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Taiwan hit with new wave of disinformation ahead of election: NY Times

With just over 40 days till the elections, China’s election interference is ramping up. A scholar says China is sending targeted propaganda videos to Taiwan voters, by using fake internet accounts, real influencers, and big data analytics. The New York Times writes that a new wave of disinformation is hitting Taiwan, testing the island’s defenses.

With the 2024 elections approaching, videos about the candidates are swirling online. For China, the internet has become the primary way to intervene in the elections.

On Nov. 27, the New York Times published a piece titled “Can Taiwan Continue to Fight Off Chinese Disinformation?” The report said that for years, China has injected “inaccurate narratives and conspiracy theories” into Taiwan’s information ecosystem, to undermine Taiwan’s democracy, divide its people, and gain control. The report warned that a new wave of disinformation was moving into Taiwan ahead of the presidential election.

Shih Wei-chu
Taiwan Statebuilding Party at-large legislative candidate
Taiwan has done pretty well in countering Chinese meddling. But the article says that the challenge is sustaining the effort. Because China’s cognitive warfare tactics are starting to change, they’re becoming more powerful. They will mix true and false information to stoke divisions among the island’s people.

Wang Hsing-huan
Taiwan Statebuilding Party chair
The threat we face from China is not just a military threat, but a comprehensive political threat that includes cognitive and information warfare. China is marshalling all of its national resources to target Taiwan in all respects, all toward the goal of annexing Taiwan. We need to be aware that this is Taiwan’s predicament.

The Taiwan Statebuilding Party warned that China’s threat went beyond military force. Think tank researcher Wu Se-chih said China was leveraging the internet to wage cognitive warfare. China is repackaging existing news content and distributing manipulated versions on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and other online platforms. An army of fake accounts, real social media influencers, and big data calculations are used to send content based on audience preferences, Wu said.

Hsu Chih-chieh
DPP lawmaker
China’s fake news has become increasingly sophisticated. This country is No. 1 in the global fraud industry, and it’s intervened in elections worldwide, targeting nations like the U.S., Australia, and Taiwan. We remind citizens to be cautious with information with an unknown source. Stop, look, and listen. Put a big question mark over it and seek verification.

As China’s election interference ramps up, the public is urged to tread carefully online.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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Time：2023-11-28

最新消息 Latest News

Hsiao Bi-khim packs up in Washington, thanks TECRO team

DPP vice presidential candidate Hsiao Bi-khim has said good-bye to Taiwan’s de facto embassy in Washington. During her time in the U.S. this week, she completed the handover of her responsibilities as representative. On Tuesday, she shared a message on social media, saying it had been an honor to represent Taiwan in the U.S.

Hsiao gave a shout-out to the, quote, “incredibly diligent and dedicated team at TECRO.” She said she would miss Washington’s cherry blossoms and foliage, as well as the bipartisan friends who support Taiwan. As for who will replace Hsiao in Washington, her deputy is now serving as acting representative. The foreign ministry has yet to appoint an official successor.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

Sunflower Student Movement leader Freddy Lim joins DPP

The DPP has a new member, lawmaker Freddy Lim. Lim is a former leader of the Sunflower Student Movement. He says he was inspired to join the DPP, after seeing the TPP’s Ko Wen-je support the Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement. Lim says he wants to help the DPP with its campaigning, to block the KMT and TPP from securing a legislative majority.

At a Tuesday press conference, the DPP legislative caucus protested the KMT presidential candidate’s plan to let more Chinese students study and work in Taiwan. Lawmaker Freddy Lim, who joined the DPP the day before, was present at the event. He said he had long considered joining the party and that Ko Wen-je inspired him take the leap.

Freddy Lim
Lawmaker
When Ko Wen-je proposed restarting talks on the Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement, I was shocked. I was not expecting that. I don’t think we should sign these kinds of trade agreements with China. That’s also the direction that the international community is moving in. A politician like Ko Wen-je, who got to where he is by opposing the Cross-Strait Service Trade Agreement, now says he wants to resume talks. Then Hou Yu-ih follows and also says he wants to restart talks. This outdated issue is being used by dishonest Taiwanese politicians to bring together the KMT and the Taiwan People’s Party.

Lim said Ko had benefited politically from opposing the pact, and was now doing a 180.

