Liaison Office in the RSA SA- eNews JANUARY 23RD, 2019 PUBLISHER: MATTHEW CHOU ISSUE 1

Representative Matthew W Chou and the staff of the Taipei Liaison Office in the Republic of South Africa would like to wish everyone a Happy Lunar New Year!

President Tsai Affirms Taiwan Will Not Accept ‘One Country, Two Systems’

President Tsai Ing-wen said that Taiwan Instead of using suppression and intimi- has never accepted the “1992 Consen- dation to get the people of Taiwan to sus” because the definition of it used by submit, Tsai said that China must handle the Beijing authorities is “one country, cross-strait differences peacefully and on two systems” and this is resolutely op- the basis of equality. And finally, all ne- posed by the vast majority of the people. gotiations must be conducted by govern- ments or government-authorised agen- The nation will absolutely not accept cies. “one country, two systems” and public opposition to it forms a Taiwan consen- According to the president, these “four sus, Tsai said. President Tsai Ing-wen details the gov- musts” are the most crucial foundations ernment’s stance on cross-strait rela- in determining whether cross-strait ties Taiwan is willing to engage in negotia- tions at the Office of the President in develop in a positive direction. tions with China, but all political consul- Taipei City. (CNA) tations must be authorised and moni- Tsai urged China to accept the responsi- tored by the people, and no individual or bilities and act with the demeanour be- group has the right to represent the fitting a superpower, adding that the public in such talks, she added. two years. global community is waiting to see whether China can enact reforms and The president made the remarks in re- The future development of cross-strait become a trustworthy partner. sponse to a speech delivered by Chinese relations requires that China face the leader Xi Jinping earlier the same day in reality of the existence of the Republic of The people of Taiwan cherish their val- which he proposed further exploration China (Taiwan) and not deny the democ- ues and way of life, Tsai said. China of a “one country, two systems” scenario ratic system established by the people, should bravely move toward democracy for Taiwan. she said. so that it can truly understand these ideals and commitments, she According to Tsai, despite suffering many Beijing must also respect the commit- added. (Source: Taiwan Today) forms of suppression, Taiwan has faith- ment of the 23 million people of Taiwan fully fulfilled its responsibilities as a to freedom and democracy and not fos- member of the international community ter divisions or offer inducements to and contributed to cross-strait and re- interfere with the choices they make, gional peace and stability over the past she added.

Representative Chou was invited to participate in a rice donation ceremony held by the Africa Tai- wanese Chamber of Commerce at Baghdad Informal Settlement of Ivory Park in Johannesburg. Representative Chou said that on behalf of the government of the Republic of China (Taiwan), he was delighted to share the 'Love from Taiwan' with the Taiwanese produced rice. He further stressed that Taiwan was once a recipient of international aid and that the government saw their humanitarian efforts as a way of paying forward the goodwill they had once received. Representa- tive Chou also expressed his genuine gratitude to the Africa Taiwanese Chamber of Commerce who actively care for the local disadvantaged people of South Africa. ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Headline News Page 2

