MADE 結果共383筆

Taipei Ministry of Labor warns employers to be vigilant for sexual harassment during year-end parties. Employers must prevent workplace harassment and take immediate remedial action. The Gender Equality in Employment Act applies if an employee experiences harassment at a gathering hosted by the employer. Employers are responsible for preventing harassment, even if no formal complaint is made. Reminding staff about professional boundaries is advised.

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) has begun distributing COVID-19 rapid test kits to travelers at Taoyuan International Airport in Taipei. The kits are available in the reception areas and exit halls of both terminals, and each traveler is eligible to receive one kit regardless of age. The decision was made in response to the increasing rates of respiratory diseases worldwide. The CDC Deputy Director-General, Philip Lo, stated that the peak of the COVID-19 surge in Taiwan is expected to be in mid-to-late January, with a possible rise after the Lunar New Year holidays. Travelers have expressed appreciation for the policy, with many noting how thoughtful and helpful the Taiwanese government is. The distribution of test kits may continue after the Lunar New Year holidays, depending on the international and domestic pandemic conditions.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump criticizes President Joe Biden’s soft response to Chinese President Xi Jinping’s threats against Taiwan. Trump questions Biden’s decision to vacation during this tense period. Xi’s New Year’s message emphasized the inevitability of unifying with Taiwan, drawing international attention. Trump’s team accuses Biden of insufficient response while vacationing in St. Croix. Despite the U.S.’s ＂strategic ambiguity＂ on defending Taiwan, Biden has made clear statements indicating support for Taiwan if China invades.

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) plans to repurpose an old railway dormitory in Taipei’s central area, marking its first land development project. The TRA intends to construct a hotel and residential tower on the 1.2-hectare site, with development expected to begin in the third quarter of 2024. The estimated development scale is NT$6.23 billion, with residential tower prices potentially exceeding NT$2 million per ping. The TRA is considering different development methods, weighing the benefits and drawbacks of lengthy renovation processes for greater volume rewards versus faster construction with commercial developers but less building area. The final decision on the development method will be made by the TRA’s board of directors, while the allocation of renovations or joint construction may be outsourced or managed under a lease agreement.

The story is about Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate, declaring that Taiwan is aligning with global democratic allies and will not follow the old path of the Kuomintang (KMT). Lai made this statement during a presidential candidate debate when questioned about Taiwan’s ability to remain neutral amid U.S.-China competition. He emphasized President Tsai’s diplomatic strategy and his own role in garnering international support for Taiwan. Lai also responded to criticism from KMT’s presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, regarding his assistance during the pandemic. Lai argued that Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je lacks real achievements compared to President Tsai’s performance.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has stated that Beijing is working to isolate Taiwan globally in response to criticisms made by Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih regarding Taiwan’s stagnant free trade agreements (FTA). During a presidential policy presentation, Hou criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for its unsatisfactory economic performance and the lack of progress in bilateral and multilateral trade agreements. MOFA emphasized Taiwan’s commitment to global economic integration and bilateral economic cooperation, but highlighted the interference from China. MOFA believes that Taiwan’s ability to participate effectively in economic integration depends on its strength and global connections, especially as countries like the U.S. and European nations reassess their economic risks with China. MOFA urges all Taiwanese, regardless of political affiliation, to unite and enhance cooperation with like-minded nations in the face of external challenges.

Taiwan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has expressed concern over comments made by Ko Wen-je, Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate, stating that they could potentially harm Taiwan’s diplomatic relationships and lead to misunderstandings. MOFA spokesperson Liu Yung-chien emphasized that there is no conflict between solidifying relations with allied countries and developing substantial relationships with non-allied nations. The foreign ministry’s approach is to contribute to both areas simultaneously, without prioritizing based on alliance status. Liu highlighted the vital support received from allies over the years, which has helped Taiwan participate in international organizations and advance its causes. He expressed gratitude for the moral courage and vocal support shown by these allies, and stated that any possible misunderstanding sparked by Ko’s remarks is not something the people of Taiwan wish to see. In a podcast interview, Ko remarked that the number of diplomatic allies had been misperceived, suggesting that Taiwan would still fare well even if the number went down to zero. Ko emphasized the importance of substantial relationships, citing Taiwan’s positive relationships with Japan and the U.S., despite the absence of formal diplomatic ties.