Freddy Lim
Lawmaker
This issue has already become stale. These are policies that align with China’s interests, policies that benefit China. The KMT and TPP may not have come to an agreement on their joint ticket, but they do have similar ideologies in the Legislative Yuan. I think this is extremely dangerous. There are many friends from the Sunflower Student Movement who working hard within the DPP. I feel I should stand with them and work toward securing a legislative majority for the DPP.

Huang Kuo-chang
Former lawmaker
Everyone is free to choose their own political values. But I don’t understand why Freddy Lim would join the DPP.

Lim had founded the New Power Party with Huang Kuo-chang, who is now on the TPP’s party list. Huang criticized Lim for joining the DPP. But Lim hasn’t been the only Sunflower Student Movement leader to join.

Tseng Po-yu
DPP legislative candidate
We have similar ideas, so it was a matter of time for us to band together.

Since the days of the Sunflower movement, some of its leaders have parted ways, and a few have banded together to counter China in a different camp.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

High-risk groups advised to avoid China travel amid surge in respiratory infections

Groups that are high-risk for respiratory diseases are urged to not visit China, amid a surge of illness across the strait. China is seeing a sharp rise in respiratory illness, including mycoplasma infections among children. There have been rumors of class suspensions due to outbreaks, and of pneumonia clusters in children’s hospitals. The Taiwan CDC says it’s closely monitoring developments at home and abroad. It says that so far in Taiwan, mycoplasma has yet to cause a major outbreak.

Here at this school classroom in China’s Liaoning province, half the students are absent, amid an outbreak of mycoplasma pneumonia. Photos taken at a hospital show children attached to IV drips, doing their homework. In Guangdong, one class was suspended altogether after more than a third of students developed fevers.

Voice of Chinese city official
The document released yesterday stated that we have entered the high-incidence period for respiratory infectious diseases.

China is grappling with a surge in respiratory infections. Among children aged 5 to 14, the infections mostly involve the seasonal flu, mycoplasma, and adenovirus. Adults are mostly immune to mycoplasma, but people aged 60 and up have been struck by pneumonia-causing viruses and cold-causing coronaviruses. Despite the severity of the outbreaks, Beijing authorities are said to have ordered a media blackout.

Voice of source in Beijing
We are not allowed to report on the worsening situation. We have to pretend it’s not happening.

With cases rising in China, Taiwan is on alert. A 7-year-old girl in Taiwan was diagnosed with mycoplasma pneumonia, after a cough and high fever lasted for six days. An X-ray showed a large white area on her right lung. Mild symptoms for mycoplasma infections include headache and fever, but in severe cases, patients need hospitalization or even intensive care. Despite concern over the pathogens, an expert says there is no need for widespread rapid testing.

Yang Kuang-yao
Taipei Veterans General Hospital
Patients are usually given empiric therapies. Doctors don’t wait for rapid test results to come out.

In Taiwan, doctor’s visits for flu-like symptoms have declined for the seventh consecutive week, with last week’s figure standing at 52,000. The CDC says the three main respiratory diseases spreading in Taiwan are the seasonal flu, adenovirus and parainfluenza viruses. Others are respiratory syncytial virus and COVID. So far, mycoplasma is not seeing a large number of cases. According to data from Linkou’s Chang Gung Memorial Hospital, the percentage of patients with mycoplasma is less than 1%, making it a minor concern.

Philip Lo
CDC deputy head
Mycoplasma has yet to cause a major outbreak. If there are cases with an unknown infection source, or cases with known sources but that display abnormal severe symptoms, or an increase in clinical rates, then we may take further steps to heighten public health policies.

With winter fast approaching, the CDC says it’s closely monitoring the spread of respiratory diseases, including mycoplasma. It warns vulnerable groups against traveling to China, and to get vaccinated against the flu and COVID.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

Keelung breaks ground on first social housing project

Keelung has broken ground on its first social housing project. The Kuang Ming An Chu project is part of a government push to build 1,000 social housing units in Keelung. Construction is slated for completion in August 2027.

