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CEC imposes ban on poll data discussion ahead of elections
The Central Election Commission in Taiwan announces a comprehensive ban on publicizing, discussing, or referring to poll data in the lead-up to the General Election, aiming to ensure fairness and impartiality in the electoral process.
2024/01/03 19:35
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DPP’s Hsiao Bi-khim champions educational equity in Taiwan
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim attended an educational discussion in Taipei, where she shared plans for the National Project of Hope. The project aims to address issues of ’inverse distribution’ in education, particularly the financial burden on underprivileged children attending private universities. Hsiao emphasized the importance of nurturing global citizenry among children and connecting them to the world through digital tools. She also stressed the need for a friendly learning environment, anti-bullying initiatives, drug education, gender equality teachings, and addressing security concerns within campuses. Hsiao proposed creating a friendly environment for socio-economically disadvantaged students, reflecting Taiwan’s diversity and inclusivity. She called for the elevation of the quality of special education, advancement of higher education and vocational development, and a change in public perception about it. Hsiao suggested that private universities provide tuition assistance to alleviate the financial burden on poorer students. In terms of foreign affairs, she highlighted her efforts to sign an educational Memorandum of Understanding while stationed in the U.S., offering scholarship opportunities and encouraging Americans to learn Mandarin and visit Taiwan for Taiwan’s global integration.
2024/01/03 10:54
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KMT candidate’s wife clarifies building ownership
Jen Mei-ling, wife of Kuomintang’s (KMT) presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih, clarified that a building being claimed as their own is actually a legacy from her father and not part of Hou’s property. The building has become a topic of discussion in the upcoming 2024 elections due to its high rent and proximity to Chinese Culture University. Jen stated that the property has over 50 vacant houses, which will be used to provide rent subsidies for low-to-moderate-income families and young students through donations. After the leases expire in June 2026, the plan is to convert the property into social housing for the youth and communal accommodations for rent. Initially, the building was leased and managed by Shin-Kong Life Real Estate Service Co., Ltd., with rental prices determined by Shin Kong Life Insurance. Jen announced that the vacant apartments will be subsidized for young families with an annual income of less than NT$1.33 million and a per capita monthly income below NT$56,000. Existing tenants can also apply for the subsidy, with rates of NT$6,400 for single rooms and NT$7,000 for two-person rooms per month. In her public letter, Jen addressed the accusations, highlighting Hou’s integrity during the election process and apologizing for the family issue.
2023/12/27 15:10
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Hsiao Bi-khim reassures students on Taiwan-U.S. relations
DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim reassures students in Hsinchu City that protecting Taiwan’s democratic freedom is in the mutual interest of Taiwan and the United States. She addresses concerns about the history of Chiang Kai-shek’s pro-American stance and Donald Trump’s seemingly unfriendly attitude toward Taiwan. Hsiao emphasizes the importance of promoting Taiwan-U.S. relations with Taiwan at the heart of the process, identifying mutual benefits to strengthen Taiwan. She states that her approach in Washington would not interfere with or comment on the competition between U.S. parties, but rather focus on maintaining Taiwanese interests. Hsiao acknowledges that while Trump may use certain political language, as long as cooperation between Taiwan and the U.S. continues and Taiwanese interests are protected, it would be sufficient. The discussion also touches on concerns about subsidies for private high schools, with Hsiao emphasizing the importance of educational equity and Lai Ching-te’s intention to work towards making senior high school education free.
2023/12/26 20:20
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Model skimpy attire at Shilin Market goes viral
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.
2023/12/20 20:56
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Taichung Mayor backs moral education, traditional virtues
Taichung Mayor Lu Shiow-yen expresses support for enhancing the morals of Taiwanese nationals and promoting traditional virtues of propriety, righteousness, integrity, and a sense of shame. This goal is seen as beneficial for the nation’s development and transcends political leadership and time. City Councilor Lin Pi-hsiu highlights the removal of an essay on ’integrity and shame’ by Gu Yanwu from the 108 Curriculum Guidelines, sparking widespread discussion. Lin endorses the adoption of the school motto ’propriety, righteousness, integrity, and shame’ and expresses concern about the distortion of moral values among many people. Mayor Lu emphasizes the importance of character and integrity in children, stating that schools should impart character education alongside regular subjects. Promoting the common school motto is seen as pivotal in elevating the quality of citizens.
