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Vision of Taiwanese robots starting to rival human eyes

Now might be a good time to get your eyes checked, because robot eyes made by Taiwanese tech companies are getting close to seeing just as well as humans can. For millennia, human eyes have been sharper than those of most animals, allowing us to easily distinguish between colors and quickly find what we needed. The world is changing though, as robots at the Taiwan Automation Intelligence and Robot Show 2026 have both eyes and arms with human-like capabilities.

Over at the Taiwan Automation Intelligence and Robot Show 2026, this mobile robot’s incredible eye has a 10x zoom lens that, in less than 10 seconds, can see these 3 contact lens boxes a few meters away and then spot which one has a prescription of 3.5.

Chen Cheng-lung
Chairman of Solomon
Currently, it’s the world’s only robot that can proactively observe its environment just like a human can. It knows where to focus in on so it can find objects. Most robots can only see things 1 or 2 meters away, which is kind of like a human eye struggling with near-sightedness. Our patented technology allows our robot to first see faraway things very clearly and then start moving, kind of like the expression “look before you leap.”

Along with its mechanical arm technology, Solomon’s latest product has software that enables the robot to locate a specific object within a group of dissimilar things. Its 3D camera technology can also identify and then accurately grab objects that are black, reflective, or even transparent. Also historic is the attendance for this year’s expo, with 886 companies from Taiwan and abroad taking part in this 3-day event. Many of Taiwan’s innovative products have stood out from the pack.

Boasting precision and consistency, the built-in vision technology, which is AI-powered and has 3D modeling capabilities, allows this Techman Robot machine to move wafer trays like those found at semi-conductor plants. And over here, this production line doesn’t need to stop, as the mechanical arm can both identify and detect issues in order to make sure each part has been properly installed.

Haw Chen
CEO of Techman Robot
On the other side of the strait they have some humanoid robots that can dance, but we’re focusing on tech that can do real tasks, doing some applications that are more practical in nature. So our robots don’t need to look like humans, but we’re employing similar technology in collaborative robots so that our tech can be quickly brought to life.

In the past, mounting a server onto a rack usually involved at least one hydraulic lift table and two people, but now all that’s needed is a collaborative robot, which has two robotic arms that can move loads under 100kg. At this expo in Taipei, the robots have arrived, practical applications are being introduced, and, therefore, big opportunities for business are on the horizon.

#thefutureishere #TAIROS #Taipei #robot #3D #HAL

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Time：2026-08-19

最新消息 Latest News

Many KMT and TPP legislators unhappy about NT$10,000 handout

President Lai Ching-te recently announced a nationwide NT$10,000 cash handout that’ll be part of next year’s budget. The intention of the handout is to allow the residents of Taiwan to enjoy “the fruits of Taiwan’s economic development.” Yet many opposition lawmakers, for one reason or another, are unhappy about the handout coming to fruition.

President Lai Ching-te recently announced next year’s nationwide NT$10,000 cash handouts, which are supposed to help residents in Taiwan tangibly enjoy the fruitful growth of last year’s economy. But some opposition party politicians have different opinions on this money matter.

Lai Shyh-bao
Legislator (KMT)
Back when we first talked about this financial concept, the other side said this is “impoverishing Taiwan,” that it’s “selling out the country.” But this time we’ve caught Lai Ching-te “impoverishing Taiwan, selling out the country.” The DPP can, but we can’t! Talk about double standards.

Lin Chun-hsien
Legislator (DPP)
The KMT is acting all flustered, lashing out at people, like only the KMT can propose an idea like these NT$10,000 cash handouts. Next year’s nationwide cash handout is already part of the annual budget, so if the opposition parties oppose it, being that the KMT and TPP has the majority, then the KMT can just remove it from the budget. I don’t know what the KMT is getting so mad about.

Last year KMT and TPP legislators passed a bill requiring the Executive Yuan to hand out cash payments. This time the Executive Yuan is directly putting the handouts into next year’s central government budget. This year’s budget didn’t pass its third reading until this August, thereby leading to a situation in which the NT$10,000 handout has become a bargaining chip whenever the budget is brought up.

Jacky Chen
TPP caucus convener
For the investigation of the budget, the Taiwan People’s Party has absolutely carried out a rigorous inspection; the TPP would never just take it easy, insisting that it must pass just because you want to do a NT$10,000 cash handout.

Chuang Jui-hsiung
DPP Legislative Caucus
With last year’s nationwide handout, that NT$10,000 in cash, why did the Democratic Progressive Party object to it at first? Because it was borrowing money. The government has increased its sources of revenue, and so the money that needs to be spent has already been allocated. And since there’s no need to borrow money, then of course the president has mulled over this issue.

Chen Pei-yu
Legislator (DPP)
Back when Chiang Wan-an and Wang Hung-wei called for a NT$20,000 handout, Chien Shu-pei said that Taipei City’s surplus is enough to let you raise the amount. And the same goes for Mayor Lu Shiow-yen; we’ve already run the numbers for you, so Taichung could give up to NT$50,000, which means you can increase the amount. We encourage you all to bring even more joy to the lives of city residents.

