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Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu aims to secure a parliamentary majority and form a coalition government with the assistance of the Hou-Jaw ticket. Chu believes that voters will intelligently concentrate their votes at the last moment. The aversion to the Hou-Jaw ticket among competing candidates is relatively low at 13.6 percent, making it the second choice for many voters. The KMT is focused on obtaining over half of the parliamentary seats and establishing a coalition government. The party’s youngest group of legislative at-large candidates, averaging 47 years of age, reflects a youthful push in the KMT’s legislative presence. In the presidential race, the KMT is unwavering in its support for its nominated candidate Hou Yu-ih and vows to fight fiercely to unseat the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) with the wisdom of the electorate.

The Tourist Administration of the Ministry of Transport and Communications (MOTC) organized a two-day event at the Toronto Eaton Centre in Canada, showcasing Taiwan’s attractions. The event featured various activities, including VR experiences, calligraphy bookmark crafting, pinball games, indigenous beadwork, and oil-paper umbrella painting workshops. The Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Toronto reported a significant increase in Canadian visitors to Taiwan, with a 1366.17 percent rise compared to the previous year. However, the number of visitors has not yet returned to pre-COVID-19 levels. In an effort to boost tourism, Taiwan has waived visa requirements for Canadians, positioning itself as an ideal winter getaway. Taiwan’s picturesque mountains, coastlines, and diverse urban and small-town landscapes make it a perfect destination for leisurely exploration.

KMT vice presidential candidate Chao Shao-kang criticizes the DPP’s absolute control of Taiwan’s governance, blaming it for causing chaos in the nation. Chao highlights the DPP’s warnings that a KMT majority would undermine checks and balances, leaving Taiwan ＂hollowed out＂. He argues that the DPP’s eight years in power have resulted in a financial deficit, increased cross-strait tensions, and the loss of nine diplomatic allies. Chao also points to a 19-month decline in export markets, exacerbating wealth inequality and housing issues. He attributes these outcomes to the DPP’s dominance from the presidency to the legislature, arguing that local governments focus on infrastructure projects unrelated to Taiwan’s political influence.

A security incident at a university in Taoyuan City has raised concerns about campus safety measures. Following the attack on four students, it was discovered that surveillance cameras were absent in the school’s administrative building corridors. In response, the university administration plans to increase patrols, install additional surveillance cameras, and identify 14 potentially dangerous areas on campus. The school has also installed panic buttons in restrooms and emergency phones next to elevators to enhance emergency response measures. Students are advised to avoid roaming alone or leaving the campus late and to be aware of potential safety risks. The incident occurred when a man unlawfully entered the campus and assaulted a clerk before attacking four students. Wang, the assailant, was subdued by students and campus security personnel until police arrived and took him into custody.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih criticizes Democratic Progressive Party candidate Lai Ching-te for disregarding the concerns of industry and academia amid controversies surrounding the 108 curriculum. Hou accuses Lai of prioritizing electoral politics over addressing the weakening of basic subjects in schools and the pressure of academic advancement, which he believes will harm Taiwan’s industries. Hou expresses concern over the decline in academic performance of basic subjects among university students and highlights the dissatisfaction of high school teachers regarding the removal of classical Chinese literature from the curriculum. Hou pledges to reconvene the National Education Conference to address the issues arising from the 108 curriculum if elected and calls on Lai to engage with the controversy rather than avoiding it or exploiting generational divides for political gain.

DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has released a new set of LINE stickers titled ＂Cats and Dogs Love Taiwan＂ ahead of Taiwan’s upcoming elections. Collaborating with illustrator Stupid Sheep, Lai introduced this new set 10 months after their previous collaboration. The sticker pack includes illustrations of cats, dogs, and caricatures of Lai and his running mate Hsiao Bi-khim. Building on the popularity of the ＂cat and dog badge＂ illustrations, this release adds more design movements and patterns to the LINE platform. The cartoon versions of Lai and Hsiao feature iconic memes like ＂I want it all,＂ aiming to appeal to both feline and canine fans and bring laughter to their supporter base. Lai’s campaign office spokesperson, Kuo Ya-hui, hopes that these new stickers will encourage supporters to download and join the ＂Taiwan side,＂ regardless of their preference for cats or dogs.