Taiwan’s Minister of Transportation and Communications, Wang Kwo-tsai, announced that worker rights and disputes in Taiwan Railway will be handled by a board of directors once it becomes a company on Jan. 1, 2024. This marks a departure from the current practice where the Minister has jurisdiction over such matters. The transition will be commemorated with a plaque unveiling ceremony at Taipei Station, signifying Taiwan Railway’s separation from the administrative agency Taiwan Railways Administration. Wang expressed optimism for a fresh start, including the resolution of debt, enhanced safety protocols, and more flexible systems. In response to concerns raised by the Taiwan Railway Labor Union regarding employee vacation rights and driver treatment, Wang stated that decisions will be made by Taiwan Railway as a company. Wang also addressed worries about a potential retirement wave among senior maintenance staff, emphasizing that retirement is a normal occurrence in all workplaces and that the inclusion of younger employees could lead to improved performance.

Yunlin County Commissioner Chang Li-shan denies allegations of political corruption made by DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te. Lai criticized the KMT for its connections with the Chang family, accusing the party of having ties to illicit ＂dark money.＂ Lai also mentioned other influential families within the KMT, including the ＂Lo＂s in Xindian District, Taipei, the ＂Yen＂s in Taichung, and the ＂Fu＂s in Hualien. The DPP previously exposed allegations against Hualien County commissioner Fu Kun-chi and his wife Hsu Chen-wei, claiming that public works projects were awarded to contractors involved with their mansion. Similar controversies surrounded KMT legislator Lo Ming-tsai and the Yen family in Taichung.

The National Federation of Education Unions (NEU) has called on Taiwan’s Ministry of Education (MOE) to take full responsibility for incidents like the recent student stabbing in New Taipei City. The NEU insists on changes to improve the current situation and prevent students from bringing prohibited items to school. The NEU believes that amendments made by the MOE have unfairly disempowered teachers, as many schools struggle to address students who bring banned items due to fear of backlash or being accused of bullying. NEU President Lin Shuo-chieh pointed out that teachers are hesitant to correct and punish behavior out of fear of being accused of ＂targeting＂ students or being reported for bullying. In 2022, the MOE amended regulations on the management of dangerous items carried by students. According to Article 28, unless explicitly stated by law or sufficient evidence suggests the student is involved in criminal activity or carries banned items, their bodies and belongings are not to be searched. Article 29 states that for high school inspections, two or more representatives of parents, student council members, or teachers must be present to examine students’ belongings or spaces. Lin claimed that the MOE’s rules are difficult for grassroots teachers to implement and can easily be twisted into accusations of bullying. He urged the MOE and local education departments to redefine regulations for handling protected students in order to prevent further deterioration of campus safety and safeguard the rights of other students.

The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Chen Binhua, emphasized the importance of peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait during a press conference. Chen suggested that if Taiwan adhered to the 1992 Consensus and opposed independence, cross-strait relations could return to a peaceful track. He called for both sides of the Strait to work together to uphold peace and stability for cross-strait prosperity. Chen’s statement aligns with recent remarks by Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate, Hou Yu-ih, who pledged to improve cross-strait relations through discussions and collaborations. Chen also criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for promoting Taiwan’s independence, refusing to acknowledge the 1992 Consensus, and colluding with foreign forces. He argued that these actions have caused tension and made Taiwan a source of instability in the region.

A junior high school student in New Taipei City has tragically died after being stabbed by another student. The victim suffered five knife wounds to his neck and lungs, despite receiving emergency treatment at the hospital. The incident occurred after a female student, who felt rebuked by the victim, recruited a male student to retaliate. The victim was stabbed twice in the lungs and neck, resulting in significant blood loss. Speculation of his death was confirmed by the Education Department. Following this incident, the department has pledged to strengthen measures to ensure student safety, including dispatching counselors and social workers for follow-up guidance and collaboration with police agencies. The Education Department is also providing support to the victim’s family through legal consultation and coordination with relevant departments. Additionally, efforts will be made to enhance teachers’ campus security capabilities.

