SOME 結果共115筆

Yuan Zai, the beloved giant panda, has been deemed to be in good health after undergoing a comprehensive medical examination at the Taipei Zoo. The examination, conducted by a team of experts in anesthesiology, dentistry, and radiology, included various tests such as ophthalmology, hematology, and a full-body CT scan. Results showed that Yuan Zai is normal and weighs 114 kilograms. However, zoo officials have highlighted the need for caution regarding her previously broken incisor, which has undergone a root canal treatment. Despite some loss of filling material, the root of the incisor remains healthy. The zoo has also announced plans for a health check for another giant panda, Yuan Bao, in February. As a reminder, the public, particularly panda enthusiasts, are encouraged to prioritize their own health checks and regular dental visits.

58% of part-time workers in Taiwan have faced wage issues, misleading job ads, and illicit contracts, according to a survey by Yes123 Job Bank. The platform advises job hunters to follow a list of ＂seven don’ts＂ and ＂four musts＂ to protect themselves. The survey also found that a record-breaking 87% of university students plan to work part-time over the winter break, with reasons including earning living expenses and gaining social experience. Of the respondents, 65% reported receiving wages lower than the government’s minimum wage, with some not even being insured. Only about 30% actively negotiated or reported these issues. Yes123 spokesman Yang Tsung-pin urged job seekers to prioritize labor rights and work safety.

The weather in Taiwan was cooler on Sunday (Jan. 7) due to the northeast monsoon, primarily affecting the northern and northeastern regions, according to the Central Weather Administration (CWA). Miaoli and Nantou experienced particularly chilly conditions with temperatures reaching lows of 10 degrees Celsius, prompting a cold advisory. Yilan and the western half of Taiwan had milder lows between 12 and 16 degrees, while Hualien and Taitung felt temperatures between 17 and 18 degrees. The highest temperatures of the day, ranging between 24 and 26 degrees, were reported in southern and central Taiwan. The coldest areas were Gongguan Township in Miaoli with 10.2 degrees, Zhongliao Township in Nantou with 10.6, and Fenyuan Township in Changhua County with 11.1. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) suggests that the chill from the northeast monsoon will subside slightly on Monday and Tuesday, although northern regions will remain cool. Warmer daytime temperatures are expected in central and southern regions, though rain seems to be on the horizon. Wednesday could see a notable drop in temperatures due to an advancing cold front from the mainland, increasing the chances of light, localized showers in the north and east. From Thursday through election day on Saturday, residents can expect stable and clear weather, albeit with a touch of chill in the mornings and nights. Residents should stay tuned to CWA’s special forecasts as temperatures under 10 degrees are possible in some flatland regions on Thursday and Friday mornings.

The Environmental Protection Bureau of the Kaohsiung City Government has clarified that the recruitment paths for full-time and part-time cleaning staff are different, which is why they need to consider temporary work applicants before those from previous years. This comes after Kaohsiung City Councilor Lina Chen led a press conference with individuals claiming to be on the waiting list for the city’s cleaning crew, who passed the ＂Kaohsiung City Official Cleaning Staff＂ exam two years ago but have not yet received a position. The Bureau emphasized that the different recruitment avenues do not infringe upon part-time workers’ rights. The recent cleaning staff recruitment attracted over 7,400 applicants for 850 positions, and some candidates on the waiting list are still waiting for an opportunity to work at the Bureau. The bureau recruited 172 official cleaners and drivers, with an additional 678 on the waiting list, of whom only half have been employed so far. The bureau began recruiting part-time staff earlier this year, even though the previous list of alternates has not yet been fully filled. Deputy Director Kao Tsung-yung explained that the previous test was for full-time staff, while the current recruitment is for temporary personnel. The Bureau has announced the eighth round of 100 alternates’ roster and will continue to do so in April, July, and October. Those on the waiting list will still need to wait for their chance.

Get the latest weather update for Taiwan. The Central Weather Administration has issued cold advisories due to low temperatures, with some areas expected to drop below 10 degrees Celsius. While most of Taiwan will have clear and stable weather, rain areas are expected to expand starting Wednesday. The lowest temperature recorded on Tuesday morning was 8.4 degrees in Guanxi Township, Hsinchu. The north and eastern regions experienced temperatures ranging from 12 to 14 degrees, with Hsinchu and Miaoli possibly dropping to 9 to 11 degrees. Kaohsiung, Pingtung, and Taitung had temperatures around 15 to 16 degrees. Thursday will bring mostly cloudy weather in the north and clear weather in the south, with occasional rainfall in the east. Friday and Saturday are expected to be clear and steady across Taiwan. However, a new wave of cold air is predicted to briefly impact northern and eastern Taiwan on Sunday and Monday, so residents should stay updated on weather conditions.

