AI enters the lab: Taiwan startup launches validation project with Kyushu University Hospital
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan startups 精拓生技 and 奎景運算科技 announced today in Fukuoka, Japan, together with 九州大學醫院f-labs, the launch of a 6-month Prometheus Lab AI field validation project. The initiative will bring AI systems into a laboratory to assess how smart-lab technology performs in a real research environment and support further expansion into the Japanese market.
Facts
Jointly announced the launch of a 6-month Prometheus Lab AI field validation project
精拓生技 won an award at the 2024 RAMEN TECH event in Fukuoka
National Day reception held in South Africa; “Technology and Wonder” showcases potential for cooperation
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Original駐南非代表處於5日在約翰尼斯堡舉行中華民國國慶酒會，駐南非代表廖文哲以「科技與驚奇」（Technology and Wonder）詮釋台灣英文縮寫「TW」，強調台海和平穩定是全球共同利益，並展示台灣資通訊、AI及XR產品。華碩與宏達電等台灣科技廠商參展，華碩表示深耕南非逾10年、聘用超過50名員工。南非國會議員馬桑荷肯定台灣捐贈近400部輪椅及400噸白米的慈善貢獻，教廷駐南非大使與南非茨瓦內市議員李崇維也出席致意。
Facts
Original全球逾9成最先進晶片在台灣製造
Original逾9成AI伺服器也由台灣供應商生產
Nearly 400 wheelchairs and mobility aids were donated this year through 阿彌陀佛關懷中心
Provided 400 metric tons of rice in cooperation with 南非慈濟基金會
Employs more than 50 people locally
華碩 has been established in South Africa for more than 10 years
The Republic of China and the Holy See established diplomatic relations in 1942
Lithuanian parliament backs constitutional amendment to lift nuclear weapons ban, hopes to join NATO nuclear deterrence
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Lithuania’s parliament today passed the first reading of a constitutional amendment by 106 votes to 18, with 6 abstentions. The proposal would remove Article 137’s ban on deploying weapons of mass destruction, creating a legal path for allied nuclear weapons to be stationed in Lithuania and strengthening deterrence against Russia and its ally Belarus. The final vote must be held at least 3 months after the first reading and requires the support of at least 94 of the 141 members of parliament. It is scheduled for Jan. 12 next year.
Facts
Lithuania’s parliament today passed the first reading of the amendment by 106 votes to 18, with 6 abstentions
The amendment requires the support of at least 94 of the 141 members of parliament to pass
The final vote can take place no sooner than 3 months after the first reading
9 sorties by Chinese military aircraft since this afternoon in coordination with Chinese naval vessels' combat readiness patrol; 國軍 keeps close watch
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國防部 said that since 2:54 p.m., 9 sorties by Chinese military aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait and entered airspace over northern and central Taiwan, coordinating with Chinese naval vessels to harass the air and sea around Taiwan under the guise of a "joint combat readiness patrol." 國軍 is closely monitoring the situation using joint intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance measures, and has dispatched aircraft, vessels and shore-based missile systems to respond appropriately.
Facts
9 sorties by Chinese military aircraft crossed the median line of the Taiwan Strait
Ebola outbreak continues in the Democratic Republic of the Congo; Kenya reports first imported case
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo continues to spread, and East African nation Kenya has reported its first imported confirmed case; the Kenyan patient died after returning from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Democratic Republic of the Congo is facing its worst Bundibugyo Ebola virus outbreak on record, with more than 8000 confirmed cases and more than 4000 deaths recorded. The outbreak previously spread to Uganda, where 20 confirmed cases and 2 deaths were recorded, and 1 case was also reported in France.
Facts
Now, East African nation Kenya has also reported its first confirmed case
A total of 28 contacts have been identified, including family members and health care workers
More than 8000 cases have been recorded in the Democratic Republic of the Congo
And more than 4000 deaths
20 cases were reported locally
And 2 deaths
Kenya is the 4th country to report a case in this Ebola outbreak
China's rare earth controls threaten global economy; Japanese official says Japan must preserve semiconductor edge
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japan's Minister of Economy, Trade and Industry Ryosei Akazawa said China's controls on rare earth exports affect not only Japan but also the United States and the global economy. Japan must preserve its existing advantages in semiconductors and AI-related materials, components and manufacturing equipment, and develop "physical AI" as a key to success. Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry also announced additional sanctions on Russia, while emphasizing that it will prioritize maintaining its interests in the Sakhalin 2 energy development project.
Facts
There are mainly 2 ways forward: try to persuade China to continue supplying materials, or develop and find alternatives
TCO joins forces with 4 cellists for "East Meets West" concert
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
台北市立國樂團（TCO） will present the "East Meets West" concert, featuring 4 internationally renowned cellists. Centered on cello concertos, the program will combine the humanistic qualities of Chinese music with the cello's deep tones to create a cross-cultural musical dialogue. The concert will take place at the National Concert Hall on the 8th.
Facts
Will collaborate with 4 internationally renowned cellists
Concert to be held at the National Concert Hall on the 8th
Taiwanese animated feature "Welcome to Dolly's House" selected for 西班牙錫切斯電影節
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
After being selected for 法國安錫動畫影展, 美國奧斯汀奇幻電影節, 韓國釜山影展 and 史特拉斯堡歐洲奇幻影展, Taiwanese animated feature "Welcome to Dolly's House" has now been selected for the animated feature competition at 西班牙錫切斯電影節, marking a first for Taiwanese animation. It has also been nominated for the 金馬獎 for best animated feature. Producer Wu Ming-hsien said the film is a 100% original Taiwanese production and that he looks forward to its nationwide release at the end of October.
Facts
"Welcome to Dolly's House" will open nationwide on October 30
After entering the competition section and holding its world premiere at 法國安錫動畫影展 in June
Starring and voiced by actors Yao Ai-ning, Ji Pei-hui and Chiu Yi-tai
Plague concern reported in Russia; WHO says public health risk there is low
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 28-year-old female technician, Shibilova, at a disease prevention research institute in Siberia's Irkutsk region, Russia, was reported to have died of pneumonic plague. Lindmeier, a spokesperson for 世界衛生組織（WHO）, said that based on available information, the preliminary risk assessment was moderate to low for Irkutsk region, low for Russia overall and very low for the European region. Russian authorities and the United States are closely monitoring the incident.
Facts
Shibilova, a 28-year-old woman employed at a disease prevention research institute in Siberia's Irkutsk region (Irkutsk)
Cosmic signal captured in Antarctic ice; Halzen wins Nobel Prize in Physics
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics has been awarded to Belgian-born American particle physicist Halzen in recognition of his key contributions to the IceCube Neutrino Observatory and his discovery of high-energy neutrinos of astrophysical origin. Halzen first proposed capturing neutrinos in Antarctic ice in 1988. The IceCube Observatory was completed in 2011 and spans 1 cubic kilometer of ice. It continues to collect neutrino interaction events, opening up a new field of astronomical research.
Facts
Observations conducted using 1 cubic kilometer of ice equipped with light sensors
Halzen first proposed capturing neutrinos in Antarctica in 1988
The IceCube Neutrino Observatory spans 1 cubic kilometer of ice and was completed in 2011
Now 82 years old
The particles’ energy can reach up to 1 million times the energy attainable in laboratories on Earth.
The prize money for each award will rise from 11 million Swedish kronor last year to 12 million Swedish kronor
About NT$38 million
Companies mentioned：冰立方微中子天文台 (IceCube Neutrino Observatory)、威斯康辛大學麥迪遜分校 (University of Wisconsin-Madison)、諾貝爾獎基金會 (The Nobel Foundation)
Retired Air Force captain detained without visitation over alleged collection of personal data on agents for China
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A retired Air Force captain surnamed Fei is suspected of collecting personal data and whereabouts of 2 intelligence agents in Taiwan and passing the information to China. He also allegedly instructed his son, a real estate agent, to help look up property records under the agents’ names. Taoyuan prosecutors have concluded their investigation and indicted Fei and his son. The Taoyuan District Court ordered Fei senior detained for 3 months and barred visits and communications.
Facts
Collected personal data on 2 intelligence agents
The court ordered him detained for 3 months starting today and barred visits and communications.
An offense carrying a minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment
An application for revocation or modification may be filed within 10 days.
In August this year, Taoyuan prosecutors applied to the Taoyuan District Court for Fei senior’s detention without visitation, and the application was approved.
