DPP: KMT calls for transparency but skips work and meetings, maliciously obstructing national defense
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Democratic Progressive Party criticized the Kuomintang for having nearly all of its members on the Foreign Affairs and National Defense Committee absent from a confidential meeting on the “Special Defense Act,” which the Ministry of National Defense held in response to an opposition request. The DPP accused the KMT of obstructing national defense by skipping the meeting while calling for transparency in the defense budget.
A ceremony celebrating the birthday of Dajia Mazu was held at 新港奉天宮, drawing many worshippers who prayed for peace and happiness. This year, peace cakes were handed out instead of pork, and Dajia Mazu is scheduled to return from the procession at 10:45 tonight.
Wall Street Journal: US losing its luster as fewer Chinese elites want to study there
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
According to a report by ウォール・ストリート・ジャーナル, China’s elite, who have long aspired to study in the United States, are increasingly leaving the country and returning to China amid tougher immigration policies, safety concerns and Chinese government propaganda. The report cites cases including Yuner Jiang of Columbia University and Sissi Su of Johns Hopkins University.
Gulf states fear being sidelined on regional security and becoming “pawns” in US-Iran talks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As the next round of U.S.-Iran talks approaches, Gulf states are concerned that the United States will prioritize stabilizing global energy markets and shift the focus of negotiations to control of the Strait of Hormuz, tacitly accepting Iran’s control over oil supplies and ultimately sidelining regional security.
Threads tops a million followers; Tsai Ing-wen says it is not just a number but a connection
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former Taiwan President Tsai Ing-wen has surpassed 1 million followers on Threads. Tsai said that dialogue with users and connections with young people matter more than the numbers, and expressed her gratitude to supporters.
Man who spray-painted campaign billboard for Keelung mayoral candidate apologizes in person; Tung Tzu-wei to drop charges
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man who vandalized a campaign sign for Keelung mayoral candidate Tung Tzu-wei apologized. He said frustration over water issues was his motive, and Tung accepted the apology and withdrew the complaint.
War weighs on election prospects as Senate Republicans urge Trump to set Iran exit strategy
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
As the U.S.-Iran conflict drags on and energy prices remain high, Republican lawmakers are concerned about the impact on the November midterm elections and are urging President Trump to clarify his strategy for withdrawing from Iran. In particular, opposition is growing to continuing military action without congressional approval as the 60-day deadline under the War Powers Resolution approaches.
Banqiao Xinyi Elementary School parking lot aims for completion in November, adding 259 car spaces
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The underground parking garage at Banqiao Xinyi Elementary School in New Taipei City is scheduled for completion in November. It will provide 259 parking spaces and improve the safety of routes to school.
Man makes zombie vape bombs inside residence; Suao police bust case and refer him for prosecution
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Police in Su’ao, Yilan County, arrested a 70-year-old man who was making and selling “zombie smoke bombs (etomidate)” at home. He used chemicals to manufacture the substance from raw materials and had installed numerous surveillance cameras around the area to keep watch.
Young heir to Pingtung cut-meat shop abducted and abused; suspected 3 accomplices taken in
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The eldest son of a popular restaurant owner in Pingtung was abducted and held captive, suffering serious injuries. The incident stemmed from a dispute involving a fraud group, and police detained 3 accomplices.
South Korean and Indian leaders meet, call for stronger cooperation to address Middle East situation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
South Korean President Lee Jae-myung and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi met and agreed to strengthen cooperation between their countries in response to growing instability in the Middle East. During the visit, the two countries signed 15 memorandums of understanding, aiming to elevate bilateral relations to a new level.
Lee Yang wants to donate ten million in prize money; Hongdao Foundation hopes he will decide how to use it
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lee Yang, a gold medalist at the Paris Olympics, offered to donate his NT$10 million reward to a public organization. The Hong Dao Sports Development Foundation said legal restrictions prevented it from accepting the donation directly and asked him to receive the money first and make an individual donation.
