served “cru” with yuzu The Manor A La Carte Menu
    April in Macau: Dining, Arts, Culture & Family Events
    Monthly Hotlist
  • Dining

    Categories

    • Restaurants
    • Local Eats
    • Cafes
    • Bars
    • Chef Spotlight

    Recent Stories

    sponge-cake-macau-lifestyle-chinese-pastries
    Our Guide to Traditional Chinese Pastries in Macau
    Dining
    Voyages by Alain Ducasse_Gin Trolley
    Where to Have Gin & Tonic in Macau
    Bars
    pho tik pho peach tea macau lifestyle
    Delicious Noodles & Where to Eat Them in Macau
    Local Eats
  • Lifestyle

    Categories

    • Wellness
    • Weddings
    • Family
    • People

    Recent Stories

    Flora Garden playground
    The Best Playgrounds for Kids in Macau
    Family
    Dave Wan Working at Zawood
    Dave Wan: Keeping up the Family’s Business With Zawood
    Artist Spotlight
    Notable Macau women Sister Juliana Devoy
    8 Notable Macau Women to Be Proud Of
    Culture
  • Culture

    Categories

    • Arts
    • Heritage & History
    • Architecture
    • Artist Spotlight
    • Local Knowledge

    Recent Stories

    Flora Garden playground
    The Best Playgrounds for Kids in Macau
    Family
    Dave Wan Working at Zawood
    Dave Wan: Keeping up the Family’s Business With Zawood
    Artist Spotlight
    Cinco de Mayo Macau Mexican dancers, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Old Mesilla, Las Cruces, New Mexico USA
    Everything You Need to Know About Cinco de Mayo
    Culture
  • Style

    Categories

    • Fashion
    • Jewelry & Watches
    • Beauty
    • Home

    Recent Stories

    Macau Lifestyle Stephen Margaret Omorovicza
    Margaret de Heinrich: Omorovicza Skincare & Healing Thermal Waters
    Beauty
    Gucci Macau
    Best Springtime Fragrances of 2021
    Beauty
    Macau Lifestyle Morpheus Spa_Couple Spa Suite_02
    Best Facial Treatments in Macau
    Beauty
  • Travel

    Categories

    • Macau
    • China
    • Asia
    • Oceania
    • Europe

    Recent Stories

    hong kong junk Day Trips Macau
    Best Day Trips from Macau
    Asia
    macau day trips ocean park hong kong
    Best Day Trips for the Whole Family
    Family
    kun iam ecumenic centre macau
    Weekend Walking Tour of Macau Peninsula’s Alternative Cultural Sites
    Culture
  • Hong Kong

    Categories

    • What's On
    • Dining
    • Things to Do
    • Hotels

    Recent Stories

    Artist Wu Yi – Tang Contemporary gallery- Macau Lifestyle WY1
    Wu Yi: A Painter’s Painter
    Artist Spotlight
    St. Regis Hong Kong, Premier Harbour Room 08
    Best Staycation Packages in Hong Kong
    Hong Kong
    Kerry Hotel Hong Kong
    Wake Up Here: Kerry Hotel, Hong Kong
    Hong Kong
  • Events
  • City Guide
  • 繁中
Culture
28 September, 2020
by Leonor Sá Machado

Macau During the Second World War: Political Neutrality & City of Refuge

Taken from Joao Botas book Macau em Tempo de Guerra

Featured image source: “Macau 1937-1945: os anos da guerra” book, by João Botas

You might’ve already heard dozens and more stories on the Second World War. However, did you ever hear about those related to Macau? Was the city involved in the conflict? What were the consequences on this little town (at the time)? We let you know a bit about how it all developed back on this side of the world.

Briefly, in the war that took place from 1939 to 1945, it started with Hitler invading Poland, then the Japanese attacked the north-American base of Pearl Harbour which resulted in the Americans’ bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki with atomic bombs (the only use of nuclear weapons ever used in the war), and finally ending with Germany’s surrender.