Lin Yu-chang
Interior minister
Today we’re here to break ground on construction. It’s a very happy occasion. A total of 449 units will be built, and the central government will invest NT$2.5 billion in Keelung. I think that this is a very heartening development. During my time as mayor of Keelung, we worked with the National Property Administration on this issue, and had discussions with the National Housing and Urban Regeneration Center. Currently there are three other development sites, for which planning is underway.

The Kuang Ming An Chu social housing complex is located in Qidu District, at the intersection of Guangming Road and Mingde 1st Road. It will boast easy access to transport and amenities like a child care center and a day care for adults with disabilities. A percentage of the units will be reserved for disadvantaged households. A percentage will also be used as house police and firefighters assigned to Keelung from out of town.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

German chancellor promises solution as TSMC subsidy hangs in limbo

The future of Germany’s subsidy for TSMC is now in question. The German government had promised 5 billion euros to TSMC, which is set to build a semiconductor plant in Saxony. But earlier this month, Germany’s top court ruled that it was unconstitutional for the government to pay for such projects using its pandemic fund. Amid uncertainty over the fate of the subsidy, Germany’s chancellor and economic affairs chief have vowed to quickly find a solution. Here in Taiwan, an expert weighs in.

Nobunaga Chai
Photonics Industry and Technology Development Association
For TSMC, it’s just a plant for 28/22 nanometer processes, but the German government and even the EU very much want TSMC to set up a plant in Germany. So I think this problem will absolutely be resolved with time. The EU is very likely to take the cue from TSMC’s model in Japan. There could potentially be a 5 nanometer plant and a 3 nanometer plant in Europe, and subsidies will continue to be offered. But this requires TSMC to be able to move its technology, its production capacity, and even its talent to Europe.

To expand its chip industry, the EU has actively courted TSMC since more than two years ago. Experts believe that Germany will make TSMC’s subsidy a priority as it works to resolve its budget challenge.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

Latest trends 5G and AI applications in Taiwan

Today we take you to see the latest 5G and AI applications, which include products for hospitals, construction sites, and police. FTV reporter Stephany Yang has the highlights.

This 5G smart trolley delivers meals to patients, reducing the burden on manpower and the risk of cross-infection. The trolley is equipped with screens, sensors, lifting platforms, disinfection systems, and heat preservation systems. It utilizes a real-time app to monitor and manage patient meal nutrition plans. Students and faculty from Overseas Chinese University developed this smart application for hospitals.

Huang Chin-hua
Faculty
We applied 5G and big data, and even designed the trolley model. When delivering meals, there is an app for patients and another app for medical staff. The patient can see his own information and the nutritional value of his meals. Through the app, the patient can alert medical staff to any food allergies. We can also solve the traditional paper-based method of collecting patient information. Through this method, we can help the hospital integrate information and reduce manpower issues.

Yang Shih-chan
Student
There is a sensor in the front that can be used to scan the patient’s hospital band, to identify the patient’s meal. The sensor can also measure the patient’s heart rate, blood pressure, etc., and will transmit it to this platform for family members that are keeping track. The doctor can know the patient’s condition. There is also an ultraviolet sterilization function that will sterilize the place it passes by.

Another 5G application uses AI to detect whether an unauthorized person has entered a construction site. It can also detect whether workers are wearing a safety helmet.

Huang Chun-chin
Company manager
When the system detects an unauthorized worker entering the venue, it will activate an alarm. At the same time, a message will be sent to the person in charge. Secondly, the system ensures basic security in public areas and that people are wearing a safety helmet.

Huang Chun-chin’s team also produced a road-safety system that detects traffic, road conditions, and whether a car has violated regulations.

Huang Chun-chin
Company manager
The two live videos you see now are from the Freeway Bureau. The current traffic is shown on this screen. The camera not only lets us know the road conditions, but at the same time, you will find that it knows what kind of car you have and whether it’s complying with road laws. This is a solution we provided to police. It can help ease manpower strain.

These innovations were showcased at a 5G exhibition organized by the Ministry of Economic Affairs in November. With the rise of 5G and AI, businesses in Taiwan are harnessing the technologies to solve pressing problems.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
Sun to Fri at 9:30 pm on Channel 152
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2023-11-28

Cisco survey finds only 19% of Taiwan business ready for AI

AI is rising as a transformative force, but is Taiwan ready for the new technology? Not quite, according to a new survey. Cisco, a U.S.-based networking company, surveyed 8,000 private companies around the world. It found that in Taiwan, only 19% of businesses are fully prepared to deploy AI. These companies are mainly in high tech, manufacturing, finance, and health care. Sixty-eight percent of Taiwan respondents believed they had one year at the most to implement an AI strategy, before their organization is severely negatively affected.

