TAIPEI (TVBS News) — Cultural Minister Li Yuan (李遠) warned on Thursday (Dec. 26) that the "Act Governing the Allocation of Government Revenues and Expenditures" (財政劃分收支法) would impact the Ministry of Culture's (MOC, 文化部) budget by approximately NT$7.33 billion. This reduction could affect cultural equity efforts across Taiwan the minister said.
Li emphasized that the ministry's budget accounts for less than 1% of the national budget, underscoring the cultural sector's importance. Li stated that Taiwan cannot be without its films and publications, or it would be a nation without a soul. Li cited the example of lowering the age for Culture Points (文化幣) distribution to 13 from 15 to foster cultural engagement among teenagers.
Most of the ministry's funds support arts and cultural workers, including those in film, television, comics, and literary performances. According to Li, government aid is crucial for creative endeavors. Since taking office six months ago, Li has overseen numerous events featuring Taiwan as the theme country, such as the Olympiade Culturelle, and has invested in diverse cultural content.
Li stressed the ministry's vital role in promoting cultural equity, with significant funds allocated to rural cultural experiences and traditional culture preservation. He warned that budget cuts would substantially impact these initiatives.
