Liaison Office in the RSA SA- eNews FEBRUARY 25TH, 2019 PUBLISHER: MATTHEW CHOU ISSUE 2

I, and the South African Government, have enormous appreciation for the contribution that the Government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has made to the commitment of the Govern- ment sector in the economic development in Africa. The ROC (Taiwan) further, made a gener- ous and much appreciated contribution to South Africa's transition to democracy .

Statement by President Nelson Mandela—27 November 1996 President Tsai Eyes Greater Global Participation for Taiwan

President Tsai Ing-wen reiterated The visiting officials were Melusi that Taiwan is committed to expand- Martin Masuku from the Kingdom of ing its contribution to the global Eswatini, Tukabu Tauati from Ki- community through seeking mean- ribati, Deborah Barker-Manase from ingful participation in the U.N. sys- the Marshall Islands and Fakasoa tem. Tealei from Tuvalu.

Globalisation has led to increasingly According to the president, the gov- frequent people-to-people interac- ernment attaches great importance President Tsai Ing-wen (center) tions and trade exchanges among to its relationships with the coun- countries, while issues such as avia- receives Eswatini Permanent Rep- try’s diplomatic allies as they are key tion safety, global health and sus- resentative to the U.N. Melusi avenues through which Taiwan con- tainable development require col- Martin Masuku (fourth left), Ki- nects with the world. laboration between all members of ribati Deputy Permanent Repre- the international society, Tsai said. The government is looking forward sentative to the U.N. Tukabu to enhancing information exchanges It is important that Taiwan is not Tauati (second left), Marshall Is- and promoting bilateral projects in excluded in the process so that a lands Deputy Permanent Repre- areas spanning agricultural technol- sound global network can be sentative to the U.N. Deborah ogy, green energy, medical care and achieved to address these chal- Barker-Manase (first left) and Tu- resilient cities with these nations to lenges, she added. fast track achieving sustainable de- valu Deputy Permanent Represen- velopment goals, she added. Tsai made the remarks while receiv- tative to the U.N. Fakasoa Tealei ing a delegation of the permanent (fourth right) at the Office of the Tsai also thanked the members of and deputy permanent representa- President Jan. 24 in Taipei City. the delegation for consistently tives to the U.N. of four of Taiwan’s (Courtesy of Office of the Presi- speaking up for Taiwan at interna- diplomatic allies at the Office of the dent) tional venues, including at the U.N. President in Taipei City. (Source: Taiwan Today)

(Left) Thambo Gina, minister of economic planning and development in the Kingdom of Eswatini, inspects Taipei Lantern Festival signage in Wanhua District’s Ximen area. (Staff photo/Chen Mei- ling) (Centre) An oversized clog planter is expected to feature heavily on social media platforms during the Chiang Kai-shek Shilin Residence Tulip Show. The popular event runs until March 3 in Taipei City. (Courtesy of Taipei City Government) (Right) A flock of shovelers and wigeons fly over Jiading Wetlands in southern Taiwan’s City. The area usually attracts migratory birds until the end of April. (Courtesy of Kaohsiung City Government) ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS What's on Page 2 The 2019 Chinese New Year and Cultural Festival Zodiac. In life, every end is a new begin- ning, and it is in that spirit that today we look forward to the coming year with hope and aspirations in our hearts."

Representative Matthew Chou (far right) with the The Mentor of the Nan Hua Temple, Venerable I-Chun (second from right). Representative Matthew Chou deliv- The Nan Hua Temple once again pro- ering his remarks. 2019 ushers in the year of the Pig, vided the stunning backdrop for the Chi- the twelfth sign of the Chinese nese New Year and Cultural Festival. At- Zodiac. tendees could be forgiven for thinking Red envelopes symbolising good luck they had been transported to the Far were handed out to the thousands of East as they stood in the shadow of the people. Inside was a beautiful blessing magnificent buildings while hundreds of for the New Year and money, as is the firecrackers echoed loudly around the tradition for the New Year. temple, creating small explosions in or- der to drive away old ghosts and The rows and rows of mouth watering evil spirits. food stalls did not disappoint and is al- ways a highlight of the festival. From The mesmerising Dragon and Lion vegetable fritters, stinky tofu, fried noo- Dances were performed to the pulsating dles, bubble tea, matcha ice cream, ve- beat of drums which simulated the gan dogs, and fake fish and chips, each heartbeat of the auspicious creatures. vendor had a unique take on the strictly Both dances were performed as a means vegetarian street food. Over the years to chase away evil spirits and welcome in the food has been drawing foodies to the prosperous times, and to show respect festival and to anyone who wants to try to Buddha. authentic Asian street food.