Premier Chen Chien-jen criticizes political parties for spreading fake news in the wake of a political hoax orchestrated by agricultural blogger Lin Yu-hung. Lin initially claimed that his family received threats after exposing issues with imported eggs, but it was later revealed that he colluded with a former Kuomintang worker to stage the entire scandal. Premier Chen condemned the incident, stating that it caused public panic and market instability. He called for the truth to be revealed promptly and urged individuals and political parties to respect the law. The case is still under investigation by judicial authorities.

Taiwan is among the potential beneficiaries of Indonesia’s contemplation to offer visa-free entry for tourists from 20 major source countries, following the example set by Thailand. Indonesian Minister of Tourism and Creative Economy, Sandiaga Uno, disclosed in an interview that the government is discussing the launch of a visa exemption policy to attract more tourists and boost local economic development. Currently, travelers, including short-term tourists, need to secure a visa to visit Indonesia, including the option of Visa on Arrival (VOA) at designated entry points. Taiwanese passport holders can apply for VOA at 15 airports across Indonesia, such as Jakarta, Surabaya, Medan, and Bali, allowing them to stay up to 30 days with a one-time extension option. Given Taiwan’s place within the top 20 sources of foreign tourists to Indonesia, there is a significant chance that it will be included in the visa exemption program. This move could simplify travel for Taiwanese citizens and deepen tourism-based interactions between the two nations.

The spokesperson for Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s campaign office expressed regret over inaccurate and malicious media reports about the upcoming presidential debates. The spokesperson demanded corrections from outlets that claimed certain media were favored during the debates and alleged a coalition aiming to gang up on fellow candidates Hou Yu-ih and Ko Wen-je. It was emphasized that the decision for 11 media organizations to jointly host the debates is a longstanding practice resulting from two rounds of negotiations without interference from any campaign offices. The spokesperson also highlighted misinformation circulated by China Times, one of the debate co-hosts, despite its involvement in the meetings. The 2024 presidential election debates are scheduled to be held at Public Television Service (PTS) on December 30 at 2 p.m., with the vice presidential debates tentatively scheduled for January 1, 2024, also at 2 p.m. The 11 media entities collaboratively organizing the debates include Central News Agency (CNA), China Times, Liberty Times, United Daily News, SET News, Taiwan Television, Formosa Television, Chinese Television System (CTS), Mirror Media, TVBS News, and Public Television Service. PTS will produce and broadcast the debates, including comprehensive sign language services for the hearing impaired.

A 71-year-old man from Kaohsiung, Taiwan, accidentally rode his motorbike for 38 hours, covering 350 kilometers, after taking a wrong turn while returning home from visiting his daughter in Taitung. Physically exhausted, he sought help from a local shop in Sanxia, New Taipei City, where the storekeepers contacted the police. Reluctant to trouble his daughter, the man initially withheld her contact information, but eventually provided it after the officers communicated with him. Since his daughter couldn’t reach him quickly, she asked relatives in northern Taiwan to assist. The police took care of the man at the station until his relatives arrived to ensure his safe return home. This incident highlights the compassionate response from the authorities and the community to an elder’s misadventure.

Kaohsiung City is experiencing a rise in acute diarrhea cases, particularly in schools, due to the spread of Norovirus. During the 48th week of the year, the emergency room visit rate reached 4.81%, a significant increase from the previous year’s 2.91%. The city has reported 125 cluster cases of diarrhea, with schools accounting for 80% of the infection sites. The Kaohsiung City Department of Health is urging the public to practice regular handwashing and food safety measures. Norovirus is primarily transmitted through poor hygiene, close contact with infected individuals, and the consumption of contaminated food. With increased school activities, there is a higher risk of cross-infection. Standard alcohol-based hand sanitizers are ineffective against Norovirus, so diligent handwashing with soap and disinfecting surfaces with diluted bleach are recommended. Precautionary measures also include thorough washing and cooking of seafood, disinfecting areas after vomiting or diarrhea incidents, and using gloves and masks. It is advised to stay home when sick and return to work or school only 48 hours after symptoms have disappeared.