Steven Lin
Cisco Taiwan general manager
Currently the main deficit is in the effective use of AI, the fact of analyzing enterprise information and translating that to a new market and sales direction, to create new markets and businesses. Companies are more likely to see success if they can apply AI in such a way.

Dave West
Cisco Asia Pacific, Japan, and Greater China president
As we get further along in the AI journey, countries will start to look at their readiness around AI, because I think it will determine their competitiveness on the world stage. The type of applications they can develop, how they leverage AI for business and productivity.

Cisco found that businesses felt pressure to deploy AI technology from every stakeholder group, including leadership teams. The majority of businesses believe that AI will have a significant impact on their future business operations.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

Designs from Chiayi and Hangzhou inspire ‘765km of Love on the Runway’

Liu Yu-chi has always loved designing clothes, and now boasts her very own fashion label. As the child of a Taiwanese father and a Chinese mother, Liu wanted to express her dual identities through design. She found inspiration in Chiayi’s Alishan and West Lake in Hangzhou for one collection, even incorporating Minsyong’s famous pineapples. Through these six designs, Liu tells the story of her family.

Liu Yu-chi’s family is wearing the six outfits she created, her brother and sister posing like professional models. The creative designs combine elements of West Lake in her mother’s hometown of Hangzhou with those from her father’s home of Chiayi. Through their fusion, the love shared between them is clear.

Liu Yu-chi
Fashion designer
For this one I mainly used printed train and mountain motifs from Alishan, as well as West Lake, willow trees and pavilions from Hangzhou. I chose green and purple mainly because they are the most moderate on the color wheel, neither cool nor warm. This represents our own neutrality. No one is particularly good or bad, we just have our own personalities.

Liu calls the series “756km of Love on the Runway” for the distance between Hangzhou and Chiayi.

Liu Yu-chi
Fashion designer
When sliced, pineapple looks a lot like the sun. I used slices because we’re always very positive and sunny. I also chose it because pineapple is sweet and sour and sometimes a little sharp. This symbolizes how life is sometimes sweet and sometimes sour, but taken together it’s all wonderful.

In 2022, Liu’s series won an award in the entrepreneurship category from the immigration agency’s “Building Dreams” project for new residents and their children.

Liu Yu-chi
Fashion designer
The way we speak, our accents, our dialects and our food are all different. Acceptance came naturally from a young age. We learned to empathize with others. This is my greatest takeaway from being raised in an immigrant family.

Exploring and melding one’s roots is at the heart of what it means to be second generation. For Liu, what’s most important is making these ideas a reality.

This story was provided by the program "We Are Family"
Funded by New Immigrant Development Fund

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

Milder, wetter winter expected due to El Nino: CWA

As we head into December, cold waves are moving in, one after the next. This Thursday, another wave of strong northeasterlies will sweep in, taking temperatures as low as 15 degrees in central and northern Taiwan. Looking ahead at this winter’s forecast, the Central Weather Administration predicts a mild season. Temperatures are set to be warmer than normal, due to a moderate El Nino weather pattern. Wetter-than-average conditions are also expected in some parts of Taiwan.

Taiwan saw overcast to sunny skies islandwide on Tuesday. Temperatures are expected to rise the following day, before a cold front brings chilly, damp weather to the north.

Wu Wan-hua
CWA forecaster
On Thursday, Friday and all the way to Sunday, temperatures in the north will be significantly lower. The north, northeast, and the east, as well as the outlying islands of Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu, will see day-night temperature swings of just about 4 to 5 degrees. But in central and southern Taiwan, the difference will still be about 10 degrees. We expect the lowest temperatures from Friday night to Saturday morning.

On Thursday, strengthening northeasterlies will bring down temperatures islandwide. Kinmen and Matsu will see lows of 13 to 14 degrees. In central, northern, and northeastern Taiwan, the mercury will sink to 15 degrees, while other regions will remain at around 18 to 19 degrees. Besides the drop in temperature, the northeasterlies will also bring increased moisture. Expect brief localized showers in windward areas of Taoyuan, north of Taoyuan and in the eastern half. Other areas of Taiwan will see overcast to sunny skies.

