YU 結果共752筆

The Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) will add 81 train services from Jan. 12 to 15 next year to accommodate travelers returning home for the presidential and legislative elections. The additional train services will cover all types of trains and aim to strengthen transportation capacity during the election period. Starting Friday at midnight, presidential and legislative election train tickets will be available for booking online, at convenience stores, and via telephone reservation system. The TRA estimates a 5.2 percent average daily increase in capacity during this period, with the west line seeing a 2.4 percent rise, the east line 12.6 percent, and the south-link line 4.7%. This will result in approximately 39,000 extra seats each day compared to regular days. Compared to the election year of 2020, the overall number of seats will increase by 8.89 percent and total seat kilometers by 9.76 percent in 2024, according to the TRA.

Taiwan/Ireland Poetry Translation Competition announces Li Lo from Taiwan and Michael Sharkey from Northern Ireland as winners in the Hakka poetry category. The competition focused on translating Hakka poetry, with a piece titled ＂Daylight＂ by Taiwanese poet Tseng Gui-hai. Tseng expressed delight over the exceptional English translations, emphasizing their ability to connect people worldwide to Hakka culture and draw parallels between Taiwan and Ireland’s histories. Director James Hadley commended the winning entries for their creative interpretation and capturing the musicality of English while resonating with Hakka’s phonetic variations and cultural sentiments. Taiwan’s representative to Ireland, Yang Tzu-pao, highlighted the importance of understanding Hakka culture in comprehending Taiwan as a whole.

Tainan’s Garden Night Market has been recognized as the only five-star night market in southern Taiwan, according to the Ministry of Economic Affairs. Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che praised the city’s street food, which has contributed to its reputation as a food capital and attracted admiration from consumers both domestically and internationally. With the support of the Tainan City Government Economic Development Bureau and the efforts of market vendors, Tainan has received the highest rating of 1465 stars in the MOEA ratings, surpassing all other cities in Taiwan. The Flowers Night Market in Tainan’s north district is one of only two new entries in the prestigious five-star market category across the island. The Economic Development Bureau mentioned that the record number of five-star awards this year indicates the effectiveness of the incentive system in motivating markets and vendors. In anticipation of Tainan’s 400th anniversary, the local Bureau plans to expand the awards to include four-star markets and notable vendors next year, inviting entrepreneurs to join in celebrating the city’s rich history.

Kuomintang (KMT) Chairman Eric Chu expressed optimism about the nomination of the Hou-Jaw ticket, stating that it has boosted party morale and is projected to increase the party’s number of legislative constituencies by more than ten. Chu estimated that the KMT is likely to secure 14 to 15 legislator-at-large seats, which would give them an absolute majority in the Legislative Yuan. He highlighted the stable political landscape in the Taipei-Keelung area, the advantage in the Taoyuan-Hsinchu-Miaoli area, and potential progress in the southern regions, including Tainan, Kaohsiung, and Pintung. Chu also mentioned the strong performance of Mayor Chang San-cheng in Taoyuan and the popularity of former legislator Li Yen-hsiu in Taipei’s 4th election district. Despite criticism over the presence of second-generation officials on the KMT legislator-at-large list, Chu defended their selection, citing their substantial contributions to the public and their professions.

Taipei City Councilor and legislative candidate Yu Shu-hui highlights the crucial role Taipei Mayor Chiang Wan-an plays in attracting young voters with only 32 days remaining until the 2024 elections. Chiang’s popularity is evident as he rallies for Kuomintang (KMT) candidates in Taichung and Kaohsiung, receiving warm greetings from enthusiastic supporters. Yu advises Chiang to increase interaction with younger voters, possibly collaborating with KMT vice-presidential candidate Jaw Shaw-kong. The KMT needs to diversify its approach to connect with the electorate, as Chiang’s rising popularity adds pressure to the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). Chiang’s strategic positioning in this election indicates the KMT’s focus on courting the youth vote and leveraging his appeal to challenge the DPP’s stronghold. As political tensions rise, all eyes will be on Chiang as he continues to campaign across Taiwan leading up to the January election.

NVIDIA CEO Jensen Huang announces collaboration with Vietnamese technological firms to support Vietnam in AI talent cultivation and digital infrastructure development. Huang expresses interest in establishing a base in Vietnam during a meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh. NVIDIA has already invested around US＄250 million in Vietnam and recognizes the country’s potential in the IT sector. Huang identifies Viettel Telecom, FPT Software, Vingroup, and VNG Corporation as specific partners for expanded cooperation.