MOFA Condemns China’s Campaign to Force Foreign Firms to Change Taiwan’s Designation Beijing’s repeated moves to impose its and international companies to change executive jurisdiction and political ideol- how they refer to Taiwan in early 2018. ogy on foreign businesses not only ex- pose its malicious intent but also violate The MOFA also called on the interna- the spirit of free international com- tional community to support Taiwan and merce, the MOFA said. resist China’s campaign of coercion to prevent Beijing from intensifying its in- Earlier this month, 66 firms that identi- timidation tactics. It urged countries fied Taiwan as a country were threat- where the affected companies are based ened by China with penalties if they did to assist them in refusing China’s unrea- The MOFA strongly condemns China’s not downgrade its status. The list of sonable demands. ongoing efforts to force international companies, which include Amazon.com corporations to change their designa- Inc., Apple Inc. and Nike Inc., was pub- The Chinese government should accept tion of Taiwan. (Staff photo/Chin lished in “The Blue Book on the Cyber that the Republic of China (Taiwan) exists Hung-hao) Rule of Law in China 2018” by the Insti- and that Taiwan is absolutely not subject tute of Law of the Chinese Academy of to its jurisdiction, the MOFA said. All ef- China’s outrageous demand on dozens of Social Sciences and the Internet Develop- forts to suppress Taiwan will only give major multinational corporations to ment Research Institution of Peking Uni- rise to antipathy among the people, force them to change the designation of versity. jeopardise cross-strait relations and un- Taiwan to “Taiwan, China” on their web- dermine regional peace and stability, it sites was strongly condemned by the According to the ministry, the threat is added. (Source: Taiwan Today) Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA). yet another attempt by China to belittle Taiwan following its pressuring of airlines President Tsai Names Su Tseng - chang as Premier President Tsai Ing-wen named Su Tseng- once again. He pledged to do his out- chang as replacement for outgoing Pre- most to continue the program of re- mier Lai Ching-te during a news confer- forms enacted by Lai and respond to the ence at the Office of the President in will of the people. Taipei City. The president also extended her appre- At this critical juncture, Su, who previ- ciation to Lai, praising his efforts to ad- ously served as premier from 2006 to vance major policies such as the five-plus 2007, is the right candidate to assume -two industrial innovation initiative and the position given his abundant execu- Forward-looking Infrastructure Develop- tive experience, strong resolve and life- President Tsai Ing-wen (centre) is ment Program. long devotion to public service, Tsai said. joined by outgoing Premier Lai Ching- Lai implemented wide-ranging reforms According to the president, Taiwan will te (left) and his replacement Su Tseng- to enhance government efficiency and face significant challenges in 2019 such chang during a news conference at the improve the nation’s business environ- as the fallout from the U.S.-China trade Office of the President in Taipei City. ment, Tsai said, adding that the develop- war and Beijing’s continued attempts to (Courtesy of Office of the President) ment plans he crafted for Taiwan will belittle the nation. Su has the leadership help keep the country on the growth skills and determination to spearhead track. government efforts in boosting the local economy, defending democracy and magistrate of southern Taiwan's Ping- In his remarks, Lai said that with the safeguarding national sovereignty, she tung County from 1989 to 1993, magis- 2019 central government budget clear- added. trate of Taipei County, now New Taipei ing the Legislature the day before, the City, from 1997 to 2004, and secretary- time was ripe for him to leave. It has The appointment of Su followed the res- general of the Office of the President been the greatest honour of his life to ignation of Lai alongside the rest of the from 2004 to 2005. serve his country, he added. (Source: Cabinet ahead of a reshuffle. Taiwan Today) Su thanked the president for her trust In addition to premier, Su was formerly and the opportunity to serve the country ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Headline News Page 3 National Languages Development Act Passed by Legislature such as Hakka; Holo, also called Taiwan- MOC Minister Cheng Li-chiun said that ese; and indigenous languages, as well as passage of the bill marks a historic mile- Taiwan Sign Language. stone in the development of Taiwan’s multicultural society. The act will help Under the legislation, the government boost integration of language preserva- will work to perpetuate endangered tion resources across the public and pri- tongues through measures like making vate sectors and foster an environment lessons more readily available in kinder- conducive to the safeguarding of linguis- gartens. The languages are also expected tic heritage, she added. The Legislature’s passage of the na- to be introduced as elective subjects in tional languages development act elementary and high schools by 2022. According to the MOC, the law will cre- paves the way for enhanced measures ate a comprehensive national framework to safeguard Taiwan’s linguistic diver- The law also stipulates reward programs for the promotion and protection of all sity. (CNA) to encourage the study, use and promo- languages used by ethnic groups in Tai- tion of the languages throughout society. wan following the passage of the Indige- The national languages development act It further calls for the creation of a na- nous Languages Development and Hakka was passed by the Legislature in Taipei tional linguistic database and research Basic acts in June 2017 and January this City, paving the way for enhanced efforts mechanism, as well as the staging of year, respectively. to preserve and promote Taiwan’s lin- regular conferences on related issues. guistic diversity. Drafted by the ministry in 2016, the bill Also included in the act is a requirement was approved by the Cabinet. Following Formulated by the Ministry of Culture to ensure citizens’ right to broadcasting its passage by the Legislature, it must be (MOC), the bill grants equal protections services in their mother tongues. This is promulgated by President Tsai Ing-wen to all national languages and guarantees set to lead to the establishment of addi- before becoming law. (Source: Taiwan the right of citizens to use them in ac- tional state-supported media outlets to Today) cessing public services. According to the complement existing organisations such law, national languages refers to the as Hakka TV and Taiwan Indigenous Tele- mother tongues of local ethnic groups, vision.