北美洲台灣婦女會: Hsu Chia-ching attended annual-meeting dinner alone; family came to visit
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The Vancouver chapter of 北美洲台灣婦女會（NATWA）posted a clarification on social media in response to 民眾黨團’s allegation that 僑委會 Minister Hsu Chia-ching had “brought her family to the annual meeting and used 僑委會 resources for personal benefit.” The association said Hsu attended the NATWA annual-meeting dinner alone and delivered a keynote speech on the evening of April 19, 2024. Her husband and son arrived in Vancouver from the United States on April 20 to visit her and were invited to that evening’s Bay Sound concert. It condemned reports for combining photos from different times, places and events without basic fact-checking.
Facts
The 36th annual meeting of 北美洲台灣婦女會（NATWA）
NATWA held its annual meeting in Vancouver from April 18 to April 21, 2024.
On the evening of April 19, Hsu Chia-ching attended the NATWA dinner alone.
On April 20, her husband brought their son from the United States to Vancouver.
Taoyuan’s local flavor goes global as 15 city symbols are incorporated into gifts for sale at Taoyuan airport
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
桃園市觀光發展基金會 brought together local businesses to turn Taoyuan’s landscapes, culture and urban character into 15 city symbols, then worked with food companies including 郭元益, 金格 and 三叔公 to develop locally themed gift products. The results were unveiled at Taoyuan International Airport. The exhibition is on display through the 18th in the Taiwan Good Plaza in Zone D of Terminal 2, with the aim of promoting Taoyuan to international visitors through the concept of “Taoyuan flavor.”
Facts
Taoyuan’s landscapes, culture and urban character were transformed into 15 city symbols.
On display through the 18th at the Taiwan Good Plaza in Zone D of Terminal 2 at Taoyuan airport
The exhibition of gift products showcasing Taoyuan’s distinctive character is on display through the 18th at the Taiwan Good Plaza in Zone D of Terminal 2 at Taoyuan airport.
National Day holiday: Peak congestion periods on Freeway 5 and the Suhua corridor announced
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Heavy traffic is expected in eastern Taiwan during the 3-day National Day holiday. The Yilan County government and the Directorate General of Highways have announced potential congestion periods on Freeway 5 and the Suhua corridor, respectively, and urged motorists to plan ahead and avoid peak hours.
Facts
The National Day holiday runs from October 9 to 11.
Southbound traffic on Freeway 5 is expected to be heavy from about 5 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the 9th.
From 5 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the 10th
Northbound congestion is expected from about 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the 10th.
From 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on the 11th
The first southbound traffic wave on the Suhua Highway corridor is expected to appear from 5 a.m. on the 9th.
Traffic is expected to build on northbound sections from 11 a.m. on the 11th.
Peak traffic is expected to gradually ease after 7 p.m. that day.
National Housing and Urban Regeneration Center: More than 95% of hermit crab cases in transition process; landlords urged to register their intentions by the 31st
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
國家住都中心 said that after 寄居蟹租屋公司 stated in August that it could no longer provide services, it worked with 六都租賃住宅服務公會 to transition more than 95% of the cases. Of the 6,688 cases under its supervision as of Oct. 2, 3,119 (46.6%) have completed the transition, 3,270 (48.9%) are being processed, and the remaining 299 (4.5%) are still being contacted. The center reminded landlords and tenants to fill out the transition assistance registration form on its website by Oct. 31, and landlords to submit letters of intent by Nov. 16 confirming the successor service provider, in order to complete the transition and retain their rights under the social housing subleasing and management program.
Facts
More than 95% of cases have been moved into the transition process
There were 6,688 cases under supervision as of Oct. 2
A total of 3,119 cases (46.6%) have completed the transition and been closed
A total of 3,270 cases (48.9%) are being handled with assistance from the association and service providers
The remaining 299 cases (4.5%) are still being contacted
The special transition case-handling mechanism was launched on Aug. 10
The center's business contract with 寄居蟹公司 ended on Sept. 21
No. 1: By Oct. 31, landlords or tenants should fill out the transition assistance registration form in the “Hermit Crab Case Transition” section of the 國家住都中心 website
The form will be closed and no longer available from Nov. 1
No. 2: For cases registered by Nov. 16, landlords must submit a letter of intent confirming the successor service provider
乖乖 strike ends with workers securing compensation and signing no-free-rider agreement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The labor dispute between the 乖乖中壢廠企業工會 and 三地集團 has ended with a mediation agreement after a strike lasting more than 100 hours. Employees secured several forms of compensation, including 4 months of full pay for those who leave within 2 years, 8 months of full pay for those who leave due to the factory relocation between now and Sept. 30, ROC year 117, and an additional NT$100,000 for employees with 12 or more years of service under the new labor pension system. The 2 sides also signed a no-free-rider clause.
Facts
Won the right to strike with 94% support.
After the strike, members who apply to leave within 2 years due to a job reassignment within the Zhongli plant secured
The company must pay statutory severance and compensation equal to 4 months of full pay
Members who apply to leave because the company’s factory relocation requires them to move from work at the Zhongli plant, from now until Sept. 30, ROC year 117
The company must pay statutory severance and compensation equal to 8 months of full pay
Workers with 12 or more years of service under the new labor pension system
An additional NT$100,000 in compensation for each person
They united and went on strike for more than 100 hours
The strike fundraising had exceeded NT$200,000 before the strike ended
Tucheng wife-murder case ruling says killing 3 people is required for death penalty; New Taipei District Court: deliberated under Constitutional Court Judgment 8
Campus safety alarm sounds in Malaysia; Anwar: 5,681 bullying cases reported in first 8 months
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A series of recent student deaths at schools in Malaysia has raised concerns about campus safety. Prime Minister Anwar told Parliament that schools nationwide reported 5,681 bullying cases in the first 8 months of this year, including physical, verbal, nonverbal and online bullying. The government will hire more counselors and assistant dorm supervisors, authorize uniformed police officers to enter campuses at any time, and provide psychological training for 400 dorm supervisors to curb bullying.
Facts
Schools nationwide reported 5,681 bullying cases in the first 8 months of this year
A 16-year-old female student died at a secondary school in Yong Peng, Johor, on Oct. 3
Psychological and other relevant training will be provided for 400 dorm supervisors
Cases reported from January to August this year
Separately, a male student died in a school dormitory in Negeri Sembilan on Sept. 25
凌華's third-quarter revenue sets new high for the period as edge AI demand fuels growth
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Industrial computer maker 凌華 benefited from demand in healthcare, smart retail and edge AI. Its consolidated revenue in September was about NT$1.53 billion, up 51% year on year. Third-quarter consolidated revenue was NT$4.485 billion, up 45% year on year and a record for the period. Consolidated revenue for the first 3 quarters was about NT$12.39 billion, up 43%, also a record for the same period. Looking ahead, the company will focus on areas including Edge AI, smart manufacturing, smart healthcare and robotics.
Facts
September consolidated revenue was about NT$1.53 billion
Up 51% year on year
Consolidated revenue in the third quarter of this year reached NT$4.485 billion
Up 45% year on year
凌華's consolidated revenue for the first 3 quarters of this year was about NT$12.39 billion
13 DPP candidates for Keelung city council release campaign videos, pledge to promote local prosperity
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 13 city council candidates nominated by the Keelung City chapter of the Democratic Progressive Party released 2 campaign videos themed around “jump rope” and “tug-of-war.” Former mayor Lin You-chang and former legislator Tsai Shih-ying provided the voiceovers, pledging to build a “warm and livable” city and a “prosperous Keelung” through teamwork, in line with mayoral candidate Tung Tzu-wei’s message of unity.
Facts
The 13 city council candidates nominated by the Keelung City chapter of the Democratic Progressive Party
Released 2 campaign videos today themed around “jump rope” and “tug-of-war”
金管會 expands scope of health-sector investments allowed for insurers, removes business-link requirement
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
金管會 issued an interpretive ruling expanding the scope of health and welfare businesses in which insurers may invest. It defines 5 major categories, including health management and promotion services, health and medical technology and digital applications, and relaxes the requirement that investments be linked to insurance business, giving companies more flexibility to participate in related businesses. It also announced a draft amendment to rules governing special investments to encourage insurers to invest in venture capital businesses.
