-
Taiwan doubles culture investment to boost Hualien visits
Discover how Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture is boosting Hualien’s arts scene with an additional NT$20 million investment in Culture Points, aiming to attract young people and revitalize the local industry.
2024/08/27 13:17
-
Taiwan sees surge in young investors amid rising costs
rising living costs in Taiwan are prompting young people and even children to focus on financial planning, with over 2 million under 30 and 270,000 under 12 opening accounts. Learn about Yuanta Securities’ efforts to simplify investing for minors.
2024/07/08 15:27
-
Taiwan to extend mental health subsidy
Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare is expanding its subsidized counseling program to combat rising suicide rates among young people. Learn about the program’s impact and future plans.
2024/07/05 17:30
-
Car sales in Taiwan see slight increase in June
Young people had difficulty choosing between buying a house and a car; during the traditional peak season of the car market in June, the total number of license plates increased slightly, a year-on-year decrease of 1.9%. The luxury brands hit a new high; Tesla won the first runner-up. Imported cars accounted for 51.7% of the market, and the Hotai in July fell slightly. Toyota / Lexus promotions should be able to stabilize market share.
2024/07/01 14:18
-
Taiwan, Japan parties discuss youth outreaching
Taiwan People’s Party Chairman Ko Wen-je met with Japan’s Liberal Democratic Party Youth Bureau Chief Suzuki Takako to discuss strategies for engaging youth. They emphasized the need for a youthful approach and the challenge of broadening the party’s appeal. The TPP aims for long-term growth and international collaborations, with Ko actively engaging with young people through university lectures. Suzuki praised the TPP’s initiatives and Ko’s campaign efforts.
2024/05/03 12:09
-
Advancing mental health care: Taiwan’s new policy directions
President-elect Lai Ching-te’s mental health proposals have gained recognition from the medical community in Taiwan. The Taiwan Health Movement Alliance praises Lai’s initiatives, such as the "Mental Health Plan for Young People" and "Mental Health Leave," emphasizing the importance of mental health support and early intervention. Experts recommend adopting treatment guidelines from Europe and America, focusing on psychological interventions over medication. They also suggest establishing child and adolescent psychiatry centers and promoting integrated treatment models. Lai’s advocacy for physical and mental health, along with stress management education, is seen as crucial for building a healthy Taiwan.
2024/04/01 18:25
-
Taiwan’s young adults face record-high mortgages
Young adults in Taiwan face record-high mortgages, with only 21% of young people in Taipei City owning homes. Rising property prices are attributed to labor and material shortages and increasing land prices. Homeownership among young people dropped to 32.2% in 2023, with Taipei and New Taipei having the lowest rates. Kaohsiung has the highest rate of young homeowners at 37.3%.
2024/03/28 16:13
-
Ma Foundation expresses wish to meet with Xi Jinping
Former Taiwanese President Ma Ying-jeou is set to visit mainland China again in April, leading a group of young people from the Ma Ying-jeou Foundation exchange program on a cultural and educational tour. The visit includes stops at Peking University in Beijing, Sun Yat-sen University, and a grand ceremony worshipping the Yellow Emperor. Plans for a meeting between Ma and Chinese leader Xi Jinping are subject to China’s arrangements.
2024/03/25 15:18
-
Taiwan’s youth Culture Points misused, legal actions loom
The Ministry of Culture in Taiwan has identified violations related to the use of Culture Points, distributed to individuals aged 16-22, for promoting youth engagement in the performing arts, exhibitions, and book consumption. Businesses, including beauty and nail salons, have been caught illegally accepting these points. The Ministry has warned these venues and legal action has not been ruled out, as fraudulently claiming benefits is considered a crime under Article 339 of the Criminal Code, carrying a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment. Additionally, some young people have been selling their Culture Points on social platforms and auction sites, potentially exposing their personal data. To address this issue, the Ministry has performed a database comparison and locked emails of accounts with large amounts of Culture Points, urging citizens to reconfirm their identities to reclaim usage rights.
2024/01/25 17:06
-
Taiwan’s youth mental health initiative reaches 17,000
Taiwan’s Ministry of Health and Welfare (MOHW) has successfully implemented a mental health support program for young people, serving 17,000 individuals by the end of 2023. The program offers three free counseling sessions for individuals aged 15 to 30, with 33% of users assessed as high-risk and referred for medical treatment. The majority of users are between the ages of 24 and 30, comprising 66% of the total users. The program has received positive feedback, with a satisfaction rate of 96% and 95% of participants finding the counseling services beneficial. The initiative has utilized approximately 50% of its budget and will continue to provide counseling even after its completion. Currently, 406 partner institutions nationwide contribute mental health services to the program. MOHW aims to combat the stigma surrounding mental health counseling and encourages young people to actively seek help. The ministry plans to further accumulate psychological medical resources to serve the needs of young people. The program was launched on August 1, 2022, through collaboration between seven leading professional medical and psychological associations.