Democracy Index Ranks Taiwan 3rd in Asia, 32nd Globally Taiwan is third in Asia and 32nd among account the following day that as the 167 countries and territories around the leader of a young and vibrant democ- world in the Democracy Index 2018 re- racy, she was honoured to work with the leased by London-based Economist Intel- 23 million people of Taiwan in safe- ligence Unit. guarding the values that shape the na- tional identity. Climbing one spot from the previous edition, Taiwan received an overall score Taiwan is widely recognised as a beacon of 7.73 out of 10 to finish ahead of re- of freedom, democracy and human gional neighbours Malaysia, 52nd; Singa- Taiwan is ranked 32nd among 167 rights in the Asia-Pacific. It was the high- pore, 66th; and Hong Kong, 73rd, and est-ranked Asian nation for the sixth countries and territories around the trail South Korea, 21st; and Japan, 22nd. consecutive year in the 2018 World Norway, Iceland and Sweden topped the world in the Democracy Index 2018 Press Freedom Index released last April list, in that order. released by London-based Economist by Paris-headquartered Reporters With- Intelligence Unit. (Staff photo/Chin out Borders, and was listed as “free” for The report assesses countries and terri- Hung-hao) the 20th consecutive year in the annual tories based on 60 indicators grouped Freedom in the World report by U.S.- into five main categories: civil liberties; based nongovernmental organisation electoral process and pluralism; func- 9.12 for electoral process and pluralism Freedom House last January. (Source: tioning of government; political partici- and civil liberties, respectively. Taiwan Today) pation; and political culture. In response to the survey, President Tsai Taiwan received high scores of 9.58 and Ing-wen wrote on her official Twitter

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SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Business and Economics Page 4 Taiwan-Eswatini Economic Cooperation Agreement Takes Effect The Agreement on Economic Coopera- Eswatini will also provide information on tion between Taiwan and the Kingdom its participation in African economic in- of Eswatini came into force December tegration and support Taiwan’s efforts 27, paving the way for increased trade to use the country as a base for and investment ties between the allies, strengthening its trade links across the according to the Ministry of Economic continent. Affairs (MOEA). In addition, a joint committee is being Signed in Taipei City during the state established to facilitate regular commu- visit of King Mswati III, the pact covers nication and information exchanges on cooperation across such areas as export President Tsai Ing-wen (centre) and issues of mutual concern, including mar- processing zones, talent cultivation and King Mswati III (left) toast the conclu- ket access and priority sectors for col- technical exchanges. It is expected to sion of the Agreement on Economic laboration. deliver substantial benefits for the peo- Cooperation between Taiwan and the ple of both countries by creating addi- Kingdom of Eswatini alongside Minis- Official statistics show that bilateral tional growth opportunities and advanc- ter of Foreign Affairs Jaushieh Joseph trade surged to US$9.82 million during ing sustainable development, the MOEA Wu at the Office of the President in the first 11 months of this year, up 41 said. Taipei City. (Courtesy of Office of the percent from the same period in 2017. A President) total of 20 Taiwan enterprises have es- Under the accord, tariffs on 153 export tablished operations in Eswatini, invest- items from Eswatini are immediately are set to hold regular consultations ing a combined US$80 million and creat- reduced to zero or will be eliminated with Taiwan investors to address barri- ing some 13,000 jobs for local workers, over time, while government agencies in ers and offer incentives. according to the MOEA. (Source: Taiwan the landlocked southern African nation Today)

Cabinet Approves 2019 National Development Plan The 2019 National Development Plan (NDP) such as the Forward-looking Infrastructure was approved by the Cabinet, charting the Development Program, sustainable tourism course for Taiwan’s continued prosperity and tax reform, as well as the compilation of amid global trade uncertainties and rapid a national evaluation report required for EU expansion of the digital economy. General Data Protection Regulation ade- quacy. Proposed by the National Development Council (NDC), the plan is built on four main According to the NDC, the strategy sets key pillars: creating a secure and prosperous performance indexes to gauge the effective- living and working environment; promoting ness of related efforts. Particular attention sustainable population growth; ensuring bal- will be paid to those in areas with a direct Taiwan’s economy is expected to remain anced regional development; and safeguard- bearing on public welfare such as air pollu- ing national security and expanding interna- on the growth track in 2019 under the tion controls, food safety, and day-care and tional engagement. National Development Plan passed by the long-term care services, the council said. Cabinet. (CNA) According to the NDC, rising global concerns It is expected that the plan will boost Tai- such as fallout from the U.S.-China trade Several new policy priorities are outlined for wan’s per capita gross domestic product by dispute are causing the downward revision of next year. These include encouraging more between 2.4 and 2.6 percent, with the unem- forecasts for major economies around the homebound investment from Taiwan firms ployment rate hovering at around 3.6 percent world. operating overseas; proposing a national and the consumer price index capped at 2 place-making strategy to foster community- percent, the NDC added. The plan is aimed at helping the country level transformation and rejuvenation; turn- weather potential negative impacts by boost- ing Taiwan into a Chinese-English bilingual Passed by the Legislature in July 2017, the ing domestic demand and innovation capa- country by 2030; as well as fast-tracking eight-year FIDP includes projects spanning bilities, the NDC said. This will be achieved amendments to and enactment of legislation railway development, digital infrastructure, through strengthening employment, inbound covering economic immigration, innovation aquatic environment, food safety, green en- investment and infrastructure development, and urban renewal. ergy, boosting birth rates and child care facili- as well as facilitating industrial R&D and ties, and fostering talent and employment. structural reform. The plan also details measures to advance (Source: Taiwan Today) the implementation of existing initiatives ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Science & Technology Page 5