The Tourism Administration at the Ministry of Transport and Communications in Taiwan plans to apply for the opening of housekeeping positions for migrant workers due to a shortage of hotel service staff. The proposal will be submitted to the Ministry of Labor for consideration. The Director-General of the Tourism Administration, Chou Yung-hui, emphasized the importance of the hotel industry in the tourism sector and its impact on local economies. Chou encouraged local workers, especially middle-aged and older individuals and women, to consider employment opportunities in the industry. Discussions with the Ministry of Labor are ongoing to address migrant worker policies, and relevant data will be presented as soon as possible.

Former Legislative Speaker Wang Jin-pyng, in an effort to strengthen support within the Kuomintang (KMT), highlighted the importance of unity and expressed his desire for the return of Foxconn Founder Terry Gou to the party. Wang also announced his commitment to serve as the national campaign chairman for KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih. These statements were made during a luncheon held in Taipei to gather resources from the pro-Gou faction in support of Hou and his running mate. Former KMT Vice Chairman Hau Lung-bin and former party Secretary-General Lee Chien-lung were also present, showing their support for Wang’s initiative. Wang emphasized that KMT chairpersons are now more united than ever, with all past grievances resolved.

The Criminal Investigation Bureau (CIB) has apprehended 20 suspects and seized 15 illegal operations involved in a smartphone SMS phishing scam in Taiwan. The ＂Info Thunder Project＂ was deployed to combat the scam, which sent out an average of 4,000 to 5,000 fraudulent text messages per day. The criminal syndicate posed as representatives from legitimate entities, such as the Taiwan Water Corporation and telecom companies, to deceive recipients with misleading alerts. The fraudsters enticed victims to click on malicious links and enter their credit card and bank account details. The CIB’s intelligence analysis team conducted comprehensive studies of phishing cases, leading to the arrests. Evidence seized in two operations includes modem pools, mobile phones, SIM cards, computers, Wi-Fi routers, and application forms for phone numbers. Director-General Chou Yu-wei urged the public to remain vigilant against suspicious text messages and to refrain from clicking on dubious links. The police will continue to dismantle these fraudulent networks and protect citizens from cyber threats.

The General Chamber of Commerce (ROCCOC) Chairman, Paul Hsu, led a delegation of 16 Taiwanese food suppliers on a mission to tap into the Australian market. The delegation attended business matchmaking events in Brisbane, Sydney, and Melbourne as part of the ＂Procurement Meetings of 2023 Taiwan Food Industries Delegation to Australia.＂ The objective of this initiative is to enhance the international presence of Taiwanese food products, boost competitiveness, and foster economic collaboration between Taiwan and Australia. Hsu emphasized the complementary nature of Taiwan and Australia’s industries due to their contrasting seasons. The delegation has secured orders worth US＄3.7 million so far, and Hsu remains optimistic about further trade opportunities through ongoing communications with Australian distributors.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih has apologized to foreign policy expert Bonnie Glaser for using a photo without her consent in his political promotion. The photo, featuring Hou and Glaser, was displayed during a press conference where Hou unveiled his national defense and foreign policy plans. Glaser promptly clarified that she had not endorsed Hou and requested that her photo and statements not be used in such a manner. In response, Hou apologized on social media and removed the photo from his campaign. This incident highlights the sensitivity surrounding the use of images in political campaigning, particularly in relation to foreign experts and the potential impact on international perspectives.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih has announced an extension of childcare policies, promising free after-school care services for elementary students aged 6 to 12. This initiative aims to double the current capacity of after-school care in public elementary schools from 180,000 to 360,000 children, with a focus on providing specialized care to children in rural areas and from disadvantaged backgrounds. Hou’s plan includes establishing after-school programs in public elementary schools to meet 100% of the demand, increasing student coverage from 15% to 30% and meeting the standard set by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD). The policy, guided by the ＂Three Safeties＂ principle, aims to ensure parental peace of mind, child safety, and stability for the disadvantaged. Extended care until 7 p.m. will be available during the school term and vacations. Additionally, the initiative seeks to expand private-sector participation in after-school care services by creating a matching platform to add over 20,000 new classes and increasing the proportion of outsourced after-school care to over 20%. The anticipated benefits of this policy include providing services to approximately 300,000 families, including 80,000 disadvantaged families, creating around 30,000 job opportunities, and strengthening the service capacity of private institutions.

