Reported 7 months ago
Two individuals, one a former CEO of an oil company from China and the other a laborer who aspired for freedom in Taiwan, were sentenced to two months in prison and fined for illegally entering Taiwan by boat and were subsequently deported. The former CEO expressed fears of being pursued in China and arrived from Hong Kong on a speedboat, while the laborer arrived in Taiwan on a rubber boat equipped with an outboard motor. Both cases raised discussions on national security measures after they managed to enter the country undetected.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
A man surnamed Ruan from mainland China sailed to Tamsui to 'seek freedom,' a similar incident to one three years ago when a man surnamed Zhou landed in Taichung Harbor by rubber dinghy. This reminds people of the 'hijacking planes during festivals' incidents in the 1990s, showing different societal perceptions despite similar situations. The Coast Guard Administration acknowledged negligence in this case, but it doesn't prove that the CCP can launch a 'decapitation' operation through the Tamsui River, as it would be highly difficult to breach the defense points to reach Taipei. With Ruan's sailing knowledge, choosing a crowded area like Tamsui Ferry Terminal seemed intentional to create news events. Whether wanting to be an 'anti-Communist hero' or to highlight the vulnerability of our capital, it serves the same purpose. Both sides need to strengthen defense measures after incidents like this, understanding that control and vigilance have limits, and hostility between the straits could lead to misinterpretation of any movement as malicious, exhausting the military. Mutual goodwill and trust can prevent misunderstandings and accidents, and Taiwan must remember the need for caution and self-defense while not turning accumulated national security risks into a tool for opposing forces. Beijing, with its 'understand the big picture' policy, should not excessively engage in public opinion battles, considering the uncontrollable risks. More udn reports available via the link.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
On June 11, 2024, a 60-year-old man from mainland China piloted a motorboat named 'Hung Jin' from Fuzhou to Tamsui, Taiwan in just 51 minutes without being detected, raising concerns about national defense and security. Premier Su Tseng-chang apologized for the incident in the Legislative Yuan, emphasizing the need for immediate reviews within the government. The man, a former PRC naval officer, claimed he came seeking 'freedom' but will be further investigated. The Coast Guard admitted failures and disciplinary actions have been taken.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
On June 11, 2024, a Chinese national driving a speedboat entered the Tamsui River causing speculation about gray area intrusion. Premier Cho Jung-tai, Defense Minister Koo Li-hsiung, and chairperson of the Ocean Affairs Council Guan Bi-ling stated in the legislature that an immediate thorough review would be conducted by the Ministry of National Defense and the Ocean Affairs Council. Cho emphasized the importance of national security, launching judicial and administrative investigations to clarify responsibilities and enhance protective measures, while Koo mentioned the possibility of gray area intrusion and the need for vigilance and military coordination with coast guard. The incident sparked concerns about defense readiness, with New Taipei City council questioning potential threats and the government's efforts to strengthen security measures.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
A man from Mainland China named Ruan drove a small boat into Tamsui River and claimed to surrender to the coast guard, prompting concerns over a security breach in the capital. The coast guard stations along the coast use human-operated radar stations, with a verification process involving the Navy when unidentified targets are detected. There are four procedures to handle such situations, including activating a remote surveillance system for confirmation. To enhance defense capabilities, long-range military-grade infrared imaging systems have been deployed in various locations across Taiwan and Kinmen. Plans are also in place to install similar equipment in specific areas, like the Tamsui River mouth. The incident highlighted the need to review standard procedures for dealing with incursions into territorial waters beyond the country's 12-nautical-mile limit.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
Defense Minister Gou Sheng-hsiung announced the activation of a cyber security alert project from June 11th to 21st, in response to the possibility of increased hacker activities during the Huangpu Centennial School Celebration. The project consists of three phases focusing on strengthening defense measures, monitoring, and tracking abnormal activities to prevent potential cyber threats. The military's cyber security protection center will be monitoring 24/7 and collaborating to ensure network security. Immediate reporting and website recovery actions will be taken if malicious postings, page replacements, or service disruptions occur.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
An Oregon man, Michael Meyden, admitted guilt to spiking his daughter's friends' smoothies with sedatives during a sleepover and was sentenced to two years in prison. Meyden drugged three 12-year-old girls, causing them to be hospitalized. The victims tested positive for benzodiazepine. Meyden's sentence included post-prison supervision and a potential reduction of five months for good behavior. The incident had a significant impact on the victims, their families, and the community, with Meyden expressing remorse in court.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