Taiwan Start-ups to Showcase Innovative Tech at CES in Las Vegas prised of firms in such fields as advanced levels for improved performance. manufacturing, artificial intelligence, cyber security, health care, Internet of According to the MOST, eight of the start Things, software development and wear- -ups showcased innovative AI solutions. able devices. Among these, AgriTalk Technology Inc. exhibited a revolutionary agricultural Eight of the participating companies are system that uses software to regulate winners of the 2019 CES Innovation fertilisation and pest control. Awards unveiled Nov. 8. These include EleClean Co. Ltd. for its Disinfectant Language Hero Inc. demonstrated a peer Spray, a portable device that converts -to-peer video chat app that creates an MOST Deputy Minister Hsu Yu-chin water into a high-active oxygen steriliser engaging and lifelike conversation envi- (front, second right) led a delegation to kill bacteria and viruses. ronment. And Marvin Inc. introduced of 44 Taiwan-based tech start-ups to lightweight, high-performance wireless CES in Las Vegas. (Courtesy of MOST) Equally impressive is Han-Win Technol- ear buds that support AI and voice-based ogy Corp., which was recognised for its IoT applications. Inno-Safety Battery Management System that significantly mitigates the problems The participating firms showcased their A delegation of 44 Taiwan-based tech of cell explosion and lifespan reduction products at the Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA) start-ups attended the Consumer Elec- due to over-discharge. pavilion. TTA, a MOST-supported facility tronics Show (CES) in Las Vegas to foster located in Taipei City, was launched last connections with overseas investors and Another honouree is the Taiwan branch June as part of government efforts to spotlight the nation’s entrepreneurial of U.S.-headquartered Genius Holdings foster at least 100 start-ups each year in ecosystem. Co. Ltd. The company’s cloud-based emerging sectors such as AI and IoT. ezOxygen Smart Breath Checker evalu- (Source: Taiwan Today) Organised by the Ministry of Science and ates users’ respiratory functions and Technology (MOST), the group com- offers guidance on adjusting exercise Canada Start-up Accelerator Project to Open Branch at Taiwan Tech Arena ing joint efforts to strengthen business Echoing these remarks, Sarah Taylor, and R&D ties between the two sides, director general for North Asia and Oce- according to the Ministry of Science and ania at Global Affairs Canada, described Technology (MOST). the two sides as natural partners in nur- turing start-ups. Taiwan is internationally Slated to commence operations in early renowned for transforming scientific 2019 at the ministry-backed TTA in concepts into marketable products, she Taipei City, Canadian Technology Accel- said, adding that pairing this ability with erator (CTA) will work to boost network- Canada’s research prowess will deliver MOST Deputy Minister Hsu Yu-chin ing between innovative entrepreneurs significant mutual benefits. and venture capitalists in Taiwan and (third right), Minister without Portfo- Canada and foster emerging companies Located in Taipei’s Songshan District, TTA lio Audrey Tang (fourth left), Sarah in sectors spanning artificial intelligence, is part of government efforts to foster at Taylor (fifth left), director general for Internet of Things and smart health care. least 100 start-ups each year in emerging North Asia and Oceania at Global sectors such as AI and IoT. A number of Affairs Canada, and other officials Speaking at the launch ceremony, MOST foreign accelerators have set up shop at Deputy Minister Hsu Yu-chin said that the facility since its launch in June, in- attend the launch ceremony for the this partnership will help promote com- cluding U.K.-based Startupsbootcamp as Canadian Technology Accelerator mercialisation of scientific research and well as Berkeley SkyDeck and Techstars branch at TTA in Taipei City. (Courtesy bolster talent cultivation. International from the U.S. of Canadian Trade Office in Taipei) industry tie-ups through TTA are enhanc- ing Taiwan’s innovation ecosystem and Taipei is the fourth city in Asia to host a Taiwan Tech Arena (TTA) is set to host a inspiring the development of socially CTA branch after Hong Kong, Singapore branch of Canada’s government-backed consequential technologies, he added. and Tokyo. (Source: Taiwan Today) start-up accelerator initiative, spotlight- ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Art and Culture Page 6 Exhibition of Historical Photographs Kicks off in New Taipei Museum, “Taiwan through the Photogra- natural environments. “Wu Ming-zhu, pher’s Lens” runs until June 24, 2019, at Yangmei” by Wu Jin-miao circa 1940 the Ministry of Culture (MOC) in spotlights hand-colorisation techniques Xinzhuang District. It features nearly 100 applied to photographs during the pe- images showcasing the rapid changes in riod. (Courtesy of NCP) lifestyles and landscapes during the 20th century, according to the NTM. Highlights of the exhibition include a The event is divided into three sections, hand-colorised picture of a young “The Mirror-like Past,” “Comparing the The 1959 shot “Students of Farm Vil- woman swinging on a tree vine circa Past with the Present” and “Observing lage” by Chen Shih-an is featured in 1940 by Wu Jin-miao; a 1959 shot of All Beings in the World,” comprising the exhibition “Taiwan through the schoolchildren strolling between wheat works from the 1930s to 1940s, 1950s to Photographer’s Lens” running until fields by Chen Shih-an; and an image 1960s, and post-1990, respectively. In June 24, 2019, at the MOC in New from around 1990 by Juan Jung-chu of the first, pictures produced through a Taipei City. (Courtesy of Mabel Chen) Yushan, also known as Jade Mountain variety of mediums ranging from glass and Taiwan’s highest peak. plates to film highlight the development of the art form in Taiwan. According to MOC Vice Minister Lee Lien An exhibition of rare historical photo- -chuan, the event spotlights the endur- graphs kicked off in , of- “Comparing the Past with the Present” ing creativity and passion of Taiwan tal- fering insights into the nation’s eco- includes photographs of children, indige- ents. The ministry is committed to col- nomic, cultural and social development nous peoples and labourers in everyday lecting and preserving the nation’s rich since the 1930s. settings. The final area consists of aerial, photographic art so to provide future panoramic and underwater images of generations with a window into the past, Jointly organised by the National Centre the island’s diverse ecosystems and he added. (Source: Taiwan Today) of Photography and National Taiwan 2019 Taiwan Lantern Festival Centrepiece Unveiled meter-tall centrepiece depicts a bluefin ture and natural wonders of Taiwan’s tuna jumping out of the sea. The main southernmost county. After the conclu- lantern will be the centre of a dazzling sion of the event, the centrepiece lan- evening light and sound show staged tern will remain on display, serving as a every 30 minutes throughout the Feb. 19 new landmark to promote the local tour- to March 3 event. ism industry, he added.