Amid all the noise and jubilation, the Balloon sculpting, lantern painting, go- smell of incense wafted out from the cart racing, paint ball, trampoline jump- The Lion and Dragon Dances proved Temple where people offered silent ing with bungee cords were but some of firm favourites with the crowds. prayers for the New Year and to their the activities for the little ones, while ancestors. cultural events around the Temple and meditation sessions provided food for 2019 ushers in the year of the Pig, which the mind, body and soul and got every- is believed to be a good year to make one in to the right mindset to tackle the money and friends. The portly pig is as- New Year. (Dominique Spalovsky) sociated with wealth, good fortune, emotion and intuition.

Representative Matthew Chou form the Taipei Liaison Office wished everyone a happy Lunar New Year saying, "The Pig represents the completion of a cycle, as the Pig is the twelfth sign of the Chinese ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Headline News Page 3 MOFA Gears up for Taiwan Relations Act 40th Anniversary Celebrations tween Taiwan and the U.S., he added. of State Mike Pompeo last July in Wash- ington. According to Yao, the events will be held in Taiwan and the U.S. They include the Other program highlights include the Indo-Pacific forum on religious freedom Indo-Pacific Security Dialogue in Taipei; a and Global Cooperation and Training special reception on Capitol Hill; a short Framework workshops on digital econ- film about Taiwan-U.S. ties; and a series omy, energy security, indigenous lan- of Taiwan Day events organised by Tai- guage preservation, law enforcement, wan’s representative offices in various media literacy, public health and U.S. cities. The MOFA is staging a series of women’s economic empowerment. events throughout the year to cele- The American Institute in Taiwan is also brate the 40th anniversary of the Tai- The forum—organised by Taiwan Foun- marking the milestone. Its TRA@40: An wan Relations Act. (UDN) dation for Democracy—is taking place Enduring Partnership campaign, A yearlong program of events celebrat- March 11-12 in Taipei. It will be attended launched by AIT Director Brent Christen- ing the 40th anniversary of the Taiwan by Sam Brownback, head of the U.S. sen Feb. 1, focuses on a different aspect Relations Act (TRA) was announced by State Department’s Office of Interna- of Taiwan-U.S. relations each month for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) in tional Religious Freedom, as well as aca- the coming year. Taipei City. demics, experts and officials from more than 10 like-minded countries. Signed into law April 10, 1979, following These activities underscore the impor- the switch of recognition from Taipei to tance of the TRA in cementing bilateral According to the MOFA, the event is Beijing by the U.S., the TRA authorises relations and ensuring cross-strait peace, seen as playing a key role in protecting the continuation of substantive relations stability and security, said Vincent Chin- religious freedom while promoting free- between the two sides in the absence of hsiang Yao, director-general of the dom, democracy and human rights diplomatic ties to help maintain Indo- MOFA’s Department of North American throughout the region. It was inspired by Pacific peace, stability and security. Affairs. They also illustrate the firm the inaugural Ministerial to Advance Reli- (Source: Taiwan Today) friendship and expansive exchanges be- gious Freedom hosted by U.S. Secretary

Premier Su Convenes First Cabinet Meeting, Pledges Tangible Results Premier Su Tseng-chang convened his people clearly understand the steps that first Cabinet meeting in Taipei City, are being taken to address their needs. pledging to lead his team in delivering tangible results so that the public can Su and the new Cabinet members as- experience and share in the achieve- sumed their posts earlier the same day ments of government reforms. in a swearing-in ceremony hosted by President Tsai Ing-wen at the Office of Ministries must collaborate closely and the President in Taipei. forge ahead on the existing foundation of economic transformation laid down Afterward, Su received the seal of office by outgoing Premier Lai Ching-te, Su from Lai at the . He said Premier Su Tseng-chang (centre) ad- said, vowing to step out of his comfort that he accepted the immense responsi- zone, roll up his sleeves and dive into the dresses his first Cabinet meeting bility out of passion for Taiwan and a work. alongside Vice Premier Chen Chi-mai sense of duty to the country and its peo- (right) and Cabinet Secretary-General ple. According to Su, the top priority for the Li Meng-yen in Taipei City. (Courtesy government is to create real benefits for of Executive Yuan) The premier also thanked Lai for his con- the people through policy measures that tributions to Taiwan. By laying out far- aptly respond to public expectations. All ate action, he said. sighted national development plans, Lai central government agencies will take has paved the way for the work ahead, stock of programs under implementa- The premier also instructed ministers to Su said. (Source: Taiwan Today) tion, identify those that are failing to communicate with the public in a deci- deliver outcomes and propose appropri- sive and straightforward manner so the ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Headline News Page 4 Taiwan’s Cabinet Passes Same - Sex Marriage Bill 18 and older to wed. It also covers such respect so Taiwan can continue develop- areas as adoption, divorce, inheritance, ing as a diversified and sustainable soci- and medical and property rights. ety. President Tsai Ing-wen said the bill re- flects broad-based consensus in society According to Judicial Interpretation No. on the issue and is in line with the gov- 748 issued May 24, 2017, the provisions ernment’s stance on protecting the tradi- on marriage in the Civil Code do not al- tional values of marriage. It further un- low two persons of the same sex to cre- derscores the health of Taiwan’s democ- ate a permanent union of intimate and Taiwan is expected to become the racy and the respect and tolerance of exclusive nature for the purpose of living first country in Asia to legalise same- citizens for one another, she added. a common life. sex marriage following the approval of a landmark bill by the Cabinet. Echoing Tsai’s remarks, Premier Su Tseng The ruling found the provisions in viola- (Photo/Jimmy Lin) -chang said the bill is in line with a re- tion of the Constitution’s guarantees of lated Constitutional Court ruling in 2017, freedom of marriage and right to equal- A bill proposed by the Ministry of Justice while taking into account last year’s ref- ity. It also stipulated the government on same-sex marriage in Taiwan was erendum rejecting amendments to the amend or enact relevant laws within two approved by the Cabinet, underscoring Civil Code permitting same-sex unions. years from the announcement of the the government’s commitment to pro- interpretation. moting freedom, human rights, and the Although there may still be some differ- right to marry and found a family. ences in opinion, Su said, the bill should According to the Cabinet, the bill is set be seen as an important first step in the for fast-tracked legislative review and Comprising 27 articles, the bill serves as right direction. All members of the soci- expected to take effect May 24 this year. the legal basis for same-sex couples aged ety should be treated equally and with (Source: Taiwan Today) Tsai Lauds Taiwan - US Satellite Project