Stay up to date with the latest weather forecast for Taiwan. Expect rainfall on Thursday, particularly in mountainous areas, with minimum temperatures of 16-17 degrees Celsius on the plains. On Friday, water vapor will shift eastward, resulting in clear skies in the south and occasional rainfall in the north and east. Saturday will be mostly sunny with some cloud cover in the west, and brief rainfall in mountainous and eastern regions. For the New Year holiday, Sunday will be sunny in the west, partly sunny in the east, and occasional brief rainfall. Monday and Tuesday are expected to be predominantly sunny and stable, with a slight chance of scattered rain in the east. Northern Taiwan will be comfortable during this period, while the south will be slightly hot, with temperatures dropping in the evening. Remember to adjust your clothing accordingly if spending extended periods outside.

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.

DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim visited Hsinchu on Dec. 25, emphasizing that Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company’s (TSMC) decision to establish a factory in the United States was driven by client demand rather than government influence. Hsiao refrained from commenting on TSMC’s internal affairs but acknowledged the company’s understanding of its customers’ need for a U.S. factory. As someone with a strong American background, Hsiao mentioned her American friends’ interest in TSMC’s investments in the U.S. She also highlighted the increased attention Taiwan has received globally and the influx of visitors, some specifically requesting to visit Hsinchu and TSMC. Hsiao took the opportunity to engage with the youth and gain more recognition among them.

Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued a cold surge advisory for 13 municipalities on Christmas Day, with temperatures expected to significantly drop by Monday evening. The affected areas include New Taipei City, Taoyuan City, Hsinchu County, Miaoli County, Taichung City, Changhua County, Nantou County, Yunlin County, Chiayi City, Chiayi County, Tainan City, Yilan County, and Kinmen County. Some regions, including Tainan, Yilan, and Kinmen, may experience temperatures below 10 degrees Celsius on Tuesday morning. However, the cold air mass is expected to weaken throughout the day, leading to a gradual warming trend with temperatures potentially reaching over 20 degrees Celsius. The CWA also predicts a strengthening of the northeast monsoon on Thursday, which will cause another dip in temperatures, particularly on the windward side of northern Taiwan. However, this effect is expected to be short-lived, with milder temperatures forecasted for Friday and Saturday. Nevertheless, there is a possibility of a new cold air mass moving south by Sunday, which could once again lower temperatures in northern Taiwan.

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.

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.

The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has issued cold advisories for multiple counties and cities in response to dropping temperatures in Taiwan. The whole island experienced chilly weather, with temperatures ranging from 11 to 14 degrees Celsius. Some areas, including Hsinchu, Yilan, and Hualien, prepared for temperatures around 10 degrees Celsius. The European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) predicts brief spells of rain in northern and eastern Taiwan, as well as mountainous regions in the central and southern parts of the island. Some low-lying areas may also experience occasional light rain. Mount Hehuan, Xueshan, and Mount Nanhu, all above 3,000 meters, are expected to have subzero temperatures and a high chance of snowfall. However, no further strong cold air influence is expected before the New Year. Starting next Tuesday, the cold air will gradually recede, leading to clear skies and a gradual increase in temperatures. Climate expert Chia Hsin-hsing emphasized the unpredictability of the New Year’s weather and advised the public to stay updated with the latest forecasts.

A viral photo of a woman grilling bird eggs at Taipei’s Shilin Night Market has captured online users’ attention due to her revealing attire. The woman, identified as model Bebe, was seen diligently preparing the eggs despite the cold weather. The image sparked a spirited discussion among internet users, with some joking about the fierce competition in sales. Bebe was reportedly the ＂one-day shop manager＂ at the market when the photo was taken, adding another layer to the market’s diverse character. Her daring outfit choice appears to be one of the more unique strategies employed by vendors to attract customers.

Taipei-based subsidiary Family International Gourmet, a part of Taiwan FamilyMart Co., Ltd, has announced plans to increase salaries by 3-5% in 2024. The company will also offer incentive and performance bonuses equivalent to three to eight months of annual pay. Outstanding employees in 2023 could potentially earn annual salaries equivalent to over 20 months, with some store managers already earning millions of dollars per year. The company plans to expand by opening 8-12 new stores annually. In 2024, they aim to hire over 500 regular employees, including 50 potential store managers and over 200 potential supervisors. Starting salaries for new employees will increase from NT$34,000 to NT$36,000, with reserve cadres earning NT$40,000. Employees who pass training assessments can quickly advance to store manager roles, with the opportunity to earn annual salaries exceeding NT$1 million. The company reported impressive revenues of NT$19.92 billion in November, a nearly 30% increase year-on-year. Family International Gourmet is set to debut on the emerging stock market this Thursday as it progresses towards listing on the over-the-counter market.