2023/12/12 17:34
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MOL urges quick passage of Taiwan minimum wage bill
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.
2023/12/11 21:23
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Taiwan captures 400 iguanas overnight, sparks online buzz
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.
2023/12/11 21:20
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Taiwan prepares for election with English-language panel
Join a panel of experts for "Taiwan Goes to The Polls," an insightful English-language discussion on Dec. 13, analyzing the dynamics of Taiwan’s 2024 presidential election and its global implications. Register now for the event in Taipei.
2023/12/07 22:00
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DPP’s Hsiao Bi-khim affirms unwavering R.O.C. citizenship
Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) vice-presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim has clarified that she has never renounced her Republic of China (R.O.C., Taiwan) citizenship, addressing speculations about her nationality status. While she once held U.S. citizenship due to her American mother, she renounced it in 2002 and has documentation to prove it. Hsiao, who has served multiple terms as a legislator, believes that her background has been thoroughly vetted. The discussion about her nationality arose from her time working in the Presidential Office in 2000, where confusion arose due to differing regulations under the Nationality Act and the Household Registration Act. Hsiao emphasized the importance of having a household registration in Taiwan, as it affects immigration, employment, and treatment. However, she assured the public that on the day she assumed her position as an "overseas compatriot legislator," she obtained her R.O.C. identification card. Hsiao expressed confidence in her and her presidential running mate Lai Ching-te’s candidature, stating that everything has been meticulously checked, instilling great confidence as they head into the election.
2023/12/04 14:29
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China’s coercion tactics in Taiwan under the spotlight
In a recent discussion with TVBS commentator Wenchi Yu, former AIT Chair Richard Bush delves into the complexities of Taiwan’s political landscape amidst rising cross-strait tensions and the upcoming 2024 presidential elections. He addresses China’s evolving coercion tactics and the U.S.’s readiness for any developments following Taiwan’s elections.
2023/12/04 11:13
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Oppostion parties to meet at Grand Hyatt for collab talks
Presidential candidate Ko Wen-je of the Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) is scheduled to meet with his Kuomintang (KMT) rivals Hou Yu-ih and independent candidate Terry Gou at the Grand Hyatt Hotel after 4:30 p.m. on Thursday (Nov. 23). Initially, Gou wanted to host the talks at his residence but later agreed to change the venue to the Grand Hyatt Hotel. On the other hand, Hou insisted that the meeting should take place at former President Ma Ying-jeou’s office. Huang Shih-hsiu, the spokesperson for Gou’s office, stated that they would wait at the Grand Hyatt Hotel until a representative from Hou’s campaign arrived or until 5 a.m. the next morning. Ma Ying-jeou will be attending the talks as a witness, suggesting the significance of this meeting among the leading presidential contenders. The meet-up indicates a strategic discussion as Taiwan prepares for its next presidential election, with each candidate aiming to consolidate support and potentially discuss alliance formations that could impact the dynamics of the upcoming race.
2023/11/23 16:33
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Hou willing to be vice presidential hopeful if loses in poll
KMT presidential candidate Hou Yu-ih has expressed his willingness to renegotiate survey results that could determine the final joint ticket with TPP candidate Ko Wen-je, even if he loses. He proposed a 2-on-2 discussion format involving KMT Chairman Eric Chu and former President Ma Ying-jeou, each appointing a representative to debate the nine survey results. Hou’s gesture came after Ko reached out to him, suggesting the camps reconvene talks. Hou emphasized the urgency of reaching an agreement and stated his readiness to accept the role of a vice-presidential candidate regardless of the survey outcomes. He also announced his openness to broadcasting the negotiation process live to ensure transparency. This move demonstrates Hou’s effort to consolidate support against the ruling Democratic Progressive Party as the election approaches.