President Tsai Ing-wen said that Formo- satellites. Taiwan is committed to ex- sat-7, a group of six satellites jointly de- panding its expertise in related fields, as veloped by Taiwan and the U.S., will underscored by the new 10-year, strengthen the nation’s capabilities in NT$25.1 billion (US$814 million) space such areas as disaster preparedness and technology development program ap- meteorological monitoring while spot- proved by the Cabinet Jan. 15, she said. lighting its space technology prowess. Under the plan, NSPO is tasked with pro- Set for launch later this year from Ken- ducing an additional 10 satellites by nedy Space Centre, the satellite constel- President Tsai Ing-wen addresses offi- 2028. These efforts will further lation is an initiative between the Na- strengthen the nation’s Earth observa- cials and researchers at the National tional Space Organisation (NSPO) and tion capabilities and bolster its role in U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Space Organization in northern Tai- global space tech industry supply chains, Administration. It marks the largest col- wan’s Hsinchu City. (CNA) Tsai added. laborative project of its kind between the two sides, Tsai said. from Formosat-3, which was launched in According to NSPO, Formosat-7 is capa- 2006 and has collected more than 10 ble of capturing 40,000 atmospheric and The constellation’s primary mission is to million atmospheric profiles. ionospheric profiles of tropical and sub- gather weather and ionospheric obser- tropical regions each day, about three to vation data on low- and mid-latitude The upcoming deployment also follows four times the amount of Formosat-3. regions. According to the president, this the successful launch in August 2017 of The increased data sets will enhance the will boost Taiwan’s contributions to Formosat-5, Taiwan’s first wholly home- country’s weather forecasting accuracy, global research in fields spanning climate grown ultra-high resolution Earth obser- the organization said. change, disaster prevention and relief, vation satellite. and sustainable development. Established in 1991, NSPO is adminis- Tsai described Formosat-5 as a major tered by the National Applied Research Formosat-7, an initiative under the gov- milestone for Taiwan’s space tech indus- Laboratories under the Ministry of Sci- ernment’s 2004-2018 space technology try and a clear demonstration of the na- ence and Technology. (Source: Taiwan development plan, is set to take over tion’s R&D capabilities in remote sensing Today) ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Business and Economics Page 5 Taiwan Unemployment Hits 18 - Year Low in 2018 Taiwan’s unemployment rate averaged less rate at 5.12 percent for the year. 3.71 percent in 2018, down 0.05 of a Youth aged 20-24 topped other age percentage point from the year before groups with an unemployment rate of to its lowest level in 18 years, according 11.98 percent. to the Directorate-General of Budget, Taiwan’s services sector remained the Accounting and Statistics (DGBAS). biggest contributor to employment dur- ing the period, accounting for 59.38 per- The latest DGBAS figures revealed that cent of the job market. It was followed this was the best result since 2000 when by the industrial and agricultural sectors the jobless rate stood at 2.99 percent. at 35.71 percent and 4.9 percent, re- The average number of unemployed fell Taiwan’s job market remains resilient spectively. to 440,000, a decrease of 3,000 or 0.7 in 2018 despite challenging conditions percent from 12 months ago. at home and abroad. (CNA) The positive labour market sentiment was also reflected in the average Those with jobs tallied 11.43 million, up monthly wages of the industrial and ser- 82,000 or 0.73 percent, while the labour numbers indicate that despite pressure vices sectors, which picked up 3.97 per- participation rate gained 0.16 of a per- from a slack economy, the country’s cent in the first 11 months of 2018 to a centage point to 58.99 percent, continu- employment situation has been better record NT$52,059 (US$1,685). (Source: ing its upward trend for nine years in a than expected. Taiwan Today) row since 2009. In terms of educational level, those with According to the DGBAS, these positive college degrees posted the highest job-