This fall season, only four typhoons formed over the Northern Pacific Ocean. That’s a significant drop from the average of 10.87, and the lowest number since 1958. This coming winter, Taiwan is likely to see normal to warm temperatures and average to above-average rainfall due to a moderate El Nino weather pattern.

Chen Yi-liang
CWA forecaster
For December, January, and February, the likelihood of high temps is on a downward trend, but is still quite high overall. As for rain, there are no clear signs for December. But in January and February, many areas of Taiwan are expected to receive above-average rainfall.

A mild winter is ahead, but cold waves are still likely to bring sudden temperature drops. The public is advised to watch the forecast to be prepared.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-28

DPP campaign ad urges voters to ‘choose someone as good as you’

DPP presidential candidate Lai Ching-te has launched his latest campaign video. Its message is: Choose someone as good as you. The video hails the Taiwanese people as hardworking and kind, as it shows ordinary people going about their everyday lives. Scenes of Lai are also mixed in, to highlight his down-to-earth side. Let’s take a look.

The DPP’s latest campaign video is out. Showing scene after scene of everyday life, the ad praises the Taiwanese people as hardworking and kindhearted. Voters are urged to “choose someone as good as yourself” – to choose the DPP’s Lai Ching-te.

Yao Li-ming
Lai Ching-te’s campaign manager
The ad lets people see the very down-to-earth side of Lai Ching-te. We want voters to feel that he’s just like most Taiwanese. He’s very friendly, dedicated, and kind. He isn’t some unreachable figure. He is a candidate you can trust.

The campaign team aimed to bring Lai closer to the people. Notably, Lai’s running mate Hsiao Bi-khim was nowhere to be seen in the ad. The day before, Hsiao wrapped up her campaign events in Hualien and boarded a flight to the U.S., where she will complete her resignation and handover procedures. Lai’s campaign manager assured media that Hsiao will be featured in future videos.

Yao Li-ming
Lai Ching-te’s campaign manager
She absolutely will. But her Taiwan schedule was quite rushed this time around. As everyone knows, after she completed her events in Hualien, she headed straight back to Washington to move and collect her cats. She had no time to shoot videos or do any other campaign activities. Other arrangements will be made once she comes back.

Upon returning to Taiwan, Hsiao will push ahead with her VP campaign in partnership with Lai. In the weeks ahead, the KMT campaign is expected to target Lai and Hsiao as its primary opponent.

Tai Wei-shan
Lai Ching-te’s campaign spokesperson
Such election strategies are devoid of substance. I’ve also yet to see them put forward any policies or political views. All they do is spew rhetoric, and that will not win the people’s support.

The DPP said it was unfazed by the opposition’s campaign. It said it planned to focus on policy to earn the public’s support.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-27

Phone stand among candidates’ popular election giveaways

With the election fast approaching, legislative candidates are looking to stand out through voter giveaways. Incumbent Rosalia Wu is handing out essential oil patches, while Taipei representative Kao Chia-yu is turning heads with a paper phone stand. Teaching how to fold it also gives Kao the opportunity to connect with voters.

For her reelection campaign, Legislator Kao Chia-yu is giving out trinkets that require a bit of special instruction.

From a piece of cardstock, she personally teaches how to fold it into a cellphone stand.

Kao Chia-yu
Taipei legislative candidate (DPP)
When I bring it out, people are always curious. I can also use teaching how to make it as a chance to interact more with voters. Everyone likes it. A lot of people will even call me to give them a refresher.

As campaigning heats up, candidates are giving away all sorts of small gifts. More than practical, giveaways provide candidates with a chance to win voter support through personal interactions.

Also seeking reelection, Legislator Rosalia Wu is giving away essential oil patches. Naturally, she helps voters put them on.

Rosalia Wu
Taipei legislative candidate (DPP)
The ladies at the market and our other neighbors are all clamoring for these patches. If you need any, come find Rosalia Wu, and she’ll even help you apply them.

Tissues and face masks are standard fare, as are fans. All except for this one.