Once the budget is passed by the Executive Yuan Council on Aug. 20, then it’ll most likely be passed on to the Legislative Yuan the next day, meaning this NT$10,000 handout is about to become a hotly contested issue.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#money #LegislativeYuan #KMT #TPP #DPP #cashhandout #budget #moremoneymoreproblems

2026-08-18

22-year-old man ordered to pay NT$398 million for Carrefour fire

A 22-year-old man, surnamed Kuo, has learned that literally playing with fire can come with a hefty price tag. Back in 2023, he and two friends were fooling around with a can of insecticide and a lighter inside a Carrefour supermarket in Taoyuan, which resulted in a destructive blaze.

The fire quickly spiraled out of control, causing explosions in the store, and even spreading to a nearby coffee shop. The Carrefour store had to shut down for half a year. Mr. Kuo was already sentenced to six months in jail in the criminal case, but the financial punishment could be even more painful. Eight insurance companies sued Kuo for damages, and the court has ordered him to pay nearly NT$398 million. The ruling can still be appealed.

#carrefour #viral #challenge #playingwithfire #can #aerosol

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2026-08-18

Massive hornet’s nest causes popular botanical garden to close

A gigantic hornet’s nest has forced a popular botanical garden in Yilan to shut its gates after a dangerous swarm was discovered hanging right above the entrance. The nest, bigger than a basketball, belonged to highly aggressive black-bellied hornets. Workers suited up in full protective gear and used a crane to remove it. But experts warn the threat may not be over, with stray hornets still lurking nearby. The garden will remain closed until September 1 as staff wait for the dangerous insects to disperse.

Staff stand around looking tense. Visitors pass by, wondering what is going on. Look up! A huge hornet’s nest hangs over their heads.

A brave worker wearing a protective jacket is hoisted up to the top of the tree on a crane to carefully detach the nest.

Yang Shang-hua
Yilan Agriculture Department
Even after the nest is removed, some hornets might remain and regroup to build a new, smaller nest.

The Renshan Botanical Garden in Dongshan, Yilan, was notified of a gigantic nest bigger than a basketball hanging right over its main gate. Its residents were identified as black-bellied hornets, one of the most dangerous and aggressive species islandwide, dubbed “mountain enemy No. 1.” Staff closed off the access on Monday afternoon to remove the nest, but even one day later, the danger isn’t past.

Liao Yueh-hui
Zhongshan Village Chief
Even though it’s been taken down, there might still be some roaming hornets that could attack visitors. So the garden will be closed for two weeks. We’ll wait until all the hornets are gone before reopening.

Due to safety concerns, the botanical garden will be closed until Sept. 1, to make sure no dangerous hornets remain.

#hornet #safety #mountain #yilan #botanicalgarden #garden #landscape #traveltips

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-08-18

Jeep driver gets stuck after illegally entering Qixingtan

A beach day turned into a roadside rescue for a Jeep driver in Hualien. A tourist apparently put their vehicle’s off-road capabilities to the test by driving straight onto the rocky beach at Qixingtan Scenic Area. But the adventure quickly came to a grinding halt when the Jeep got stuck and couldn’t move. The Coast Guard had to step in and bring in a towing operator to haul the stranded vehicle back to safety.

Pan Yu-jung
Police officer
We were notified that a vehicle had been trapped at Qixing Beach. We immediately dispatched officers to help.

Lin Yi-hsuan
Hualien Tourist Department
Vehicles that enter areas where parking is prohibited, be it to fish or to visit the beach, could be fined in accordance with the Act for the Development of Tourism.

Liu Wen-tsung
Mechanic
If it got in the sea water, it’s best to give it a good high-pressure wash. Wash it four or five times, then wash again with a little more soap.

All five people inside the Jeep were safe, and the vehicle escaped without damage. But the driver could face a fine, as motor vehicles are prohibited from entering the area. A mechanic also warns that the car should get rinsed off as soon as possible to prevent corrosion and damage from the seawater.

#sea #hualien #taiwantravel #jeep #beach #rockybeach #sand #powerwashing #qixingtan

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-08-18

Eco-reward backfires on popular Tainan iced treats store

There’s a delicious iced treats store in Tainan that sells a cup of mango shaved ice for only NT$49. The incredibly cheap price has attracted loads of customers and the store offers another sweetener: if customers bring their leftover cups back for recycling, they receive another NT$5, making the overall deal an amazingly cheap NT$44. Unexpectedly, these kind eco-friendly intentions were misinterpreted. A customer reported the store for allegedly reusing its single-use disposable containers. The store was forced to deny this and say it was only trying to protect the environment. Let’s find out more.

A bowl of refreshing shaved mango ice topped with mango sauce, condensed milk and a dollop of ice cream makes for a must-have summer treat.

This mango shaved ice store located on Guohua Street in Tainan sells a bowl of mango shaved ice for only NT$49, attracting many customers. The store has also posted a notice encouraging customers to return their cups after finishing their shaved ice, and the store will refund them NT$5.