2023/11/22 19:51
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Bahwan Tribe demands NTU return ancestral remains
The Bahwan Tribe of Taiwan’s Bunun people are demanding that National Taiwan University (NTU) return ancestral remains taken without permission from a Bahwan public cemetery 63 years ago. NTU has been accused of shirking its historical responsibilities, leading to disagreements with the tribe. The issue dates back to the 1960s when the NTU College of Medicine Physical Anthropology Research Team took remains from the Bahwan Tribe’s cemetery, ’Lilieq,’ for academic research. The ’Return Bahwan Bunun Ancestors’ Remains Committee’ has approached the Executive Yuan, urging the government and NTU to return the remains and cease depriving indigenous people. NTU claims to have 43 boxes of the remains stored in its research room and has been participating in discussions with the government and legislature since the tribe’s request in 2017. However, indigenous legislator candidate Savungaz Valincinan expressed disappointment with NTU’s lack of effort to establish a relationship with the tribe and refusal to cover transportation and accommodation costs for their trips to Taipei. NTU has recently expressed willingness to return the remains, erect a memorial, honor the deceased as "Great Body Teachers," and provide medical, educational, and sanitary services to the tribe. However, as a public school, NTU argues that it cannot establish a foundation or provide compensation of NT$1.49 billion, citing Ministry of Education regulations. This issue has sparked discussion in Taiwan about addressing historical wounds and the journey toward transitional justice for indigenous tribes, who constitute 2.5% of the population and have historically faced exploitation and discrimination.
2023/11/19 16:15
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MOFA outlines 2024 strategies for Taiwan’s CPTPP bid
Taiwan’s application to join the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) has been delayed since 2021, according to Kuomintang legislator Johnny Chiang. Chiang expressed concerns about the government’s progress in establishing a task force for the CPTPP and questioned the allocation of a NT$12 million budget for hosting discussion forums. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) has proposed three strategies to take relevant action when Canada assumes leadership of the CPTPP Commission next year. These strategies include building informal communication channels with CPTPP attendees, facilitating effective communication teams with key opinion leaders, and engaging with members who hold unfavorable stances towards Taiwan’s CPTPP entry. The MOFA sees the year 2024 as a gateway for Taiwan to access international opportunities.
2023/11/14 21:03
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Taiwan’s Foreign Minister assures U.S. support
Taiwan’s Foreign Minister, Joseph Wu, reassures the nation of the U.S.’ consistent support ahead of U.S. President Joe Biden’s scheduled meeting with Chinese President Xi Jinping in San Francisco on November 15. Wu states that Taiwan is likely to be a topic of discussion in the meeting and that the Foreign Ministry is closely monitoring relevant information. The Biden-Xi meeting will take place on the sidelines of the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit and will be their first face-to-face conversation since last November. Wu also addresses rumors about Taiwan’s representative to the U.S., Hsiao Bi-khim, potentially becoming the running mate for Democratic Progressive Party’s presidential candidate Lai Ching-Te, stating that the Ministry cannot answer election-related matters. However, Wu assures the public that personnel changes in diplomatic positions are routine and do not impact Taiwan’s relations with the U.S.
2023/11/13 18:29
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Ko Wen-je urges swift resolution of KMT-TPP alliance
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) presidential candidate Ko Wen-je urges the resolution of the alliance between the Kuomintang (KMT) and TPP. Ko emphasizes the need for urgency, suggesting that the matter be resolved within one to two days. He also calls for transparency in the meeting with KMT chairman Eric Chu and invites former President Ma Ying-jeou as a witness. Ko clarifies that collaboration at various levels is not in question, but the discord lies in the combination of presidential candidates. Both Ma and former Kaohsiung Mayor Han Kuo-yu support a public opinion survey to determine the final ticket lineup. KMT Chairperson Chu acknowledges the mutual understanding regarding the survey but highlights the need for further negotiation and discussion on the details and rules of the proposed plan.
2023/11/13 16:01
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Premier announces plans to increase salaries in healthcare
The Taiwanese government plans to allocate at least NT$20 billion next year to raise the salaries of healthcare workers in response to recent protests by medical professionals. Premier Chen Chien-jen advocates for increased respect, appreciation, and compensation for frontline staff, stating that a health insurance system should not be built on the "sweat and tears" of healthcare professionals. Discussions are underway with President Tsai Ing-wen, National Health Insurance Administration Director-General Shih Chung-liang, and Health Minister Hsueh Jui-yuan on methods to enhance salaries through health insurance and public budget funds. The financial assistance will be directed at healthcare personnel excluding doctors, with specific details of the plan still under discussion. The Ministry of Health and Welfare has highlighted the global shortage of healthcare workers as a significant concern, and with COVID-19 still a threat, the government aims to increase healthcare investment and address the welfare of those on the medical frontline.