The Ministry of the Interior in Taiwan has announced that it will allocate NT＄10 million for the implementation of the Provisional Act Governing Religious Groups Registering Real Estate in the Name of a Natural Person. This legislation aims to address issues surrounding properties acquired by religious groups but registered under individual names. Minister Lin Yu-chang made the announcement during a visit to Bali Zihuang Tianyi Zhenqing temple, emphasizing the outreach to temples across Taiwan to communicate the details of the Act. In addition, the Ministry plans to increase government subsidies for temple activities, committing an additional NT＄15 million to support these communities, a significant increase from the previous annual subsidy of NT＄420,000. The Department of Religious and Ceremonial Affairs, established last year, will administer these initiatives, with the new budget allocations facilitated through local governments to ensure a seamless implementation and the preservation of Taiwan’s religious landscape.

The U.S. House Armed Services Committee has agreed to include provisions in the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2024 (FY24 NDAA) to assist in the training of Taiwan’s armed forces. The bill, with a budget of ＵＳUS＄876.8 billion, requires the U.S. Department of Defense to develop a comprehensive training and advisory program for Taiwan’s military. The program will only proceed with the consent of the Secretary of State and after consultations with Taiwanese officials. The legislation aims to enhance Taiwan’s multilayered defense capabilities, including asymmetric defense strategies and interoperability with U.S. forces. It also promotes cybersecurity cooperation and the protection of military networks. The NDAA mandates biannual reporting on China’s military developments in Taiwan, Southeast Asia, and the South China Sea. Additionally, a classified report will evaluate the absorption of U.S.-provided military capabilities by Taiwan’s armed forces. After approval by Congress, President Joe Biden is expected to sign the bill into law, strengthening U.S.-Taiwan defense relations.

Chinese actress Gao Yuanyuan gracefully corrects an event attendee who mistakenly referred to her as ’Auntie Yuanyuan,’ prompting them to revise it to ’Sister Yuanyuan.’ The video of this playful exchange has gone viral, garnering attention and praise for Gao’s gracious response. Gao’s relationship to Taiwanese actor Mark Chao, made public in 2012, has been a steady fixture in the entertainment industry. Despite their high-profile status, the couple maintains a sweet and under-the-radar relationship. Online fans have also commented on Gao’s continued youthful and elegant charm in her life post-marriage.

China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman, Wang Wenbin, strongly opposes Italy’s decision to withdraw from China’s Belt and Road Initiative (OBOR), dismissing attempts to smear the global infrastructure project. Wang emphasizes that OBOR has expanded to over 150 countries since its establishment and asserts that it is the most popular international public product and the largest platform for international cooperation. He points to the 3rd Belt and Road Forum, which was attended by representatives from 151 countries and 41 international organizations, as evidence of the initiative’s global appeal and influence. Wang firmly rejects any negative portrayal of OBOR and emphasizes China’s preference for cooperation rather than forming divisive blocs.

Taiwanese actress Cheryl Yang discusses her role as a single mother in the mini-series ＂How Well You Love Me＂ (看看你有多愛我) in an interview with Marie Claire. Yang reflects on her own complex relationship with her mother and how it influenced her portrayal of a single mother in the series. Starting her career in the entertainment industry at 15, Yang’s dedication and sincerity have earned her acclaim in the drama industry. In the series, she plays an internet celebrity and a single mother of fraternal twin daughters. The role resonated with Yang, as she shares her personal journey with her own mother and the conflicts they faced. Through work experiences and maturity, Yang learned to appreciate her mother’s virtues and build a more harmonious relationship. She emphasizes the importance of communication and respect in finding mutual understanding. On set, Yang initially had concerns about the chemistry with her on-screen daughters, but was pleasantly surprised by their exceptional performances, creating a compelling family dynamic in the series.

Taiwanese internet celebrity Hsiao Wu, known for his popular YouTube channel with over a million followers, recently opened up about his discomfort with his English name ＂Jimmy＂ in an Instagram story. During a conversation with his English tutor, Wu shared his embarrassment when asked about his English name, stating that he finds it cool when others are called Jimmy. The influencer revealed that he recently hired an English tutor to improve his language skills and shared a screenshot of their chat, where the tutor asked about his English name. Wu expressed feeling ashamed when he confessed to being called ＂Jimmy.＂

Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je criticized his opponents for delaying the upcoming presidential debate, stating that there’s no need for it to be like the Roman Colosseum, but also no need for deceit. Ko expressed confidence that the TPP still had a chance to turn the tide in the election and suggested that current data indicated a situation ripe for an upset. He criticized his opponents’ debate strategy as one of delay and avoidance, aiming to strip the debate of any real conflict.