Operator
Iced treats store
The main reason is that there are a lot of tourists here, and they often leave their cups on Guohua Street or in the entrances of nearby shops after they finish eating, which causes a lot of trouble for many people. We thought we could encourage customers to bring their cups back and dispose of them with a reward.

However, this thoughtful eco-friendly gesture was reported, with someone alleging the owner was reusing single-use containers. Left frustrated, the owner quickly stepped forward to clarify.

Operator
Iced treats store
Say people bring back a hundred cups a day for us to throw out. It’s just not realistic for us to wash those hundred cups, because between washing, disinfecting, and everything else, it’s just not cost-effective.

Member of the public
Thinks it’s a good deal
I think at this price of NT$49, with a refund afterwards of NT$5 is a really good deal.

Member of the public
Approves of iced treats store
If they offer a NT$5 refund, it might encourage people to bring the bowl back for a refund, thus reducing the amount of waste.

After the Tainan City Government Public Health Bureau inspected the site, it confirmed that the containers had not been reused. This iced treats store has only been open for a year, but it is very popular because of its amazingly generous prices. The store owner admitted operating on low profit margins and high turnover, hoping that spending money to collect the cups won’t lead to their good intentions being misunderstood.

#recycling #Taiwanesetreats #Tainansnacks #cheapsnacks

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-08-18

Tainan ‘female ghost’ walking tour signups fill in seconds

Even during Ghost Month, local tourism doesn’t stop! As usual, all four sessions of Tainan’s annual “strongest female ghost” walking tour sold out instantly. The Cultural Affairs Bureau is also hosting events for Qixi Festival, hoping that a little romance will dispel the haunted energy.

Tainan’s historic West Market was recently taken over by a massive red rope coiling its way throughout the building, catching the eye of many passersby who are wondering what it could be for.

A sign next to the installation says it’s a “red thread of fate,” a part of this year’s Tainan Qixi Festival, also known as Chinese Valentine’s Day. The city hopes visitors will immerse themselves in the"City of Love," even during Ghost Month.

Huang Ya-ling
Tainan Cultural Affairs Bureau director
When people come to Tainan, they can connect with many expected strokes of fate through both invisible and visible red threads.

Speaking of the unseen, there’s also the can’t-miss walking tour for Chen Shou-niang, the"strongest female ghost,” which is held every Ghost Month. This year there will be four sessions with a total of 120 spots. Sure enough, reservations filled up in seconds.

Yin Chieh-hsien
Tainan tourism services specialist
As always, we welcome the public to come and listen to the tour. Anyone who joins for the entire walk will still receive an amulet from the temple.

The walking tour sets off from Mother Gu Temple and visits locations mentioned in the legend, before concluding at the Chaste and Filial Shrine at the Confucius Temple, where Chen Shou-niang’s spirit tablet is enshrined. By following in her footsteps, participants can experience Chen’s story and local folklore.


Ghost Month may bring many taboos, but people are still looking to go out and explore. Whether seeking romance or exploring urban legends, the ancient capital opens its arms to travelers from all walks of life.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#Tainan #ghoststory #ghostmonth #ChenShouniang #walkingtour #QixiFestival #WestMarket #redthread

2026-08-18

Tow trunk heartthrob keeps cool after getting hit by man

Last summer, tow truck driver William Meng left the hearts of many throbbing after a news story showed him moving illegally parked scooters. Just a few months later, it was Meng’s face that was left throbbing because an illegally parking elderly man attacked the amateur bodybuilder. Meng kept his cool and called the police to handle the situation, showing that he has both brawn and brains.

Tanned and toned tow truck driver heartthrob William Meng was just doing one of his two day jobs, taking away some illegally parked scooters when he was attacked by this 71-year-old man, who had climbed onto the truck in order to yank his scooter off.

This old man had a lot of fight in him, punching and even slapping this hunky heartthrob’s head. The young man kept calm, calling the police instead of fighting back.

The tow truck driver had already finished packing up the scooter of the old man, who wouldn’t get down and even ended up getting pulled off the truck after he attacked police officers. This incident happened in New Taipei’s Sanchong back in October of last year. Meng said this experience was a first for him, and that he’d already reported the elderly man. The minor celebrity with major muscles did his best to stop the enraged older man, whose behavior could’ve damaged other vehicles and even his own health.

William Meng
Hunky tow truck driver
I was worried that if he pulled his scooter down, that other scooters would fall on him, so he might get hurt. So, I tried to get in his way, to stop him from opening our truck’s drop-side, which likely made him even angrier, even more unhappy. He kept on attacking me, kept on hitting my back, even slapping me once or twice. I was getting fed up, especially since the police and I were just doing our duty.

After this elderly man attacked Meng, injuring his back, neck, and even his face, the scooter-moving celebrity was then accosted by another person: this time it was a selfie seeker.

A 2025 news story showing Meng towing scooters revealed his impressive physique and good looks, which drew comparisons to celebrities near and far, like Korean actor So Ji-sub.

William Meng
Hunky tow truck driver
Training to get this big, it’s just something we like to do. It doesn’t mean that we can take punches, or that we can use it to fight people.

