Asked about his role in the Cheng Nan-jung incident, Hou You-yi says he did what needed to be done
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
During a general questioning session at the city council, New Taipei City Councilor Huang Shu-chun revisited the 1989 Cheng Nan-jung incident and questioned whether Mayor Hou You-yi, then a police officer leading the operation, had played the role of the “bad guy.” Hou said the operation was intended to save a life and that he had tried his best to communicate, but to no avail.
Strong AI demand: Ministry of Economic Affairs estimates monthly export orders could reach US$80 billion by year-end
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 經濟部 reported that export orders reached US$87.45 billion in April, a record for the month and a 48.1% year-on-year increase. The growth was driven mainly by demand for information and communications technology and electronic products amid AI-related business opportunities. The ministry forecast that monthly orders could reach US$80 billion by year-end.
European electric vehicle sales surge as Iran war shifts public acceptance
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Electric vehicle demand in Europe has surged sharply since the end of February this year as the Iran war sent oil prices soaring. New car registrations in April rose 34% year on year, reversing last year’s downturn. Industry players see this as a turning point for the market.
Chang Hsiu-ching recalls hardships at career start, thanks Lo Shih-feng for letting her be the “woman behind the scenes”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Singer Chang Hsiu-ching recalled that early in her career, because she was not considered good-looking, Lo Shih-feng suggested she sing from behind a curtain, using her silhouette to highlight her voice. She jokingly called herself Lo’s “woman behind the scenes.” The experience reflected their deep friendship.
Genesis Foundation residents with disorders of consciousness pray at New Taipei’s Wugu Xian Di Temple, rallying support ahead of charity fair
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 創世基金會板橋院 took 52 residents with disorders of consciousness to Tucheng’s Wugu Xian Di Temple to pray and rally support for its charity fair later this month. The visit aims to raise public awareness of care needs for people with disorders of consciousness, as the foundation faces fundraising difficulties.
Taiwan Travelogue makes international waves; comic and musical adaptations in full swing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The novel “Taiwan Travelogue” won the International Booker Prize, a first for Taiwanese literature. Publisher 春山出版 announced that adaptations into a comic, musical and series are moving forward in parallel. The comic is expected to begin serialization at the end of the year, while the musical is scheduled to run in the second half of next year, demonstrating the diverse potential of Taiwanese intellectual property.
KMT Taichung City council election nominations: registration opens May 21
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 中國國民黨台中市黨部 announced the nomination schedule for the 115 city council elections, with registration opening on May 21. To pursue a “blue-white alliance” strategy with the 台灣民眾黨, registration will not be open in 3 designated districts; instead, incumbent councilors will be recruited as candidates.
After Musk’s China visit, 特斯拉中國 urgently recruits autonomous driving test staff
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After Tesla CEO Elon Musk visited China, 特斯拉中國 urgently posted several openings for autonomous driving testers, prompting market speculation that its Full Self-Driving (FSD) system may soon be approved for the Chinese market. The move is seen as a key step for Tesla to reverse its declining sales in China.
President promulgates entertainment tax law amendment; 財政部 to specify and announce other taxable items
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The president promulgated an amendment to the Entertainment Tax Act, authorizing local governments to end taxes on venues such as dance halls and golf courses and lowering the tax rate ceiling. Movies, concerts and other items have been removed from the list, and 財政部 will announce other taxable items to promote industry and tourism.
China’s April economic data weak; UBS expert says policy shifted after strong Q1 start
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
UBS Securities expert Song Yu said China’s economic data weakened in April because, after a strong start in Q1, policy priorities shifted toward risk prevention and control. He described this as a common short-term cyclical fluctuation and expected subsequent policy adjustments to support the economy.
Inflation concerns and surging yields send Asian stocks lower
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Asian stock markets broadly fell today amid U.S. Treasury yields reaching their highest levels since 2007, inflation concerns and heightened U.S.-Iran geopolitical tensions. Markets were also concerned about the impact of a Samsung strike in South Korea on chip supplies and awaited Nvidia’s earnings.
