The Labor Bureau’s report highlighted five key policy pillars: establishing communication platforms, enhancing occupational safety and disaster prevention, strengthening workforce matching services, creating friendly workplaces, and fostering union vitality. According to the bureau, shortly after Mayor Chen took office in 2020, the city established the Labor Self-Governance Committee to deepen dialogue among the city government, labor representatives, and academic experts. To date, the committee has reviewed 67 proposals, covering issues such as occupational accident prevention, traffic improvements around industrial parks, and enhancement of labor education quality.

Regarding occupational safety and health, the bureau noted that through a dual approach of labor inspections and workplace guidance, the number of fatal major occupational accidents in Kaohsiung fell from 49 cases in 2020 to 24 cases in 2025, a decline of 51 %. In addition, Kaohsiung is the only special municipality in Taiwan to receive the Ministry of Labor’s Excellence Award for occupational safety performance for two consecutive evaluation cycles.

The bureau also reported that Kaohsiung’s overall unemployment rate has continued to decline, falling from 3.8% in 2020 to 3.2% in 2025, the lowest among Taiwan’s six special municipalities and a record low since the city-county merger. As demand grows for older adults to remain in the workforce, Kaohsiung became the first city in Taiwan to establish a Senior Talents Service Hub. To date, the program has successfully placed more than 4,300 individuals, developed over 11,000 age-friendly job openings, and achieved a placement rate of 44.2 %.

In promoting inclusive workplaces, the bureau cited data showing that Kaohsiung’s 12 sheltered workshops provide 169 employment opportunities. In 2025, 19 sheltered employees successfully transitioned into the open labor market, representing a transition rate of over 13 %, above the national average. From 2024 to 2025, more than 99% of businesses in the city employing over 100 workers established nursing rooms, childcare facilities, or related support measures following the city government’s guidance efforts. The bureau further added that achievements in collective bargaining agreements and union participation in public welfare initiatives also demonstrate strong labor union engagement.

To celebrate Labor Day, the Labor Bureau has planned a series of events including a walking event, job fairs, and a side-hustle entrepreneurship expo. Details are available on the Kaohsiung City Government Labor Bureau Facebook page.

Prior to the meeting, Mayor Chen also presented certificates of appreciation to representatives of ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd. and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company in recognition of their generous sponsorship supporting the Kaohsiung Houjing Junior High School girls’ football team’s trip to Australia for competition.

Captions 1-2: The Labor Bureau presented a briefing on Kaohsiung’s labor policy achievements. Mayor Chen Chi-mai reminded relevant departments to conduct joint inspections, strengthen source-based occupational safety management, and ensure workplace safety for workers.

Captions 3-4: Mayor Chen Chi-mai presented certificates of appreciation in recognition of corporate generosity in sponsoring the Kaohsiung Houjing Junior High School girls’ football team’s trip to Australia for competition.

Captions 5-6: Members of the Kaohsiung Houjing Junior High School girls’ football team took the opportunity to happily pose for commemorative photos with Mayor Chen Chi-mai.

Kaohsiung City continues to advance digital transformation and service innovation in public transportation by officially launching the “NT$399 QR Monthly Pass Subscription” program. By linking a credit card, users can enable automatic monthly renewal and payment, eliminating the need to repurchase passes each month. A single subscription provides continuous access, significantly reducing the time and procedures required for ticket purchasing, and making public transportation more efficient and convenient.

To further enhance ticketing convenience, the Transportation Bureau has continuously optimized both purchasing and usage processes. In addition to the previously introduced 90-day quarterly pass, the Bureau now launches the NT$399 QR monthly pass subscription service. Once a credit card is linked, users can utilize their mobile phones to access unlimited public transportation services via QR code without the need for monthly repurchase, providing a more streamlined and time-saving experience.

In recent years, the Transportation Bureau has progressively refined the ticket purchasing process on the MeNGo platform. Previously, users holding physical cards were required to visit MRT stations or convenience stores to reload and renew their monthly passes. Now, through the MeNGo platform, users can complete the renewal process with a single tap on their mobile devices, without leaving home, significantly improving convenience and saving time.