Taiwan’s R.O.C. Naval Fleet Command continues its search for three missing servicemen who fell overboard from the Hai Hu Submarine on December 21. Despite the 72-hour rescue window passing, the Navy has ordered an additional three-day search. The families of the missing servicemen will be transported to the accident spot on December 27. The wife of one of the missing crew members has made an emotional plea for assistance in the search. Families have suggested moving the search south based on sea current directions. President Tsai Ing-wen visited the recovered crew and comforted the families, vowing to continue the search. The search and rescue effort involves approximately 900 personnel, 80 aircraft, 76 ships, and 319 vehicles, covering an operational area from south of Kaohsiung Port to Hengchun and along the coast of Xiaoliuqiu.

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is facing concerns over potential fare hikes as it transitions to a state-owned enterprise on its 137th anniversary. The TRA has not made any fare adjustments in the past 28 years, leading to speculation about its next move. While fare reviews are mandated every two years, public sentiment has prevented changes since 1995. Experts argue that fare scales should reflect the true cost. Hochen Tan, the former Minister of Transportation and Communications, supports the TRA’s corporatization and calls for an overhaul of its financial structure and gradual fare adjustments. Tu Wei, the current TRA Director-General and future chairman of the new corporation, mentioned plans to propose a fare adjustment scheme in Q1 2024. However, a subsequent press statement clarified that these were Tu’s preliminary thoughts, leaving the question of fare adjustments unanswered for now.

The Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te criticizes Kuomintang (KMT) candidate Hou Yu-ih for spreading disinformation about social housing developments. Lai responds to accusations made during the second Central Election Committee (CEC) policy presentation by stating that his administration had plans for over 200 social housing units, currently under construction in Tainan. Lai also highlights his establishment of the National Housing and Urban Regeneration Center (HURC) during his time as Premier, which has aided in social housing development. He credits President Tsai Ing-wen for surpassing local governments in the construction of social housing, thanks to the HURC’s establishment.

The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) has announced that it will now accept credit card payments for on-board ticket upgrades, push-cart sales, and station bento counter services. Passengers can also use their Easycard or iPASS to purchase items from the pushcart and high-speed rail bento boxes. However, THSR advises that Easycard and iPASS are only suitable for small payments, and on-board ticket upgrades should be paid for with a credit card or cash. Furthermore, THSR will be introducing a new hot beverage called ＂Taiwan Sugar Highland Small Farmer Coffee＂ on January 1, 2024. This coffee, made with beans from the Guatemala Antigua region, will be available from the first to the seventh day of each month, while illy coffee will be served on other days. THSR also cautions that unstable internet connections on board may cause credit card transactions to fail and asks for passengers’ understanding.

Foreign investors are showing renewed interest in Asian stocks, particularly in Taiwan, according to a report released on December 25. In the week of December 18 to 22, foreign funds flowed back into Asian stocks, with the Taiwan Stock Exchange attracting NT＄643 million. South Korea also saw an influx of NT＄602 million. South Korean stocks performed the best, increasing by 1.4%, followed closely by Thailand with a 1.01% increase. Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam also experienced positive growth. However, Taiwan’s stocks unexpectedly fell by 0.44%, despite being favored by foreign investors. India’s stock market also dropped by 0.53% for the week. In terms of overall performance in 2023, Taiwan’s stocks related to the AI supply chain surged 24.47%, surpassing the gains made by India (16.87%) and South Korea (16.24%). Looking ahead, PGIM noted that Taiwan’s industry has already hit bottom, with November’s export orders totaling US＄50.63 billion, driven by emerging technologies such as high-performance computing and artificial intelligence.

A female soldier from the 6th Army Corps of the Guandu Area Command in Taipei has become an online sensation after photos of her smiling and attractive appearance were posted on the ’Beauty’ section of the PTT site. The post, shared on Dec. 7, has received numerous responses, with social media users praising her beauty and friendly demeanor. Some have even suggested that she could be the face of military recruitment ads. Comparisons to Japanese actress Chie Tanaka have also been made. Despite the traditionally masculine image of the military, more women have been serving in the Taiwanese armed forces in recent years, reflecting societal progress. The attention this female soldier has received highlights the increasing trend of women in the military.