Most of the warfare happened in Europe, involving relevant economies at the time–Germany, Great Britain, France, Russia, and others. While this was unraveling, Asia was also suffering as the Pacific War took place as well during the Second World War. However, it had other characters. In its center was Japan, the United States, China, and other Asian countries such as Vietnam, and Cambodia.

The Second Sino-Japanese War–between Japan and China–was already in motion since 1937, while the Pacific War started in 1941, with the invasion of Thailand, Singapore, Malaya (now Malaysia), and Hong Kong by Japan. This last invaded region is of great importance for the narrative that follows and it includes Macau. The Pacific War ended with the attacks by the USA and the occupation of Manchuria by the Soviet Union, which caused Japan to surrender.

Occupying from the Inside

Macau escaped a military invasion of the Japanese, but research argues that they were in fact managed by Japan, from the inside. But why didn’t they occupy the region? Portugal had proclaimed neutrality and Japan was forced to respect what they called “international agreements”.

Although Japan kept its forces outside the city (on the other side of the Gongbei border), the Japanese consul in Macau had more say in the political decisions of the city than the local governor himself. “Given the (war) circumstances, the Governor had no choice but to say yes to everything the Japanese wanted and imposed. The act of governing was taken by the Japanese consul and the regional military commander, colonel Sawa, who had its headquarters in Zhuhai”, João Botas explains in Macau 1937–1945: Os Anos da Guerra.

Unfortunately, Macau didn’t come out of this conflict completely unharmed. According to João Botas, the Allies violated the neutrality status, with the American forces attacking the city. They bombed the Outer Harbour area, destroying gasoline deposits. The S. Francisco Barracks was also struck with gunshots, as well as the radio central at D. Maria Fortress.

Taken from Joao Botas Book Macau em tempos de guerra

Source: “Macau 1937-1945: os anos da guerra” book, by João Botas

Macau: City of refuge

Let’s wind back a few years when Hong Kong was occupied by Japan from 1941 to 1945, starting with Sir Mark Young’s (Hong Kong’s governor at the time) surrendering of the then British crown colony to Japan on December, 1941 after almost 20 days of fighting between both forces in the territory.

As you might already know, ours is a city of no conflict, where communities live harmoniously and calmly in between; there are more than five different communities, including the Chinese, Macanese, Portuguese, Philippine, Indonesian, amongst others. It seems to have been so for some time now, including during the Second World War. During the occupation of Hong Kong, hundreds of people sought shelter wherever they could find it and one of those “safe places” was Macau, the neighboring city.

It can be said Macau was kind of isolated from the rest of the world and the combat itself. Perhaps one of the most difficult things to handle during these times was feeding everyone. Throughout the war, Macau’s population grew from 200,000 people to around half a million, with some saying it reached one million people. One can easily find first-hand testimonies from people who lived through those difficult times while experiencing how it was to be a war refugee. One of those is Russian painter George Smirnoff’s daughter, Irene.

“During the last year and a half of the Japanese occupation of Hong Kong during World War Two, my father, George Smirnoff, with some other Russian refugees, decided to move his family to the only safe place we could get to, the small neighboring Portuguese colony of Macao.” can be read on a testimony found on a book by Jason Wordie, Macao – People and places, past and present.

“As White Russians, we lived in a form of limbo during those years. We were stateless, and so was no-one’s responsibility. The Japanese categorized us–along with others, such as the numerous Portuguese born in Hong Kong, as “Third Nationals”. We were not Allied nationals – therefore liable to internment and at least some food and sustenance in the camps. Neither were we citizens of nations allied to Japan, such as Germany or Italy; nor were we Neutrals, like the Irish, the Swiss, or the Swedish. White Russians in China existed in a diplomatic no-man’s-land in those years – the charge of no-one”, she continues.