The centrepiece is set to be erected off- Taking place over some 40 hectares at shore at the main exhibition site in three venues in Dapeng, Donggang and Dapeng Bay. Boat services will allow visi- Pingtung City, this year’s festival is ex- Children display pig-shaped handheld tors to get a close-up look at the lantern pected to garner up to 10 million visits and view the evening light spectacle over its 13-day run, the bureau said. paper lanterns designed for the 2019 from the water. Taiwan Lantern Festival in Taipei First staged in Taipei City in 1990, the City. (CNA) This year’s handheld lanterns symbolise annual festival has been held at a differ- the upcoming Year of the Pig in the Chi- ent location every year since 2001, al- nese zodiac and come in blue, red and lowing the cities and counties of Taiwan yellow varieties. About 80,000 of the to show off their unique cultures, cui- The main and handheld lanterns for the paper items will be distributed at sines and characteristics. This is Ping- 2019 Taiwan Lantern Festival were un- Dapeng, according to the Tourism Bu- tung’s first time hosting the event. veiled by the under the reau. (Source: Taiwan Today) Ministry of Transportation and Commu- nications in Taipei City. Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, Pingtung Magistrate Pan Men-an said Spotlighting the prominence of the fish- the festival is an excellent opportunity to ing industry in the festival’s host county showcase the agricultural produce, cul- of Pingtung in southern Taiwan, the 16- ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Medical & health care Page 7 Taiwan Tightens Border Inspections Against African Swine Fever Given the vast number of travellers ex- ment of a central emergency operations pected during the upcoming Lunar New centre, by the COA to oversee related Year holiday, several strengthened bor- government efforts, as well as the re- der control measures have been put in lease of a short film to raise awareness place, the COA said. Effective immedi- of the consequences of smuggling meat ately, passengers flying from China, Hong products. Several drills have also been Kong and Macau will be informed of ASF conducted nationwide to simulate tack- prevention measures upon exiting the jet ling an outbreak of the virus. bridge and all of their carry-on luggage will be inspected at the arrival terminal. First-time offenders illegally importing meat products from areas affected by Large warning signs have been set up at ASF within the past three years will be Warning signs spotlighting the NT$1 passport control counters to provide fined NT$200,000 (US$6,483), with the million maximum fine for illegally related information. Passengers from penalty increasing to NT$1 million for importing meat products are dis- affected areas will also receive a special repeat offenders. A total of 57 fines for played on a baggage conveyor at flyer reminding them to apply for a quar- first-time violations have been issued as Taiwan Taoyuan International Air- antine permit for any meat products or of Jan. 16. discard such items. port as part of government efforts to According to the COA, customs officials prevent ASF from entering the coun- Checked luggage from high-risk areas will have intercepted 12 meat products con- try. (CNA) be transported on specific baggage con- taminated by ASF since Oct. 31, 2018. veyors and undergo tightened inspec- Among these, 11 came from China and The government is leaving no stone un- tions, the COA said, adding that there one from Macau. (Source: Taiwan To- turned in preventing African swine fever are also enhanced patrols by detection day) (ASF) from spreading to Taiwan, accord- dogs at airports. ing to the Cabinet-level Council of Agri- culture (COA). These measures follow the establish- New Brain Cancer Treatment Method Developed by Taiwan Research Team A new method of increasing nanodrug Team leader Patrick Hsieh said glioblas- efficacy for one of the most deadly brain toma is one of the most common and tumors—glioblastoma multiforme—has aggressive brain cancers in the world and been discovered by a team at Taipei City- has a five-year survival rate of less than based Academia Sinica, Taiwan’s fore- 10 percent due to fast tumour progres- most research institution. sion and the lack of an efficient method of getting chemotherapy medicine According to researchers from the acad- through the blood-brain barrier. The emy’s Institute of Biomedical Sciences, results in the tests on pigs are a positive systematically injecting a low dose of a Research team leader Patrick Hsieh sign that the technique can