Facts
Investments by insurers in health and welfare businesses fall into 5 major categories: health management and promotion services; health and medical technology and digital applications; long-term care and age-friendly services; healthy food and nutritional support; and integrated health and welfare services
Where the investee company is in a controlling or subordinate relationship with the investor, the total investment must not exceed 40% of shareholders’ equity
Where there is no controlling or subordinate relationship, investment is capped at total shareholders’ equity (100%)
Only 1 property and casualty insurer in the market has invested in an “emerging key strategic business”
金管會 issued an interpretive ruling last October defining the scope of insurance-related businesses in which insurers may invest
Served as head of Germany’s Federal Intelligence Service from 1998 to 2005
The 2 men reached an agreement in 2010
He also helped formulate counterterrorism policy during the tenure of then Interior Minister Wolfgang Schäuble
He is suspected of providing Hanning with about 2000 documents through June 2022
Suspected of providing Hanning with about 2000 documents through June 2022
Original2023年跨年夜，當時與父親住在丹麥的一對子女遭一家以色列安全公司人員強行帶上車
In September 2025, police searched a security company where Hanning served as a supervisor, as well as his private residence
Hanning could face 6 months to 10 years in prison
Hanning is suspected of using information he obtained at least once to prepare an analysis report for an employee of a foreign intelligence and security agency
中磊's September revenue hits another record; first 3 quarters' revenue exceeds full-year 2025
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Telecommunications and broadband equipment maker 中磊電子 reported September revenue of NT$6.81 billion, up 47% year on year. Third-quarter revenue reached a record NT$21.83 billion, marking growth for 6 consecutive quarters. Revenue for the first 9 months totaled NT$59.09 billion, up 54.2% year on year, already surpassing full-year 2025 revenue of NT$54 billion. The growth was driven mainly by AI applications, which boosted network traffic and demand for broadband equipment upgrades.
Facts
中磊電子 announced today that September revenue was NT$6.81 billion
Up 47% from NT$4.62 billion in the same period last year
中磊's third-quarter revenue was NT$21.83 billion
Up 5.9% quarter on quarter
Up 48% year over year
中磊 reported revenue of NT$59.09 billion for the first 9 months
Up 54.2% from the same period last year
Already surpassing full-year 2025 revenue of NT$54 billion
Compared with NT$4.62 billion in the same period last year
Blue accuses Green Yunlin council candidate of vote-buying; Green: labeling is electioneering
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
蔡永順, a 民進黨 candidate for the Yunlin County Council, is suspected of distributing cash to buy votes under the pretext of increasing birth subsidies and has been detained incommunicado. The 國民黨 caucus called on 民進黨 candidate for Yunlin County magistrate 劉建國 to apologize publicly and urged President 賴清德 to step down as head of 劉建國’s campaign headquarters. The 民進黨 caucus in the Yunlin County Council responded that it respected questions but said they should be based on facts and evidence. It criticized the accusations as an election tactic that labels someone in advance, and said 蔡永富 had paid birth incentives out of his own pocket since 2024, not just during the election period.
Facts
Nearly 3 million seized
Secretly handing out cash red envelopes of NT$2000
蔡永順, his older brother, incumbent councilor 蔡永富 and 27 others were taken in
蔡永富 has paid birth incentives out of his own pocket since 2024
From March to September this year, using the “child-rearing allowance” distributed by the township office
Local political figures have continued investing their own resources in the community over the past 3 years
The 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics was announced today, with Francis Halzen, a scholar at the University of Wisconsin–Madison in the United States, the sole recipient. The Nobel Foundation announced last month that the prize money for each award would rise from 11 million Swedish kronor last year to 12 million kronor (about NT$38 million). The Medicine Prize was announced on the 5th, the Physics Prize on the 6th, the Chemistry Prize on the 7th, the Literature Prize on the 8th, the Peace Prize on the 9th (to be awarded in Oslo, Norway), and the Economics Prize on the 12th.
Facts
The prize money for each award will rise from 11 million Swedish kronor last year to 12 million Swedish kronor
About NT$38 million
The 2026 Nobel Prize in Physics was announced today
Companies mentioned：University of Wisconsin-Madison、The Nobel Foundation
Localized lows of 19 degrees possible north of central Taiwan before the 10th; moisture increases early in the National Day holiday
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 中央氣象署 forecast lows of around 21 to 25 degrees Celsius north of central Taiwan and in Yilan before the 10th, with localized lowland temperatures possibly reaching 19 degrees. Moisture on windward areas is expected to increase slightly on the 9th and 10th, at the start of the National Day holiday, with localized brief showers possible north of Taoyuan and in Yilan. Moisture will decrease and temperatures rise slightly from the 11th. The agency also said this year’s No. 26 Typhoon Caiyun, No. 27 Typhoon Noul and No. 28 Typhoon Xiaoxiong would have no impact on Taiwan.
Facts
Localized lowland temperatures could fall to 19 degrees
Before the 10th, lows north of central Taiwan and in Yilan will be around 21 to 25 degrees Celsius
Around 24 to 26 degrees in southern Taiwan
Lows in northern Taiwan and Yilan-Hualien will be around 22 to 26 degrees
Around 24 to 27 degrees in central and southern Taiwan
Around 26 to 28 degrees north of Taoyuan and in Yilan-Hualien
Around 29 to 33 degrees elsewhere
Highs across Taiwan could rise above 30 degrees from the 11th
Typhoon Caiyun, this year's No. 26
No. 27 Typhoon Noul
No. 28 Typhoon Xiaoxiong
Will become an extratropical cyclone within the next 24 hours
National Day holiday: moisture on windward areas to increase slightly on the 9th and 10th... moisture to decrease from the 11th to the 13th
Taiwan stocks near 50,000-point mark, setting record; foreign investors turn sellers as NT dollar edges up 0.7 fen
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan stocks hit a record intraday high of 49968.92 points on the 6th, and the Taiex closed up 110.51 points at 49822.55, targeting the 50,000-point mark. Foreign investors, however, ended a 4-session buying streak and turned net sellers of NT$6.657 billion, shifting to remitting funds overseas in the afternoon. The NT dollar closed at 31.781 per US dollar, up 0.7 fen and marking 5 consecutive gains. Turnover in the Taipei and Yuanta foreign exchange markets totaled US$2.337 billion.
Facts
Still hit a record intraday high of 49968.92 points
The Taiex closed up 110.51 points at 49822.55
The Taiex closed up 110.51 points
Targeting the 50,000-point mark
Turned net sellers of NT$6.657 billion
Closed at 31.781
Up slightly by 0.7 cents
Total turnover in the Taipei and Yuanta foreign exchange markets was US$2.337 billion
The NT dollar opened at 31.76 per US dollar today
Quickly strengthened to an intraday high of 31.699
Touched a low of 31.823
The NT dollar fluctuated mostly between 31.7 and 31.8
Aerial full-force rehearsal for National Day ceremony on the 7th and 8th canceled due to weather
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 國慶籌備委員會 announced that the 3rd full-force aerial rehearsal for the National Day ceremony, originally scheduled for the morning of October 7, would be canceled due to weather after an overall assessment of flight safety. Aerial rehearsal training on both October 7 and the October 8 backup date will be halted. Preparations and rehearsals for other parts of the National Day ceremony will continue.
Facts
The 國防部 began aerial route surveys and related training for the National Day ceremony on September 23
Following the 1st “half-force rehearsal” held on September 30
The 2nd “full-force rehearsal” was held on October 2
Originally scheduled for the backup date, from 6:05 a.m. to 7:40 a.m. on the 7th
Aerial rehearsal training tomorrow and on the original backup date (10/8) will both be canceled
The 3rd “full-force rehearsal” was originally scheduled for the 5th
盧秀燕: Taichung MRT Blue Line will not be a BOT project; central government has finalized and started work
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taichung Mayor 盧秀燕 said on the 6th that the central government has approved and finalized the Taichung MRT Blue Line project, and construction has begun. The budget-sharing ratio has been agreed, and the line will not be built under a BOT arrangement. Asked about a Japanese company’s interest in joining a BOT project, she stressed that it was only an inquiry from the Japanese side. Taiwan has no precedent for foreign investment in BOT public-private partnership projects, she said, adding that other cities could consider whether to allow it in the future.
Tech stocks lead Wall Street to record high; most Asian markets close higher
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tech stocks led Wall Street to another record, with the US Nasdaq buoyed by strong gains among technology giants including Nvidia, SpaceX and Meta. However, the rally was concentrated in a small number of stocks, while the Middle East crisis drove up energy costs and inflation, sending government bond yields to levels rarely seen in decades. International oil prices fell as the G7 released oil reserves, Saudi Arabia cut prices and Persian Gulf exports returned to prewar levels. Brent crude fell back below US$100 per barrel. The chief executive of Saudi Aramco warned that global energy reserves were running low. Most major Asian indexes closed higher. Japan’s Nikkei rose 1.1% to 70683.98 points, and Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index gained 1.0% to 24280.56 points. The Shanghai Composite was closed for a holiday.