Canon obtains AS 9100 certification, enters aerospace imaging field
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Optics manufacturer Canon has obtained AS 9100 certification, the international aerospace quality management system standard, and entered the aerospace and defense industry supply chain. The company will diversify its business from consumer and industrial imaging into applications for imaging modules in the aviation market.
Taichung sanitation worker caught dumping wastewater; Mayor Lu Shiow-yen: disciplinary demerit and fine
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Taichung sanitation worker was filmed pouring wastewater from food scraps in a garbage truck into a storm drain, prompting Mayor Lu Shiow-yen to order disciplinary action and a fine. Improper waste disposal has become a political issue.
Japan revises 3 principles on transfer of defense equipment; arms exports in principle no longer banned
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Japanese government revised its Three Principles on Transfer of Defense Equipment and Technology, in principle lifting the ban on exports of weapons with lethal capabilities. The move marks a historic shift aimed at strengthening cooperation with allies and sustaining the domestic defense industry while maintaining the country’s commitment to peace.
Fire EX.'s Yang Da-zheng hits low point as father is hospitalized; prays to Shanbian Mazu for a blessing to fulfill his dream
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Sam Yang, vocalist of Taiwan rock band Fire EX., announced that he will hold his first solo concert at Taipei Arena after overcoming financial and emotional lows caused by his father’s hospitalization. He said praying to Miaoli’s Shanbian Mazu helped turn things around.
NHRI and American Association for Cancer Research sign MOU to deepen international influence
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The National Health Research Institutes (NHRI) and the American Association for Cancer Research (AACR) have signed an MOU for a 5-year strategic partnership to advance cancer research and professional development. The partnership aims to deepen the international impact of cancer research in Taiwan.
Man who randomly tried car doors to steal arrested; Yunlin prosecutors secure court approval for detention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 45-year-old man who stole valuables from unlocked cars in residential neighborhoods at night was arrested in Yunlin County. He was suspected of 14 thefts and was apprehended by police after they completed security duties for the Baishatun Mazu pilgrimage.
Police officer saves man whose life hangs in the balance on basketball court; entertainer Ho Tu-lin expresses thanks
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Hualien County police officer saved a man in cardiac arrest by performing CPR and using an AED. The man’s family member, entertainer Ho Tu-lin, expressed his gratitude.
Thai foreign minister discusses “Diplomacy 2.0,” hopes middle powers will lead international cooperation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Thai Foreign Minister Sihasak announced “Diplomacy 2.0,” outlining a policy for the country to lead international cooperation as a middle power without relying on major powers. The new foreign policy is based on Thailand’s national interests and international law, and focuses on conflict prevention and regional cooperation. Thailand intends to take a leading role particularly in public health, combating cross-border scams and energy security.
Teacher union representatives from 4 North Asian countries gather in Taipei to discuss climate change impacts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Representatives of teachers’ unions from 4 North Asian countries—Taiwan, Japan, South Korea and Mongolia—gathered in Taipei to discuss the impact of climate change on education systems under the theme “Climate Justice and Just Transition for Educators.”
Jakarta launches large-scale removal of trash fish; vendors’ use of cheap fish meat raises food safety concerns
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Jakarta provincial government removed about 7 tons of the invasive pleco fish, which threatens the environment and food safety. The fish may contain heavy metals, and concerns about food safety emerged after some street vendors reportedly mixed it with Spanish mackerel and sold it as shumai at low prices. The government is considering how to respond, while religious groups have criticized the removal methods on animal welfare grounds.
Political Donations Act revision: Control Yuan considering ban on cryptocurrency and online tipping
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Control Yuan is considering banning political donations made in cryptocurrency or through online tipping (“抖內”) in proposed amendments to the Political Donations Act, citing difficulties in verifying donors and the decentralized nature of cryptocurrencies.