National Taiwan Normal University (NTNU) students are set to enjoy an unprecedented winter break lasting 56 days, from December 25 to February 18, the longest in the institution’s history. This extended vacation period aligns with the academic schedules of several countries, allowing international students to return home for Christmas. Other universities, such as National Taiwan University (NTU) and National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (Taiwan Tech), also begin their winter breaks on December 25. NTU’s break will last until February 6, while Taiwan Tech has added 10 extra days, ending on February 16. During this winter break, Taiwan High Speed Rail Corporation is offering discounted tickets to university students, with discounts of 50%, 75%, and 88% available from January 4 to January 10. Additionally, there are 28 train services providing tickets at 50% off. The upcoming 2024 presidential election in Taiwan, taking place on January 13, is also on students’ minds, as it coincides with their winter break, potentially facilitating greater voter participation among the youth demographic.

Former Legislative Yuan Speaker Wang Jin-pyng expresses his efforts to invite Foxconn founder Terry Gou to join the Kuomintang’s campaign for the upcoming election. Wang has been appointed as the chairman of KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih’s nationwide campaign. Wang believes in the strength of the Hou-Kang ticket and sees it as a promising combination that could bring about a political power shift. While Wang has not had recent contact with Gou, he assures that arrangements are in place and hints at potential strategic plans. As Hou advocates for the reinstatement of the Special Investigation Division, Wang emphasizes the importance of proper legal processes and the enforcement of the law without violations.

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.

Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je criticizes a return to the clash between the Kuomintang (KMT) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), arguing that it would result in a victory for the DPP. Ko’s comments were made during an agriculture policy press conference, as support for KMT candidates Hou Yu-ih and Jaw Shaw-kong grows in polls. Ko questions whether Taiwan truly desires a return to a polarized political axis and highlights that 60% of the population supports maintaining the status quo. He appeals to the youth demographic to consider moving away from the blue-green divide and towards a new political and cultural era.

Western Digital Corporation (WD) has announced that it will increase prices in response to the recent price hikes in the memory chip industry. Following Samsung’s 20% price increase, WD has informed its downstream channels and contract manufacturers that hard drive products will be subject to weekly price reviews, with adjustments expected to begin in the first half of next year. The company has projected that the cumulative increase in NAND Flash prices could reach up to 55%. These price increases align with the World Semiconductor Trade Statistics (WSTS) organization’s projection of a 44.8% revenue growth in the memory market for the coming year. Market research firm Gartner has estimated an even more significant surge, predicting a 66.3% increase in memory market revenue. While this suggests a strong demand for memory products, it also indicates rising costs for manufacturers and potentially higher prices for consumers in the technology sector.

Foreign investors have purchased a net 8,926 shares of Eva Air, making it the fourth most bought by foreigners in the session. The recovery in travel and business after the pandemic has improved operations in the aviation industry, with staff shortages at airports in northeast Asia finally relaxing. Demand for flights to China, Hong Kong, and Macao is gradually increasing, with booking rates for northeast Asian routes exceeding 90 percent. Eva Air plans to focus on routes in northeast Asia and to China, Hong Kong, and Macao as its operational priority next year, with an expected increase in weekly flights to a total of 538. The airline is also set to take delivery of two Boeing 787-10 aircraft, enhancing its fleet deployment flexibility.

A civilian helicopter employed by Taipower was involved in routine maintenance work cleaning insulators on a power tower in the Wugu District of New Taipei City. The helicopter was fully operational during the procedure. The New Taipei City Fire Department responded to a report of a helicopter collision with an electrical tower near the Guanyin Mountain Tunnel, but upon arrival, they found no smoke or debris. It was determined that the reported incident was a false alarm and the public was urged to avoid spreading rumors or misinformation. The fire department advised the public to provide detailed information, such as kilometer marks and directions on highways, to help first responders quickly locate potential emergency sites and prevent delays in rescue operations.