The university zone, which will be developed starting next year in Hengqin at a cost of least six billion patacas (HK$5.83 billion), will be 20 times bigger than the existing campus in Taipa and can house six to eight colleges.

Liu Jia, head of the new zone, said the land will be under Macau's jurisdiction for 40 years. "The Hengqin authority has laid the foundation for water and electricity supply as well as drainage," Liu said.

Situated near a business zone, the new campus will rise opposite Coloane Island. Dormitories, sports facilities, supermarkets and a clinic would also be built on the campus, scheduled to be completed within three years.

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Hengqin welcomes universities, including those in Hong Kong, to set up regional research and development on the island, Liu said. BONNIE CHEN