The VisaGuide World Passport Index has revealed the most powerful passports in the world for December, with Taiwan ranked 70th overall. Spain tops the list, followed by Germany in third place, and the United States in 40th place. The ranking is based on the Destination Significance Score (DSS), which considers various factors. The Spanish passport allows visa-free entry to 43 countries and visa-free access to an additional 106 countries. Singapore holds the second spot and is considered the strongest passport in Asia, granting its citizens visa-free entry to 156 destinations. In comparison, the Taiwanese passport allows visa-free entry to 100 countries and regions, placing it lower than some other countries. China ranks 117th, offering its citizens visa-free access to 46 countries.

A strong continental cold air mass has reached Taiwan, causing temperatures to drop to between 16 and 19 degrees Celsius. Meteorological expert Wu Der-rong predicts that temperatures could reach as low as 8 degrees in some flatland areas. The Central Weather Administration (CWA) forecasts daytime high temperatures of 19 to 22 degrees in Northern Taiwan and Yilan, while central and southern regions will experience highs of about 27 to 28 degrees. As night falls, temperatures in the north and Yilan will dip to 15 or 16 degrees, while the south and east will see lows of about 17 to 19 degrees. Rainfall is expected in windward areas of Northern Taiwan, the eastern part of the island, and the Hengchun Peninsula, with increasing probability as the evening progresses. The next cold air mass, described as a ＂cold wave,＂ is expected to bring further temperature declines, with the coldest moment anticipated on Thursday and Friday. Wu predicts significant rainfall on the windward side and the possibility of snow in mountainous regions. The cold air will weaken slightly on Saturday before strengthening again on Sunday night. Northern Taiwan will continue to be affected by the polar continental air mass, leading to wet and cold conditions, while central and southern Taiwan can expect cooler temperatures in the early morning and evening.

During a cold snap in Taiwan, 18 cases of out-of-hospital cardiac arrests (OHCA) were reported, resulting in 13 deaths before reaching the hospital. The fire departments in Taipei and New Taipei responded to these incidents, with some individuals pronounced dead at the scene. The cause of these deaths is currently under investigation. The cold front has caused temperatures to drop to as low as 10-12 degrees Celsius in certain areas, leading to a warning from the fire bureau about the potential cardiovascular risks associated with colder weather. Individuals with chronic diseases are advised to take precautions and seek regular health check-ups.

The Carrefour Market Fuzhong Store in Banqiao District, New Taipei, will close on January 14, 2024, after operating for 14 years. The store, which has been open 24 hours a day since its grand opening in 2009, will shut down due to the expiration of its lease contract. Carrefour plans to find a new location and announce a grand reopening once a site is selected. The news of the closure has disappointed many customers, particularly those who rely on the store’s round-the-clock services. Residents in the area have been discussing the impending closure, with some expressing shock and pity for the loss of the convenient late-night operation.

The story reports a significant drop in temperatures across Taiwan, with lows of 12 to 13 degrees Celsius in some areas and 14 to 17 degrees in others. Weather specialist Daniel Wu predicts cold conditions throughout Saturday, particularly in the northern and eastern parts of the island. Wu advises the public to take measures to stay warm. The northern parts and eastern half of Taiwan may experience local, brief periods of rain, with more significant rain expected in the north and northeast regions. Temperatures are expected to rebound on Monday but another wave of cold weather is anticipated by Wednesday.

The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) Tourism Bureau’s statistics reveal that Yunlin Beigang Chaotian Temple was the most-visited religious site in Taiwan from January to September 2023, with over 6.81 million visits. Yunlin Beigang Wude Temple followed closely behind with over 6.69 million visitors, securing the second spot. Nankunshen Daitian Temple claimed the third position with over 5.46 million visitors. Miaoli Baishatun Gongtian Temple ranked sixth, attracting over 3.2 million visits, while Taichung Dajia Jenn Lann Temple, known for worshiping the sea goddess Mazu, recorded approximately 1.17 million visits, placing it in the eighth position. Although some renowned temples are not included in the Tourism Bureau’s recreational site list, the Bureau relies on data provided by local governments to track visitor numbers and collaborates with them to monitor tourism activity at these religious and cultural landmarks.