This illegal scooter parking episode turned into a one-sided brawl, where the tow truck heartthrob kept his cool instead of using self-defense, while the old man might be in trouble for an Offense of Obstructing an Officer in Discharge of Duties.

#towtruck #muscle #hunk #workout #bodybuilder #heartthrob #SoJisub #소지섭 #asianmen #hunky #hunkymen #男神

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-08-18

Collectors invest in rare trading cards from abroad

Many couples will be going on a date night on Wednesday for the Qixi Festival, a celebration of love similar to Valentine’s Day. But one big challenge could come when it’s time to settle the bill… should you split? Or not? According to a job bank survey, 52% of respondents are all for splitting the bill on the first date. For men, the figure is more than 60%, and for women, almost 50%. And attitudes toward the practice are changing. Whereas previously most people saw going Dutch as a sign of gender equality, that’s no longer the case. Let’s hear more.

Tseng Chung-wei
Job bank spokesperson
Our survey found that 53% of workers think that splitting the bill has nothing to do with gender equality. But the top turn-off was calculating the bill down to the penny, like when even NT$5 has to be settled.

Dating etiquette is changing, and splitting the bill is no longer as simple as going half-and-half. A job bank spokesperson says that with both men and women generally having their own incomes, the old expectation that one gender should foot the bill is fading. The real point isn’t necessarily paying 50-50, but finding a fair arrangement that reflects each person’s income, the situation, and where the relationship stands.

#splitting #bill #5050 #goingdutch #dating #datingadvice #romance #etiquette

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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2026-08-18

Adorable bear statues pop up across Chiayi City

These bears are bound to melt your heart! Over the summer, a bunch of adorable bears have popped up around Chiayi City. Created by local artist Chuang Hsin-tang, these 10 sculptures can be found in parks, by cycling paths, and at historic sites. It’s sparked a “bear-hunting” craze, where people traipse around the city to snag photos with the cute statues.

Holding a lotus leaf as an umbrella in a park. Quietly reading by a reservoir. Birdwatching at Lantan. This summer, a sleuth of bears has appeared around Chiayi City, delighting visitors and locals alike.

There are 10 of these sculptures, all with a unique design. People are encouraged to go find them at scenic spots around the city and take photos to create their own “bear map.”

Tsai Kuan-chung
Chiayi tourism official
The city government will also hold a special event where people can scan a QR code to receive bear-themed merch, so stay tuned for that.

This actually isn’t the first time they’ve appeared around Chiayi, creating a buzz around these bears. But this time, their designs are more integrated with the local culture and history of the city.

Chuang Hsin-tang
Local artist
As one example, since this is the city of the artist Chen Cheng-po, I made a painter. There are also some historic buildings that inspired a bear riding an old three-wheeled bike in retro clothing.

This bear artist working on a painting in Chiayi Park reflects the city’s title as the “capital of painting,” calling to mind the famous artist Chen Cheng-po.

- This painting bear is so cute!

Outside the old prison dormitories, this bear pedaling a rickshaw instantly transports you back to an earlier time in the historic city.

- There’s a bear pulling an old rickshaw here. People can come and take pictures with it.

Along the cycling path, there’s a bear with a YouBike that makes for the perfect photo stop.

- This bear is so cute. It makes me happy!

As the bears debuted across the city, many joggers and photographers have created their own “bear-hunting” routes, sharing their photos online to piece together this one-of-a-kind treasure hunt.

#Chiayi #publicart #sculpture #ChenChengpo #treasurehunt #ChuangHsintang #photospot

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-08-18

Collectors invest in rare trading cards from abroad

Many people who collect trading cards often travel abroad to find rare collectables, either buying, trading, or having their cards professionally graded in hopes of multiplying their value. Some collectors even consider the market’s prospects and view collecting rare cards as an investment.

This binder is packed with over 100 Pokémon cards, all carefully organized and well protected. The collector also has 10 special, rare cards worth about NT$60,000, which she traveled to Japan to get.

- I flew to a card shop in Japan and bought it there.

This pink card of Mew above a city street, which sparkles under the light, is a favorite among collectors. This other rare card, a collaboration with the Van Gogh Museum, is worth NT$20,000 to NT$30,000. But if it’s been authenticated, it can sell for nearly NT$100,000.

Ms. Lin
Pokémon card collector
Many people like collecting cards by artists because of their beautiful design, which is a key factor in driving up value. For those looking to build a collection, cards designed by artists are a good option.

The card’s details, cut and condition all affect its value. But some people sell fake cards online, taking advantage of the high price collectors will pay.

Ms. Lin
Pokémon card collector
Although its pattern is beautiful, it’s a fake. The real card has a swirl pattern.

Some collectors even consider the cards an investment, as rare cards are likely to appreciate in value.

#Pokémon #Pokémoncards #collection #cards #rare #travel #Japan #tradingcards #value #investment

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2026-08-18

Families learn about Tsou culture at Alishan’s Veoveoana community

Finding places to let kids expend their energy is a challenge for parents during the summer vacation. At the foot of Alishan in Chiayi is the Veoveoana community with a park for Formosan sika deer. Visitors can learn about indigenous Tsou culture while petting and feeding over 20 deer, an experience many hail as being therapeutic as well as fun.