2023/11/13 11:59
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Taiwan’s opposition parties face deadlock in Blue-White Pact
The "Blue-White Pact," a joint ticket between the opposition parties Kuomintang (KMT) and Taiwan People’s Party (TPP), has become a topic of public discussion in Taipei. Tensions arose when it was revealed that both parties were dissatisfied with the methods used to select their presidential candidates. In response to public scrutiny, TPP candidate Ko Wen-je released a campaign video featuring a potential running mate. The video depicted Huang Shan-shan, secretary general of Ko’s campaign headquarters, as the TPP candidate for vice presidency. KMT candidate Hou Yu-ih’s running mate was identified as Ko Chih-en, CEO of a KMT think tank. The campaign video criticized the ruling parties for their failure to improve living conditions in Taiwan, leading to mixed reactions online. Former KMT lawmaker Alex Tsai emphasized that the pairing of Ko and Hou is crucial for winning the presidential election.
2023/11/10 22:37
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Taiwan to amend Assisted Reproduction Act
Taiwan’s Minister of Health and Welfare, Hsueh Jui-yuan, confirms planned amendments to the "Assisted Reproduction Act" will include changes to surrogacy policies, extending coverage to same-sex partners, single women, and surrogate mothers. The draft law will be made public early next year and reviewed by the Executive Yuan by the year’s end. Presidential candidates have called for surrogacy policy consideration, with Ko Wen-je inviting a long-term surrogacy policy advocate for discussion. The amendments are not influenced by Ko’s political platform. The ongoing effort to amend the law has been ongoing for two-and-a-half years, with a preliminary draft of 42 articles finalized and 13 expert meetings held. The revision aims to protect children’s rights while addressing same-sex marriage, single women, and surrogacy issues. Surrogacy services will require professional consultation and legal contracts to outline rights and obligations for both parties.
2023/11/09 09:50
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Ko Wen-je and Terry Gou meet over lunch without Hou Yu-ih
Taiwan People’s Party (TPP) chairman Ko Wen-je confirmed that his lunch with Terry Gou involved talks on the depreciation of the Japanese Yen and how the New Taiwan dollar should respond. Ko clarified that this was a financial topic he discussed with Gou during their spare time, not a discussion about exchanging positions. The lunch took place after an event at the Hulu Temple, and they did not invite Kuomintang’s Hou Yu-ih, who had no successful meeting outcomes with Ko on the KMT-TPP alliance. Ko shared the details of his meeting with Gou after a press conference at his campaign headquarters, highlighting that frequent dialogues often turn acquaintances into friends.
2023/11/03 21:19
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Taiwan closely monitoring Biden-Xi Meeting in San Francisco
As President Biden and Xi Jinping gear up for a San Francisco meet in November, Taiwan’s Foreign Minister Joseph Wu highlights the island’s vigilant observation. Additionally, prospects of a Biden-Chang meeting during the APEC summit are in discussion.
2023/11/02 17:59
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YouTuber describes unique crosswalk habit in Taiwan
A viral video by American YouTuber Tristan H. captures peculiar crosswalk behavior in Taiwan, igniting a broader discussion on the island’s traffic safety concerns. CNN calls Taiwan a "living hell" for pedestrians. This sparked a large "Stop Killing Pedestrians" rally and led to new traffic laws aimed at protecting pedestrians.
2023/11/01 18:26
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Shih Hsin plans changes amid rumored Chinese dept. closure
Shih Hsin University is considering making adjustments between departments and may halt admissions to its Chinese Literature Department in 2025. Despite rumors that the decision is due to poor undergraduate enrollment rates, the department is not the worst-performing. The university reassured students that the department will only close its doors officially after all current undergraduate students have graduated. The decision to suspend admissions requires approval from the institution and other relevant entities, with the official suspension taking effect in the academic year of 2025 if approved this year. The Chinese Literature Department was established in 1998 as part of the university’s liberal education center, with a master’s program added in 2003 and a PhD program in 2007.
2023/10/30 15:01
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AI shifts but doesn’t rule media landscape: Bruyas
During a panel discussion at CTeC Asia, Dimitri Bruyas, the head of TVBS World Taiwan, spoke about the pros and cons of using artificial intelligence in journalism. While AI can help streamline tasks like video editing, it can’t replace the nuanced work of human journalists, especially in areas like fact-checking and ethical reporting.
2023/10/22 17:32