be success- protein called vascular endothelial (right) is joined by colleagues David fully applied to humans, he added. growth factor temporarily increases the Lundy (center) and Lee Keng-jung in permeability of the blood-brain barrier, a The initial idea for the study came from system that blocks about 98 percent of unveiling the results of their study on an incidental observation during the medicines from entering the brain. increasing the permeability of the team’s previous research on using the blood-brain barrier in Taipei City. VEGF protein for cardiac regeneration. By boosting drug distribution using the (Courtesy of Academia Sinica) Their study, titled “Inducing a Transient new approach, the scientists were able Increase in Blood-Brain Barrier Perme- to double the median survival period of ability for Improved Liposomal Drug mice with glioblastoma to 80 days. They The project was jointly funded by the Therapy of Glioblastoma Multiforme,” also raised the amount of nanomedicines Ministry of Science and Technology and was published online last December by delivered to the brains of pigs by 2.5 Academia Sinica. It is hoped that the the Washington-based journal ACS Nano. times in comparison with current meth- breakthrough will enable increased deliv- (Source: Taiwan News) ods. ery of a range of nanomedicines to the brain. ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Entertainment Page 8 Taiwan TV Shows, Channel Honoured at Asian Television Awards indigenous station, a miniseries and a TV and language preservation, climate channel were honoured at the 23rd change and medicine. Asian Television Awards (ATA) held in Kuching, Malaysia. Isuth Balincinan, the show’s producer, said the honour recognised the profes- The country’s biggest winner was For- sionalism of all the workers at TITV and mosa Television, which claimed best that her team will continue to make high terrestrial broadcaster as well as best -quality shows. original screenplay for its 2018 miniser- ies “Schrodinger’s Cat.” Operated under the Indigenous Peoples Cultural Foundation, TITV offers a variety (From left) Magaitan Lhkatafatu, di- Taiwan’s Rexen Cheng won best leading of programs including entertainment, rector of Taiwan Indigenous TV’s actor for his role in the two-episode sports and youth culture. News is broad- thriller, which revolves around a murder cast in each of the languages of Taiwan’s News Department; Isuth Balincinan, case that takes place in a hospital. 16 officially recognised tribes. producer of “ITA See the World;” and Cheng, who plays a man manipulated Laway Futol, the show’s host, display into suffering a nervous breakdown in Launched in 1996 by Singapore-based the trophy for best news program at the show, thanked his family, friends and Television Asia Plus magazine, ATA is the 23rd Asian Television Awards in Formosa TV in his acceptance speech. regarded as one of the most significant Malaysia. (Courtesy of News Depart- and celebrated events within the Asian Government-supported Taiwan Indige- TV industry. The 23rd edition included ment of TITV, Indigenous Peoples Cul- nous TV (TITV) was awarded best news more than 40 award categories for per- tural Foundation) program for “ITA See the World.” formers and production teams in the Launched last January, the biweekly region. (Source: Taiwan Today) broadcast covers topics related to Aus- Taiwan news program produced by an tronesian peoples spanning arts, culture Taiwan Composer’s Prize-Winning Score to Premiere in Seattle orchestra’s annual Celebrate Asia Com- sition prize since the awards started in position Competition with the score last 1948. November. Launched by the Seattle Symphony in “Ascolsia” incorporates elements of the 2009, the Celebrate Asia competition traditional musical genre beiguan, which recognises emerging composers whose is characterised by the use of cymbals, work is influenced by the region’s cul- gongs and woodwind instruments. The ture, music or traditions. The winner six-minute score mimics features of the receives prize money of US$1,000 and folk music style to evoke a festive atmos- has their work performed in a world pre- phere, according to the Ministry of Cul- miere at a concert the following year. Taiwan musician Lin Chia-ying’s win- ture (MOC). (Source: Taiwan Today) ning score “Ascolsia” is set to be performed by the Seattle Symphony Sponsored by the MOC, Lin will also in a world premiere in the U.S. city. travel to Seattle to meet with members of the orchestra, the ministry said. South (Courtesy of Ministry of Culture) Korea’s Shiyeon Sung will conduct the piece at Benaroya Hall.

