Authorities in Xiamen, Fujian province are advocating a sustainable development model to guarantee a better quality of life for residents by transforming the local economy, improving management systems and adopting environmentally friendly policies.

Known as "Beautiful Xiamen", the strategic plan was proposed last September and has already shown its appeal to foreign capital.

Historic port city, modern tourist delight

One of the most livable cities nationwide, Xiamen in the southeastern coast of China's Fujian province is revitalizing itself into a top destination offering visitors from home and abroad a slow pace of life, shining subtropical sun, fresh seafood and fashionable malls.

"The city mixes the local Minnan traditions with modern elements, and integrates its natural resources and culture into urban development," said Huang Guobin, head of Xiamen's tourism bureau.

Surrounded by foothills, plateaus, rivers and blue sea, the 1,573-square-kilometer city on the west of the Taiwan Strait was one of China's earliest trading ports. It was forced open to international commerce in 1842.

Communities for life and leisure

Lu Zhaofang never thought the shabby residential area of Siming district in Xiamen could one day become his new home for life and leisure.

But Jiuzhuxiang, one of the oldest residential areas in Zhenhai community, has undergone great changes and been renamed the "Golden Dream Residence".

"Those changes are not only about house renovation or infrastructure, but also remarkable details made in our living environment," said the 75-year-old, who has lived in the area for more than 25 years.

Firms friendly to environment, employees and consumers

Companies in Xiamen now take energy conservation and sustainability as key strategies in their development.

Developed by Philippines-based SM Group, one of the leading shopping malls in the city has maintained a low-carbon concept since it opened in 2001.

"We are not only looking for the present customers, but also future ones," said Ronald Allan Brosas, assistant vice-president of SM China.