Samsung strike set for May 21; expert says greater delivery uncertainty will weaken competitiveness
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After labor negotiations broke down, Samsung’s union in South Korea announced a strike for May 21. The move has raised expectations of higher memory prices and could weaken Samsung’s competitiveness in foundry services as delivery uncertainty increases.
Eat along with “Taiwan Travelogue”: a look at 12 distinctive foods featured in the book
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After writer Yang Shuang-zi’s novel “Taiwan Travelogue” won the International Booker Prize, this article introduces 12 Taiwanese foods mentioned in the book, including melon seeds, rice sieve noodles and Malva soup. It explains their symbolism in the plot and their connections to character development.
Former professional baseball star and new deputy minister of the Council of Indigenous Peoples Chen Yi-hsin appeared before the 立法院 for questioning for the first time, acknowledging his nervousness and outlining his approach to developing Indigenous sports. He said he would work with the 運動部 and shift the focus of subsidies from schools to individual athletes, especially children from disadvantaged families.
Huang Kuo-chang: Draft Chiu Chen-yuan for Zhubei race, form “iron triangle” with Ann Kao and Hsu Hsin-ying
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 民眾黨 announced that it would draft former Hsinchu City Deputy Mayor Chiu Chen-yuan to run for Zhubei mayor. Party Chair Huang Kuo-chang hopes he will form the “strongest iron triangle” with Hsinchu City Mayor Ann Kao and Hsu Hsin-ying, the KMT’s candidate for Hsinchu County magistrate, as the parties pursue cross-party cooperation to make inroads across Greater Hsinchu.
Lin Yi-ting hits 2 home runs to lead Taoyuan past Changhua, advance to Wang Chen-Chih youth baseball championship game
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 桃園市隊 beat the 彰化縣隊 15-3 in the Wang Chen-Chih Youth Baseball Tournament semifinals, earning a place in the championship game. The team had 15 hits and 4 home runs, including 2 by Lin Yi-ting in the game.
More moisture on the 21st brings heavy rain risk in the north; Tainan and Kaohsiung should watch for high temperatures
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Central Weather Administration forecast that a front would bring more moisture on the 21st and 22nd, with rain north of Taoyuan and in central mountainous areas. Heavy rain is possible in northern mountainous areas. Tainan and Kaohsiung in the south should prepare for temperatures reaching 36 degrees. Southwesterly winds will take hold from the 23rd, bringing more stable and increasingly hot weather, while the forecast for next weekend remains uncertain.
Gender equity group launches “Queer Child Arrives” board game, exploring birth issues through children’s rights
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 台灣性別平等教育協會 unveiled the “Queer Child Arrives” board game, centered on comprehensive sexuality education and the Convention on the Rights of the Child. Through gameplay simulating the challenges of childbirth and adoption, it aims to open social dialogue and encourage reflection on declining birth rates and social support systems from the perspective of children’s rights.
Muddy water discharged into Chaoyang Creek in Taichung’s Xitun District; city orders construction project halted
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Chaoyang Creek in Taichung’s Xitun District was polluted by muddy water discharged from a construction project. After confirming the incident, the city government ordered work at the project to stop. The Environmental Protection Bureau increased the fine to NT$60,000 for the repeat offense, while the Urban Development Bureau also imposed a NT$9,000 fine and required an improvement plan before work could resume.
Tuo Tsung-kang returns to the studio after 10 years, talks about life after moving to Guam
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Host Tuo Tsung-kang returned to the studio after 10 years and shared what life has been like since his whole family moved to Guam so he could be with his children while they studied. He said the family made the decision after the school they had their eye on ran out of places, and added that nature had completely changed his children.
All bodies recovered after Maldives diving accident; 6 dead, including rescue worker
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Maldives’ deadliest-ever diving accident claimed the lives of a five-member Italian research team and a rescue worker, for a total of six deaths. Authorities have recovered all the bodies and suspended the license of the vessel involved. They are investigating the cause, including whether the 30-meter diving depth limit was violated.