After taking it out of a tiny bag, the fan folds out to use.

Apart from voter giveaways, some candidates are also thinking up creative appreciation gifts for their fundraisers. Candidate Wu Pei-yi created temporary tattoos featuring her beloved cat to raise awareness for pet issues and tattoo culture.

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2023-11-27

30% identify as Taiwanese only, 24.6% as ROC citizens only: poll

Turning now to the latest picture of national identity in Taiwan. In a new poll, 30% of respondents saw themselves as Taiwanese only. Another 24.6% saw themselves as R.O.C. citizens only. Another 36.7% saw themselves as both, and 6% considered themselves exclusively Chinese. The survey was conducted over the phone between Nov. 20 and 22. It was commissioned by the World United Formosans for Independence and the Taiwan National Institute Security Institute.

The survey also found a shift in public opinion regarding the status quo. In the same poll conducted last year, 42% of respondents who wanted to keep the status quo but favored independence. This year, that figure decreased by 6.2 percentage points. Meanwhile, there was a small 2.2 point increase in those who support the status quo but favor unification. Speaking on the results, the Taiwan Statebuilding Party said that Chinese pressure may be pushing the Taiwanese public toward a more conservative stance.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-27

Chipmakers mull price cuts as China expands chip capacity

TSMC may cut prices by 2% on mature processes starting next year. Other Taiwan foundries could reduce prices by up to 20%. The price cut rumors come as China ramps up its chip production capacity, with 32 new fabs to launch by next year. The fabs, once operational, could undercut the market with lower prices. According to industry reports, Taiwan chipmakers are acting now to secure clients in advance.

TSMC has the most advanced processes on the market, in products ranging from satellite chips to biochips. Reports suggest that starting next year, it may offer a 2% discount on some of its mature processes.

Hsiao Jui-hsun
Analyst
The drop in TSMC shares is due to several factors. The first is the possibility of a price reduction for mature processes next year. That may have caused the slight reaction today.

TSMC has yet to comment on the price cut rumors. But its stock opened down on Monday, amid China’s aggressive semiconductor push. China has 44 chip plants and plans to launch 32 more by the end of next year, all targeting mature processes. Once the new plants are operational, chip supply is expected to explode, leading to price wars. According to sources, Taiwan chip makers like TSMC, UMC, Advanced Micro Devices and PSMC are under pressure to cut prices now to secure clients in advance.

Nobunaga Chai
Semiconductor industry analyst
We think that the majority of these requests for lower prices come from IC designers and system companies. They are pushing for lower prices from chip foundries to relieve some of the profit pressures they are facing.

With a commercial threat on the rise, Taiwan manufacturers are lowering prices now, aiming to retain clients before Chinese chips flood the market.

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2023-11-27

Six major stadiums boost property prices

The Asian Baseball Championship will kick off next Sunday at Taipei Dome, attracting big crowds and major retail business. Due to the business opportunity they bring, stadiums like Taipei Dome have driven up property prices in their neighborhoods. Of the six major stadiums in Taiwan, Hsinchu County Stadium has given the biggest price boost: an 80% increase in five years.

Charlene Chang
Real estate agent
Over the past five years in Hsinchu, both the livability and job opportunities have been improving. This has driven development in the local property market. Recreational facilities and major infrastructure like this are big plusses for livability.

Chen Tai-yuan
Real estate agent
Crowds bring cash, so business opportunities from events and corporate investment are expected to increase. Of course, many businesses will then set up shop in the surrounding commercial area to do business.

The second-highest price boost was achieved by Kaohsiung Arena, which brought the market up by 41.7%. As for Taipei Dome, it ranks fourth out of six, having brought prices 15% higher.

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2023-11-27

Cancer survivors celebrate recovery with round-the-island cycle ride

A group of cancer survivors have celebrated their recovery with a round-the-island cycle ride. The 51 cyclists made the impressive 1,100-kilometer ride over 10 days. Their aim was to promote exercise as a way to recover from the impacts of cancer and chemotherapy. One cyclist also donated her long hair, grown over four years, to charity, with the wish that another cancer patient will make a full recovery like she has.

One by one, the successful cyclists mark their return. This cyclist lifts her bike in triumph. And this cyclist vowed to donate the jet-black hair she’s been growing for four years, to mark the completion of her wish.