Type 10 tank training at Japan’s Oita Maneuver Area ends in explosion, killing 3 and injuring 1 [Video]
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A shell exploded during firing exercises involving a Type 10 tank at the Hiju-dai training area in Oita Prefecture, Japan, killing 3 male service members and injuring 1 female service member. The Japan Ground Self-Defense Force’s Kusu Garrison is investigating the cause, with details of the incident yet to be clarified.
Kaohsiung InterContinental promotes sustainable, healthy meeting packages for Earth Day
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
InterContinental Kaohsiung has announced a meeting package focused on sustainability and health to mark Earth Day. It features a range of environmentally conscious measures, including going paperless, reusing resources, serving locally sourced food and promoting low-carbon transportation.
CTBC Brothers add foreign pitching strength; Felix returns to the CPBL under the name Fei Lishi
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The CTBC Brothers announced that they had agreed to a contract with Dominican right-handed pitcher Felix Pena, who played for 統一獅 last year. He will go by “菲力士,” and is expected to strengthen the starting rotation.
Companies mentioned：統一獅、尤卡坦獅子隊 (Leones de Yucatán)
Cho Jung-tai: 4 Central Election Commission members appointed; additional list of 3 nominees submitted together
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Premier Cho Jung-tai announced that he would appoint today the 4 Central Election Commission members approved by the Legislative Yuan and have them immediately begin the handover. A list of 3 additional nominees was also submitted, with nonpartisan candidates who have legal and public service experience selected.
Early 2027 Lunar New Year shortens booking season; F Hotel says year-end banquet scramble is underway
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With the 2027 Lunar New Year coming earlier, the year-end banquet season will be shorter, bringing forward and intensifying the competition for bookings among hotels. Yunpin International has already secured more than 100 bookings, while early reservations at 漢來美食 are also strong.
Magnitude 7.7 quake in northeastern Japan injures 6; authorities warn a major earthquake may strike again
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A magnitude 7.7 earthquake struck off Sanriku in northeastern Japan, injuring at least 6 people and triggering a tsunami of up to 80 centimeters. Authorities warned that another major earthquake could occur and issued nonmandatory evacuation advisories to more than 180,000 people.
NDC invests more than 100 million to restore Zhongxing Hall, bringing the “Little White House” back to its former glory
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The National Development Council has completed the restoration of Zhongxing Hall after investing more than 100 million, promoting the revitalization of Zhongxing New Village and the preservation of cultural heritage. The building has been reinforced against earthquakes and fitted with a nighttime lighting design, and is expected to become a new tourist attraction.
Preventing major workplace accidents at the source, Labor Ministry lists companies at high risk of serious occupational accidents
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Ministry of Labor has launched “National Workplace Health Week” to prevent serious workplace accidents at their source. It aims to improve occupational safety and health by closely monitoring companies and state-owned enterprises with high workplace injury rates and strengthening guidance for local governments.
Huawei launches new phone; executive says memory chip shortages could drive up prices
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Huawei has unveiled its new Pura X Max, and a senior official has suggested that memory chip shortages could drive up prices. In the Chinese market, it faces fierce competition from Xiaomi, Oppo and Apple.
Gemini-powered Chrome launches in Taiwan, evolving the browser into an AI personal assistant
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Google is rolling out the Chrome browser with its Gemini AI model in Taiwan and the Asia-Pacific region. The move will turn Chrome into an AI personal assistant, enabling users to summarize complex information, plan trips and draft Gmail messages without leaving the browser. It supports more than 50 languages, helping users search for and understand information more efficiently.
Shanghai International Flower Show’s 5.2-meter-tall “Messy Puppy” steals hearts
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Shanghai International Flower Festival is underway, with a 5.2-meter-tall plant sculpture called “Scruffy Puppy” at the Jing’an Suhewan exhibition area proving especially popular. Made with slender needle grass and petunias, the work realistically recreates a fluffy dog’s coat and has drawn attention from visitors and the media. The festival is being held for the 20th time this year and is increasingly taking on the character of a major city event.