Facts
Japan’s benchmark Nikkei index closed up 1.1% today
To 70683.98 points
Hong Kong’s Hang Seng Index closed up 1.0%
To 24280.56 points
Brent crude returned to below US$100 per barrel
Bonds issued by artificial intelligence (AI)-related companies have surged from just 4% of all corporate bond issuance 2 years ago to 25%
Companies mentioned：NVIDIA、SpaceX、Meta、Post Oak Group、Saudi Aramco
Pingtung reports its first Japanese encephalitis case; county urges mosquito prevention and vaccination
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Pingtung County has reported its first confirmed Japanese encephalitis case of the year. A woman in her 60s developed a fever and sought medical care on September 24. She was hospitalized after persistent fever, dizziness and vomiting, and was diagnosed on October 5. The county disinfected the area around her home and hung mosquito traps near a neighboring pigsty for monitoring. It urged the public to take mosquito-prevention measures and get vaccinated.
Facts
Woman in her 60s in Pingtung diagnosed with Japanese encephalitis
The woman developed a fever on September 24 and sought treatment at a clinic
A total of 14 confirmed Japanese encephalitis cases reported nationwide
Foreign investors end 4-session buying streak, add active ETFs and adjust tech holdings
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Taiwan stocks rose 110 points on the 6th to close at 49822, just short of the 50,000-point mark. The 3 major institutional investors were net sellers of NT$20.786 billion combined. Foreign and mainland Chinese investors were net sellers of NT$6.657 billion, ending a 4-session buying streak. Foreign investors increased holdings in actively managed ETFs while trimming positions in 友達, 鴻海 and 台積電. 留政鈺, chairman of 兆豐國際投顧, said weak US employment data eased concerns about interest rate hikes and brought funds back to technology stocks. 沈建宏, a fund manager at 台新, said strong earnings growth among Taiwan’s small- and mid-cap niche stocks would drive the market’s push to new highs.
Facts
Taiwan stocks rose 110 points today to close at 49822
Rose 110 points
The 3 major institutional investors were net sellers of NT$20.786 billion combined
Dealers posted net purchases of NT$1.721 billion
Original投信賣超158.5億元連2賣
Foreign and mainland Chinese investors posted net sales of NT$6.657 billion
The 3 major institutional investors increased their net short positions by 1,178 contracts to 5,193 contracts.
To 5,193 contracts.
Foreign investors increased their net short positions by 2,513 contracts to 79,517 contracts.
To 79,517 contracts.
Original外資減碼友達8.7萬張位居第1
They trimmed holdings of 復華富時不動產 by about 20,400 lots.
They posted net selling of 19,900 lots of 鴻海.
Foreign investors also trimmed holdings of 1,672 lots of 台積電.
Maintain double-digit percentage growth through 2027.
Chinese woman suspected of spying on President Lai's son; highly educated background and lavish lifestyle revealed.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A 34-year-old Chinese national and California real estate agent, Chang Wan-ying, who is suspected of acting on the orders of Chinese officials to surveil President Lai Ching-te's son in the United States, was arrested on the 4th as she prepared to board a flight to Shanghai at Los Angeles International Airport. She graduated from the University of Southern California and led a lavish lifestyle. She and her husband, Aderick Ting, who is also a real estate agent, worked for the same company in Orange County. A federal indictment alleges that she traveled to Seattle in September 2025 to surveil Lai Ting-yu, the president's son, and sent photos, videos and license plate information to Chinese officials. The FBI obtained WeChat records from her iCloud showing communications with 2 people suspected of being Chinese officials, which served as key evidence.
Facts
34-year-old California real estate agent Chang Wan-ying.
The school may charge more than US$75,000 a year.
Equivalent to about NT$2.38 million.
Chang Wan-ying traveled to Seattle in September 2025 to surveil President Lai Ching-te's son, Lai Ting-yu.
The records show she was in contact with 2 people suspected of being Chinese government officials.
Chang Wan-ying's communications records can be traced back at least to September 2022.
中央社 reported from Los Angeles on the 6th, citing multiple foreign media reports.
Companies mentioned：紐約郵報 (New York Post)、南加州大學 (University of Southern California)、哥倫比亞廣播公司新聞網 (CBS News)、中央社、聯邦調查局 (FBI)、iCloud、微信 (WeChat)
Suspect in assault case indicted; Akio Yaita says he will not be silenced by the punch and will keep speaking up for Taiwan.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Akio Yaita, executive director of the 印太戰略智庫, was assaulted in July by Hong Kong gang member Liao Kang-fa. The Taichung District Prosecutors Office indicted Liao on charges including organized crime and issued wanted notices for 4 accomplices who fled the country. Yaita said the investigation found that this was a cross-border act of violence that was “organized, planned and paid for,” intended to create a chilling effect. He said he would not be silenced and would continue to speak up for Taiwan and freedom.
Facts
Akio Yaita, executive director of the 印太戰略智庫, was assaulted in July.
Wanted notices were also issued for 4 accomplices.
“Sell 10, get 8 returned”: Chinese e-commerce sellers push 2-meter anti-tampering ribbons to prevent abuse of returns.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Return rates for women's clothing on Chinese e-commerce platforms commonly reach 50% to 80%, and “sell 10, get 8 returned” has become the norm. Consumers abuse the 7-day no-questions-asked return policy, wearing clothes out for photos before sending them back. Sellers have tried various ways to prevent returns. After introducing giant, A4-sized tags last year, a women's clothing e-commerce seller recently introduced an “anti-tampering ribbon” more than 2 meters long. Its bright color makes it hard to conceal, and it is destroyed when removed. A notice states, “No returns or exchanges once removed.” The 江蘇省消保委 said the move reflects sellers' failure to balance interests through sustainable measures such as improving product quality, optimizing size information and refining virtual try-on technology. Instead, they have imposed a blanket restriction, which is harmful to the healthy long-term development of online apparel retail.
Facts
Women's clothing e-commerce is a major source of abuse of “no-questions-asked returns,” with return rates generally ranging from 50% to 80%.
“Sell 10, get 8 returned” has become the norm.
Adding extra-long ribbons more than 2 meters long to clothing.
Many sellers made new clothing tags A4-sized last year.
Overuse of the 7-day no-questions-asked return policy.
數發部 MyData enables online applications for police clearance certificates, making it more convenient for the public.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 數發部 MyData platform has partnered with the 內政部警政署. When applying online for a police clearance certificate, people can use MyData to retrieve household registration and national ID information, which is automatically entered into the application. This eliminates the need to visit a police station in person and makes the process more convenient.
Facts
Covering 9 major themes: convenient living, livelihood assistance, family care, social welfare, education and learning, tax services, care for women and children, consumer finance, and career development.
7-Eleven exits the Indian market, unable to withstand competition from local rivals.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
7-Eleven has completely exited the Indian market. Its parent company, 7&I控股公司, confirmed that its local franchisee, 信實集團, which operated stores in Mumbai and Pune, closed all 31 outlets on September 30. 7-Eleven opened its first store in Mumbai in October 2021 and had about 60 outlets at its peak, but shut down after failing to withstand fierce competition from local retailers. 7&I控股公司 stressed that it had not given up on the Indian market in the long term and was still evaluating various options. Rival Japanese chain 羅森 plans to open its first store in India next year and expand to about 100 outlets by 2030.
Facts
All 31 stores were closed on September 30.
The chain had about 60 stores at its peak.
The brand opened its first store in India in Mumbai in October 2021.
National Day rehearsal features Thunder Tiger team's three-color smoke flyby and Black Hawk hoist demonstration on Ketagalan Boulevard.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
With Double Ten National Day approaching, a rehearsal for the National Day celebration was held in front of the Presidential Office on the afternoon of the 6th. Civic groups, students, and military, police and firefighting units took turns performing. A National Airborne Service Corps UH-60M Black Hawk helicopter flew low over Ketagalan Boulevard for a hoist rescue drill, demonstrating its aerial rescue capabilities. The finale featured 5 Brave Eagle advanced trainer aircraft flown by the 空軍雷虎小組, which released three-color smoke as they flew over the Presidential Office, bringing the rehearsal to a successful close.
Facts
The 空軍雷虎小組's 5 Brave Eagle advanced trainer aircraft released colored smoke as they flew over the Presidential Office in the finale.
Releasing three-color smoke, they made a flyby from west to east over the Presidential Office.
One CH-47SD Chinook transport helicopter carried a giant national flag by cable.
Accompanied by 2 UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters, it flew from north to south over the plaza in front of the Presidential Office.
A helicopter formation made up of 3 each of the AH-64E, AH-1W, S-70C and UH-60M flew from north to south over the area in front of the Presidential Office.
A slow-moving formation comprising 1 P-3C anti-submarine aircraft and 2 C-130H transport aircraft.
More than 2,500 disaster prevention volunteers will take part on National Day.