The snip of the scissors symbolizes her successful recovery from cancer. She wants her recovery to “influence life with life.”

Hsu Wei-han
Hair donor and cancer survivor
When my chemotherapy ended, I started growing my hair. When I look at my hair, it feels like I’ve been reborn. So I made a wish that they can finish their cancer therapy successfully.

Cancer has been a common struggle for all these cyclists. Fifty-one people from all over Taiwan set out from Taipei on a 10-day, 1,100-kilometer round-the-island ride. They rode come rain or shine, braving long days, long distances, and steep climbs aplenty. The organizer of the event hopes the ride will encourage more cancer survivors to widen their horizons and beat cancer back with physical exercise.

Wu Hsing-chuan
Taiwan Cancer Society founding director
For cancer survivors, movement is life. That’s my guiding principle. Beat cancer with exercise, keep it at bay.

The end of the race is the start of a whole new chapter for these cyclists, who are courageously turning over a new leaf after cancer.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-27

Tsai thanks multinational investors at Taiwan Business Alliance Conference

The economics ministry held its 2023 Taiwan Business Alliance Conference on Monday. President Tsai Ing-wen attended the investment forum and presented appreciation awards to investors from the U.S., EU, and Japan. She noted that many large multinationals were expanding their Taiwan presence, proof of Taiwan’s reliability as a business partner.

Tsai Ing-wen
President
…these world-leading companies have chosen Taiwan to expand their projects is a testament to Taiwan’s reputation as a reliable and secure partner in the semiconductor supply chain. …Without a doubt, Taiwan has many strengths and advantages that make it an attractive place for doing business.

Wang Mei-hua
Economics minister
The global geopolitical landscape is rapidly changing and the Taiwan Strait has become a focus of global attention. My ministry will also continue to collaborate with the industry to maintain Taiwan’s critical position in the global supply chain.

Over the past few years, companies like ASML, Lam Research, and Merck have opened new facilities in Taiwan. Just this month, Japanese companies committed to investing NT$10 billion. Tsai said that global business confidence in Taiwan was growing, and that the government was working to make Taiwan an even more favorable investment destination.

For more Taiwan news, tune in:
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2023-11-27

Meet Miss Asia USA Tiffany Chang, who’s on a mission to promote Taiwan

And now for an exclusive with the 35th Miss Asia USA, Tiffany Chang. The 20-year-old Taiwanese American won the crown and four other awards in California this month. In a video call with FTV, she spoke about her roots and her mission to bring greater global awareness to Taiwan.

Outshining a competitor representing China, Taiwan’s Tiffany Chang won the title of Miss Asia USA. The 20-year-old Stanford student entered the pageant to promote Taiwan as an independent country. Born and raised in the U.S., Chang says a love for Taiwan runs in her family.

Tiffany Chang
Miss Asia USA
I spent all my afternoons, every single day with my A-ma. And my father always expressed his love for Taiwan. I didn’t really resonate with that deeply until my involvement with Miss Taiwanese American. During our training we learned a lot about our history and our culture.

In 2022, Chang was crowned Miss Taiwanese America. After learning more about Taiwan’s history and culture, she became more vocal in her support of the country and began participating in Taiwan-U.S. events. Earlier this year, Chang attended a banquet for Vice President Lai Ching-te in San Francisco. She even snapped a photo of herself with Lai and his now-running mate Hsiao Bi-khim. Chang says Hsiao is dedicated and approachable.

Tiffany Chang
Miss Asia USA
I had also previously met ambassador Hsiao in Northern California. Early October, I attended the FAPA conference, and when I was there she recognized me, and even said, “Oh, we meet again,” which highlighted our connection. Ambassador Hsiao’s dedication and also her accomplishments has always served sort of like an inspiration for me. She takes on this new role as the VP candidate, I want to also extend my heartfelt wishes.

Chang says Hsiao’s contributions to Taiwan have inspired her to push forward. As a Taiwanese American, Chang says she’s aware of the struggles that Taiwan faces internationally.

Tiffany Chang
Miss Asia USA
The situation at hand is difficult to deal with. It’s important for us to use our platform to continue to speak up about bringing awareness to Taiwan.