Companies mentioned：熱那亞大學 (University of Genoa)、馬爾地夫國防軍 (MNDF)、晚郵報 (Corriere della Sera)
Century-old apartment building collapses in Görlitz, Germany; safety of old-town buildings draws renewed attention
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 19th-century apartment building collapsed in Görlitz, an old city in eastern Germany, leaving 3 people missing. A gas explosion is suspected. The incident highlights the maintenance pressures and safety risks facing historic buildings, particularly as the city seeks to attract semiconductor talent to address population decline.
4 scenarios, including epidemics and transport disruptions, may allow remote psychiatric compulsory evaluations in future
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ministry of Health and Welfare has released a draft of subsidiary regulations for the Mental Health Act. In future, compulsory evaluations may be conducted by video in four special circumstances, including epidemics, disasters, and remote areas without doctors. The measure accompanies a new system taking effect in August that transfers decisions on compulsory hospitalization to the courts, aiming to make procedures more flexible and reduce risks associated with moving patients.
In response to a hidden-camera case at an aesthetic clinic, the New Taipei City Health Department announced that, in line with central government consensus, medical institutions are prohibited from using covert recording devices. Surveillance cameras may be installed in public areas but must be clearly indicated; written consent is required in areas with a low level of privacy, while recording is generally prohibited in highly private examination rooms, to protect patient privacy.
National Chengchi University marks 99th anniversary; Wu Ching-feng and Hsiang Yang receive distinguished alumni awards
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
National Chengchi University held its 99th anniversary celebration on May 20, honoring 7 distinguished alumni, including musician Wu Ching-feng, poet Hsiang Yang and Rock Records founder Duan Zhongyi. President Lee Tsai-yen emphasized the importance of the humanities in the AI era and announced preparations for the university’s centennial celebration.
Mega Bills Finance marks 50th anniversary; Tung Jui-pin hopes to reach new heights
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Mega Bills Finance celebrated its 50th anniversary, looking back on its contributions to Taiwan’s financial market as the island’s first specialized bill finance company. Chairman Tung Jui-pin said he hoped the company would reach new heights over the next 50 years, while acting chairman Chen Shih-yi outlined this year’s business challenges and profit targets.
Foreign nationals face pressure while joining march for Taiwan’s participation in WHA; Foreign Ministry protests to WHO Secretariat
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
At a march in Geneva, Switzerland, in support of Taiwan’s participation in the WHA, overseas Taiwanese were pressured by “officials from the World Health Organization” to cover the word “TAIWAN” on their T-shirts. Taiwan’s Foreign Ministry has lodged protests with the WHO Secretariat and local police, urging them to uphold the principles of fairness and neutrality.
BWF Malaysia Masters: Wang Tzu-wei beats Weng Hong-yang for first win, advances past opening round
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwanese badminton player Wang Tzu-wei defeated Chinese opponent Weng Hong-yang, whom he had never beaten before, in a hard-fought three-game match in the opening round of the Malaysia Masters men’s singles, advancing to the next round. Another Taiwanese player, Wang Po-wei, also came from behind to win and reach the second round.
On May 20, 25 couples registered their marriages in Taitung and welcomed President Lai Ching-te’s announced policy of a monthly growth allowance of NT$5,000 for every child aged 0 to 18, saying the support might encourage them to have more children.
Two brothers surnamed Chou serving in the military allegedly stole fellow soldiers’ personal information and teamed up with their youngest brother to use software plugins to buy concert and sporting event tickets. They resold 1450 tickets in just a few months, making more than NT$20.43 million in illegal proceeds, and have been indicted by the Taoyuan District Prosecutors Office.
More than 100 taxi drivers take to the streets to petition; Chen Chi-mai to establish advisory committee
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
More than 100 Kaohsiung taxi drivers took to the streets to petition, protesting exploitation by taxi companies and calling for rest stops. Mayor Chen Chi-mai promised to establish an advisory committee within a month and consider providing drivers with more space and time to rest.