Taipei’s first gender-friendly restroom certification awarded to 8 organizations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taipei City Government has launched its first certification program for “gender-friendly restrooms,” with standards covering safety, privacy, hygiene and the needs of people of all ages, people with disabilities and families. A total of 12 restrooms at 8 public and private organizations, including 東吳大學 and 若水國際, have been certified. The second round of certification is scheduled for August.
Families marvel at firefly habitat during nighttime visit to Taipei’s last remaining ancient wetland, Mamingtan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Taipei Department of Education has shared details of nighttime firefly-watching activities at Mamingtan, the only remaining ancient wetland in Taipei City. The activities give families an opportunity to learn more about firefly ecology through an immersive urban experience and run through May 3.
Steamer paper imported from China by famous bubble tea shop fails standards; 300 kilograms intercepted at border
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s Food and Drug Administration announced that 300kg of steaming paper imported from China by a popular bubble tea and xiaolongbao shop in Ximending failed a migration test and will be returned or destroyed. In response, the agency plans to step up random inspections of similar products from China.
Chiu Chui-cheng: Economic exchanges repeatedly weaponized politically by CCP, leaving businesses with nothing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Mainland Affairs Council Minister Chiu Chui-cheng criticized China for using economic exchanges with Taiwan as a “political weapon,” causing major losses for Taiwanese farmers and businesses. He stressed that government-to-government dialogue without political preconditions is essential to protecting Taiwan’s interests.
Lawmakers propose railway projects; Cho Jung-tai: underground tracks in metropolitan areas, elevated tracks across counties
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to a Taiwanese legislator’s proposal to elevate the entire Taiwan Railways network, the premier said urban sections should preferably be underground while sections crossing county borders should be elevated, and instructed 交通部 to draw up a plan.
US media: Iran negotiating delegation sidelined by Revolutionary Guard, adding obstacles
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
According to US media reports, Iran’s nuclear negotiating delegation has been effectively sidelined by hard-line Revolutionary Guard forces, stalling the talks. The United States has set a 2-week ceasefire deadline and has suggested it could resume airstrikes if no agreement is reached. The Revolutionary Guard, however, maintains it will not negotiate unless US sanctions are lifted, further complicating the talks.
New Taiwan dollar rises 4.3 cents at midday to 31.488
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The New Taiwan dollar rose 4.3 fen against the US dollar on the Taipei foreign exchange market, briefly trading at 31.488 yuan before closing. Trading totaled US$668 million.
Criminal Investigation Bureau busts real estate mortgage fraud ring, arrests 31; losses exceed 120 million
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s 刑事警察局 has broken up a fraud ring that combined investment scams with property-mortgage loans and involved more than NT$120 million, arresting 31 people. Victims were first targeted in stock investment scams, then persuaded to take out mortgage loans and hand the money to the ring.
Marking Indonesia’s Kartini Day, Hualien Immigration Agency honors women with batik workshop
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Hualien Immigration Agency held a batik workshop led by Indonesian new residents to celebrate Indonesia’s Kartini Day, recognize women’s contributions and promote cultural exchange. The event paid tribute to female new residents and migrant workers in Taiwan.
Middle East war, day 52: US and Iran trade barbs as situation remains unclear; latest developments
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On the 52nd day of the Middle East war, as tensions between the United States and イラン continued, US President Donald Trump said that lifting the blockade of イラン’s ports depended on a peace agreement. イラン’s parliament speaker condemned the blockade and what he called a breach of the ceasefire, and hinted at preparations for new tactics. Global oil prices also rose.
Kaohsiung police officer accused of sexually harassing colleague; police department says investigation and reporting procedures underway
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A police officer at a Kaohsiung City police station is suspected of sexually harassing a colleague. After receiving a report, the police department immediately launched an investigation and adjusted work duties to keep the parties apart. It stressed a “zero tolerance” policy in the workplace.