Old Postcard circa 1900 from Macau Antique Postcards by Joao Loureiro

Old Postcard of Bela Vista Hotel circa 1900. Source: “Macau Antique Postcards” by João Loureiro

Buildings that kept them safe

Bela Vista Hotel was one of the main shelters at the time and received hundreds of people from Hong Kong and China as well. However, there were other buildings we now look at and would never imagine the stories they’ve seen. During the Pacific War, the Macau Military Club was run by the local government, where the authorities prepped areas to shelter these people running from Hong Kong. People have a way to romanticize historical moments and according to former consul John Reeves–in his book The Lone Flag, Macau wasn’t all warmth and hugs for the ones seeking refuge in times of war.

Macau was described by some as the only refuge within the Far East area. Hundreds of people fled Hong Kong and sought shelter in the neighboring city. Macau embraced Chinese, but also Americans, British, German, Japanese, Italian, French, and Irish people residing in Hong Kong. They stayed in abandoned theater halls and clubs, schools, even including a ship docked at the Inner Harbour.

There were still two years of warfare left and Macau was already lacking shelter for the refugees. The local government then shut down the dog races–then quite famous and frequented by the upper classes–at the Canidrome, as well as a firecrackers factory to harbor people in these buildings. The environment got heavier and heavier as the war continued and there were now rationing tickets. However, local society wasn’t that homogeneous.

The Japanese were still filling up places such as dining and party halls, restaurants, and Hotel Central’s casino. This was also where an important Portuguese figure–Pedro José Lobo–at the time made some relevant negotiations with the other side. Reeves refers to this man in this book and lets us know one Japanese once said: “Lobo is a very good friend of ours but nothing could buy his loyalty to Portugal”.

Curious “Meat”

We’re used to saying that wars are difficult times especially for the soldiers and the affected communities. Although Macau hadn’t been directly attacked nor occupied by foreign forces, the increase of the number of refugees–and mouths to feed–plus the fact that the region being tiny made it very hard for food to get in. It’s said that the mafia and criminals were involved in smuggling goods into the city, hence aiding the community.

It’s also said–although never officially, by some people who lived during those times, including Priest Manuel Teixeira–that there were several cases of anthropophagy, better known as human cannibalism. We say “cases” because it wasn’t very known amongst the population. Rather, it was part of stories told by the elderly and their parents who lived through these difficult times. Interviewed by a Portuguese newspaper in 1999, the priest who had lived almost his entire life in Macau narrated one of such episodes where someone told him human meat was being sold at Hotel Central’s sumptuous restaurant. Intrigued by this, he says, Teixeira followed some clues that led him to the Ilha Verde area, where he saw a ship with dead bodies missing some parts.

Even though times were tough, forces united in Macau to help the locals. According to Botas, even Macau’s heritage took a toll as the government gave the Japanese several materials–old canons existing at several of Macau fortresses–for the other side to use to make weapons. Banco Nacional Ultramarino (BNU) also played a relevant role during this time where it bought thousands of bags of rice for the population.

Also read: The Impact of the Opium War on Macau


Bibliography

Books:

  • Macau 1937–1945: Os Anos da Guerra, by João Botas (2012)

Online sources:

  • Interview “Padre Manuel Teixeira, 87 anos: “Não quero assistir à morte de Macau”, in Público newspaper
  • Article “The Lone Flag: Macau’s WWII British consul”, in South China Morning Post Magazine
  • Article “Book: The Lone Flag: Memoir of the British Consul in Macau during World War II”, in the Portuguese American Journal

Tags

  • Bela Vista Hotel
  • macau
  • Refugees
  • Second World War
  • white russians

