Zhai Zhiran, a doctoral student at Macau University of Science and Technology, said she has witnessed Hengqin's growing appeal to students in her field, as the zone boasts numerous TCM laboratories jointly established by Chinese mainland and Macao institutions, offering a wealth of career prospects for TCM graduates.

Zhai, who lives in Hengqin and commutes between Zhuhai and Macao for her studies, applauded the efficient customs clearance at the Hengqin port of entry, saying the move has improved her commuting experience by reducing delays.

During the visit, Xi also talked cordially with representatives of the residents of the Macau New Neighbourhood complex, which is the first comprehensive livelihood-related project for people from Macao living in Hengqin. The project integrates housing, education, health-care and community services.

In his talks with young entrepreneurs who shared their experiences of coming from Macao to Hengqin to settle and start businesses, Xi said their stories of innovation and entrepreneurship showcase that Macao has a remarkable group of young people who are ambitious, committed and willing to explore and innovate. The development and construction of Hengqin has provided young people with broad space and opportunities for entrepreneurship, and there is much to be done there, he said.

Liang Jinglin, assistant manager of the Park Operation Department at the Macao-Hengqin Youth Entrepreneurship Valley, said that Xi's inspection underscores the country's care and support for Hengqin's development, as well as the region's various policy advantages.

Liang, a Macao resident who chose to pursue a career in Hengqin, said the zone boasts a broad range of employment options as well as increased market opportunities due to its proximity to the mainland.

Also on Thursday, Xi talked with representatives involved in the planning, construction, management and services of the Guangdong-Macao In-Depth Cooperation Zone in Hengqin.

He said "Macao + Hengqin" is becoming a new model for enriching the practice of "one country, two systems", a new high ground for promoting the construction of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, and a new platform for advancing the country's high-level opening-up.

Xi called these representatives "pioneers and action takers" in the advancement of Hengqin, contributing to the development of the country and Macao.

Emily Huang Yingdi, operations director of Digifluidic, a Hengqin-based biotech company, said that Xi's visit will inspire more young people from Macao to venture to Hengqin to pursue entrepreneurship. She said she anticipates that Hengqin could bolster support for Macao residents regarding public transportation, accommodations and cost of living.