Tsai Ing-wen to speak at Stanford on the 7th; expert says visit highlights Taiwan's unique strategic position.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former president Tsai Ing-wen will attend Stanford DEFCON's “2026 Technology and National Security Conference” at 史丹佛大學 in the United States on the 7th and deliver the opening address. It will be her first visit to the United States since leaving office. Experts say the trip highlights Taiwan's irreplaceable strategic role in critical global technologies, semiconductor supply chain security and Taiwan-U.S. defense and security cooperation. It also reflects Taiwan's strengths in hardware manufacturing, chip design and agile software development, which are accelerating links with Silicon Valley defense investors and international partners for next-generation defense innovation.
Facts
Former president Tsai Ing-wen will attend Stanford DEFCON at 史丹佛大學 in the United States on the 7th.
2026 Technology and National Security Conference.
A weeklong exchange visit is planned.
The 2nd conference in 2024 focused on “the intersection of commercial technology and national security.”
The theme in 2025 was “leading the future of defense and technology.”
The 4th annual conference this year will focus on “allied innovation and defense industrialization amid geopolitical competition.”
National Day gala in New Taipei; traffic controls around Ban-Yi Stadium.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 新北市交通局 said the National Day gala will be held at 板橋第一運動場 at 6 p.m. on the 9th. Traffic controls will be imposed on nearby roads, including restrictions on Quyun Road and the suspension of parking spaces. YouBike stations will also temporarily suspend service. The public is advised to take public transportation, including the metro, 台鐵, 高鐵 and buses.
Facts
The National Day gala will be held at 板橋第一運動場 at 6 p.m. on the 9th.
Original區運路（海山路至漢生東路）9日中午12時至晚間12時將進行交通管制
Original區運路及海山路汽、機車停車格於8日下午4時至9日晚間12時暫停使用
The YouBike station next to Ban Yi Sports Ground will suspend operations from the 7th to the 9th.
The event venue is about a 10- to 15-minute walk away.
Wedding photography and trading firms suspected of colluding with bank manager to fraudulently obtain NT$250 million in loans; Taipei prosecutors question 6 people.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Investigators received a report that 1 wedding photography business owner and 1 trading company owner allegedly falsified company cash flows and overvalued property collateral to collude with a female manager surnamed Yang at the Guting Branch of Yangxin Bank（陽信銀行）and fraudulently obtain loans totaling about NT$250 million. The Taipei District Prosecutors Office directed the New Taipei City Field Division to search premises and question 6 people, including the bank manager, bank employees and business owners. The case is being investigated for suspected violations of the Banking Act and document forgery.
Facts
About NT$250 million in total.
In June of ROC year 109, a loan of NT$180 million was approved for a man surnamed Mai.
In February of ROC year 109, a loan of NT$69 million was approved for a man surnamed Wu.
Women’s support group for Wei Pingzheng established; Zheng Liwen urges unity and courage to the end.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Zheng Liwen, chair of the Chinese Kuomintang（中國國民黨）, attended the founding event for the women’s support group for Changhua County magistrate candidate Wei Pingzheng, urging supporters to unite and show courage to the end to protect Changhua’s development over the next 30 years. She also criticized the election for alleged judicial interference and unfair competition against the New Tide faction and the “foreign tide.”
Facts
Key News of the 2026 Nine-in-One Elections
Changhua County’s magistrate election will shape the county’s development over the next 30 years.
KMT lawmakers say Shen Po-yang once advocated legalizing cannabis; campaign office says he has never supported legalization.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
KMT lawmakers Lo Chih-chiang and Niu Hsu-ting held a news conference today, saying that Democratic Progressive Party Taipei mayoral candidate Shen Po-yang had previously advocated legalizing cannabis and questioning his position. They called on Shen and the DPP’s county and city mayoral candidates to clarify their positions. Tsai Yi-kai, spokesperson for Shen’s campaign headquarters, responded that Shen has long conducted research in criminology, and that “studying a policy” is entirely different from “advocating for its implementation.” He stressed that Shen does not support legalizing cannabis and opposes drugs entering schools. He added that a thesis Shen supervised concluded that Taiwan is not suited to legalizing cannabis, and urged the KMT not to distort academic research for electoral purposes.
Facts
Shen reposted an article on social media in 2014
Like amphetamine and ecstasy (MDMA), cannabis is classified as a Level Two drug.
Russian official: More than 650 Ukrainian drones head toward Moscow, killing 2 and injuring 9.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Moscow Region Governor Andrey Vorobyov said Ukraine launched more than 650 drones at the Moscow region overnight, killing 2 people and injuring 9. The dead included a 71-year-old man and a 20-year-old man. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin said most of the drones had been shot down. TASS reported that a warehouse caught fire, while the city of Domodedovo lost power in the attack. Russia’s 3rd-largest airport, Domodedovo Airport, is located in the city.
Facts
More than 650 Ukrainian drones flew toward Moscow overnight.
2 people were killed and 9 injured in the region.
A 71-year-old man pulled from beneath the rubble of a house.
Accton Technology（智邦科技）posts revenue of more than NT$40 billion for 2 consecutive months; September revenue is its 2nd-highest ever.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Networking equipment maker Accton Technology（智邦科技）reported preliminary consolidated revenue of NT$40.398 billion for September, up 66.13% year on year and the 2nd-highest on record, behind August’s NT$40.872 billion. Revenue topped NT$40 billion for 2 consecutive months. Consolidated revenue for the first 9 months reached NT$286.402 billion, up about 62.45% year on year. Benefiting from surging demand for AI data centers, shipments of 1.6T and 800G switches increased. The company is actively expanding production capacity in Taiwan and overseas. Its Guishan plant in Taoyuan has begun small-volume shipments and is expected to ramp up in the 3rd quarter. An expanded new production line at the Nanliao plant is expected to begin production next year, while its U.S. and Singapore plants are also expected to begin mass production next year.
Facts
September consolidated revenue was NT$40.398 billion.
Up 66.13% year on year.
Second only to August’s NT$40.872 billion.
Consolidated revenue for the first 9 months was NT$286.402 billion.
Up about 62.45% year on year.
Revenue surged to NT$39.554 billion in June this year.
Revenue slipped slightly in July but remained at NT$39.472 billion
It broke through the NT$40 billion mark in August.
Resident suspects police leaked whereabouts; Taichung city police say case referred to inspector’s office for investigation.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A Taichung resident complained on social media, alleging that an officer handling the case leaked the time of a police interview. In late March 2025, shortly after midnight, the resident was allegedly confronted and restrained by 2 people claiming to be gang members at Yongxing Parking Lot. A preliminary investigation by the 台中市警察局第二分局 found that the detective handling the case had indeed disclosed the time and location of the police interview to others. The matter has been referred to the 台中市警察局 inspector’s office for a joint investigation; if wrongdoing is found, it will be referred to the 台中地檢署 for investigation. Separately, the resident’s complaint against the alleged gang members for intimidation and unlawful restraint was dismissed without prosecution by the 台中地檢署 in July 2025.
Facts
Original2025年3月底，深夜12時做完筆錄走出派出所至旁邊永興停車場開車
Original深夜12時做完筆錄走出派出所至旁邊永興停車場開車
The 台中地檢署 dismissed the case without prosecution in July 2025.
Lee Hsiang-chou: Taiwan cannot win an arms race across the Strait, but that does not mean it cannot defend itself.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Former National Security Bureau（國安局）Director-General Lee Hsiang-chou said at his new book launch that Taiwan can never outcompete the other side of the Strait in an arms race, but being outmatched does not mean it cannot defend itself. Taiwan must grow stronger so its adversary would not dare invade, must not entrust its security to others, and must ensure the public is willing to defend the land. Former Vice President Hsiao Wan-chang, former Legislative Yuan speaker Wang Jin-pyng and former National Security Council（國安會）Secretary-General Ting Yu-chou attended and spoke, discussing Taiwan’s national security strategy and the conditions for peace amid shifts in the balance of power among the United States, China and Taiwan.
Facts
The 1996 Taiwan Strait Crisis.
The 1999 U.S. bombing of the Chinese Embassy in Yugoslavia.
Japanese pianist Kyohei Sorita indicted over alleged speeding.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Japanese pianist Kyohei Sorita, a silver medalist at the 18th International Chopin Piano Competition, was indicted for allegedly driving a car at 144 kilometers per hour on the Metropolitan Expressway in Tokyo last December, far exceeding the 60-kilometer-per-hour speed limit, in violation of the Road Traffic Act. The Tokyo District Court held its first hearing today. Prosecutors are seeking a 3-month prison sentence, and the verdict is expected on October 29.
Facts
Drove a car at 144 kilometers per hour.
The Metropolitan Expressway, where the speed limit is 60 kilometers per hour.
Prosecutors asked the Tokyo District Court to impose a 3-month prison sentence.
Sorita is currently 32 years old.
A silver medalist at the 18th International Chopin Piano Competition.