Sika deer meander among tourists, who can even get close enough to feed them by hand—much to their delight.


Member of public
Visiting Veoveoana
We’re from Zhunan! It’s our first time here. The kids wanted to feed some animals. This place is beautiful. Really lovely. You can even interact closely with the deer.

Chiayi’s Veoveoana community got its name from the Tsou phrase “hunting ground for sika deer.” As the name suggests, this area was originally where Tsou ancestors gathered to hunt deer. Today, the Tsou people no longer hunt them. Instead, they rehabilitate and care for the deer.

Shih Lin
Veoveoana director
There are 25 sika deer here, big and small. It’s a dedicated area for families where the deer can interact with you and you can feed them and pet them. We also have tour guides who share stories about the relationship between the Tsou people and sika deer.

In the park, visitors can also pick up bows to try out traditional archery and immerse in the local culture. Spending a holiday at Taiwan’s mini Nara allows guests to experience Tsou culture while also getting up close and personal with adorable deer for a truly unforgettable trip.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#sikadeer #deer #Tsou #Tsouculture #indigenous #Alishan #Chiayi #archery #pettingzoo #familyvacation #Veoveoana

2026-08-18

President Lai announces nationwide cash handout of NT$10,000 in 2027

Another NT$10,000 cash handout from the government is coming in 2027. That will make it the second nationwide payout under the Lai presidency. The money giveaway comes amid a roaring economy, fueled in great part by the AI boom. The latest government forecast expects Taiwan’s economy to grow by 11.05% this year, the highest figure in 39 years.

One key aspect of the handout is that it will be included in the central government budget, with no new borrowing. Economist predict that Taiwan’s annual tax revenue could soar past the NT$4 trillion mark this year, marking a new record. According to the Ministry of Finance, in 2025, Taiwan collected NT$3.78 trillion in tax revenue. And already from January through July this year, net tax collection is NT$574.6 billion higher than the same period last year.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#cash #cashhandout #governemtn #money #freemoney #budget #budgeting

2026-08-17

Temple throws money from roof in copy of Vietnamese tradition

Everyone loves free money. A temple in Yunlin realized this nine years ago and started an annual event that draws crowds of worshippers looking for extra cash. Staff hop on the temple’s roof and throw money down at the crowd, who immediately scramble to stuff their pockets with bills. The tradition originated in Vietnam, but is proving popular in Taiwan too. Let’s hear more.

Worshipper
Grabbed money
They folded them and threw them from the roof so they floated down. I picked up NT$1,100.

Worshipper
Tried to grab money
- How much did you get?
- Nothing! I have a limp.

Ánh Linh
Temple head
We throw money to celebrate the seventh lunar month. Back in Vietnam, some people throw gold. But we don’t. We threw about NT$80,000 this time around. People in Vietnam have been venerating her for 300 years at least, but we don’t know how far back the tradition goes. The way we worship her is similar.

This year, staff cast NT$80,000 into the air. The temple is located in Gukeng Township, and its ancestral shrine is actually in Vietnam’s An Giang province. As more immigrants from Vietnam settled in Taiwan, this international connection prompted the temple to start holding this event in the seventh lunar month. The goal is for participants to return home with good luck and prosperity, and extra cash in their wallets.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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#temple #taiwan #vietnam #tradition #money #rain

2026-08-17

New York Mayor Mamdani stuns netizens speaking polished Mandarin

New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani is going viral online for a surprising new talent: speaking Mandarin like a pro! The 34-year-old mayor stunned viewers by rattling off 40 seconds of remarkably polished Mandarin to promote Broadway promo, nailing the tones and even those notoriously tricky retroflex sounds. The clip has racked up millions of views, leaving fluent Mandarin speakers impressed.

Zohran Mamdani
New York Mayor
Hello. I am Mayor Zohran Mamdani. I don’t know Mandarin, but I want to give it a go.

A+ for enunciation, and extra points for the retroflex consonants. New York Mayor Zohran Mamdani wants everyone to experience the magic of Broadway.

Zohran Mamdani
New York Mayor
New York City is going to give out more than 2,000 free tickets to Broadway shows.

Mamdani speaks impeccable Mandarin for 40 seconds in a promotional short that has been viewed more than 1 million times already. The feat even impressed former White House Deputy National Security Advisor Benjamin Rhodes, who shared the video saying: “This is some next level outreach by a generational talent.” Reporter Bethany Allen, who is fluent in Mandarin herself also posted about Mamdami’s language prowess saying, “How are his tones so good? Is he really a beginner?” Some couldn’t believe it wasn’t AI.

Zohran Mamdani
New York Mayor
We are so excited to welcome the world here.

Mamdani is 34 years old. He was born in Uganda to parents of Indian descent. The family moved to New York when he has 7, where Mamdani was raised.

As a fan of hip-hop, Mamdani was a composer, performer and producer of rap music. He later turned to politics, getting elected as a member of the New York State Assembly and later as Mayor of New York City, a position he assumed on Jan. 1 this year. He is New York’s youngest mayor ever, and is often active on social media.