2024/01/18 16:10
-
Chiang Wan-an calls for action to regain trust in KMT
Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an emphasizes the need for the Kuomintang (KMT) to gain public recognition through tangible accomplishments. Chiang believes that political achievements are crucial in obtaining public endorsement and is willing to provide suggestions to build trust among young people in the KMT. Regarding the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s withdrawal from the New Tide faction, Chiang clarifies that it is an internal matter for the DPP. He expresses hope that the future central government will prioritize national affairs over politics.
2024/01/18 16:07
-
DPP grapples with TikTok dilemma: To ban or not to ban
The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) Secretary-General Hsu Li-ming expressed concern over the use of TikTok, stating that it is a difficult issue that the party cannot ban or use. He suggested that the party should consider strengthening its presence on alternative new media platforms like YouTube and Instagram for better public engagement. These comments were made during the party’s first central meeting after the recent presidential and legislative elections. Another party member, Hsu Shu-hua, acknowledged the DPP’s lack of engagement with young people and technology, including popular trends on TikTok, but argued against a ban, stating that it would be ineffective and that the issue should be confronted directly. Party member Wang Ting-yu recommended treating TikTok as a matter of national security and studying how Western countries have dealt with the platform. Legislator Hsu Chih-chieh echoed this sentiment, pointing out that democratic nations like the U.S. and the UK have imposed certain restrictions on TikTok. He urged Taiwan to take more precautions and learn from the policies of other democratic countries to safeguard itself against informational warfare. Secretary-General Hsu Li-ming emphasized the importance of dialogue and cooperation with civil society groups and the effective use of online platforms like Instagram, short videos, and TikTok, urging these actions to be taken now and not just during elections.
2024/01/18 10:21
-
Ko Wen-je calls on Taiwan’s youth to shape nation’s future
Taipei (TVBS News) — Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je urges young voters to consider their role in shaping the country’s future, stating that the nation is ultimately theirs to inherit and it is their responsibility to "save their country." Ko’s comments come after at-large legislative nominee Huang Kuo-chang emphasized that a youth voter turnout of 85% could pave the way for Ko’s victory in the presidential race. Huang has been actively encouraging young people to vote, asserting that reaching the aforementioned youth voter turnout could potentially break the longstanding political divide between Taiwan’s Kuomintang (KMT) and Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) parties. When questioned about how to realistically achieve this 85% youth voter participation rate, Ko calls on young people to reflect on their responsibilities towards their country and emphasizes that they should be at the forefront of saving their nation. These statements highlight the critical role of young voters in potentially reshaping Taiwan’s future political landscape as the presidential race unfolds.
2024/01/03 17:04
-
China allegedly pressures Mayday before Taiwan vote
Chinese authorities are allegedly pressuring Taiwanese rock band Mayday to make pro-China statements ahead of Taiwan’s major election in January 2024, according to foreign media reports. China’s National Radio and Television Administration has reportedly asked Mayday to endorse Beijing’s claim that "Taiwan is part of China" and align with China’s media propaganda on Taiwan. The aim is believed to be influencing the votes of young people in Taiwan. Mayday’s management company, B’in Music, has not responded to inquiries, and higher authorities from the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China and the Taiwan Affairs Office of the State Council have also not commented on the matter.
2023/12/28 16:48
-
Hou Yu-ih highlights public childcare achievements
Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih highlights his achievements in public childcare in New Taipei City, having established 121 facilities, surpassing other major cities in Taiwan combined. Hou criticizes his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) opponent, Lai Ching-te, for lacking concrete efforts in providing care for children up to the age of 22. Hou also questions Lai’s commitment to waiving high-school fees and granting university subsidies, suggesting irresponsibility towards young people. Additionally, Hou points out Lai’s failure to plan social housing during his tenure as mayor of Tainan, while New Taipei City completed 11,000 units under his leadership.
2023/12/26 19:51
-
TPP’s Ko advocates for extended employment age
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je has proposed the ’Strong Generation’ program, which aims to encourage able-bodied individuals to remain employed and dispel rumors about preventing seniors from retiring. During the Central Election Committee Policy Presentation, Ko elaborated on his initiative, emphasizing the need for reform in the current employment and worker insurance system, which only extends to age 65. He advocates for the elimination of negative stereotypes against the elderly and plans to establish a national research center focused on creating an industrial chain tailored to the needs of the elderly population. Ko’s proposals address Taiwan’s aging population and low birth rate, aiming to shift societal perceptions and create a conducive environment for young people to have children while ensuring seniors can live a more vibrant ’Strong Generation’ life.
2023/12/26 17:00
-
KMT VP Jaw vows to expand Taiwan’s diplomacy
KMT vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong pledges to expand Taiwan’s diplomatic relations if the KMT wins the upcoming elections. He criticizes the ruling DPP for losing nine diplomatic allies during their eight-year tenure. Jaw’s remarks were made during a Constitution Day event organized by the KMT’s Department of International Affairs, attended by KMT Chairman Eric Chu and KMT Vice Chairman Andrew Hsia. Chu defends Hsia, stating that he is a valuable asset to the party and urges media outlets to avoid spreading misinformation. Hsia expresses regret that young people overlook the significance of Dec. 25 as Constitution Day in Taiwan and promises to restore the value of the Republic of China if the KMT wins the elections next year.