The 20-year-old says she’s devoted to Taiwan, and hopes to continue to show support in her own unique way.

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

2023-11-27

Taiwan on guard as Northern China sees a rise in respiratory infections among children

China has seen a sharp rise in respiratory infections affecting children for five consecutive weeks, and hospitals there are struggling to keep up. The U.S.’ Ambassador to Japan took to social media over the weekend to comment about the outbreak, urging China to be transparent to avoid another global pandemic. Meanwhile, Taiwan’s CDC has stepped up measures at the country’s ports of entry.

Hospitals in China are being inundated with children suffering pneumonia-like conditions. A surge in cases has left hospital waiting rooms so crowded that children are forced to sit on the floor, and parents are gripped by fear.

U.S. Ambassador to Japan Rahm Emanuel took to social media platform X and called on China to work with the international community and to share information on the outbreak in a timely manner, saying that doing so was crucial to saving lives.

Philip Lo
Taiwan Centers for Disease Control
The Taiwan CDC has already instructed the country’s international airports and seaports to raise the alert level. Signboards at quarantine stations are displaying notices for arrivals from China, Hong Kong and Macau, reminding them to monitor their health conditions.

The CDC fears that the wave of infections in China could lead to a new global pandemic. The outbreak of respiratory tract infections in northern China has seen cases rise for five consecutive weeks now, with case numbers higher than in the same period over the past three years. So far the outbreak has mainly affected children, and has involved six main virus types including Mycoplasma, RSV, adenovirus, influenza and COVID-19. Taiwanese who travel to China are being reminded to get vaccinated against COVID-19 and the flu.

Lo Yuan-chang
Pediatrician
It definitely helps. After the damage caused by the flu, there will be some miscellaneous bacteria in the respiratory tract. If another infection occurs, it will be an infection of two or three types of bacteria or viruses at the same time. As there are few vaccines left, you may want to get vaccinated as soon as possible.

Those who seek medical treatment for flu-like conditions are asked to inform their physician of their travel history. If traveling to China, people are advised to wash their hands frequently and wear a mask.

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

2023-11-27

Older resident of Yilan revitalizes her community with a sewing school

An older resident of Yilan has revitalized her community with a sewing school. Huang-hsieh Jung-feng was going through a rough patch some years ago, after experiencing kidney disease. But she happened to get close to the leader of the town council, who encouraged her to start teaching sewing. Now, the class helps many older and younger people build up their confidence, express their creativity, and find new outlets for their imagination. To date they’ve made more than 2,000 bags, the proceeds of which go to charity. And the ecofriendly bags are even made of upcycled clothing.

Sewing students press down the pedals, and their fabric inches up the table. Each stitch is given the utmost care.

Each one of them is making an ecofriendly bag. All of these items were made by older members of Hanmin community, and the pillar of the project is Huang-hsieh Jung-feng.

Huang-hsieh Jung-feng
Sewing teacher
I didn’t feel well, so I went for a walk, and I bumped into the former head of the township, Lin Zi-miao. She’s now the county commissioner. And I met the secretary general. And they were very solicitous. I had had my kidney taken out and I didn’t have any energy.

But Huang-hsieh took her destiny into her own hands, with the help of her friend in politics.

Huang-hsieh Jung-feng
Sewing teacher
I really want to thank our county commissioner. You know? I’m in such good health now, and she’s the one who has always encouraged me, and taken care of me. Without her encouragement, I wouldn’t be here today.

Lin Zi-miao
Yilan county commissioner
I’m grateful to my sister for teaching everyone, young and old, always guiding her students. The county government wants older people to be able to live healthy, exciting, happy lives. That’s our goal.

Members of the class took part in a fashion show to show off their beautiful creations. The Hanmin community sewing school didn’t just help Huang-hsieh, it also helped many other older people to center themselves again.

Lin Tsang-tsai
Yilan County Social Affairs Department head
We’re using local assets, like all the sewing machines we have, to enable older people to regain their old confidence. And these things are familiar to them. They make patchwork ecofriendly bags, and they can rival Louis Vuitton.

The students use recycled clothes in their projects, and auction or sell their creations for charity, donating the proceeds to social welfare foundations. Huang-hsieh and her team of volunteers are using their hands and their creativity to do the heart’s work.

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

2023-11-27