Related Posts

Sir Robert Ho Tung Panoramic Photo Inside Exterior Macau Lifestyle
Heritage

Sir Robert Ho Tung Library: Macau’s Hidden Gem

Tunnel close to Rua de Nossa Senhora do Amparo in Macau Haunted places
Culture

Haunted Places Around Macau

st dominic church macau
Culture

Top 10 Things to Do in Macau

Cafe Veng Kei Outdoor Wall Macau Lifestyle
Arts

Most Instagrammable Buildings in Macau

Trending Posts

sponge-cake-macau-lifestyle-chinese-pastries
Dining, Local Eats

Our Guide to Traditional Chinese Pastries in Macau

10-things-to-do-in-coloane-chapel-francis-xavier
Culture, Heritage, Local Knowledge, Sightseeing

10 Beautiful Catholic Churches in Macau

What's On

What to Expect At the 31st Macao Arts Festival

Mandarin-Oriental-Macau_The-Mandarin-Cake-Shop_Strawberry-Cheesecake
Cafes, Dining

Let Them Eat Cake: Macau’s Best Cake Shops

  • Editor's Picks

    SICILIAN RED PRAWN and OSCIETRA CAVIAR served “cru” with yuzu The Manor A La Carte Menu Monthly Hotlist

    April in Macau: Dining, Arts, Culture & Family Events

    Check out all the unmissable events April has in store for everyone in Macau. From kids activities to dining offers, read on and find out!

    Date Announcement  – Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2021 sponsored by S.Pellegrino & Acqua Panna Dining

    Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2021 – Five Macau Eateries Make the Cut

    Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants 2021 decided to award 100 restaurants instead of the traditional 50, with Macau making it into the list!

    AJ Hackett Macau Skywalk giveaway Macau Lifestyle Local Knowledge

    Everything You Need to Do in Macau at Least Once

    Take a dive into this article and find out what to do to spend your precious time in Macau and maximize it to enjoy the city at its fullest!

    Featured image: Chinese depiction of a woman from atlantic countries circa 18th century Source: Review of Culture Culture

    Historic Women in Macau: Empowering Communities Across Time

    We all have an idea of what being a woman during the earlier centuries meant. These prominent women in Macau proved that their gender wasn’t a hindrance.

    LondonerMainLR Hotels

    Unveiling The Londoner Macao: The Newest Jewel in Cotai’s Crown

    The Londoner Macao is a unique addition to the vibrant skyline of Macau meticulously designed, making it a true celebration of timeless British design.

    Cuppa Coffee Macau Dining

    Good Morning Macau: Best Cafes for Breakfast

    As breakfast is the most important meal of the day, here’re our favorite cafes in Macau to head to for a hearty breakfast!

    Mandarin Oriental, Macau_The Mandarin Cake Shop_Signature Cake_Pink Bloom Cafes

    That Takes the Cake! The Mandarin Cake Shop’s Cakes for Every Taste

    The Mandarin Cake Shop’s cakes will make your heart beat faster and complement any ocassion! Don’t believe us? Try it for yourself!

    Sichuan Moon Chinese Restaurant Macau Dining

    The Most Outstanding Chinese Restaurants in Macau

    We’ve dedicated this page to the best restaurants serving Chinese food that entices even the most discerning palates from all over the world.

    Cotai Picture Wide Macau Lifestyle Macau

    10 Free Things to Do in Macau

    Glamorous and buzzing Macau has a lot to offer even for those on a shoe-string budget. Find out the coolest and free things to do in Macau.

    Coloane hiking trail Culture

    Guide to Coloane’s Hiking Trails

    Coloane is home to most of the hiking trails in town. We walked them all and came up with the most comprehensive Coloane hiking trails guide.

    African Chicken from Riquexo Macau Lifestyle Dining

    Macanese Craze: Where to Get African Chicken in Macau

    African chicken is a truly Macanese dish, even though it doesn’t sound so. We’ve toured Macau looking for the best and here they are!

    caffe b italian restaurant macau lunch dishes Dining

    New Set Menu at Caffé B Macau: What’s for Lunch?

    Our favorite casual Italian restaurant, Caffé B Macau, recently launched new lunch sets. We headed there to taste the recent additions.