2023/12/26 10:11
-
Hou Yu-ih pledges brighter future for Taiwan’s youth
KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih expresses commitment to a brighter future for youth, highlighting his pragmatic and steady approach. Despite lower support among young voters compared to TPP candidate Ko Wen-je, Hou aims to attract their support through initiatives like a housing subsidy and tax deductions. He emphasizes the importance of engaging with young people and understanding their perspectives for the future.
2023/12/20 21:15
-
Surveillance video catches men breaking into Taichung bakery
Surveillance footage from Taichung shows five men breaking into a bakery at night, alarming workers and prompting the owner to consider legal action. The men trespassed to take photos with the bakery’s unique ornament.
2023/12/18 19:38
-
Experts share election insights at Taiwan Goes to the Polls
In the lead-up to Taiwan’s election, experts at the "Taiwan Goes to the Polls" event analyze the tightening race and the crucial role of young voters. The election, drawing global interest, is seen as a pivotal moment for Taiwan’s future direction.
2023/12/14 17:12
-
NTU students vote on ’108 Curriculum,’ clash over classics
The recent debate over the removal of classical Chinese literature from Taiwan’s Ministry of Education’s 108 Curriculum has sparked diverse opinions among students at National Taiwan University (NTU). In a student-led poll on Dcard, 38% of participants supported a teacher’s criticism of the curriculum reform, arguing that classical literature is an essential part of Mandarin education. On the other hand, 24% of students opposed the importance of classical texts, viewing them as pedantic Confucian brainwashing. Interestingly, 39% of students abstained from taking a strong stance, humorously identifying themselves as "engineering majors too busy with homework to have an opinion." Student comments highlighted the complexity of the issue, with some emphasizing the importance of classical Chinese in enhancing writing skills and its philosophical value, while others expressed concerns about a potential lack of cultural depth in young people if literary content is reduced.
2023/12/11 20:03
-
Hou Yu-ih announces new housing policy for young buyers
Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih has unveiled a new housing policy aimed at helping young people in Taiwan purchase their first homes. The initiative is targeted at individuals under 40 years old who have never owned property and face income restrictions. Under the plan, qualified buyers can receive a loan of up to NT$15 million with no down payment required. They will also enjoy a 0.5% subsidy on their mortgage interest rates, with public banks cutting the rates in half after five years. The policy will last for five years and includes restrictions on reselling the purchased properties for a maximum of ten years to address housing market speculation concerns. Hou criticized the current New Residential Loans Policy for its lack of age and income restrictions, allowing affluent individuals to benefit and non-first-time buyers to take advantage of policy perks. The plan aims to ensure fairness and accessibility for those in genuine need of support in purchasing their first homes.
2023/12/08 17:48
-
Lai warns of job loss as Chinese students enter Taiwan
DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te criticizes KMT rival Hou Yu-ih for advocating the employment of Chinese students in Taiwan, claiming it would take away job opportunities from Taiwanese youths. Lai expresses concerns about the impact of the Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement (CSSTA) with China, stating that it allows Chinese nationals to compete with local vendors in the service industry. The crowd fears that increased competition from Chinese workers could harm their businesses and livelihoods. Lai emphasizes President Tsai Ing-wen’s efforts to reduce reliance on the Chinese market and highlights China’s high youth unemployment rate, cautioning that opening borders to students from China could worsen job scarcity for young people in Taiwan.
2023/12/07 19:49
-
KMT’s Chu urges unity for Taiwan’s future
KMT Chairman Eric Chu urges veteran legislators to support KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih in the upcoming elections to fight for Taiwan’s future. Chu emphasizes the party’s efforts in nominating young candidates, particularly highlighting Chan Wan-chen’s run for the legislative seat in Chiayi County’s first district. Despite a late start in her campaign, Chan is doubling down on efforts to meet and seek support from constituents. Chu expresses confidence in Chan due to her deep-rooted service in Chiayi and believes that the people of Chiayi will support her.
2023/12/07 17:50
-
DPP’s Hsiao counters Ko’s critique on education subsidies
DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim refutes criticisms made by TPP candidate Ko Wen-je regarding the government’s handling of challenges faced by youths. Hsiao emphasizes the DPP’s efforts in tackling issues such as educational expenses, employment, and housing costs. She argues that these problems are not unique to Taiwan and require multifaceted solutions. Hsiao highlights that the current subsidy programs are a result of Taiwan’s robust national fiscal system and the outstanding international performance of domestic industries. She further asserts the need to distribute wealth effectively through policy measures and affirms the government’s commitment to alleviating financial pressures on young people.
2023/12/05 21:57