More visitors are heading to Qixing Mountain’s Qingtiangang at night, with some smoking and playing music in violation of rules; Yangmingshan National Park urges public to protect ecosystem
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Following an incident involving a couple behaving disruptively during an online livestream, nighttime visitors to Qingtiangang in Yangmingshan have surged. Some visitors have played music and smoked in violation of regulations, affecting the ecosystem and nearby residents. The Yangmingshan National Park Headquarters has stepped up patrols and will take enforcement action against violators in accordance with the law.
Economic and financial developments across ASEAN on May 20 were varied: e-commerce in Vietnam and the AI industry in Malaysia are growing rapidly, while Singapore’s stock market has emerged as the region’s leader. Meanwhile, Laos and the Philippines face challenges from inflation and balance-of-payments deficits, while Indonesia is strengthening its economic and strategic position in the South China Sea with Japanese assistance.
Keelung's first expert home inspection finds unsealed kitchen exhaust pipe could let rats in
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to hantavirus cases, Keelung City launched a service offering expert home visits to control rats. The first inspection found that an unsealed gap in a kitchen exhaust pipe was a potential entry point. Experts advised sealing the gap and setting traps, and stressed three principles for keeping rats out.
TPBL announces finalists for annual MVP award: Gao Jin-wei, Gao Guo-hao and Abas vie for honor
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台灣職業籃球大聯盟TPBL announced the finalists for its 2025-26 season MVP award: Gao Jin-wei of 桃園台啤永豐雲豹, Gao Guo-hao of 新竹御嵿攻城獅 and Abas of 新北中信特攻. The winner will be determined by a combination of media and fan votes, with Gao Jin-wei a leading contender after guiding his team to the regular-season title.
After Xi-Putin summit, China extends visa-free entry for Russians through the end of 2027
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After the Xi-Putin summit, China announced it would extend its 30-day visa-free entry policy for Russian citizens through the end of 2027. The move aims to deepen people-to-people exchanges and the strategic partnership between China and Russia, but Moscow has yet to announce reciprocal measures.
Advocates warn of loopholes in work permits for those working with children: Huang Tzu-chiao could still have access to minors
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Civic groups say a draft proposal by the Ministry of Health and Welfare for work permits for those working with children has loopholes. For example, entertainer Huang Tzu-chiao was convicted under the Personal Data Protection Act, which carries a heavier sentence, rather than on sex exploitation charges, and may therefore still be able to work with minors in the future. They urged authorities to broaden the definition of covered workers and recommended restricting contact with minors during proceedings, rather than waiting until a conviction is final.
Foxtron and Mitsubishi partner on vehicle, aim to enter Australia and New Zealand markets by the end of Q3
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Foxtron unveiled its new electric SUV, the “CAVIRA,” and announced plans for global expansion. The company will partner with Mitsubishi to enter the Australia and New Zealand markets, work with a Polish state-owned company to establish a foothold in Europe, and respond flexibly to North American tariff policies.
National Museum of Indigenous Peoples set to begin construction in June; Vision Pavilion expected to be completed by the end of 116
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
原住民族委員會 Minister Tseng Chih-yung announced that construction of the long-delayed National Museum of Indigenous Peoples will begin in June on the shore of Chengcing Lake in Kaohsiung. The Vision Pavilion is expected to be completed first, by the end of next year, and there are currently no plans to increase the total budget of NT$5.859 billion.
Taitung councilor proposes expanding use of senior citizens' cards; county government says it will continue reviewing the idea
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taitung County Councilor Wang Wen-yi said the county's senior citizens' cards provide a monthly 1500-point transportation subsidy, the highest in Taiwan, but that usage among older residents is low, making the benefit a waste. She proposed expanding the range of uses. The county government said it has partnered with 救國團 and will continue considering adding leisure uses such as tourist transport and hot springs.
Changhua County government drafts cross-agency plan to tackle rat problem, guided by 3 principles
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
In response to county councilors' concerns about rats and public health, the Changhua County government is drafting a cross-agency control plan. It will survey rat populations and follow the 3 principles of “don't let rats come, eat or live here.” The plan will be implemented after approval by the county magistrate.