2018 Agricultural Exports Hit 20 - Year High in Taiwan Taiwan’s agricultural exports increased The strong showing was attributed by 9.8 percent year on year to a two-decade the COA to public and private sector ef- high of US$5.47 billion in 2018, accord- forts aimed at encouraging primary pro- ing to the (COA). ducers to adopt high-value animal and plant varieties, improving farming tech- Of the country’s four major export cate- niques and removing trade barriers in gories, three chalked up rises: crops, major overseas markets. 16.2 percent to US$2.59 billion; aquatic products, 7.1 percent to US$1.93 billion; Equally important was the staging of and forestry products, 2.1 percent to Pineapples are one of the four fruit workshops on enhancing cost and pest US$93.79 million. Livestock declined 0.6 controls, as well as implementing grow- crops helping keep Taiwan’s agricul- percent to US$846.38 million. ing season regulation, in conjunction tural exports on the growth track. with related agencies and local farmer The biggest mover in crops was fresh (Staff photo/Meg Chang) associations. fruit, up 29.5 percent to US$134.75 mil- lion. The record figure was attributed by Another factor cited by the COA was the the COA to double-digit growth in ship- Taiwan’s top-three major export destina- effectiveness of promotional tie-ups with ments of bananas, custard apples, man- tion rankings remained unchanged: the Taiwan External Trade Development goes and pineapples. China, 23.2 percent or US$1.27 billion; Council (TAITRA). A total of 31 joint Japan, 16.9 percent or US$922.72 mil- events were staged in markets such as Vegetables also fared well, gaining 8.5 lion; and the U.S., 10.3 percent or Canada, Hong Kong, Japan and the U.S., percent to US$163.17 million, with broc- US$564.8 million. further boosting the global image and coli, cabbage, carrot and green soybean reputation of the country’s fresh pro- shipments all establishing new export Export destinations posting the three duce. (Source: Taiwan Today) value benchmarks. Green soybeans ac- highest growth rates are Saudi Arabia, 52 counted for 44.3 percent of Japan’s im- percent to US$18.31 million; New Zea- ports, continuing the 11-year run of Tai- land, 35.7 percent to US$10.94 million; wan as the Northeast Asian country’s and the Philippines, 29.8 percent to

No.1 supplier. US$96.55 million ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Science & Technology Page 6

Taiwan Start -ups Recognised as Global High -Tech Leaders City and Pumpkin Studio from Kaohsiung efforts in promoting AI, AR and VR devel- City in southern Taiwan won recognition opment via the XR Express Taiwan Pro- as leaders in the games category. Redpill ject. Lab Ltd. from Taipei followed suit in the lifestyle category. Implemented by the NDC in March 2018, the initiative is a central plank in the gov- IStaging is an AR and VR content pro- ernment’s policy of transforming Taiwan ducer for industries like e-commerce, into the Silicon Valley of Asia. The pro- real estate and travel; Pumpkin is a VR ject, which has benefited more than 100 content and game developer for con- firms, is strengthening the local XR eco- struction, interior design and related system and promoting tie-ups between industries; and Redpill is a VR games de- local start-ups and counterparts world- Taiwan start-ups feature in the latest veloper specializing in AI and motion wide. (Source: Taiwan Today) AR/VR/XR Leaders report by U.S. capture technology. market research firm Digi-Capital. Another home-grown outfit gaining global accolades is Taipei-based Osense Four innovative start-ups from Taiwan Technology Co. Ltd. The provider of im- were recently named international front- age resolutions utilising AI and computer runners in artificial intelligence and aug- vision was listed as one of 100 compa- mented, virtual and extended reality nies expected to change the world by technologies, according to the National Japan’s Nikkei Business magazine in a Development Council (NDC). Jan. 14 article entitled “Searching for Google in the Next 10 Years.” In the latest AR/VR/XR Leaders report produced by U.S. market research firm According to the NDC, the achievements Digi-Capital, iStaging Corp. from Taipei reflect the effectiveness of government Taiwan Maintains Global Leadership in IC Wafer Fab Capacity 21.8 percent, positioning the country ahead of South Korea, 21.3 percent; Ja- pan, 16.8 percent; North America, 12.8 percent; and China, 12.5 percent.