During a recent political talk show, Kuomintang Taipei City Councilor Li Ming-xian revealed a private conversation with People First Party Legislator Huang Kuo-chang about the 2026 New Taipei City mayoral election, where Li inquired whether KMT would concede. Huang emphasized that the decision on cooperation depends on the party. Different potential candidates from both KMT and DPP have been mentioned, with current mayor Hou You-yi mentioning that the people will decide the best leader for New Taipei City, while Huang stated that he would follow the decision of People First Party Chairman Ko Wen-je and party leaders, maintaining the party's independence. This has caused discussions and speculations over potential collaborations in the upcoming election.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
武打巨星成龍最近赴日宣傳電影《龍馬精神》，讓人驚喜的發現，他從滿頭白髮變回原來的黑髮，曾被誤以為老態的白髮其實是為新戲造型而來。成龍透露自己近期陸續忙於拍戲，包括《小子難纏2》、《神話》續集和一部關於阿茲海默症的電影等，並透露因疫情而在還債，仍有多部電影計畫進行中。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
The UN Women agency has called for immediate global action to end oppression against women in Afghanistan, as the latest report reveals that the Taliban has introduced over 70 restrictive policies targeting Afghan women within three years, reversing decades of progress in gender equality. The Taliban's oppressive measures include banning female students from universities, restricting women's movement, imposing dress codes, and closing beauty salons, leading to significant setbacks for women's rights and education in the country.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
External reports on June 11, 2024, highlighted Taiwan facing energy shortages. Premier Su Tseng-chang stated that ensuring stable electricity supply is the government's greatest responsibility to industries and the people, and a definite goal. Implied that electricity prices would not increase in the second half of the year. The energy issue became the main battleground in the Legislative Yuan's inquiry session, where Economic Minister Guo Zhihui emphasized that current base load capacity can meet demand and that considering nuclear power is not yet regulated by current laws. Various lawmakers raised concerns about Taiwan's electricity stability amidst increasing foreign investment, prompting discussions on future electricity costs and subsidies, with the Premier affirming the government's commitment to a stable supply without price hikes.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
The Ministry of the Environment in Taiwan is planning to implement a carbon trading system under 'total control' regulations, running in parallel with the carbon fee system and drawing inspiration from the EU's 'Cap and Trade' approach to drive carbon reduction through market mechanisms. This shift is seen as a significant change in Taiwan's carbon trading policy, aiming to align with international markets and benefit various industries by encouraging voluntary carbon reduction and facilitating active carbon trading within the country.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
Taiwan's Environment Minister, Peggy Kuo-min Peng, revealed discussions during the 4th meeting of the Carbon Fees Rate Review Committee, held on July 5, 2024, indicating the possibility of imposing a 'shadow price' next year to allow industries to estimate costs and raise awareness of carbon pricing, with actual payments expected in the following year. The ministry is preparing for a potential implementation by May next year despite ongoing rate deliberations, with a gradual increase in fees expected until 2030. The ministry is also exploring a carbon trading system alongside carbon fees, with key steel companies like China Steel and other enterprises expressing willingness to align with the government's initiatives.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
A man named Ruan rented public riverbank land in Guoxing Township, Nantou County, Taiwan under the pretense of farming, but instead allowed 7 businesses to dump approximately 2700 tons of waste, including scrap metal and plastic, within a span of 2 weeks last October. The case is being investigated for violating the Waste Disposal Act, which carries a penalty of 1 to 5 years of imprisonment and fines up to 15 million NTD. Authorities discovered the illegal dumping based on surveillance footage and the involved parties are facing legal consequences.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
專家指出，台灣面臨能源短缺，不僅半導體業營運風險增加，也可能影響全球晶片業。能源中心研究員警告台灣電力短缺可能干擾半導體市場發展，如果供應出現干擾將波及全球產業。台灣逾97%的能源需求依賴進口，主要為煤和天然氣，面臨供應不足問題。
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
Economic Affairs Minister Guo Zhihui recently stated the need to convert the Hezhong Power Plant into the fourth natural gas receiving station to address the electricity shortfall in the northeast grid, with no alternative solutions. However, Keelung environmental groups criticized this move given contradicting claims of no power shortage and urged against blind construction of the station. They highlighted the imbalance in Taiwan's energy transition policies and raised concerns over the impact on Keelung's military and transportation areas. Advocates called for a shift towards sustainable energy practices instead of relying on gas and nuclear power.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
During a legislative evaluation on June 11, 2024, Taiwan's Economy Minister Guo Zhizhui faced criticism from blue lawmakers regarding energy policies, with his stance on nuclear power being labeled as too lenient. Prime Minister Zuo Rongtai publicly intervened to re-embrace the 'non-nuclear homeland' policy, leading to Guo adopting a more conservative approach. Green lawmakers gave Guo a 'shockingly educational' session during a government meeting, ensuring he 'corrected' his stance. Despite controversy surrounding his flip-flopping statements on nuclear power, Guo emphasized caution in considering nuclear energy on the current energy grid, showcasing his 're-education'. Zuo also stepped in to support Guo on sensitive topics, indicating a focus on stabilizing energy costs. Guo, facing internal and external pressures, asserted his commitment to a four-year term despite uncertainties in Taiwan's energy landscape.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