Discover the captivating exhibit ＂Once Upon a Tainan Charm: Treasures from the National Palace Museum＂ at Tainan Art Museum, featuring rare artifacts from Taiwan’s esteemed collection. Premier Chen Chien-jen emphasizes the dynamic nature of the exhibition, which coincides with Tainan City’s 400-year anniversary. Experience a journey through time as the exhibition unveils 15 precious items, including the Jadeite Cabbage, Vase with lotus and dragon decoration, and Jade Plate with Dragon Pattern. Don’t miss this unique cultural experience from Dec. 16, 2023, to Mar. 10, 2024, offering a winter of enriched historical engagement for locals and visitors alike.

The Central Weather Administration (CWA) has forecasted sunny to partly cloudy skies across Taiwan and its outlying islands on Friday (Dec. 15), with a front bringing brief rain showers to the north, northeast, and Matsu in the evening. A continental polar air mass will move in the next day, resulting in a drop in temperatures and damp, cold weather that will persist through Monday. Independent meteorologist Daniel Wu predicts that a stronger wave of cold air will arrive on Tuesday (Dec. 19), potentially marking the season’s first cold wave. Brief showers are expected in the northern and eastern parts of Taiwan from Saturday, with lows around 12 degrees Celsius in some metropolitan areas. Rain will pause on Monday until Tuesday afternoon, followed by another wave of cold air from Tuesday evening to Friday (Dec. 22). Weather models suggest that this wave might reach the strength of a strong continental cold air mass, with the potential for it to be upgraded to a cold wave. The cold is expected to gradually weaken by Saturday, Dec. 23.

Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je’s campaign director, Huang Shan-shan, released the party’s latest internal poll on Tuesday, December 12. The poll showed that Ko’s support has remained above 20% and expressed their determination to continue working hard. According to the poll, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidates, Lai Ching-te and Hsiao Bi-khim, lead with a support rate of 34.3%. Ko Wen-je and his running mate, Cynthia Wu, have garnered 24.5% support, while the Kuomintang (KMT) candidates, Hou Yu-ih and Jaw Shaw-kong, are slightly behind with 22.9%. The poll also revealed that undecided voters and other candidates make up 18.3% of potential voter sentiment. Huang criticized some polls as tools of political manipulation and emphasized the authenticity of the TPP’s internal polling data. The survey, conducted on December 9 and 10, interviewed 1,217 respondents, with 857 respondents contacted via landlines and 360 respondents polled through mobile phones.

Discover America Committee in Taiwan President Brenda Tang revealed that the U.S. travel market from Taiwan has rebounded to 84% of pre-pandemic levels, according to data from the Tourism Administration. Taiwanese travelers heading to the United States surged by 185% from January to October this year, reaching 396,913, as reported by the National Travel and Tourism Office. Flights to the U.S. during the peak summer season had load factors of over 90%, while the off-peak months of September and October maintained load factors of at least 85%. China Airlines and EVA Airways have nearly returned to pre-pandemic flight levels, and Starlux Airlines is set to launch its San Francisco route. United Airlines plans to double its Taipei to San Francisco flights, and Delta Air Lines is preparing to commence a Taipei to Seattle route. Tour package prices to the U.S. for the first quarter of next year and the Lunar New Year peak season are expected to increase by no more than 25%, offering travelers some price assurance amid growing demand.

Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is set to undergo corporatization on January 1, 2024, with the aim of improving punctuality and reducing delays. The agency believes that this transformation, along with the introduction of new trains next year, will enhance its competitiveness in the transport market. The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) has experienced increased passenger numbers recently, leading to capacity shortages and overcrowding in non-reserved seating. Concerns have been raised about the decline in THSR service quality, with some referring to it as ＂high-speed rail becoming like local trains.＂ Under the new Taiwan Railways Corporation, TRA plans to offer services on the eastern main line and support the western short-to-medium-haul network, creating a cooperative yet competitive relationship with THSR. TRA aims to enhance the passenger experience by updating ticket gates and passenger information systems across all railway stations in Taiwan over the next three years. To address the capacity issue, TRA plans to provide shuttle services at Changhua Station and improve inter-rail transfer services. The establishment of the TRA corporation aims to clarify its market positioning, including strengthening intercity transport service between the eastern and western main lines and improving regional commuting transport on the western line. The Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) has established a debt repayment fund to address TRA’s short-term debt of around NT$170 billion, with the goal of making TRA debt-free by 2025 and profitable by 2028. Post-corporatization, TRA plans to increase revenue and optimize asset management through flexible approaches such as joint development initiatives and land rights establishment.