    Collage of Calcada do Amparo Area Wall Paintings Macau Lifestyle Arts

    Colorful Macau: Best Street Art Hotspots

    Looking for something different to discover in the city? Explore the lesser travelled paths of Macau to find stunning local street art.

    The Moss Natural Life - handmade soaps sustainable shopping macau Wellness

    Sustainable Shopping in Macau

    If you are looking for places to shop for packaging-free, eco-friendly and sustainable items in Macau, here is a good list to embark on your journey.

    quarter square coffee on table exterior Dining

    The Ultimate Guide to Macau’s Best Coffee Shops

    Coffee makes the world go round and even if you don’t fancy it, it definitely brings people together so here are the best coffee shops in Macau!

    The Cheesecake Factory Macao pancakes Cafes

    Great Places for Pancakes in Macau

    Looking for pancake places around Macau? Hunting for butter-browned, soft and fluffy pancakes? We think you’ll be satisfied with our list!

    10-things-to-do-in-coloane-chapel-francis-xavier Culture

    10 Beautiful Catholic Churches in Macau

    Other than the glitz of the casinos and hotels, the beautiful Catholic churches show a different, historical side of Macau.

    Zics Macau Brand Source Facebook page Fashion

    Macau Fashion Brands: Celebrate Local Design

    Discover some Macau fashion brands that are making waves due to the fabulous designers behind each of their fresh and genius creations.

    The Ritz-Carlton Bar & Lounge Gin Collection Bars

    Best Places for Happy Hour in Macau

    After a long day at work, you need a relaxing place to unwind. We have the best places in Macau for happy hour deals on drinks and snacks!

    Macau Youth Street Dance Association single shot x Macau Lifestyle Arts

    Macau Youth Street Dance Association: Jarvis Mo on the Local Dance Scene

    We speak to Jarvis Mo, the president of the Macau Youth Street Dance Association, about the street dance culture in Macau, and more!

    Waffles with Coffee at Rooftop Macau Exterior Macau Lifestyle Cafes

    Best Waffle Spots in Macau

    Best shared with your friends or perhaps on a first date, here are the best waffle places in Macau for your next catch up session.

    Cinco de Mayo Macau Mexican dancers, Cinco de Mayo Celebration, Old Mesilla, Las Cruces, New Mexico USA Culture

    Everything You Need to Know About Cinco de Mayo

    Some people mistake Cinco de Mayo as Mexican Independence Day. What is it exactly? And how do you celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Macau?

    Mighty Green Featured Cintia and Guilherme Lifestyle

    Mighty Greens: The Powerful Micro-Greens Making Their Way Across Macau Restaurants

    Guilherme Martins and Cintia Milk, behind Mighty Greens has an indoor farm in Macau producing nutritious tiny plants called “micro-greens”.

    Maria do Leste Bloody Mary from St Regis Macao Updated Photo 2020 Bars

    Shaken or Stirred: Macau’s Best Cocktails

    The world of mixology often proves to be as diverse and surprising as the one of gastronomy. Exercising talent and immense creativity, Macau’s bartenders keep creating signature cocktails that impress us with both flavors and presentation. If you are tired and bored with mojitos and negronis and need tips on what else to try, check out our guide to Macau’s best cocktails. 

    Macau Lifestyle Morpheus Spa_Couple Spa Suite_02 Beauty

    Best Facial Treatments in Macau

    With so many world-class spas in Macau, we recommend that you indulge in a facial treatment that will make you feel good at the start of 2021!

  • About
  • The Team
  • Advertise
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms and Conditions
  • Contact Us

COPYRIGHT © 2021 • MACAU LIFESTYLE

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Receive Macau Events Agenda, the Hottest Giveaway Offers and the Latest Article Updates!

We use cookies to ensure that we give you the best experience on our website. If you continue to use this site we will assume that you are happy with it.Ok