Mamdani also took part in the Lunar New Year parade in Chinatown earlier this year. Over the past decade, New York City has seen a significant increase in its foreign-born immigrant population, the most notable group being ethnic Chinese, now numbering more than 390,000. So it’s no wonder the mayor’s language abilities have created so much buzz.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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#mamdani #newyork #broadway #chinese #mandarin #taiwanese #learning #languagelearning

2026-08-17

Big brawl breaks out after drunk KTV patrons say hello in car park

A simple hello turned into a full-blown brawl at a KTV in Changhua. A group of people were leaving after a night of singing in the early hours of Sunday when alcohol-fueled confusion apparently sparked a fight. One man mistakenly thought a group inside a car were his friends and went over to say hello, but when they ignored him, tempers flared. The argument quickly escalated, with the men even yanking on the car door and demanding they get out. Police were called to the scene and had to restrain one man who had completely lost control. Let’s see how it went down.

- Let’s sort you out.
- F*** you.
- What?
- F*** you.
- Are you sobered up?
- It hurts.
- Are you sobered up?

KTV Staff
Changhua
It’s the usual bravado. They drink and think they’re a big deal, and that everyone should listen to them.

Wang Yu-hung
Police officer
The incident stemmed from a verbal altercation between the two sides as they were leaving the car park, which escalated into a physical fight. Everyone involved has since been brought in for questioning.

The KTV bills itself as the cheapest in Changhua, making it a popular hangout for younger crowds. But what started as a friendly hello quickly turned into a full-blown fight after. By the time police arrived, some of the troublemakers had already fled the scene. Officers later summoned seven people involved for questioning, and the case has been referred for investigation on suspicion of assault and disturbing public order.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#brawl #ktv #nightlife #changhua #changhuanews #localnews #taiwan

2026-08-17

Traffic cam live-streams doves nesting on light pole

While checking a live-stream traffic camera, people in Kaohsiung noticed a nest perched up on a light pole. Inside were two eggs, their bird parents working hard to incubate them. Back in June, people noticed another egg in the exact same place. Now over a month later, the live “parenting broadcast” has returned for a sequel, and everyone is eager to see the baby birds hatch.

A mother bird sits peacefully, her eyes slowly blinking closed. After a moment, she shifts and opens her eyes. Occasionally she gets up to shift her position, hoping to give her precious eggs the best chance at hatching.

On this live traffic camera stream, residents of Kaohsiung’s Sinsing District noticed two bird parents tending to their nest perched on top of a light pole. They take turns leaving in order to keep the eggs inside warm and safe.

Member of public
Will check on chicks
You’d usually expect nests to be up in trees, but this one’s on a light pole. I’ll probably keep checking to see if they’ve hatched yet.

- It’s so hot. How can they possibly nest up there? It’s impressive.
- Are you looking forward to them hatching?
- Of course!

Lin Kun-hai
Kaohsiung Wild Bird Society director
A key characteristic of the pigeon family is that they’re not picky when choosing a nesting spot. As we saw here, this nest was built right on a joint of the light pole.

This nesting couple belong to the common species of urban bird called the red collared dove. Pigeons and doves are known for being bold and building nests wherever they please.

Lin Kun-hai
Kaohsiung Wild Bird Society director
Under these conditions, if the parents leave, the eggs would be exposed to direct sunlight. Sometimes if the temperature gets too high, it could compromise their viability.

Another egg was actually spotted on this same exact pole back in June. At the time, everyone wondered where the parents were. Now that there are these two eggs, people are curious what happened to the previous one. But for now, everyone just hopes these two baby birds will hatch smoothly so the little fledglings can spread their wings and fly away.

#urbanwildlife #dove #pigeon #nest #trafficcam #Kaohsiung #cuteanimals

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

2026-08-17

Business encourages rural school kids to read with donations, volunteers

With digital devices commanding our attention these days, how many of us still read books? The habit of reading starts young, and a financial holdings company has dedicated itself to the cause for 20 years. Employees volunteer to read with kids in new libraries built by the company’s charity foundation. Let’s take a look at some of the results in our special report.

At the presidential inauguration in 2016, the choir of Pingtung County Timur Elementary School stole the show by layering Traditional Paiwan tunes with the national anthem in counterpoint.

The home of these voices is Timur, also known as Sandimen Township, 360km from the capital. The local, 120-year-old Timur Elementary School is the first primary school bearing the Traditional Place name. The majority of students are Paiwan, followed by Rukai.

- What is your school called?
- Timur Elementary School
- What does “Timur” mean?
- Timur is a school.
- I don’t know.

Tjanubak, Kao Chih-cheng
Principal, Timur Elementary School
Timur Elementary School was formerly known as Sandi Elementary School. Timur is the name of this community. The name was changed because we Indigenous Peoples name our living spaces as a connection to collective memory and lifetime memory.

This is Djemuljat, a sacred ritual of Maljeveq, also known as the Five-Year Festival. Clan representatives gather around in a circle, each holding a 10m-long bamboo pole to try to stab vine balls tossed into the air by the priest. Every ball represents a different blessing. The ritual is used to introduce levers to kids in science class.