Won the silver medal at the International Chopin Piano Competition in 2021.
The Tokyo District Court is expected to deliver its verdict on October 29.
Online acquaintance claims she needs money for inheritance tax; Taichung man nearly scammed out of NT$600,000.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
A man surnamed Lin in his 60s from Taichung met a woman online several months ago who claimed to be from Hong Kong and went on to form an online romance with her. In late September, she said her mother had died and that she lacked money for property-transfer fees and inheritance tax, asking to borrow HK$150,000 from him, equivalent to more than NT$600,000. When Lin went to 合作金庫 to make the transfer, a bank employee noticed something was amiss and alerted police. Officers confirmed it was a scam and successfully stopped the fraud.
Get both the flu and updated vaccines; Miaoli County offers bonus Miaoli Coins.
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
The 苗栗縣政府 is supporting the October rollout of publicly funded influenza and COVID-19 vaccines by offering a bonus “flu shot in one arm, updated vaccine in the other” campaign. Residents who receive both vaccines at a county health center and download the Miaoli Coin app will receive 100 Miaoli Coins. This year, the county government purchased 134,000 standard-dose and 2,000 enhanced-dose influenza vaccines. More than 20,000 people have been vaccinated in the first 5 days of the campaign, and the health bureau is urging older adults and high-risk groups to get vaccinated as soon as possible.
Facts
Publicly funded influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations begin on October 1.
Will receive 100 Miaoli Coins.
Miaoli County purchased 134,000 doses of the standard influenza vaccine this year
2,000 doses of the enhanced influenza vaccine
Priority will be given to people aged 65 and older at long-term care and nursing institutions
More than 20,000 people across the county have been vaccinated
Five days since publicly funded influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations began
Huang Wei-che: Do not politically stigmatize years of efforts by the public health and medical systems to reduce drug-related harm
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
Tainan Mayor Huang Wei-che said at a press conference today that the city remains committed to “zero tolerance for drugs.” He said Tainan was the first to launch methadone replacement therapy and a clean-needle program in 94年, and urged people not to stigmatize years of efforts by the public health and medical systems to reduce drug-related harm for political gain. Health Bureau data show that the number of newly reported HIV infections among people who inject drugs fell from 135 in 94年 to 0 to 1 annually. The city government was also the first nationwide to allocate funds for a drug addiction treatment subsidy program, starting in 100年.
Facts
Tainan was first to launch “methadone replacement therapy” and a “clean-needle program” in 94年
As many as 2,700 HIV cases could have accumulated over 20 years due to injection drug use
Based on an estimated annual HIV treatment cost of about NT$300,000 per person
Tainan could face medical expenses of NT$810 million annually
Newly reported HIV infections among people who inject drugs fell sharply from 135 in 94年 to 0 to 1 annually
Fell sharply from 135 in 94年 to 0 to 1 annually
Tainan City Government was first nationwide to allocate funds for the “Tainan City Drug Addiction Treatment Subsidy Program” starting in 100年
From 108年 through September 115年, the central government subsidized 4,884 treatment sessions for drug addiction in Tainan
Tainan City Government also provided local funding to subsidize 4,258 methadone maintenance treatment sessions
Tainan has 30 automated clean-needle service machines
Original59處針具1換1服務據點
11 designated drug addiction treatment institutions
Magnitude 4.5 earthquake off southwestern Taiwan; maximum intensity of Level 3 in Kaohsiung
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 中央社 CNA
中央氣象署 reported that a magnitude 4.5 earthquake struck off southwestern Taiwan at 16:41 on the 6th, at a depth of 34.1 kilometers. The epicenter was 42.4 kilometers south-southwest of 高雄市政府, and the maximum intensity was Level 3 in Kaohsiung City.
Former Golden Horse winner now vying again in the TIAF feature competition; 《小蟲蟲大冒險》 returns to Taichung for its opening shoot
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
《小蟲蟲大冒險》, an animated film directed by Yuen Kin-to, screened yesterday (5) at the 2026 Taichung International Animation Festival. The film was nominated for 3 awards at the 62nd Golden Horse Awards and won Best Sound Effects; it is now nominated again in the TIAF feature competition.
Facts
《小蟲蟲大冒險》 was directed by Yuen Kin-to
The film screened at the 2026 Taichung International Animation Festival (TIAF)
The film was nominated for 3 awards at the 62nd Golden Horse Awards: Best Animated Feature, Best Visual Effects and Best Sound Effects
The film ultimately won Best Sound Effects at the 62nd Golden Horse Awards
The film received film production subsidies from the Taichung City Government Information Bureau and location-shooting support from 台中市影視發展基金會
The film began shooting in Taichung in 2023
The 2026 Taichung International Animation Festival, now in its 12th edition, received 3,205 submissions from 113 countries and regions worldwide
An additional screening will be held at Vieshow Cinemas Taichung at 5:30 p.m. on October 10
Double the “reading” for Double Ten! New Taipei’s reading account service launches, with double mobile-borrowing points in October
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
新北市立圖書館 launched its “New Taipei Good Reading Points” reading account and mobile book-borrowing service on October 1. Mobile borrowing earns 4 times the points in October to encourage residents to borrow and read books.
Facts
新北市立圖書館 officially launched the “New Taipei Good Reading Points” reading account and “mobile book borrowing” service on October 1.
Borrowers earn 1 point for each item borrowed at a service counter, and 2 points per item when using self-service borrowing, smart return stations or mobile borrowing.
During October, each item borrowed by phone earns 4 points. The promotion runs through October 31.
Mobile book borrowing is available at the main library, Shulin Branch, Taishan Branch, Sanxia Beida Branch, Linkou Branch and Linkou Lee Ko-yung Branch.
Readers who accumulate 100 points can enter a prize draw for free. Prizes include e-readers, LEGO sets and induction cookers.
The “New Taipei Good Reading Points” bonus promotion runs from now through December 31.
The exhibition features classics by masters including Picasso, Bacon, Rothko, Andy Warhol, Hockney and Koons
The library is partnering with the International Youth Library in Munich, Germany, to present the “Around the World in 70 Maps” exhibition
An international forum will be held for the first time on October 29 and 30, bringing together experts from the United States, Germany, Denmark, Australia and other countries
A month-long series of events celebrating the library’s first anniversary will be held in December
5-year-old spent nearly 1,000 days in intensive care! Korean star Sung Hyun-joo closed his eyes herself; Christmas remains an eternal heartbreak
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
43-year-old Korean actress Sung Hyun-joo recently spoke on a program about an accident involving her eldest son, Seo-hoo, when he was 5. After spending nearly 1,000 days in intensive care, he died on Christmas Day in 2020. She closed her son’s eyes herself, and years later she still cannot hold back her tears.
Facts
Sung Hyun-joo is a 43-year-old Korean actress.
Sung Hyun-joo’s eldest son, Seo-hoo, was born in 2014 and suddenly had an accident in 2018, when he was 5.
Seo-hoo spent nearly 1,000 days in intensive care and never regained consciousness.
Seo-hoo died on Christmas Day, December 25, 2020, aged 7.
Seong Hyun-joo personally closed her son's eyes.
Seong Hyun-joo turned her experience into an essay, Your Well-Being (너의 안부), and donated the proceeds to a children's hospital.
Taichung City promotes solar power at agricultural facilities; capacity set to surpass 4,000kW by year-end in push for sustainable transition
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taichung City Government Agriculture Bureau is promoting rooftop renewable energy systems at agricultural facilities. As of the end of July this year, it had issued permits for 7 sites with a total installed capacity of 3,076kW, which is expected to surpass 4,000kW by year-end. The initiative is guided by the core principle of “agriculture first, green energy as added value.”
Facts
As of the end of July this year, Taichung City had issued permits for 7 agricultural facilities to install supplementary green energy systems
Total installed capacity reached 3,076kW as of the end of July this year
Annual installed capacity in each of the previous two years was about 3,000-plus kW
Installed capacity is expected to have a chance of surpassing the 4,000kW mark by the end of this year
Farmers can install solar panels on the roofs of existing agricultural facilities, such as mushroom farms, livestock barns and poultry houses
The policy's core principle is “agriculture first, green energy as added value”
The policy aims for a “triple win” of “upgrading agriculture, meeting green energy targets and increasing farmers' profits”
The Agriculture Bureau uses reviews of operating records and regular random on-site inspections to prevent unauthorized changes in use
If something happens in Taiwan, would the US, Japan and South Korea really send troops? International experts reveal the harsh truth from overseas “closed-door talks”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Yang Hao-wei, a senior Northeast Asia analyst at 國際危機組織, said that experts from South Korea and Japan at closed-door seminars generally believe neither country would readily intervene in a Taiwan Strait conflict, revealing a serious gap between Taiwan's strategic perceptions and international realities.
