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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.

Premier Chen Chien-jen discusses the pricing process and confidentiality agreements surrounding Medigen vaccines, stating that negotiations with the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) are ongoing. As a publicly listed company, any decisions about publicizing the government contract require shareholders’ approval. Chen emphasizes the government’s belief in vaccination as the best measure against the pandemic. Medigen had positive results from phase one trials and clinical experiments, leading to phase two development. The World Health Organization (WHO) conducted unity trials with four other countries after being unable to proceed with phase three trials due to Taiwan’s low COVID-19 case statistics. Chen disputes rumors about a 30-year embargo on clinical results, calling it fake news and clarifying that all official documents have a preservation period. He also refutes accusations that over a thousand Medigen shareholders are members of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), calling them ＂imaginary numerical figures.＂ Chen hopes to disclose the information as soon as possible to maintain public trust, but it can only happen after negotiations and respecting existing confidentiality agreements.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense (MND) detected four Chinese military aircraft and three naval vessels operating near the Taiwan Strait, days before the presidential election. Two Chinese balloons were also tracked, with one entering Taiwan’s western airspace northwest of Chiayi, and another spotted northwest of Keelung. The balloons disappeared from radar after crossing the median line. The MND’s flight track map shows that one balloon floated over Taiwan from west to east before disappearing over the Pacific Ocean. The other balloon, named ＂Air Police 500,＂ flew into Taiwan’s southwestern air defense identification zone (ADIZ) from China’s coastal airspace. These balloons were likely used for collecting meteorological data and were different from the Chinese spy balloons that flew over the U.S. last year. It is inferred that these floating balloons might have been released by an unknown Chinese entity, as Taiwan has previously found balloons released by China for weather research. Promptly disclosing the movements of Chinese balloons is emphasized to raise public awareness regarding safety measures and counter potential preemptive messaging from China. The national military is currently monitoring the situation and has developed a responsive plan, according to the MND.

The Ministry of National Defense (MND) reported the tracking of two Chinese balloons, one of which directly crossed over Taiwan’s main island. The balloons were detected at different times, with one located approximately 55 nautical miles northwest of Chiayi and the other about 71 nautical miles northwest of Keelung. Both balloons reached altitudes of around 30,000 and 32,000 feet before disappearing. In addition, the MND observed four Chinese military aircraft and three naval vessels in the Taiwan Strait over a 24-hour period, including one military plane that breached the southwest air zone. The MND also detected a Shaanxi KJ-500 early warning aircraft entering Taiwan’s southwest Air Defense Identification Zone from the Chinese coastal area. The Taiwanese MND assured that they are closely monitoring and responding to the situation using mission aircraft, naval vessels, and shoreline missile systems.

Kuomintang (KMT) vice presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong criticizes President Tsai Ing-wen’s acceptance of Chinese President Xi Jinping’s statements, arguing that the ＂One China＂ concept in the 1992 Consensus refers to the Republic of China and not the People’s Republic of China. Jaw emphasizes that ＂One China＂ is the Republic of China, which predates the People’s Republic of China by 38 years and highlights its status as Asia’s first democratic republic. He rebuts claims that the KMT’s agreement to the 1992 Consensus poses dangers to Taiwan, stating that the consensus is meant to end the argument and focus on individual duties. Jaw also argues that Tsai’s actions depict a pro-independence stance, despite her verbal denial.

President Tsai Ing-wen criticizes China’s one-sided trade barriers and emphasizes that bilateral trade relations should not be used as a political tool in her New Year’s address. The tariff preference for certain products under the Economic Cooperation Framework Agreement (ECFA) has been suspended as of Jan. 1, 2024. Tsai notes China’s intervention in elections and expresses confidence in the people of Taiwan to make wise decisions. She argues that Taiwan’s industries already have global exposure and are gradually reducing reliance on China. Tsai believes that while the economic benefits of the ECFA are limited, diversifying risks and global positioning are important for Taiwan’s industries. She highlights that China often imposes unilateral trade barriers on other countries for political reasons, citing examples of punitive tariffs and import bans on Lithuania and Australia due to their friendly relationship with Taiwan and criticism of China’s human rights policy in Xinjiang.

Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu accuses the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) of smearing and attacking the presidential election through nationwide advertising campaigns. The KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih and vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong are losing swing voters, according to a public opinion poll published by the United Daily News. Chu criticizes the DPP for targeting Hou by drawing attention to the dormitory at Taipei’s Chinese Culture University (CCU), owned by Hou’s wife. He warns that if such smear tactics go unchecked, Taiwan risks becoming a society dominated by smear campaigns. Internal party polls show that the KMT’s support rates are within the margin of error compared to the DPP’s, leading by one percentage point in landline-based surveys. Taiwan’s 2024 presidential and legislative elections are due to take place next Saturday, and Chu emphasizes that the KMT will work harder despite alleged underhanded tactics and continuous smearing efforts by the DPP.

The sole televised debate for Taiwan’s 2024 presidential candidates featured heated exchanges among Lai Ching-te of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), and Hou Yu-ih of the Kuomintang (KMT) regarding the representation of the Republic of China (R.O.C.). The candidates were questioned about their recognition of the inherent territory in mainland China and Taiwan, whether both are part of the R.O.C., and their stance on the principle of ＂one country, two systems.＂ Lai expressed skepticism about recognizing the R.O.C. as a ＂guardian deity＂ of both sides, while Hou emphasized his adherence to the Constitution and opposition to the one-country-two-systems principle. Ko argued that following the constitution is crucial for presidential candidates and emphasized maintaining the status quo.

Kuomintang’s presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih expressed his opposition to Taiwan’s independence and support for democratic freedom, rejecting ＂one country, two systems.＂ During a debate, he criticized Democratic Progressive Party’s candidate Lai Ching-te for his vague policy toward China and questioned his remarks about sharing bubble tea with China’s president Xi Jinping. Hou emphasized that any consensus between Taiwan and China should be based on Taiwan’s Constitution and the basic cross-strait framework, clarifying that the 1992 Consensus does not imply recognition of ＂one country, two systems.＂ He emphasized that the future of Taiwan should be decided by its 23 million citizens, engaging in dialogue under the constitutional framework to reduce risks. Hou also advocated for the development of Taiwan’s self-defense capabilities to maintain peace and suggested that cross-strait exchanges should start from the civil sector before moving to official government interactions to minimize risks.

Popular Taiwanese band Mayday received encouragement from Executive Yuan Premier Chen Chien-jen to continue giving strength, despite pressure from China to endorse the ＂One China＂ stance. Chen criticized China’s use of false information to attack the world. Mayday is feeling pressure from the Chinese government ahead of the presidential election. Chen praised Mayday for their creative contributions under Taiwan’s culture of freedom, democracy, diversity, and openness. Legislator-at-large candidate Puma Shen of the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) also highlighted China’s interference in nations worldwide, including luring artists to develop in China and gradually dictating their speech. Shen explained that these tactics typically last from three to six years, causing victims to fall prey to China’s united front tactics.

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The Ministry of Education (MOE) has released the registration rates for first-year students at various tertiary institutions for the academic year 112. Out of the 29 universities, 10 have achieved a 100% registration rate, while 19 have fallen short of the 60% mark. Surprisingly, as of 2023, 112 universities had at least one department with zero registered new students, including prestigious institutions like National Taiwan University (NTU). NTU alone had five departments without any registered doctoral students, namely the Department of Drama and Theater, Department of Geography, Institute of Oceanography, Department of Plant Pathology and Microbiology, and the Doctoral Program in Microbiology. Other academic institutions with departments lacking registered students include National Tsing Hua University, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, National Cheng Kung University, and National Chengchi University. Kao Yuan University had the lowest new student registration rate at just 15.7% for the 112 academic year. The only national institution that did not meet the registration standards was the National Taitung Junior College, with a rate below 60%.