During a campaign event in New Taipei City, Kuomintang (KMT) vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong mistakenly referred to the election day on Jan. 13 as ’Jan. 15.’ He quickly corrected himself, stating that they would be a president-elect on Jan. 15 next year, which received enthusiastic applause from supporters. This is not the first verbal gaffe from Jaw, as he has made other slips of the tongue recently. He called out the rival Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate Lai Ching-te instead of his own party’s presidential hopeful Hou Yu-ih during a policy presentation by the Central Election Committee (CEC). Furthermore, he referred to former KMT chairman Johnny Chiang as a ’terrorist of peace for Taiwan’ instead of DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te during a campaign event in Taichung. Jaw also criticized the DPP’s governance record over the last eight years, arguing that their belief in a change of personnel and party now resonated with the DPP itself.

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.

Starting Jan. 1, 2024, taxis from the Taipei Songshan Airport will charge a $50 stay service fee, aligning with fees at Taoyuan and Kaohsiung airports. This decision, made following evaluations by the taxi fare review committees of Taipei and New Taipei cities, aims to address rigorous competition and rising operational costs in the industry. Passengers traveling through the airport, also known as Taipei International Airport, should take note of the new transportation cost changes, especially during peak travel periods such as New Year’s Day, the Lunar New Year, and the 228 holidays. The airport authorities have urged scheduled taxi operators to provide quality service and inform passengers about the fee change through verbal explanations and in-vehicle signs. Additionally, the airport offers free parking for the first 30 minutes, providing some relief for those being dropped off by family members.

The Yongxin Police Station in Tainan has gained online attention for constructing a ＂Surveillance Camera Christmas Tree＂ using nearly 100 discarded cameras. Deputy Chief Chang Shuo-feng and his colleagues assembled the unique tree in their spare time, using primarily wood and topping it with intersection surveillance cameras to mimic tree branches. The tree serves as a visual statement to discourage potential wrongdoers and car thieves, reflecting the police department’s relentless efforts to detect and counteract criminal activity. Additionally, the Christmas star at the top of the tree is made from a figurine of the police station’s Teddy Bear mascot and a booklet to help citizens recognize scams.

Taipei mayoral candidate Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) for their lack of action despite claiming self-reflection during a morning canvassing walk. Ko’s comments were in response to remarks made by DPP vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim during a Central Election Committee (CEC) policy presentation. Hsiao had acknowledged that some DPP members had made errors and forgotten their original intentions, which the DPP government must bear. Ko clarified that while Hsiao suggested that the DPP is already implementing his policies, the crucial difference is that the DPP talks without acting, whereas the TPP takes action. Ko also evaluated his running mate Cynthia Wu’s performance, deeming her steady, and emphasized that the TPP is committed to serious policy discussions rather than treating presentations as mere call-in shows to fill time.

Taiwanese singer Jay Chou surprised fans with the release of his new song, ＂Christmas Star,＂ during the holiday season. Chou revealed details about the song, including its three-character title and the inclusion of firewood crackling sounds, during a livestream. The music video was shot in a European town setting, featuring scenes inside a gingerbread-like house decorated for Christmas. Chou collaborated with Gary Yang on the song, who not only provided vocals but also appeared in the music video. ＂Christmas Star＂ is a unique holiday-themed song in Chou’s extensive repertoire. The song was originally scheduled to be released on Friday Taiwan time but was made available earlier for Taiwanese fans on December 21.

The Hsinchu City Government has confirmed that a farmland owned by Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate Ko Wen-je in Hsinchu has been rented out as a parking lot for tour buses. The government has given a 30-day deadline for improvements to be made. Ko has stated that he has contacted other landlords and businesses for car relocation and hopes the land can be restored to its original condition. An inspection has revealed that the farmland is being partially used for non-agricultural purposes. The authorities are demanding correction and restoration for agricultural use within 30 days, with potential fines ranging from NT$60,000 to NT$300,000 if not complied with. The Hsinchu City Government is also investigating whether income tax has been paid on the rent collected from the land.