Hsu Kuo-yung meets US CSIS delegation, concerned opposition echoes Beijing and delays arms procurement budget
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
DPP Secretary-General Hsu Kuo-yung met with a CSIS delegation and voiced concern that the opposition, by echoing Beijing, could delay the arms procurement budget and affect national security. He also stressed that Taiwan’s economy has successfully transformed and reduced its dependence on the China market, and called for stronger national defense.
Thai deputy prime minister visits Myanmar to meet new president Min Aung Hlaing, pragmatically advancing bilateral relations
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak visited Naypyidaw, Myanmar, and met with junta leader Min Aung Hlaing. He aims to promote “pragmatic relations” grounded in the realities of Myanmar and stressed the importance of continuing dialogue to address issues including border security, scams and pollution.
Army sergeant took 60,000 for photographing and handing over military secrets; sentenced to 12 years, detention extended 2 months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Army Sergeant Sun Chu-chuan stole and handed over military secrets in return for more than 60,000; sentenced to 12 years and held for an additional 2 months.
Taichung special education school alumnus busks on the street for 10 years, saves 50,000 and donates it to help younger students pursue their dreams
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
許育瑋, a graduate of 台中特殊教育學校 who has Down syndrome, donated NT$50,000 earned through 10 years of street performances to his alma mater to support the dreams of younger students, according to reports. He is the first graduate to become a licensed street performer.
DPP: Taiwan Strait tensions stem from 中國; hopes all parties will strengthen defense capabilities
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The DPP Legislative Yuan caucus said tensions in the Taiwan Strait stem from 中國 and urged all parties to strengthen defense capabilities. It also criticized 中國’s “Taiwan-related measures” as united front work and voiced concern over bullying in the military.
Tumor keeps growing, requiring 6 rounds of surgery to remove; woman with rare disease urges faster access to lifesaving drug
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lin Hsiu-chih, who has von Hippel-Lindau syndrome (VHL), has developed repeated tumors and undergone 6 surgeries. She urged the government to speed up access to a new drug to suppress tumor recurrence and give patients a chance to survive.
Analysis: Iran war deepens US estrangement from the world
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Iran war is deepening the US estrangement from the world, damaging its global influence and raising allies’ concerns. Tensions already aggravated during the Trump administration are worsening under the current circumstances and could accelerate a loss of power.
Stalls outside Tainan’s Asia-Pacific Baseball Stadium fail to attract bids; city considers ending recruitment
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Two rounds of bidding to recruit vendors for stalls outside Tainan’s Asia-Pacific Baseball Stadium have failed. The city government has tentatively decided not to seek vendors again and may hold temporary markets depending on demand.
China’s youth unemployment rate hits 16.9% in March, a 4-month high
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
China’s youth unemployment rate for those aged 16-24 reached 16.9% in March, its highest level in 4 months, according to figures released by 中国国家統計局. The figures underscored the economic slowdown and decline in job openings.
Tank explosion at Japan’s Oita Maneuver Area kills 2 and leaves 1 critically injured; cause under investigation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A tank exploded at a training ground in Japan’s Oita Prefecture on Monday morning, leaving 2 dead, 1 in cardiopulmonary arrest and 1 woman injured. The cause is under investigation.
Hong Kong Film Awards big winner Goodbye UFO director Leung Pak-kin to visit Taiwan for discussion
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 44th Hong Kong Film Awards were announced, with Goodbye UFO taking 5 major awards, including Best Film and Best Director for Leung Pak-kin, making it the biggest winner. The film was finally released after being shelved for 7 years, and Leung is expected to visit Taiwan on April 25 to meet with fans.
Taipei City Government inspects presale homes during 329 sales season; 1 development fined for model-home violation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taipei’s Department of Land Administration inspected 9 presale housing developments during the 329 sales season. Overall, they performed well, with only 1 development fined for failing to obtain a permit for its model home. The move aims to protect consumer rights, and residents are urged to assess their options carefully before buying a home.