Where is the fulcrum in Djemuljat? The shoulders. He’s holding a bamboo pole at least 10m long. That makes the spirit ball the resistance.

Instead of conventional textbooks compiled by the Han people, Timur Elementary School uses the country’s first Paiwan-centric class materials. For example, the traditional slate house illustrates thermal conductivity of different materials, while ceramic beads and silver buttons on traditional clothing are featured in math.

Lai Wei-en
Timur Elementary School
Paiwan culture informs texts for various subjects, including Mandarin, Mathematics, Science and Social Studies. This not only helps kids acquire knowledge in these subjects, but also makes them understand that there’s academic know-how in our elders’ wisdom and heritage.

Chen Hsin-yu
Timur Elementary School
We’re less than ten minutes away from the plains, so most of the kids’ parents are quite comfortable financially and have good jobs, compared with other more remote villages. Parents here are also quite supportive of getting their kids to read.

On this bookish campus, today, every member has come out to welcome guests from afar, to inaugurate a new library.

- Can you tell me what your favorite thing is here?
- This is my favorite.
- This thing on the ceiling is our glass beads.
- Is the new library very different from the old one?
- Very different.
In the old library, the whole space at the back is shelves. There are shelves here, and there at the back, and also there.

Even though many kids here love reading, the old library wasn’t particularly attractive to young kids with its basic interior.

Chen Hsin-yu
Timur Elementary School
Our former library had a more somber color scheme. It’s reflective of the colors of the Paiwan and Rukai peoples, mainly browns, blacks and other deeper shades. I find that the yellow goes really well with muted colors. It feels really bright and attractive to kids. The space is also well-designed, with various reading corners. There’s a seating area, reading steps and other different reading spaces.

The new library was funded by a domestic financial holdings company. A percentage of credit card payment goes to the company’s charity and volunteer foundation, which is then used for improving the infrastructure of underserved schools. From 2007 to April, 2026, as many as 200 public schools have benefitted from this initiative.

Joseph N. C. Huang
Company volunteer foundation CEO
We hope that the Gold Seed initiative will plant a seed for the love of reading in the hearts of every school kid, and that the seed will slowly grow into a tall tree. We hope that they’ll develop a conviction to become somebody that can contribute to our society. We hope that when these kids grow up, they’ll be inspired to contribute to the betterment of the next generation.

The company’s employees also volunteer to read with these kids at their schools.

Yeh Yung-shih
Volunteer
I’d thought that the kids would be pretty shy, but all of them are so enthusiastic and eager to share their thoughts.

Lai Chen-ting
Volunteer
I used to know nothing about their culture, but I began to learn through illustrated books, about how slate houses are built and the history behind them. It’s not just about keeping kids company. I’m also learning.

Turning to Zhongpu Township in Chiayi, an agricultural town. Chen Yen-min is an alumna of Shekou Elemetary School. She remembers that in 2009, when she was in the higher grades, the library suddenly became pretty upscale.

Chen Yen-min
Shekou Elemetary School
After all, this is a rural township. It’s rare to have a library that’s so beautiful and air-conditioned, with such a delightful and whimsical interior, and such lovely colors. At the time when we saw the library, our first impression was that it was really so bougie.

But it’s not enough to have a pretty space. Kids have to become interested in reading, so that the library can truly come alive. After getting her credentials, Chen returned to her alma mater to become a substitute teacher. She’s also now encouraging kids to fall in love with reading.

Chen Yen-min
Shekou Elemetary School
I’ve always felt that I am indebted to my home room teacher in the higher grades. She inspired me to build a reading habit. Because of her, I started reading for pleasure, books and newspaper. She made me feel that texts really aren’t so intimidating. When I became a teacher myself, every week I dedicate one period to bring students to the library to read. In this period, they’re allowed to read alone, with classmates, or even with me. Anything as long as we’re reading.

Over the past two decades, school kids are becoming inspired to love reading. However, it seems that the world is changing too quickly now. Whether in cities or the countryside, people’s attention is being hogged by digital devices and fragmented online information. How does that affect kids’ interest in physical books?

Timur Elementary School had the sponsor install an interactive whiteboard in the new library. The teachers believe that instead of resisting digital devices, students should instead be guided to learn effectively through both digital and analog means.

Lai Wei-en
Timur Elementary School
Before, we did not have a learning device like this. But the interactive whiteboard boosts the government’s “a tablet for every student” effort. We also hope that the kids can learn how to effectively use digital tools to improve their learning outcomes.

Chen Hsin-yu
Timur Elementary School
The issue with digital devices is really widespread among educators, parents, and even the society at large. We’re all dealing with the same issue. Even we ourselves use digital devices. How we teach students to discern real from false information in reading classes is more important. We’re not telling kids that digital devices are all bad.

Joseph Huang, who is usually busy as chairperson of his company, still makes time to attend the inauguration of every new library. For him, each new library is a new seed of hope.