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Taiwan’s Ministry of Culture (MOC) has announced that the eligibility for its ＂culture points＂ system will be expanded starting in 2024. The age range will be widened to include individuals aged 16 to 22, compared to the current range of 18 to 21. These points can be redeemed for cultural activities and goods and will be distributed from January 20, 2024. Each person will be able to claim the points seven times in their lifetime, starting at age 16, and the points will remain valid until December 31, 2024. The culture points can be utilized for various cultural activities such as watching local films, performances, buying books, visiting museums, and engaging in other forms of creative cultural consumption. The uptake rate for the culture points in 2023 was 80%, and it is expected to become a regular policy incorporated into the MOC’s annual budget from 2024 onwards. The number of recipients for culture points is projected to increase significantly from one million to 1.5 million in 2024.

New Taipei City confirms a single fatality in a recent junior high school stabbing. Authorities respond with enhanced student support and security measures. Over 340,000 students received counseling in 2023, addressing a range of issues from self-exploration to family challenges.

A male student in New Taipei City was stabbed to death by a schoolmate following a verbal altercation. The preliminary autopsy revealed that the victim had suffered 10 potentially lethal wounds, including knife wounds in his neck, left chest, and right lower back. Six slashes were in the front, including one to his carotid artery, and four were near his kidney. The attack occurred after a female student entered the victim’s classroom and was questioned by him about her presence. She brought back a male student from her grade to settle the dispute, who then stabbed the victim five times with a switchblade, causing extensive bleeding. The victim received ECMO treatment for five hours at Far Eastern Memorial Hospital but was pronounced dead 34 hours after the incident. The New Taipei District Prosecutors Office is considering investigating the assailant for homicide or manslaughter based on the autopsy results and evidence from the scene.

The Taiwan Affairs Office (TAO) spokesperson, Chen Binhua, expressed doubt over Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te’s claim that his election would reduce the risk of a cross-strait war. Chen highlighted the contradiction in Lai’s stance as a supporter of Taiwanese independence while believing his presidency would mitigate tensions. Chen emphasized the international consensus to uphold the One China principle and maintain peace. Lai dismissed claims that supporting him meant war as Chinese propaganda and argued that his policy aligns with international norms. Chen countered by citing the success of the ＂One Country, Two Systems＂ formula in Hong Kong. Chen also addressed investigations into bureau chiefs suspected of violating the Anti-Infiltration Act and concerns over Taiwanese living in China being unable to return to vote due to a recent outbreak. He expressed concern that if the DPP authorities deprived Taiwanese living in China of their voting rights, it would expose their autocratic and non-democratic character to the world.

Q Burger, a restaurant chain in Taipei, is making waves with its generous end-of-year bonus of up to 27.8 months for staff. In addition, the company plans to increase salaries by 23.4% in 2024, aiming to break away from the low-paying norms of the industry. Newly hired employees can expect a high basic salary of up to NT＄35,000, while reserve executives start at NT＄37,000. To address regional differences in living costs, Q Burger is also offering a substantial regional subsidy, with store employees in Taipei receiving an extra NT＄4,000 per month. In a unique move to motivate employees, the company has introduced the ＂Dream Reward Plan,＂ which grants 20% of net profits to store chiefs. Q Burger’s success is evident, with its expansion to 340 stores across Taiwan and over one million app members in 2023.

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.

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te accuses the Kuomintang (KMT) of endangering society in three ways in his second televised policy presentation. Lai highlights the KMT’s adherence to the One-China policy, corruption, and ruthless tactics to seize power as the three harms inflicted upon society. He expresses concern that electing political neophyte Hou Yu-ih, representing the KMT, would indirectly support the revival of former president Ma Ying-jeou’s regime and those who support One-China, leading to the rise of a ＂Corruption Dynasty＂ that could significantly harm Taiwan’s national development. Lai also criticizes the KMT for bribery, pointing out the numerous confirmed bribery cases under judicial ruling. He further accuses the KMT of creating fake news, distorting facts, and attacking opponents and the government to win elections. Lai also criticizes the KMT for leveraging foreign power, particularly from China, to support a pro-China regime, mentioning China’s regular attempts to meddle in Taiwan’s elections.