Former head of the Taiwan People’s Party’s Yunlin County chapter Lin Jing-guan switches to the green camp to run for county council
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lin Jing-guan, former head of the Yunlin County chapter of 台灣民眾黨, has accepted a nomination from 民進黨 and will run for the Yunlin County Council on its behalf. He said the move was a return to his original aspirations and that he would continue serving the local community.
Taiwan Stock Exchange: Proposal to change Taiwan stocks from 1,000 shares to 1 share under review; odd-lot trading improvements to come first
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台湾証券取引所 is considering changing the stock trading unit from 1,000 shares to 1 share, but will first prioritize improving odd-lot trading. The change is complex and requires consideration of its impact on investor habits and systems, so it will be approached in stages.
First since the “Taiwan contingency”: Japan trade promotion group plans Beijing visit in June
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
For the first time since remarks about a “Taiwan contingency,” the Japan International Trade Promotion Association, representing Japan’s business community, plans to visit Beijing from June 21-24. The visit is expected to reaffirm the importance of improving Japan-China relations and economic cooperation, and call for improvements to issues such as China’s export controls on Japan.
British man allegedly carried drugs worth NT$680,000 through customs; arrested at Taoyuan airport and charged with drug offenses
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A British man entered Taiwan as a tourist but allegedly tried to smuggle 20 kilograms of ketamine into the country. He was arrested at Taoyuan International Airport and charged with drug offenses.
Huang Jie runs for 民進黨 Kaohsiung chapter chief: Will work full tilt to support year-end election candidates
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
民進黨 legislator Huang Jie registered to run for head of the party’s Kaohsiung chapter, saying she would work full tilt to support candidates in the year-end elections. Mayor Chen Chi-mai praised young people for being willing to take on responsibility.
NBA’s Harden and Mitchell combine for 58 points as Cavaliers beat Raptors again for 2 straight playoff wins [Video]
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the Toronto Raptors 115-105 to take a 2-0 lead in their NBA playoff series. Donovan Mitchell (30 points) and “Harden” (28 points) led the Cavaliers, while Evan Mobley added 25 points.
Scam ring impersonates police over “cash handout,” steals NT$680,000; telecom card seller arrested
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A fraud ring in Taiwan was busted after impersonating police officers and postal workers to steal cash cards under the guise of a government cash payment program and fraudulently withdraw 685,000 Taiwan dollars. A telecommunications card dealer surnamed Yang, who bought SIM cards from migrant workers and supplied them to the group, was among a total of 8 people arrested.
Water pressure reduced and supply halted in 3 Keelung districts for 23 hours starting the evening of 4/26, affecting 34,000 households
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Water service will be cut off or pressure reduced in 3 districts—Ren’ai, Xinyi and Zhongzheng—in Keelung City for 23 hours starting at 21:00 on April 26, to allow water pipes to be relocated as part of a sewer system project. A total of 34,128 households are expected to be affected.
President Lai: Taiwan is on the front line of the democratic defense; its strength is a moat for peace
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
President Lai said Taiwan is on the front line of defending democracy and that the threat of authoritarianism is part of daily life, stressing that “peace depends on strength, and strength is a moat for peace.” He underscored Taiwan’s commitment to self-defense through increased defense spending and strong cooperation with the United States.
Taiwanese students’ TOEIC Bridge test results have remained stable, with 8th graders reaching the CEFR A2 level. This reflects the positive impact of bilingual education policies and the effectiveness of a test that assesses practical English skills in everyday life.
Top stock Ardentec hits another record high at NT$15,680; Taiwan stocks surge more than 700 points to a new high
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan’s stock market, the TAIEX, rose more than 710 points in a sharp advance, setting a record high of 37,757 points. ASPEED, a leading server management chip maker, hit a record high of 15,680 Taiwan dollars, while semiconductor stocks broadly surged and drove the market higher.
Precinct chief removed after Ko Wen-je was sprayed with pepper spray; Liu Shih-fang: Respects police agency’s disciplinary action
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A precinct chief in Taichung was disciplined and transferred over the pepper-spray incident. Interior Minister Liu Shih-fang said she respects the National Police Agency’s decision. The case involved former 民眾黨 chair Ko Wen-je.
