Having lived in Malaysia and Singapore for 30 years, for Yii, moving to Pingtan with her husband, a Pingtan local, was the right decision.

"I have always felt lucky because I can do the things that I love. Over the past four years in Pingtan, I have learned, seen and experienced many things," says Yii, adding that she loves the strong bond between families and neighborhoods in the county.

"My mother-in-law takes good care of me, making me feel like I'm her daughter. Also, I feel warmly welcomed in the neighborhood," Yii says.

In August 2016, the State Council officially approved a plan to build Pingtan into an international tourism destination. Over the past six years, tourism on the island has boomed, and many foreigners were lured to travel and settle in Pingtan.

"Pingtan has stepped up to make its voice heard. Now, we have plenty of exciting international events here, like the annual international kitesurfing competition and international cycling competition," Yii notes.

"This island has so much potential, and I believe many more great things are to come," she adds.