TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA, 數發部) confirmed on Monday (Jan. 6) that it plans to enhance Taiwan's cable resilience by incentivizing telecom operators to build more cables. After receiving a notification from Chunghwa Telecom Company (中華電信) last Friday at 9 a.m. about a severed submarine cable near northern Taiwan, MODA immediately went into action to ensure services remained stable.
Officials emphasized the need for diverse backup communication systems to mitigate the impact of cable disruptions. The ministry secured budget support for Chunghwa Telecom to construct new international cable landing stations and backup facilities. Chunghwa Telecom identified the damaged cable as part of the Trans-Pacific Express Cable System. The company immediately requested a foreign cable repair ship to fix the issue. If weather conditions permit, they expect repairs to conclude by the end of January.
The National Communications Commission (NCC) assured the public that backup mechanisms are in place to prevent communication disruptions. Authorities suspect the damage resulted from the Cameroon-registered freighter "Shunxin39." The Coast Guard Administration (CGA, 海巡署) has asked the ship to return to the waters outside Keelung Port for investigation.
MODA continues to assess satellite resources, ensuring backup for critical communication circuits in case of cable or microwave failures. Chunghwa Telecom Chairman Chien Chih-cheng (簡志誠) stated the company will enhance backup systems through microwave and satellite development. The Ministry of Digital Affairs will collaborate with law enforcement to ensure the safety and stability of international cables.