Taiwan composer Lin Chia-ying’s prize- The 28-year-old has been the recipient of winning piece “Ascolsia” is set to be per- several international honours including formed by the Seattle Symphony in a winning first place at Italy’s International world premiere at its Celebrate Asia con- Composition Competition Piero Farulli in cert Jan. 27 in the U.S. city. 2015. Last year, she became Taiwan’s first composer to claim the U.K.’s prestig- Lin was the first local musician to win the ious Royal Philharmonic Society Compo- ISSUE 1

E EWS SA-TAIWAN N Tourism Page 9 Taiwan Listed in The Guardian’s Top 40 Holiday Destinations for 2019

Headlined “Where to go on holiday in Other attractions mentioned in The 2019—the hotlist” the article spotlighted Guardian report were the 940-kilometer such Taiwan attractions as the 9.9- cycling route around the country, travel- hectare National Centre for ling on scooters and the fortresses and the Arts (NKCA), also known as Weiwuy- temples tucked away in the former capi- ing, that opened last October in the tal city of in southern Taiwan. southern port city. Gujarat state in India, Japan, Kyrgyzstan, NKCA, the world’s largest performing Macau, Samarkand city in Uzbekistan, arts facility under one roof, houses the Singapore and northern Vietnam were biggest organ in Asia as well as an out- the other Asian destinations that made The newly-opened National Kaohsi- door theatre on the roof and a 2,000- the list alongside Taiwan. (Source: Tai- ung Centre for the Arts in the south- person concert hall. wan Today) ern city is one of Taiwan’s attrac- tions that prompted U.K. newspa- The southernmost county of Pingtung was also highlighted for hosting this per The Guardian to include the year’s Taiwan Lantern Festival running country in its list of top holiday des- Feb. 19 to March 3 and for Kenting Na- tinations for 2019. (Staff photo/ tional Park with its “mountains, white- sand beaches and rainforests.” Eluanbi Cape, also in the county, featured in a Taiwan was listed among the world’s top separate list of the world’s top 10 most 40 travel destinations for 2019 by U.K. welcoming destinations published by newspaper The Guardian in a feature Netherlands-headquartered online travel that highlighted the cultural appeal of platform Booking.com. attractions in the south of the country. Taiwan Records 11 Million Foreign Visitors for First Time Taiwan welcomed its 11 millionth foreign initiative that designates a theme each visitor of 2018 at Taiwan Taoyuan Inter- year has helped deepen collaboration national Airport, marking the first time it between the public and private sectors has reached the milestone and under- to offer better quality trips, Chou added. scoring the effectiveness of government initiatives to promote the country over- Taiwan has also received international seas. recognition as an environmentally friendly tourist destination, the bureau Japanese doctor Shinobu Nishikawa was said. Netherlands-headquartered non- greeted with gifts prepared by the Tour- profit Green Destinations listed Nanliao ism Bureau under the Ministry of Trans- Taiwan’s 11 millionth visitor of 2018 in outlying Penghu County, Northeast portation and Communications including Shinobu Nishikawa (second left) and and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area and airline tickets, coupons for free stays at family members are all smiles at Tai- Pinglin District in New Taipei among its several luxury hotels and a laptop. A fre- wan Taoyuan International Airport. Top 100 Sustainable Destinations of quent visitor to Taiwan, Nishikawa was 2018. (Courtesy of Tourism Bureau) travelling with his family and planned to tour the historic mountain town of Jiufen Taiwan welcomed 10.74 million visitors in New Taipei City, Sun Moon Lake in the abroad as well as helping overseas travel in 2017, with China, New Southbound central county of Nantou, as well as the businesses explore locations in the coun- Policy target countries and Japan the top southern cities of Kaohsiung and Tainan. try. three sources, in that order, according to bureau statistics. (Source: Taiwan To- According to the bureau, it has focused Tourism Bureau Director-General Chou day) on encouraging foreign tourists to visit Yung-hui said the government will con- destinations in central and southern Tai- tinue to foster a welcoming environment wan by placing billboards and advertise- that offers smart services and unique ments on public transportation systems experiences. The four-year Tourism 2020 ISSUE 1