A press conference held by the Kuomintang addressed the significant rise in electricity demand due to AI advancements, with experts estimating a compound annual growth rate of AI power demand to be between 25.5% to 33% from 2023 to 2028. The party urged the Taiwanese government to revise its energy policies to support the growing technological sector without hindrance. Scholars highlighted the immense power needed for AI development, warning of severe electricity shortages in Taiwan if current trends continue.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
The legislative battle over parliamentary reform in Taiwan continues with the Democratic Progressive Party initiating street campaigns across the country to pressure the opposition. Both the Nationalist Party and the Democratic Progressive Party have launched opinion campaigns, while the People's Party calls for three televised debates. The Democratic Progressive Party will detail their campaign strategy today, amidst ongoing clashes. This comes as the Nationalist Party prepares to counter the proposed amendments. The People's Party suggests televised debates to enhance understanding and foster harmony in promoting parliamentary reforms.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
The ongoing battle over parliamentary reform in Taiwan might turn into an 'endless loop,' as the legislative process faces obstacles. If the Constitutional Court deems the reform unconstitutional, the Legislative Yuan can pass new laws, potentially creating an infinite cycle. However, the likelihood of the entire parliamentary reform bill being declared unconstitutional by the Constitutional Court is low, as partial invalidations are more probable, especially related to investigative powers. The issue remains uncertain, with experts cautioning against turning it into a political battleground to prevent overwhelming the judiciary with cases.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
After the Legislative Yuan passed the Parliament Reform Act on June 11, 2024, the Executive Yuan submitted a review letter to President Tsai Ing-wen on the 6th of this month, which the president approved yesterday morning. The Executive Yuan hopes for bipartisan parliamentary scrutiny to find the maximum consensus prioritizing national interests. The legislative battle will commence as the Nationalist Party is set to convene a full committee on the 14th and question Premier Su, with a deadline on the 25th, forecasting another 'voting battle.' The Executive Yuan cited six hindrances in the law, aiming to initiate a constructive constitutional dialogue process without escalating inter-chamber conflicts.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
As the battle continues for parliamentary reform, the Nationalist Party reveals that the crucial moment will be the June 25 parliamentary session. They plan to present three scenarios for review, aiming for a prompt resolution by this Friday at the latest, putting pressure on the final vote. The party criticizes the delays in the review process by the Presidential Office and aims to ensure that the Democratic Progressive Party doesn't disrupt proceedings during the crucial voting period. Despite potential hurdles, the Nationalist Party remains focused on preventing any disruptions from affecting legislative progress.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
On June 11, 2024, Small S's (Dee Hsu) eldest daughter Elly (Xu Xiwen) shared a series of graduation photos on IG, causing a frenzy among netizens. Elly, who turned 18 earlier this year, is reported to have been accepted into a prestigious US university and will be studying abroad soon. Netizens praised her recent photos celebrating her high school graduation, commenting on her beauty and figure, with some saying she outshines her mom. Photos also showed Elly emotional about her graduation, sparking further discussions online.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
The film '56 Typologies of Applause', based on a blog article by Mirco Von Juterczenka, tells the story of a father, David Fitz, and his autistic son Jason, as they travel the world in search of their favorite football clubs. The blog gained massive popularity for sharing their experiences with autism, inspiring many families and readers. The film adaptation, directed by Marc Rothemund, grossed 260 million TWD in Germany. The heartwarming portrayal by David Fitz and child star Cecilio Andresen earned Fitz the Best Actor award at the Bavarian Film Awards. The real-life Jason, now 20 years old and still facing challenges, has co-authored bestselling books with his father and remains an advocate for environmental protection and fundraising for clean water access in East Africa.
Source: YAHOO
Reported 7 months ago
On an episode of Asking for a Trend, host Josh Lipton discusses gun policies, market dynamics, and the expanding electric vehicle sector. The show covers the economy under different administrations, insights on gun sales trends, market movements, differences between value and growth investments, and the growth trajectory of the EV market with a focus on infrastructure requirements. Guest speakers include Senior Columnist Rick Newman, The Reload founder Stephen Gutowski, Yahoo Finance's Jared Blikre, Yahoo Finance's Julie Hyman, and EVPassport Co-Founder and CEO Hooman Shahidi.
Source: YAHOO