The George Washington University Professor Robert Sutter argues that Taiwan’s elections have little impact on U.S. policy towards the island, but the upcoming U.S. presidential election in 2024 could be significant. Both political parties in the U.S. and Congress have prioritized defending American interests and countering China’s actions, with Taiwan playing an increasingly important role. Taiwan’s strategic position, high-tech development, democratic politics, and free market economy have influenced the international order and led to stronger U.S. support. Sutter predicts that if Lai Ching-te, the Democratic Progressive Party presidential candidate, wins the election, U.S.-Taiwan cooperation will further deepen. However, Sutter also suggests that the 2024 U.S. election, particularly if a candidate with an ＂America First＂ stance like Donald Trump prevails, could bring a shift in U.S. policy consistency towards Taiwan and pose challenges in countering China’s provocations.

Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim pledges to uphold President Tsai Ing-wen’s policies, which include maintaining the status quo and refraining from pursuing Taiwanese independence. Hsiao expressed this commitment during a legislative rally in New Taipei, emphasizing that the status quo is the most widely accepted position among all parties. The Lai-Hsiao ticket aims to continue Tsai’s path and gain support from the international community. Hsiao also highlighted the importance of a stable foreign policy that does not succumb to pressure, ensuring the preservation of Taiwan’s current situation. Additionally, Hsiao and DPP candidate Lai Ching-te promise to carry forward the strong Taiwan-U.S. relationship established under Tsai’s leadership.

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.

Taiwan’s Minister of Economic Affairs, Wang Mei-hua, has confirmed that discussions will soon take place with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company (TSMC) regarding the inauguration date for its Kumamoto fab. The progress of TSMC’s Kumamoto fab is said to be outpacing other global expansion efforts. Wang expressed gratitude for the support provided by Japan’s central and local government authorities in establishing the plant. Equipment installation is already underway at TSMC’s Kumamoto site, with trial production set to begin in April 2024. The opening ceremony may be scheduled as early as February 24. Wang emphasized the importance of reinforcing cooperation between Taiwan and Japan, particularly in the semiconductor supply chain, and encouraged mutual investment to foster closer bilateral relations.

LINE TODAY, an information site by LY Corporation, reveals the top 10 news topics in 2023. Entertainment news, mainly linked to #MeToo movement sexual harassment incidents involving Taiwanese celebrities, tops the list. Coco Lee’s passing, a Hong Kong-American Mandarin pop singer-songwriter, ranks second. Relaxed pandemic policies causing a resurgence of viruses takes the third spot. Taiwanese people show high sensitivity to international affairs, reflected in comments and shares on the ＂TODAY Sees the World＂ channel. Popular polls and quizzes cover leisure, entertainment, livelihood, and policy topics, including Apple products, the president’s salary, and the ＂Slam Dunk＂ manga quiz.

Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je criticizes Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and Kuomintang (KMT) rivals for avoiding his questions, suggesting their silence indicates a lack of confidence. Ko expresses frustration over DPP candidate Lai Ching-te and KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih not responding to his questions during a live broadcast. He boldly offers to leak debate topics in advance, giving opponents time to prepare. Ko mocks their silence, implying guilt and predicting public curiosity. Additionally, he challenges the DPP and KMT to disclose internal polling data for transparency.

The Minister of Labor, Hsu Ming-chun, expressed hope that the draft for the national minimum wage bill will soon pass its final hurdle. The Legislative Yuan is set to vote on the bill tomorrow, after failing to reach a consensus on Friday due to issues concerning the review committee’s composition, deliberation indicators, research groups, and the exclusion of law-violating companies from government procurement. Hsu emphasized the importance of a minimum wage law, which aims to elevate the legal status of the minimum wage, enhance the review mechanism, and clarify the indicators for deliberations. Hsu called for joint efforts to pass the legislation by tomorrow, as there is broad agreement on the need for a minimum wage law after years of discussion.