Facts
During a recent exchange in South Korea, people there declined to discuss the Taiwan Strait situation publicly
South Korean experts believe Seoul will do everything possible to avoid being drawn into a Taiwan Strait conflict
South Korea's position on the Taiwan issue has been quite consistent regardless of whether the right or left is in power
Japan's defense policy is not intended to defend Taiwan
At a closed-door exchange in London in early September organized by Bonnie Glaser and a Japanese think tank, Japanese experts expressed the above position
US allies in the Indo-Pacific region are reviewing their strategic policies in the absence of US involvement
On January 5, 2026, Xi Jinping met South Korean President Lee Jae-myung in Beijing
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has made remarks on “a contingency in Taiwan”
National Day gala to be held in New Taipei on 10/9: traffic controls and entry security checks at a glance! Gates open to ticket holders at 16:30. Take public transportation and arrive early to avoid crowds
27-year-old Japanese beauty YouTuber reportedly involved in drug case! Cocaine found in luxury home; arrested while grinning and flashing a peace sign, condition after detention revealed
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
27-year-old Japanese YouTuber Tazawa Rino, also a hostess at the Jungle nightclub in Roppongi, was arrested with her boyfriend, Fukumoto Kota, in September on suspicion of possessing cocaine. Police found 0.4 grams of cocaine at their residence, and both tested positive in urine tests. The investigation is ongoing.
Facts
Tazawa Rino works under the name Yamato Rino as a hostess at the Jungle nightclub in Tokyo's Roppongi district
Tazawa Rino and Fukumoto Kota were arrested by police on September 15
Police found about 0.4 grams of cocaine and 21 bags suspected of having contained drugs at the upscale apartment where they lived
Both tested positive in urine tests
When Tazawa Rino was transferred, she flashed a peace sign and smiled at media cameras
After more than 20 days in detention, Tazawa Rino was visibly showing signs of fatigue
The Jungle nightclub has announced that it has terminated its contract with Tazawa Rino
Tazawa Rino was asked to move out of the upscale residence arranged by the club
Highlights of Taichung's National Day flag-raising ceremony: championship Little League team to lead singing, flags unfurled by air and land, limited-edition POLI water bottles to be given away
[新新聞] Shen Kuo-jung on 2026: New Taipei could flip; if voting were tomorrow, Chiang Wan-an would win
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Shen Kuo-jung, president of the 和大工業 Group and chairman of 格斯科技, spoke with 新新聞 on October 1 about the 2026 local elections, saying Chiang Wan-an still has an advantage in Taipei City, while New Taipei City could flip. Chiayi City and Changhua County are also areas where the blue camp faces pressure.
Facts
Shen Kuo-jung, president of the 和大工業 Group and chairman of 格斯科技, spoke with 新新聞 on the afternoon of October 1.
Shen Kuo-jung said that if the election were held tomorrow, Chiang Wan-an would still win.
If city government controversies continue to emerge and are not addressed promptly, the Taipei City race could still become uncertain.
Shen Kuo-jung believes New Taipei City could flip.
Shen Kuo-jung said Chiayi City and Changhua County are areas where the blue camp faces pressure.
Shen Kuo-jung holds the title of senior adviser to the Presidential Office.
Shen Kuo-jung believes some counties and cities currently governed by the blue camp could see significant changes.
Taiwan stocks still have room to run! 玉山投信 launches its first actively managed ETF, 00413A: what sets it apart?
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
玉山投信 announced the launch of its first actively managed Taiwan stock ETF, 00413A, the “玉山臺灣關鍵科技主動式ETF,” focused on Taiwan's AI and key technology supply chains. Subscriptions open on October 19, and the ETF will be listed on November 11.
Facts
玉山投信 launches its first actively managed Taiwan stock ETF, the “玉山臺灣關鍵科技主動式ETF” (00413A)
00413A is scheduled to accept subscriptions from October 19 to October 23, be established on November 2 and begin trading on November 11
00413A plans a concentrated portfolio of 30 to 35 holdings, with more than nine-tenths allocated to key technology industries
The fund will use the “ACE strategy” to identify beneficiary groups
00413A plans to pay dividends quarterly, with evaluations conducted at the end of January, April, July and October each year after 180 days (inclusive) have passed since the fund’s establishment date
《黑澀會》MeiMei has been away for 14 years! She made an unexpected appearance because of “one thing,” leaving fans astonished: “We miss you so much”
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
MeiMei (郭婕祈), a former member of 《我愛黑澀會》, made an unexpected appearance in the comments section and replied to fans 14 years after stepping away from show business. An AI-generated video that resembled her prompted her appearance, and she briefly shared an update on her life, stirring memories among longtime fans.
Facts
MeiMei (郭婕祈), a former member of 《我愛黑澀會》, gradually stepped away from show business after appearing in the TV drama 《半熟戀人》 in 2012.
MeiMei’s latest Instagram post dates back to 2022.
MeiMei personally replied to an AI-generated video in the comments section, joking, “That’s me when I was little!”
MeiMei tactfully reminded the creator of the AI work that when another person’s likeness is involved, she hopes they will first ask whether that person is willing to grant permission.
MeiMei responded to fans’ concern, saying, “Thank you all for missing me. I’m doing well; I just don’t post very often.”
MeiMei is 155 centimeters tall. Her highest recorded weight was 54 kilograms, and her lowest was 42.9 kilograms, a difference of more than 10 kilograms.
MeiMei tried methods such as half-body baths, acupuncture and wearing braces to lose weight. After losing about 3 kilograms, she hit a plateau.
MeiMei later turned to exercise to sculpt her physique. At the gym, she first briskly walked for about 20 minutes to raise her heart rate, then trained areas including her arms and thighs.
Urban Development Bureau maps out city growth and builds a livable Taichung; 盧秀燕 stresses broad planning that addresses residents’ needs
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Taichung City Government’s Urban Development Bureau has placed land-use planning at the heart of its work, advancing urban planning, old-city renewal and housing justice over the past 8 years. At a municipal meeting, Mayor 盧秀燕 outlined the results of the affordable housing policy and thanked the bureau’s team for its overall planning.
Facts
The Taichung City Government’s Urban Development Bureau has placed land-use planning at the heart of its work, advancing urban planning, old-city renewal and housing justice over the past 8 years.
Mayor 盧秀燕 chaired a municipal meeting today (6), stressing that urban development requires comprehensive planning.
Young people account for about 70% of social housing residents, while seniors account for 17.31%, putting intergenerational co-living into practice.
The childcare rental subsidy provides 4,000 yuan for each child. In recent years, it has assisted more than 50,000 households, with spending exceeding 300 million yuan.
The Urban Development Bureau has designated three core areas and six strategic zones, and is advancing urban and rural landscape plans across 29 districts.
The number of Taichung Good Homes units built has surpassed 10,000, exceeding the target.
Urban Development Bureau Director 李正偉 delivered a project report titled “Happy Cities and Countryside, Comfortable Living in Taichung: People-Centered Urban Development and Housing in Practice.”
36 wheelchair users head for the sea: hoping that one day, they will no longer have to wait a year for the annual wheelchair surfing event
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
社團法人台灣輪椅人協會 and surfing brand VAST jointly held the third “Wheelchair Surfing” event on October 3. A total of 36 wheelchair users headed into the sea, with about 220 volunteers and staff taking part; several central and local representatives attended in support.
Facts
“Wheelchair Surfing” returned for its third year on October 3
A total of 36 wheelchair users headed into the sea this year
The event was co-organized by 社團法人台灣輪椅人協會 and surfing brand VAST
The first “Wheelchair Surfing” event was held in 2024
This year, the event also partnered with 臺北市立大學
Central and local representatives attending included legislators 張雅琳 and 廖先翔, as well as New Taipei City Councilor 戴湘儀
台灣輪椅人協會 Chair 何秉錡 is also the well-known YouTuber “Chairman 椅人”
“Double Ten Forum: The Next 50 Years of Hsinchu Science Park” set for 10/10; 高虹安 invites residents to explore the future of a technology city
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Hsinchu City Government will hold the “Double Ten Forum: The Next 50 Years of Hsinchu Science Park” on 115年10月10日. Mayor 高虹安 has invited former 工研院 president 史欽泰 and 宏碁 founder 施振榮 to discuss the next steps for Hsinchu’s technology industry and city governance.