China was the biggest year-on-year mover, the report said, attributing the increase from 10.8 percent to large-scale investment in new facilities and lines, as Taiwan leads the world in 200mm- well as technology.

equivalent fab capacity for the fourth In terms of individual companies, Taiwan year running. (Courtesy of TSMC) Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd., the world’s largest pure-play foundry, Taiwan maintained its global leadership account for 67 percent of Taiwan’s ca- in integrated circuit 200mm-equivalent pacity, while Samsung Electronics Co. wafer fab capacity for the fourth con- Ltd. and SK Hynix Inc. comprise 94 per- secutive year, according to U.S.-based IC cent of South Korea’s capacity. The trio Insights Inc. are also the top three capacity leaders worldwide. (Source: Taiwan Today) According to a report recently released by the semiconductor research firm, Tai- wan boasts an average monthly capacity of 4.13 million wafers as of December 2018. This represents a global share of ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Art and Culture Page 7 CIP, Local NGOs Join Forces in Promoting Indigenous Languages of the languages in areas spanning compe- two-point year-on-year increase, in the titions, festivals and radio programs. 2018 Freedom in the World report pub- lished by U.S.-based Freedom House. The organisations are also working with the CIP to map out development plans in accor- According to the CIP, a total of 152 person- dance with each language’s risk of falling nel specialising in indigenous dialects have out of use. Participating groups in- been recruited by local government agen- clude Taitung County Orchid Island Catholic cies like township offices since the law was Culture Research and Development Asso- enacted. Other measures include the estab- ciation for the Tao language; Taiwan Indige- lishment of indigenous language learning Children dressed in traditional garb nous Language Development Society for centres at seven universities across Taiwan perform at an event to unveil the 16 Paiwan; and Yofayof no Palofasaray to So- as well as the launch of a project to enlist NGOs tasked with spearheading in- wal no Pangcah i Taiwan for Amis. fluent tribe peoples as teachers for criti- cally endangered languages such as digenous language preservation efforts CIP Minister said that empow- Hla’alua, Kanakanavu, Kavalan and Thao. in . (Courtesy of CIP) ering these organisations to drive revitalisa- tion efforts will ensure that the unique Also under the act, the CIP is preparing to A group of nongovernmental organisations preservation needs of each language are set up an indigenous languages research has been tasked with spearheading efforts met. Selection of the groups also under- foundation. This institution is expected to to preserve the languages of Taiwan’s 16 scores the government’s commitment to serve as Taiwan’s foremost centre for re- officially recognised indigenous tribes, ac- implementing the Indigenous Languages lated linguistic studies, certification system cording to the Cabinet-level Council of In- Development Act and protecting the na- development, and dictionary design and digenous Peoples (CIP). tion’s linguistic diversity, he added. publication, the council said.

Unveiled on International Mother Language Taking effect in June 2017, the legislation Indigenous peoples have lived in Taiwan for Day in New Taipei City, the NGOs are each designates indigenous tongues as national millenniums. The latest CIP statistics re- responsible for one indigenous tongue. languages and outlines a host of measures vealed that the population of the country’s They will receive government funding to to preserve them and advance their use. 16 officially recognized tribes stands at launch instructor training programs, pro- Parod said that the law was a key factor in around 560,000, or 2.3 percent of the total duce teaching materials and strengthen use Taiwan’s excellent score of 93 out of 100, a 23.5 million. (Source: Taiwan Today)