Taiwan People’s Party presidential candidate Ko Wen-je criticized his Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) competitor Lai Ching-te for avoiding the nuclear energy debate and lacking long-term planning. Ko argued that Lai’s commitment to a nuclear-free homeland by 2025 would cost him votes, particularly from the business sector. He questioned the feasibility of turning nuclear power on and off at will. Ko also criticized his Kuomintang rival, Hou Yu-ih, for impeding the operation of dry storage facilities at nuclear plants one and two, resulting in a stalemate where spent fuel rods cannot be removed. Ko expressed support for extending the service lives of nuclear plants two and three and called for a thorough check-up of plant four before making any decisions. He emphasized the need for a pragmatic approach to nuclear power rather than treating the idea of a nuclear-free homeland as an ideology. Ko highlighted the goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions by 2050 and mentioned that 22 nations proposed tripling nuclear power by then at COP28.

Taiwan has been identified as one of the key search terms by international travelers on Airbnb’s platform, according to the company’s 2024 tourism trends report. Taiwan’s search growth rate was second globally, just behind Japan. Airbnb expects 2024 to be the year when international travelers embark on world tours. From the first quarter to the third quarter of 2024, search volume on Airbnb increased significantly in 10 countries and regions, with Japan topping the list. Other than Taiwan and Japan, countries and regions such as Albania, Singapore, Finland, the United Arab Emirates, Curaçao, Aruba, Thailand, and Guatemala also saw a rise in interest from Airbnb users.

Taiwanese actor JC Lin announced his engagement to his girlfriend Cindy on December 26. He shared a sweet picture on social media, captioning it with ’Christmas gift exchange -- she got a ring, I got a YES.’ The couple had been in a relationship for 10 years before JC Lin proposed on Christmas day. He posted a heartfelt message alongside the photos, expressing his happiness. JC Lin publicly released a video of his wedding proposal, where he went down on one knee and thanked Cindy for being with him through the happiness and hardships of the past decade. Cindy accepted the proposal, leading to a heartfelt kiss witnessed by friends, including Taiwanese actor Kai Ko. In 2019, JC Lin received praise for his role in the TV drama ’The World Between Us,’ where he skillfully portrayed a character suffering from schizophrenia.

Taiwan’s Ministry of National Defense confirms that two rescuers have fallen overboard while assisting a Hai Hu submarine incident. One is still missing, while the other has been rescued by a navy vessel. The incident occurred when the wooden cover of the rear rescue buoy fell off, causing unusual noise and pulling the connected steel cable. Initially, four people were sent to retrieve the items, but the narrow track caused them to be swept off by surge waves. Three people fell overboard, with two still missing. The weapon’s chief also fell into the sea but was later rescued. A total of six rescuers have been dispatched, with 11 people involved in the mission. The three rescued and four injured have been treated at Zuoying Armed Forces General Hospital. Search and rescue operations continue beyond the 72-hour golden rescue period, with the search area expanding based on ocean currents. The Chief of Naval Staff emphasizes that they will not abandon the search and that all soldiers are like family.

Taiwan Power Company (Taipower) is planning to hire 1,103 specialists in various fields, including power distribution and transmission, substation, and electromechanical, by 2024. Applications for these positions will be accepted from January 2 to January 15, with preliminary exams scheduled for May 12 in Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and Hualien. The results of the preliminary exams will be announced on July 16, and the second round will take place on August 6 in Taipei. After selection, new recruits will undergo one year of training and will receive a starting salary of NT$32,000, along with performance bonuses amounting to approximately 4.4 months of year-end bonuses. The largest portion of the jobs on offer is for maintenance staff for power distribution lines, with 429 positions. The next highest category consists of 157 posts for general administration workers, including 38 positions reserved for individuals with disabilities. This recruitment drive also includes three new positions in material management and various other maintenance and engineering roles. Certain positions require higher qualifications, such as a manual car license or a commercial heavy vehicle license. Taipower aims to address staff retirements, ensure stable power supplies, and implement net-zero transformation in the power industry to meet Taiwan’s energy needs.