The Ministry of Education will open registration for lifelong learning vouchers to citizens aged 6 and older starting May 1. The number of vouchers is 3 times higher than last year, and they can be used to offset tuition at community colleges and other institutions. The move aims to offer more flexible learning support and lower barriers to participation.
Man indicted by Taipei prosecutors for reporting false “murder, fire” threats to Taipei Metro
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man suspected of having a mental disorder was indicted on charges of threatening the public after posting false reports of “murder, fire” on the Taipei Metro’s AI customer service reporting system.
Pipeline replacement to halt water supply to more than 30,000 households in 3 Tainan districts for 23 hours starting 4/28
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
More than 36,000 households in 18 neighborhoods across Tainan’s East, North and Central West districts will lose water for 23 hours from April 28 to 29 to accommodate pipeline replacement work at the plaza in front of Tainan Railway Station.
Tank explosion at Japan’s Oita training ground leaves 3 men in cardiopulmonary arrest and 1 woman seriously injured
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A shell exploded inside the barrel of a Ground Self-Defense Force tank during firing exercises at the Hijudai Training Area in Oita Prefecture, Japan. The accident left 3 men in cardiopulmonary arrest and 1 woman seriously injured; they were taken to hospital. The cause is under investigation.
Width of motorcycle lanes on Danjiang Bridge sparks debate; scholars urge review after opening
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The width of the motorcycle lanes on Danjiang Bridge has sparked controversy. Some scholars recommend observing conditions after the bridge opens before reassessing the design, while the Highway Bureau says it meets standards and that there are examples of lanes with similar widths.
Pepper-spray case involving Ko Wen-je solved; Lu Shiow-yen says it is a police discipline issue, not merely a blunder
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
民眾黨 chair Ko Wen-je was sprayed with pepper spray while canvassing in Taichung, and it turned out to have been accidentally discharged by a city police precinct chief. Mayor Lu Shiow-yen called it a police discipline issue and said she understood the city police department’s decision.
U.S. Embassy staff die after falling into ravine during drug bust; Mexico’s president says government was not notified of operation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Two 美國使館 personnel died when their vehicle plunged into a ravine after they took part in a drug-busting operation in northern Mexico. Mexico’s president said the government had not been informed of the operation beforehand and had requested information from the U.S. side and the Chihuahua state government.
Vance expected to attend talks again; Wall Street Journal analyzes 5 possible U.S.-Iran scenarios
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With the 2-week U.S.-Iran ceasefire set to expire on the 22nd, reports say President Trump has no intention of extending it. The vice president is scheduled to leave for Pakistan on the 21st, and Iran has said it would send negotiators if Vice President Vance attends, hinting at the possibility of new talks. The Wall Street Journal analyzes 5 possible directions for U.S.-Iran relations.
Gao Ming-jian marks 60 years in medicine, promotes AI preventive medicine and the idea of “treating illness before it arises”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Kao Ming-chien, chairman of the Brain Vascular Disease Prevention Foundation and an emeritus professor at National Taipei University, advocates AI-powered preventive medicine, or “treating before illness,” drawing on 60 years of medical experience. He is working to combine heart rate variability (HRV) and AI to predict and prevent stroke risk.
Tomodachi Life lets players watch their favorite couples fall in love and start families, sparking discussion as the game becomes a dating-reality show
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
On social media, players of Nintendo Switch game Tomodachi Collection have been drawing attention for creating their favorite idols and anime characters as Miis and watching their romantic and everyday lives. The game also supports same-sex relationships and nonbinary gender identities, while users’ creativity is producing experiences like a “reality dating show.”
The General Electric Company filed a foreign company report. It provides important information about the company’s international business activities and financial position.
The Republic of Indonesia published a securities report. It offers a transparent picture of the country’s economic conditions and financial soundness and serves as an important source of information for domestic and international investors.