Macau gaming regulator chief appointed secretary for economy and finance
Ng Wai Han’s appointment follows Tai Kin Ip’s unexpected resignation.
Macau.- Ng Wai Han, director of Macau’s Gaming Inspection and Coordination Bureau (DICJ), has been appointed as the city’s new secretary for economy and finance. The appointment was approved by China’s State Council following a nomination by Sam Hou Fai chief executive of Macau, and was formalised on June 15. Ng was sworn into office on Monday, replacing Tai Kin Ip, who stepped down unexpectedly in April, citing personal reasons.
As secretary for economy and finance, Ng will oversee a broad portfolio that includes economic policy, financial services, labour affairs and the gaming sector, placing her at the centre of Macau’s efforts to balance casino-led growth with economic diversification.
Ng became the first woman to lead the DICJ when she was appointed director of Macau’s gaming regulator in May 2025. Before joining the gaming authority, she served as director of the Public Administration and Civil Service Bureau and previously held senior positions within the Labour Affairs Bureau.
Her promotion comes little more than a month after Macau renewed her appointment as DICJ director for an additional one-year term, citing her professional competence and public service record. The government has not yet announced who will succeed her at the gaming regulator.
The appointment follows a period of transition within Macau’s economic leadership. Tai Kin Ip resigned from the role in April. Weeks later, he was appointed to the board of Macau International Airport Company.