Facts
The Hsinchu City Government will hold the “Double Ten Forum: The Next 50 Years of Hsinchu Science Park” at 10 a.m. on 115年10月10日
The event will take place in the International Conference Hall at Xianqi Hall, Boai Campus, National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University, at 75 Boai Street, East District, Hsinchu City
The event is limited to 300 people and requires registration
Speakers include former 工研院 president 史欽泰 and 宏碁 founder 施振榮
The forum will be hosted by veteran technology and finance media professional 林宏文
Mayor 高虹安 is the forum’s main invitee and the representative of the organizer
The forum will cover the technology industry, talent development and city governance
Could you be fined for putting a shoe cabinet or flowerpot in your own arcade? It may be private land, but one situation carries a maximum fine of 2,400 yuan
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The report explains that even if an arcade is privately owned, if it is open to public passage, placing items there that obstruct traffic may incur a fine of 1,200 to 2,400 yuan under Article 82 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act. The items may also be forcibly removed.
Facts
Even if an arcade is privately owned, its use may still be subject to road traffic regulations if it is open to public passage.
Under Article 82 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act, placing items on a road that obstruct traffic can incur a fine of at least 1,200 yuan and no more than 2,400 yuan.
Article 3 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act defines roads or sidewalks to include arcades, corridors, plazas and alleys.
A letter issued by the Ministry of Transportation and Communications on 2026年1月16日, No. 交運字第11400327381號, states that Article 3 of the Road Traffic Management and Penalty Act includes arcades in its definition of roads.
In Interpretation No. 564, issued in 2003, the Justices of the Judicial Yuan held that arcade owners should generally not obstruct passage when using their property.
The Yilan County Police Bureau said that items such as flowerpots, tables and chairs, barricades, chains, abandoned scooters, bicycles, stall frames and shop signs that occupy roads and obstruct traffic may be handled under Article 82.
In July 2026, a travel agency in Taichung placed several potted plants on both sides of a pillar in an arcade, leaving a pedestrian passage about 1.5 meters wide in the middle. After a public complaint, police handled the case under Article 82.
If the items are not removed after a warning, or the person responsible is not present, objects obstructing traffic may be treated as waste and cleared under relevant waste disposal laws and regulations.
Xiluo Zhuoshui rice exported to Australia for the first time; 張嘉郡 hopes to keep expanding distribution channels and bring Yunlin produce to international markets
徐欣瑩’s camp again criticizes 鄭: “The ‘朝方style’ read-and-ignore response is back!” He won’t discuss his transparency pledges, rambles off topic and makes a spectacle of himself
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
徐維遠, spokesperson for the office of Kuomintang Hsinchu County magistrate candidate 徐欣瑩, criticized rival 鄭朝方 today (6), saying he dodged questions about his “transparent county governance pledges” in a “typical 朝方style read-and-ignore response.” 徐維遠 also questioned the concrete-heavy redesign of parks during 鄭朝方’s tenure as Zhubei mayor.
Facts
徐維遠, spokesperson for the office of Kuomintang Hsinchu County magistrate candidate 徐欣瑩, criticized 鄭朝方 this afternoon (6) for dodging questions about his “transparent county governance pledges”
Zheng’s campaign spokesperson Su Aiting responded: “Destroying others will not help you succeed, much less help a city succeed.”
During Zheng Chaofang’s tenure as mayor of Zhubei, his park renovations drew criticism over issues including excessive concrete, reduced tree cover and the disappearance of pavilions.
Zheng Chaofang signed on to the “Build a Cool City” item in the Taiwan Youth Climate Coalition’s “Livable Cities for Play” initiative.
Zheng Chaofang proposed extending his experience planning and carrying out public construction projects in Zhubei to Hsinchu County’s 13 townships and cities.
Xu Weiyuan questioned whether Zheng Chaofang might be reluctant to follow through on his “transparent county government” pledge because of his father Zheng Yongjin’s family background.
Xu Weiyuan criticized Zheng Chaofang’s approach to problems, saying he first evaded the core issue, then accused his opponent of “destruction,” before digressing and shifting the focus.
Lee Hsiang-chou launches new book “Governance. Hope”; Vincent Siew says Taiwan needs bipartisan defense consensus
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Former National Security Bureau Director-General Lee Hsiang-chou held a launch event for his new book, “Governance. Hope: Fifty Years on the Front Line, Reflections on the Nation from National Security Decision-Making to the World Stage.” Former Vice President Vincent Siew attended and delivered remarks, saying that retired generals who write books have no electoral or party burdens, giving them greater honesty and clear-eyed insight. He put forward 3 points: stability and security are prerequisites for peace; data cannot calculate dignity; and cross-strait relations are at the heart of all of Taiwan’s problems. He called on Taiwan to build a bipartisan consensus on national defense and diplomacy, uphold its bottom line while retaining flexibility. Former National Security Council Secretary-General Ting Yu-chou and former Legislative Yuan President Wang Jin-pyng also attended.
Facts
Fifty Years on the Front Line: Reflections on the Nation from National Security Decision-Making to the World Stage
Original目前產線63架依節點交機
Taiwanese components for V-BAT drones aim to reach 25%.
High-net-worth individuals take note! Zhao Jianming repays 33 million yuan in principal and interest; lawyer praises Chen Hsing-yu’s 5 moves, including tax savings
Zhao Jianming stated through a friend in early October this year that he had repaid a total of 33 million yuan, including principal and interest, for his 3 sons.
Chen Hsing-yu established education funds totaling 23 million yuan for her 3 sons.
Original蘇家宏是恩典法律事務所創辦人暨律師。
An inheritance tax of 20% is levied upon inheritance. High-net-worth individuals can instead give gifts to their children each year using the gift tax exemption to save on taxes.
Chen Shui-bian urged Chen Hsing-yu twice not to divorce and advised her to handle the divorce agreement personally and remove the clause requiring repayment of 23 million yuan.
The 23 million yuan clause has been removed from the divorce agreement, leaving Chen Hsing-yu unable to file a lawsuit in her own name.
The 3 sons are adults, and whether to ask their father to repay the 23 million yuan education fund is for them to decide.
Rare locally acquired typhoid case reported! 30-year-old woman repeatedly develops fever and vomits after eating sashimi and oysters; cause identified only after 4 medical visits
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
The Centers for Disease Control announced this year’s first confirmed locally acquired typhoid case. The patient, a woman in her 30s from central Taiwan, developed symptoms after eating sashimi and oysters and was diagnosed only after 4 medical visits. She has recovered and been discharged.
Facts
The Centers for Disease Control announced this year’s first confirmed locally acquired typhoid case, involving a woman in her 30s from central Taiwan.
During the incubation period, the patient traveled to another county or city and ate raw foods such as sashimi and oysters.
The patient began experiencing fever, vomiting and diarrhea in late August and was diagnosed only after 4 medical visits.
The patient recovered and was discharged after a week in hospital. None of the 5 contacts developed suspected symptoms.
A total of 6 confirmed typhoid cases have been recorded domestically so far this year, including 1 locally acquired case and 5 imported cases. The number is lower than during the same period from 2023 to 2025.
The incubation period for typhoid is usually 8 to 14 days, but can range from 3 to 60 days.
Since 2022, Taiwan has recorded a total of 42 confirmed typhoid cases, including 11 locally acquired cases and 31 imported cases. Indonesia accounted for the most imported cases, with 24.
Typhoid is an intestinal infectious disease caused by Salmonella Typhi. It is mainly transmitted through contaminated food or drinking water. Common symptoms include persistent fever, headache, fatigue, loss of appetite, abdominal pain, diarrhea, relative bradycardia or a rash on the trunk.
If police tell you to stop recording, do you have to turn off your phone? Many people don’t know the Ministry of Justice’s answer: in public, you can actually do 1 thing
Published ・ Source Taiwan | 風傳媒
Taipei police searched the LGBTQ bar Commander D in Ximending on Oct. 3, prompting controversy over officers stopping people from recording the operation. A Taipei police investigation confirmed that 4 officers used inappropriate language; each received 2 reprimands. The precinct chief and the team leader on duty also faced related disciplinary action.
Facts
Taipei police entered the LGBTQ bar Commander D in Ximending with a search warrant on Oct. 3.
A Taipei police investigation confirmed that 4 officers used inappropriate language; each received 2 reprimands.
The detective team leader on duty and the Wanhua Precinct chief also faced related disciplinary action.
In 2013, the Ministry of Justice said that members of the public recording police officers on duty in public places could not be stopped solely because they had not obtained the officers’ consent.
In a 2019 interpretation, the Ministry of Justice said that defendants, criminal suspects and members of the public at criminal investigation scenes are not subject to the duty of investigative confidentiality.
During searches and seizures, prosecutors and police may restrict people present from recording or using communications equipment, provided the restrictions comply with the principle of proportionality.
In case No. 111 of the 111th year under the summary appeal docket at the Taiwan High Court Tainan Branch, the defendant was acquitted of obstructing a public official through a physical collision because of insufficient evidence.