A story about the capture of a record number of 400 green iguanas in southern Taiwan has sparked online discussion. One photo, in particular, shows a green iguana kneeling before a Mazu temple in Neipu, Pintung, leading to humorous comments suggesting the iguana was ＂applying to be a divine steed.＂ Experts clarified that while green iguanas pose no threat to humans, they do cause problems for farmers by nibbling on crops. To protect local agriculture, the government has intensified measures to remove these non-native creatures and maintain ecological balance.

Indian badminton prodigy Raksha Kandasamy, winner of the Badminton World Federation (BWF) World Junior Championships in Cyprus, expressed her admiration for Taiwan’s most successful badminton player, Tai Tzu-ying. Ranked 9th in the world for junior women’s singles, the 16-year-old sees Tai as a role model. Kandasamy quickly rose to success on the BWF Youth Tournament circuit, winning titles in Cyprus and Bulgaria. Despite her achievements in badminton, Kandasamy is also committed to her academic performance. When asked about her favorite player, Kandasamy praised Tai Tzu-ying for her extraordinary stroke play and deceptive moves.

Former legislator Julian Kuo warns that the DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te may struggle to secure over 50% of the vote in Tainan due to recent scandals. Kuo criticizes the DPP for ＂fueling moral panic＂ to gain electoral support but suggests that this strategy may not be effective in 2024. Despite leading in most polls, Lai’s lead over KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih is narrowing. Kuo points out that if the DPP continues to rely on Tainan as a decisive battleground, Lai could become the party’s presidential candidate with the lowest vote tally in the region. The scandals mentioned include illegal dumping of slag on farmlands in 2015, Cihji Temple head shootings in Syuejia, and the solar panel controversy in Cigu last year, all involving local officials associated with the DPP. While Kuo predicts Tainan will be critical in the 2024 election, legislator Lin Chun-hsien expects Lai Ching-te to win at least 60% of the vote there, highlighting a divide in expectations within the party.

The Superstar Christmas Concert in New Taipei concluded with captivating performances by Taiwanese singer Sam Lee and actor-singer Nick Chou (NICKTHEREAL). The event featured an impressive lineup of renowned singers and bands, delighting fans who filled the venue. Chou’s rendition of his hit song ＂Handsome to Break Up＂ ignited the crowd, while Sam Lee, known as the ＂Taiwanese Prince of Love Songs,＂ mesmerized the audience with his performances of ＂The Night Sky Under Your Eye＂ and ＂Absolute Infatuation.＂ The atmosphere was enhanced by the audience, who created a starry night effect using their cellphone flashlights. Another standout moment was singer and rapper OSN’s rendition of his classic song ＂Without You,＂ which prompted a massive sing-along among fans. The two-day concert at New Taipei Fun Christmas City set a festive tone for the upcoming Christmas season, with fans eagerly cheering for their favorite artists.

The TVBS Charity Foundation hosted its fifth fundraising party in Fengshan, Kaohsiung, in collaboration with the Chinese Christian Relief Association (CCRA). Over a hundred participants gathered to review the spread of love in Kaohsiung and Pingtung, with the theme of ＂Sharing Endless Love＂ at the heart of the event. The party aimed to express gratitude to churches, social welfare workers, and beneficiaries for their collaboration throughout the year. Kaohsiung City Government Deputy Secretary-General Chang Chiah-sing thanked the TVBS Foundation and the city government’s Social Affairs Bureau for their continuous support, which has aided local social charities and cared for about 12,000 middle and low-income households. Pastor Wang Chung-wu of The Presbyterian Church in Taiwan shared that the ＂Endless Love＂ project helped approximately 100 households, thanks to the enthusiastic participation of brothers and sisters. President Chen Wen-ch’i of the TVBS Foundation expressed gratitude to Jesus for allowing everyone to understand the meaning of love and the essence of Christmas, while acknowledging the event’s role in expanding the power of love.

Kuomintang (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yi-ih and his running mate Chao Shao-kang held a rally in Hualien, drawing a crowd of thousands. Former President Ma Ying-jeou also made an appearance. The event, organized by KMT Legislator Fu Kun-chi, saw around 50,000 participants. Hou emphasized his plans to improve local infrastructure and criticized the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) and its vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim for opposing the island-wide rapid broadband project. KMT Chairman Eric Chu praised the unity displayed in Hualien. The collaboration between Fu and Ma at the rally signifies a reconciled front leading up to the election.