Stories from Taipei · Taiwan

Officials, including Chairman Zeng Liwen, discussed strengthening Taiwan's national defense and managing taxpayer money. Communication regarding defense funding has been smooth, with all parties aiming to strengthen Taiwan's national defense and manage taxpayer money. Decisions are made scientifically and rationally based on tax documents and special regulations. Taiwan's Legislative Yuan held its fourth negotiation regarding the NT$1.25 trillion defense special budget. The dispute over Taiwan's 1.25 trillion New Taiwan Dollar special defense budget continues, with the legislature holding its fourth negotiation involving the KMT, DPP, and TPP party caucuses.

A broadcast discussed Taiwan's participation in international events, specifically mentioning the World Health Assembly (WHA) and the Olympic Games.

A financial product, the 'Zhongxin Feitou First-Class Bond 00981D,' is being promoted as an active debt offering.

An individual, currently serving as a tourism promotion specialist for Malaysia, plans to leave Taipei and return to Malaysia in 2026. This decision, made in 2024, is partly due to a lease expiring in March 2026. The person previously held a role as an ambassador for Malaysia.

A source stated that the United States should treat Taiwan better and more reasonably. A source urged the US to improve relations with Taiwan, specifically advocating for an annual aid of 50 million, rather than multi-year commitments.

Jingju has recently experienced positive development, with performances being very enthusiastic and attracting many young audiences to theaters.

A speaker noted that Taiwanese performers require more opportunities and platforms to showcase their talents. There is a perceived lack of opportunities and platforms for Taiwanese performers, with the source stating Taiwan is 'a bit pitiful' in this regard.

A performer in Taiwan is noted as the only remaining member of the 'Jingu Four' capable of performing both 'lao sheng' (old male) and 'lao dan' (old female) roles.

A Jingju (Peking Opera) adaptation of the Western opera Aida is being developed, drawing inspiration from an Egyptian statue depicting two figures.

BCC News Taiwan, which is approaching its 30th anniversary, plans to launch a new brand called 'New Old Plays'.