Joseph N. C. Huang
Company volunteer foundation CEO
This is a thank-you card I got from a kid at Datong Elementary School in Puzi, Chiayi, at the inauguration of the library. When he handed me the card, he whispered to me, “Chairman Huang, I’m really so grateful that your company has given us such a beautiful library. We love it so much. We will definitely read lots and lots in the library. We also hope that when we grow up, we’ll become better and more valuable people.” It’s really, really touching when a kid says these things to you. You realize that even little kids feel grateful, and second, they’re really motivated. The kids hope that they will make good use of the library and learn many things.

Tjanubak, Kao Chih-cheng
Principal, Timur Elementary School
I think these experiences allow kids to understand that it’s not just holding out your hands for a present. More importantly, maybe one day, they’ll start to think about how they can serve others with their profession, education and life experiences, even if just a little. They’ll want to pay it forward by serving others in various ways. That’s what we want to instill in kids the most.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#charity #reading #education #library #booktok

2026-08-17

From above, Hsinchu Mayor Ann Kao waves at parading deities below

The gates to the Underworld are open for the Ghost Month. In Hsinchu, one of the highlights is a street parade by local deities, which took place on Thursday. Hsinchu City Mayor Ann Kao watched the parade from the second floor balcony of City Hall, making sure to wave to the crowd below, which included revered temple deities. There was just one problem though: the city mayor, a mere mortal, committed a folk custom faux pas by looking down at the deities.

Ghost Month is here, and also underway is the annual Hsinchu Zhongyuan Festival. Taking place on Thurday afternoon was the removing of the cangue ceremony. The temple procession paraded around the city, but an unintentional blasphemous act took place when the participants and their deities passed by City Hall.

Standing on the 2nd floor balcony, waving to the crowd below, is Mayor Ann Kao, who has a bird’s eye view of the procession. And that’s the problem: Kao has likely committed a religious taboo.

Member of public
Feels Mayor Kao disrespected deities
I feel it’s incredibly inappropriate. If she wants to show respect to the City God, then she should be offering incense in the street below, which would be a more respectful way to treat the deities. Standing up there looking down like that, it’s basically like stepping on a deity’s palanquin; this is truly, incredibly impolite.

Voice of Lin Mao-hsien
Expert in folk customs
Normally, the way we do it is you’d come down, come down the stairs, and then you’d meet the deities with respect; at the very least you shouldn’t be standing higher than the deities, which is a basic form of respect.

Many went to Threads to criticize Kao, saying things like she was acting all high and mighty. Other comments said she was “super rude” and that everybody knows to not stand up on a pedestrian bridge when an important temple deity like Mazu passes by.

Yang Ling-yi
Hsinchu City councilor (DPP)
It’s clear as day, Mayor Kao sees herself as an emperor, like she came here to inspect the troops during a military parade. Doing what she did is rather inappropriate. Her aides, and she herself, should take some time to understand what praying during this ceremony means, and what’s the true message of this event.

Yang Chun-tzu
Hsinchu City Spokesperson
During a break between meetings, the city mayor just happened to hear the procession was passing by, so she went to the balcony to see how everything was going. Some everyday people saw the city mayor, so they waved towards her, and Mayor Kao responded in a friendly manner.

The Hsinchu City Government didn’t directly address whether Kao was actually standing at a higher vantage point than the deities and whether she had committed a taboo. Officials only expressed that Kao was just waving as a means of interacting with the general public.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#Hsinchu #CityGod #GhostMonth #ZhongyuanFestival #taboo #don’tlookdown

2026-08-14

Taiwan to host Premier12 and Olympic baseball qualifiers

Big news for baseball fans. Taiwan is set to host two major international tournaments over the next two years. Hot from winning it all in 2024, Taiwan will be hosting the opening round and the super round for the next edition of the Premier12 baseball championship, which will take place in 2027. In addition, the final qualifier for the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles will also be held in Taiwan. Let’s hear what people think.

Member of public
Happy about news
I think it’s great. As the host country, people from all over the world will come to Taiwan for tourism. Our team will also have support right at home, so they’ll be more motivated.

Member of public
Happy about news
Of course it’s nice. It can increase our visibility worldwide.

Voice of Hsu Wei-chih
Baseball commentator
We have our own cheering style in Taiwan, and our cheerleading culture. People have said it’s worthy of the MLB. We should make sure Team Taiwan plays in the evening, not in the afternoon. Since the CTBA has earned hosting rights, they should give our national team a little advantage.

Tsai Chi-chang
CPBL Commissioner
It’s in great part thanks to Chairman Koo. He overcame every obstacle to secure hosting rights for Taiwan. This gives us home turf advantage, and lets baseball fans come to the games without having to fly overseas.

Hopes are high that Team Taiwan will rise up the ranks once again, to clinch another top class international championship. After all, back in 2024 the road to victory also started at the Taipei Dome. Taiwan won four out of five games in the preliminary round, thanks to the support from fans who came out in droves to cheer for the team. The upcoming baseball events are key for Taiwan, as they both act as qualifiers for the Olympic Games, which Taiwan does not want to miss out on.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Mon to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
Tue to Sat at 1 am on Channel 53

#olympicgames #baseball #taipei #taipeidome #homerun #premier12

2026-08-14