SA-TAIWAN ENEWS Sport Page 10

Taiwan Team Makes History by Skiing to South Pole based non-profit Gamania Cheer Up take a shorter but more difficult path. Foundation. Antarctic conditions rendered the alti- tude equivalent to 4,000 to 5,000 meters Enduring gruelling conditions, the party above sea level, according to the founda- set off December. 6 from 87 degrees tion. south latitude, hiking around 350 kilome- tres at altitudes averaging 2,545 meters Chen wrote in a Facebook post that the above sea level to reach the southern- greatest challenge was the rapidly most point on the Earth’s surface 17 changing weather but that the team tri- days later. umphed due to their determination and trust in each other. Members of the Taiwan expedition The group was led by the non-profit's team to the South Pole (from left) founder Albert Liu, with ultra marathon The foundation is hosting an exhibition Gary Wu, Tommy Chen, Albert Liu, athlete Tommy Chen and actor Chris on Antarctica and the two-year prepara- Chris Wang and Sherry Lin are all Wang serving as team coach and mentor, tions for the expedition through Jan. 31, smiles after they reach their destina- respectively. The foundation selected 2019. Yang’s film on the journey is ex- tion. (Courtesy of Gamania Cheer Up two 20-year-olds, Sherry Lin and Gary pected to be broadcast on the Discovery Wu, to join the polar quest, while re- Channel next year. Foundation) nowned director Yang Li-chou accompa- nied them by vehicle to film the journey. Established in 2008, Gamania Cheer Up Five expeditioners made the record Foundation conducts projects and offers books 5 a.m. local time December. 23 Blizzards caused the party to abandon grants aimed at inspiring and helping when they became the first Taiwan team their original plan to trek 660 km along a youth achieve their dreams. (Source: to reach the South Pole by cross-country route that followed the world’s first-ever Taiwan Today) skiing, according to organiser Taipei City- expedition to reach the South Pole and

Chan Sisters Claim Women’s Doubles Title at Hobart Tournament

feated Kirsten Flipkens of Belgium and January before the Grand Slam tourna- Johanna Larsson of Sweden 6-3, 3-6 and ment. (Source: Taiwan News) 10-6 in a 10-point tiebreaker. The victory earned them US$12,300 in prize money and marks the 11th Women’s Tennis Association title they have won as a team.

Chan Yung-jan wrote on her Facebook page that overcoming the challenges Chan Yung-jan (left) and Chan Hao- posed by the heat and the wind gave her ching display the Hobart International a huge confidence boost.

women’s doubles trophies in Austra- The sister’s last doubles triumph was at lia. (Courtesy of Hobart International) the Hong Kong Tennis Open in 2017. Ahead of the Hobart game, they also finished runners-up at the Brisbane In- ternational in Australia.

Taiwan sisters Chan Yung-jan and Chan Next up for the tennis stars will be the Hao-ching claimed the Hobart Interna- Australian Open, which is taking place in tional women’s doubles title in Australia, Melbourne. Launched in 1994, the clinching the duo’s first victory in the Hobart International is one of five Aus- tournament. tralian competitions, including the Bris- bane International and Sydney Interna- In the 76-minute final, the Chans de- tional, held during the first two weeks of