The Transportation Bureau stated that the introduction of this public transportation subscription model marks a comprehensive shift toward fully digitalized periodic pass services in Kaohsiung. It enables citizens to access public transportation in a smarter and more convenient manner, while also demonstrating the City’s continued achievements in smart mobility and digital service innovation.

With the flood season approaching, the Water Resources Bureau and Environmental Protection Bureau presented their annual flood preparedness reports. Chen emphasized that relevant agencies must carry out drainage dredging operations, prioritizing low-lying flood-prone areas and key sections of regional drainage, secondary drainage systems, and stormwater sewers where sediment buildup is common. These works should be completed before the flood season. He also called for accelerated improvements to drainage bottlenecks and the construction of detention basins to ensure effective flood discharge.

Chen further directed the Water Resources Bureau and district offices to strengthen maintenance of pumping stations, ensure adequate staffing and fuel readiness, and make full use of smart monitoring systems to track water conditions in real time. Combined with efficient reporting mechanisms, these measures will enable rapid response and enhance overall flood control effectiveness.

The Environmental Protection Bureau reported that as of March 2026, inspections had been completed at 176 flood-prone locations citywide. A total of 1,592 kilometers of roadside drains have been dredged, removing 5,299 metric tons of sediment. During the flood season, additional efforts will focus on clearing debris and fallen leaves from drainage inlets and covers to maintain smooth water flow.

In response to concerns over the potential impact of China’s “ten preferential policies for Taiwan” on Kaohsiung’s industries, Mayor Chen stated in a pre-meeting interview that all international economic and trade exchanges involve risks and should not rely on unilateral commitments. Citing examples such as shrimp exports to Honduras and tourism cooperation with Japan, he emphasized that exchanges should be conducted on a government-to-government basis through equal and structured negotiations. Careful assessment and institutionalized mechanisms are essential to safeguard the interests of farmers, fishers, and tourism operators, while reducing investment risks caused by policy uncertainty and ensuring more stable industrial development.

Photo: Mayor Chen Chi-mai instructs relevant agencies during the municipal meeting to strengthen flood preparedness and food safety management.

In consideration of rising price levels and the continuous increase in the minimum wage in recent years, the current urban bus fare structure no longer reflects actual operating costs. In order to maintain the sustainable operation of urban bus services and improve service quality, the Kaohsiung City Bus Commercial Association proposed an adjustment to urban bus fares to the City Government in 2025. After reviewing 18 categories of reasonable operating costs for bus operators and referencing bus fares in the six special municipalities, the Transportation Bureau will adjust the discounted fares for section-based urban bus services (including medical shuttle buses, demand-responsive taxis operating as buses, and Happiness Buses) starting March 1, 2026. The new discounted fares will be NT$15 for a full fare and NT$8 for a half fare. Student fares paid with electronic cards will remain at NT$10, while cash payment will follow the full fare rate of NT$15.

The Transportation Bureau explained that Kaohsiung City announced the section-based urban bus fare structure in 2015 as “NT$18 for a full fare, NT$15 for a student fare, and NT$9 for a half fare.” However, at that time urban bus services had just entered the early stage of privatization. In order to encourage citizens to continue using public transportation, the City Government adopted a discounted fare policy, under which the actual fares charged were NT$12 for a full fare, NT$10 for a student fare (NT$12 for cash payment), and NT$6 for a half fare. These discounted fares have remained unchanged for more than 36 years since 1989.

However, according to the Consumer Price Index (CPI), the index increased from 93.30 in 2015 to 110.25 in December 2025, representing an increase of approximately 17%. Meanwhile, the monthly minimum wage increased from NT$20,008 in 2015 to NT$29,500 in 2026, representing an increase of approximately 50%. Bus operating costs have also risen significantly. As fares have remained unchanged for a long period, urban bus revenues have been insufficient and operating losses have gradually expanded year by year. In addition, with the recovery of ridership and passenger demand after the pandemic, bus operators have long faced challenges such as driver shortages and workforce aging, which have affected the expansion of routes and service frequency. These factors have become major operational challenges for urban bus services. The purpose of this fare adjustment is therefore to better reflect operating costs and improve the operating environment for bus operators.