Taiwan Artists’ Designs Enliven Lunar New Year Festival in Canada being careful with money as well as savour- “The Universe of Piggy Banks” for children ing time spent with loved ones. to learn about global currencies and the practice of saving money. Charlie Wu, managing director of organiser Asian-Canadian Special Events Association, Taiwan artist Lu Yen-chun designed 12 said since it was first held on the sidelines handheld lanterns shaped like pigs dressed of the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, in outfits from various cultures that are An interactive game “The Universe of LunarFest has become one of the most aimed at encouraging people to donate to Piggy Banks” designed by Taiwan’s Su significant celebrations showcasing Asian charity. Featuring in the festival’s exhibi- Kuan-chih is a key attraction at the cultures in the country. tion “Coastal Lunar Lanterns,” are works made by local craftsman Yao Yi-lun and 2019 LunarFest in Toronto and Vancou- Taipei City-based decorated by four indigenous artists from ver. (Courtesy of MOC) collaborated with ACSEA to present the Taiwan’s Atayal tribe and Canada’s fashion exhibition “The Galleria of Imperial Musqueam, Squamish and Tsleil-Waututh Taiwan artists are enlivening the 2019 Lu- Inspirations.” Taiwan’s Ko Ai-ting and stu- peoples. narFest in Toronto and Vancouver with dents from Taipei-headquartered Shih their designs to welcome in the Year of the Chien University are among the designers Another LunarFest highlight is the musical Pig, the Ministry of Culture (MOC) said. who created outfits for the show inspired “An Accident of Love,” an adaption from by the work of Giuseppe Castiglione, an the renowned 1983 film “Papa, Can You Sponsored by the MOC, the annual cele- Italian missionary who served as a court Hear Me Sing” by Taiwan director Yu Kan- bration of Lunar New Year features work painter during the Qing dynasty (1644- ping. The show featuring more than 30 by local talents who created outfits, a chil- 1911). classic Mandarin pop songs will be staged dren’s game and various lanterns for the in Toronto and Vancouver. (Source: Tai- event. This year’s festival is themed Saving In line with the event’s theme, local artist wan Today) the Moment, highlighting the concept of Su Kuan-chih devised an interactive game, ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Medical & health care Page 8 Taiwan Set to Offer Cell Therapies to Treat Cancers, Joint Disease by the end of February, the Cabinet said. technique that involves injecting live cellular material into patients—can help Under an amendment to the Regulation treat advanced cancers as well as im- Governing the Application of Specific prove life quality for seniors, the Cabinet Medical Examination Techniques and said. The government aims to transform Medical Devices passed last September, Taiwan into a hub for regenerative medi- the procedures that can treat degenera- cine in Asia and is committed to estab- tive joint disease, haematological malig- lishing a comprehensive regulatory and nancies, spine injuries, solid tumours, R&D environment for such procedures, it strokes and burns were authorized for added. use. More than 100,000 patients a year Medical professionals at approved are expected to benefit from the thera- To protect patients and ensure quality, centres are expected to be able to pies once they are rolled out, according medical centres must apply to the start offering cell therapy to patients to the Cabinet. MOHW for permission to use each ther- by the end of February, the Cabinet apy separately and provide proof that said. (Staff photo/Chen Mei-ling) Four medical centres in northern, central facilities, qualification of practitioners, and southern Taiwan have reached the fees, treatment and monitoring proto- final assessment stage and the result of cols meet standards, the ministry added. Six cell therapies recently approved by their applications is expected to be un- (Source: Taiwan Today) the government to treat medical issues veiled by the end of this month, the Min- including cancer, degenerative joint dis- istry of Health and Welfare said. ease and skin wounds are expected to be available at permitted medical centres Emerging treatments like cell therapy—a

ITRI, Local Hospital Join Hands to Offer Smarter Health Care for Seniors

A memorandum of understanding on like heart rate and volume of blood providing smart health care services for pumped in one minute. These kinds of seniors was concluded by Industrial devices assist the work of caregivers and Technology Research Institute (ITRI) and ensure doctors receive timely and accu- National Taiwan University Hospital rate health information on their patients, (NTUH) Yunlin Branch, underscoring the he added. country’s efforts to deal with an aging population. Other equipment to be provided include a diagnostic machine that reads a dia- Under the agreement, the government- betic patient’s retina and robotic exo- backed institute headquartered in north- Robotic exoskeleton legs are one of skeleton legs that aid mobility. ern Taiwan’s will offer the smart technologies that ITRI is rehabilitation devices and locally devel- providing to National Taiwan Univer- Hospital superintendent Hwang Juey-jen oped medical technologies to help the said the collaboration between NTUH sity Hospital Yunlin Branch under an hospital establish an effective health Yunlin Branch and the institute is ex- care network for seniors in the western agreement to offer intelligent health pected to spur progress in developing county. NTUH Yunlin Branch is working care services for seniors. (Courtesy of smart solutions for Taiwan’s long-term with clinics, nursing homes and social ITRI) health care sector. centres to provide services such as doc- tor’s appointments by video call. Established in 1973, ITRI works to en- community-based service network for hance the country’s industrial competi- ITRI Vice President Lin Chii-wan said offi- seniors as a response to the nation’s tiveness through conducting applied re- cial statistics show that Yunlin now has aging society, he added. search and providing technical services. . 121,000 seniors over the age of 65, ac- (Source: Taiwan Today) counting for 17.6 percent of the total According to Lin, the institute will pro- population. The government has been vide a range of equipment including promoting its long-term care plan 2.0, wearable technology that monitors the which includes the establishment of a user’s cardiac health by measuring data ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Entertainment Page 9 2019 Taiwan Lantern Festival Kicks off With Circus, Drone Light Shows Renowned local artists, including indige- letters. The display, by U.S.-based Intel nous musician Parangalan—commonly Corp., will also be staged Feb. 23, 24, 28 known as Kimbo—from the Pinuyuma- and March 1-3. yan tribe, as well as Taiwanese opera singer Tang Mei-yun starred in the open- According to the , the ing entertainment staged at Dapeng Bay annual event is lighting up the county National Scenic Area. with exhibits featuring designs spanning diverse themes from the cultures of Tai- Attending the launch, President Tsai Ing- wan's different ethnic groups to green wen said this year’s event, which is being technology. This edition is also the first held at three exhibition sites, is one of time that visitors can take boat trips to Fireworks and a dancing fountain the biggest in its 30-year history and is enjoy lanterns over the water. light up the night sky at the opening the result of government agencies at all of the 2019 Taiwan Lantern Festival levels working closely together. Tsai also The festival, which runs through March that runs Feb. 19 to March 3 in the urged local and foreign tourists to come 3, will feature performances from head- and enjoy the beautiful festival and her line acts such as renowned drumming southern county of Pingtung. hometown Pingtung. group U-Theatre Taiwan, Spanish circus (Courtesy of Office of the President) troupe Voala Company, singer Rui Si One of the opening’s highlights was an from the Paiwan tribe as well as local The 2019 Taiwan Lantern Festival kicked aerial show featuring 300 drones illumi- rock band Fire Ex. off in the southern county of Pingtung nating the night sky with the image of a with an extravaganza of circus, drama giant blue fin tuna—the same design as In addition to Dapeng, the main exhibi- and music performances, a drone light the celebration’s centrepiece lantern— tion site, celebrations are being staged at show and fireworks. and the words Pingtung spelled out in the county’s Donggang Township and Chinese characters and Taiwan in English Pingtung City. (Source: Taiwan Today) New Album Spotlights Emerging Indigenous Music Talent in Taiwan month recording, song writing or stage ings of joy that arise when on the way engineering training sessions to musi- home. cians from the nation’s 16 officially rec- ogniSed indigenous tribes. “Pasiwali,” “Widangi” is his first Amis-language song, meaning “towards the east” in indige- Laway said, adding it encapsulates his nous Amis language, highlights the initia- tribe’s unique sense of humour. “Only tive’s aim of spotlighting music from true friends make these kinds of jokes to eastern Taiwan, which is home to numer- show how close their relationship is.” ous aboriginal communities, the CIP said. According to Laway, he was inspired to Amis musician Mayaw Laway Ten of the 15 students in the song writing join the program because he wanted to (centre) and his band are featured group, representing different tribes in- write in his mother tongue. During the on the new album of indigenous mu- cluding Atayal, Rukai and Seediq, were three-month course, his mentor, Amis sic, “Pasiwali 2018.” (Courtesy of chosen to submit their songs for the col- musician Chalaw Pasiwali, taught him it lection and a competition. During the was possible to blend his tribe’s music Council of Indigenous Peoples) program, the trainees were guided by with other styles and to keep an open five professional artists, including ac- mind during the creative process, he “Pasiwali 2018,” an album comprising claimed singer-songwriter Aljenljeng Tjat- added. 10 tracks by emerging aboriginal musi- jaljuvy from the Paiwan tribe. cians in Taiwan, was released by the Featuring a diverse range of tracks influ- Cabinet-level Council of Indigenous Peo- Amis musician Mayaw Laway won the enced by musical genres such as R&B, hip ples (CIP), underscoring government ef- first prize of NT$50,000 (US$1,622) in the -hop and rock, the album is available in forts to cultivate new artistic talent. competition for “Widangi,” a song about stores across Taiwan, as well as via online friends making fun of each other. Lowk- streaming platforms including Apple Mu- The record is a product of the CIP- ing from the Truku tribe claimed the sic, KKBOX and Spotify, the CIP said. organiSed Taiwan Pasiwali program creativity award of NT$30,000 for “Mita (Source: Taiwan Today) launched last year that offered three- Ku Spah,” a track that dwells on the feel- ISSUE 1

E EWS SA-TAIWAN N Tourism Page 10

Taiwan Listed Among Top 10 Travel Destinations Deserving of More Attention in 2019

tion with great sites, the country was order. lauded for its unique attractions and di- verse landscapes ranging from soaring According to the Tourism Bureau under peaks and traditional rural communities to the Ministry of Transportation and Com- neon-flashing cosmopolitan cities. munications, Taiwan received a record 11 million foreign visitors in 2018, underscor- According to the website, Taiwan’s moun- ing the effectiveness of government initia- tains offer excellent hiking opportunities tives to attract more overseas travellers. and natural hot spring getaways, while the Excellent hiking trails such as those nation’s famous night markets serve up Related measures include easing visa on Mt. Liushishi in eastern Taiwan’s unlimited choices to spoil any food lover. regulations for tourists from New Southbound Policy (NSP) target nations are among the rea- But what really sets Taiwan apart is its and fostering a Muslim-friendly environ- sons for the nation’s inclusion in the compactness, Globe Spots wrote, adding ment through promoting halal certifica- top 10 destinations worldwide de- that “you can circumnavigate the whole tion and installing prayer rooms at major serving of more attention in 2019, island in a matter of days, but to do the transportation hubs, the bureau said. according to travel website Globe place justice you will need weeks.” A central plank in the government’s na- Spots. (Courtesy of Hualien County) Noting that the country is growing in tional development strategy, the NSP is popularity as a vacation destination, the enhancing Taiwan’s agricultural, business, Taiwan was ranked eighth among the top website encouraged readers to visit cultural, education, tourism and trade ties 10 destinations worldwide deserving of sooner rather than later. with the 10 Association of Southeast Asian more attention in 2019, according to a list Nations member states, six South Asian published by international travel website This is the second time Taiwan has made countries, Australia and New Zealand Globe Spots. the annual top 10 list after placing sixth in (Source: Taiwan Today) 2010. Sao Tome and Principe, Belarus and Classified as a classic and convenient loca- Sweden lead this year’s ranking, in that

Asian Ecotourism Network to Stage Annual Conference in

The annual conference of Bangkok- ness, cultural, education and trade links headquartered Asian Ecotourism Net- with the 10 Association of Southeast work (AEN) is set to kick off in the south- Asian Nations member states, six South ern county of Chiayi, according to event Asian countries, Australia and New Zea- organiser Taiwan Ecotourism Association land. (TEA). According to TEA, the conference will Themed around mountain ecotourism serve as an invaluable platform for con- and indigenous people, the one-day fo- necting local operators with counter- rum comprises panel discussions and parts throughout the region and show- The AEN annual conference in the speeches by business leaders, experts casing Taiwan’s rich indigenous culture and industry representatives from Tai- southern county of Chiayi is set to and ecotourism assets on the global wan and nine other countries including spotlight Taiwan’s mountain ranges stage. Japan, New Zealand and Thailand. and indigenous culture on the global stage. (Courtesy of AEN) Established in June 2015, the AEN aims Participants will discuss challenges and to promote sustainability by fostering opportunities related to ecotourism pro- business development exchanges and motion and share development experi- Southbound Policy, the association said. knowledge transfer among regional ences. TEA is also hosting a three-day Mountain ranges are set for strategic stakeholders spanning academia, com- technical tour to a Tsou tribal community promotion in the final year of the sus- munities, nongovernmental organiza- and the Alishan National Scenic Area. tainable tourism development project, tions and the public and private sec- with townships the target for 2019. tors. (Source: Taiwan Today) The event represents private sector ef- forts in support of the government’s In addition to tourism ties, the NSP is Tourism 2020 initiative and New enhancing the nation’s agricultural, busi- ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Sport Page 11

Taiwan’s Chan Sisters Win Doubles Title at Qatar Open the 76-minute final against Anna-Lena Groenefeld of Germany and Demi Schuurs of the Netherlands, claiming the first set 6-1. The second frame proved more competitive, with the Europeans edging it 6-3.

Rediscovering their earlier form, the Tai- wan duo bagged the first three points of the tiebreaker on their way to a 10-6 win. The pair took home prize money of Chan Yung-jan (right) and Chan Hao- US$49,700 for the championship, their ching display their trophies after win- second triumph at the Doha event after The Chan sisters on and off the ning the women’s doubles title at the previously claiming the crown in 2016. court. Qatar Open in Doha. (Courtesy of Qatar Tennis Federation) Victory in Qatar continues the Chans excellent start to the new season follow- ing success at the Hobart International Taiwan tennis stars Chan Yung-jan and Jan. 12 in Australia. Next up for the sis- Chan Hao-ching claimed their second ters is the Dubai Tennis Championships women’s doubles title of the season with running through March 2, a leading tour- victory at the Qatar Open in Doha. nament on the Association of Tennis Professionals and Women’s Tennis Asso- The sisters powered out of the blocks in ciation tours. (Source: Taiwan Today)

Taiwanese Golfer Finishes 3rd at Women's Australian Open

States posted a five-under par 67 in per- fect conditions in the final round to win the title with a 17-under par 271.

Hsu and Sweden's Madelene Sagstrom shared the lead for the first two days of the event Friday.

The 24-year-old Taiwanese player main- tained her overnight advantage from the Taiwanese golfer Hsu Wei-ling in ac- first day into day two, with a fine round tion. (Courtesy of Central News of 69 to finish the day on 10-under par. The world No. 69 hit just one bogey in

Agency) the first two days of action.

However, in the third round Saturday, Hsu Wei-ling. Taiwanese golfer Hsu Wei-ling (徐薇淩) Hsu carded a two-over par 74, finishing finished in third place at the 2019 ISPS the day in third place. Handa Women's Australian Open with a four-round 12-under par 276. Hsu's best career best finish was second at the 2018 Pure Silk-Bahamas LPGA clas- Hsu shot five birdies and a bogey to fin- sic, two strokes behind champion Brit- ish with a four-under par 68 for the final tany Lincicome. round Sunday. The Women's Australian Open had a However, Nelly Korda of the United purse of some US$1.3 million. (Source: Taiwan News)