Director Chang Shu-chuan of the Transportation Bureau stated that Kaohsiung City was the first in Taiwan to introduce the TPASS commuter monthly pass in 2023, including the NT$399 Kaohsiung urban commuter pass and the NT$999 Southern Kaohsiung–Pingtung commuter pass. Since its launch, the program has been widely supported by commuters and students, and most users have developed the habit of purchasing and using the monthly pass. Monthly sales have now stabilized at more than 100,000 passes. In addition, for residents registered in Kaohsiung City who are aged 65 or above, as well as persons with disabilities, the Social Affairs Bureau provides social welfare cards and welfare points that allow them to ride urban buses free of charge or at discounted rates. Student fares paid with electronic cards will also remain unchanged at NT$10. Therefore, the three major groups of urban bus users in Kaohsiung—senior citizens, commuting and student passengers, and frequent urban bus users—will not be affected by this fare adjustment.

The Transportation Bureau further noted that the adjusted fares will be the same as those in the Taipei metropolitan area, while still remaining lower than those in most other cities and counties. The additional fare revenue will be fully used to improve driver salaries and employment benefits. In line with the City Government’s policy support, urban bus drivers will receive an additional monthly salary increase of NT$5,000 this year. The City Government also hopes that citizens will continue to make greater use of public transportation and green mobility, working together to build a safe, sustainable, and net-zero city.

The new discounted bus fare scheme is summarized in the table below:

Chen explained that following the current administration’s inauguration, the Finance Bureau establishd a dedicated PPP Promotion Committee, chaired by Deputy Mayor Lin Chin-rong. By incorporating insights from external experts and academics, the city has strengthened project evaluation, including financial modeling and investment conditions, thereby enhancing project quality and attractiveness. These efforts have successfully drawn increased private sector participation in public infrastructure, with results continuing to emerge.

The Finance Bureau added that Kaohsiung’s PPP investment in 2025 reached NT$111.6 billion, marking a new historical high while maintaining the city’s top national ranking. Looking ahead to 2026, 10 projects have already secured investment, with one project currently open for tender and six additional projects scheduled for announcement in the second quarter. The city government will continue refining its investment promotion strategies and work across departments to sustain strong performance.

In addition, in preparation for the upcoming flood season, Mayor Chen instructed the Water Resources Bureau to strengthen drainage system dredging and conduct comprehensive inspections of flood control facilities. The Environmental Protection Bureau was also directed to ensure proper clearing of roadside drains to prevent blockages caused by fallen leaves, while district offices were tasked with preparing flood control supplies in advance to enhance emergency response capacity.

The meeting also invited ASE Technology Holding to share insights on trends in advanced semiconductor packaging and silicon photonics. The city government will continue to strengthen engagement and collaboration with industry stakeholders, stay attuned to key industry developments, and lay a solid foundation for Kaohsiung’s industrial upgrading and long-term urban development.
 

Captions 1–2: Mayor Chen Chi-mai listens to the Finance Bureau’s report on PPP investment outcomes during the municipal administrative meeting and affirms the city government’s achievements in promoting PPP projects.

Caption 3: Representatives from ASE Technology share insights on trends in advanced semiconductor packaging and silicon photonics, as the city government continues to deepen collaboration with industry and stay abreast of key developments.
 

Chen Renhe was born in 1922 in Jibei island, Penghu. In the early 1940s, he went to Japan and studied architecture at the Department of Science and Engineering Specialized School, Waseda University, graduating in 1944. In 1951, Chen established his own practice in Kaohsiung.His first major work was the Kaohsiung Buddhist Hall (1954–1966), followed by a series of remarkable projects in the 1960s and 1970s including the Student Hall of San Sin High School of Commerce and Home Economics (1962) and its Wave Building (1963), the former Assembly Hall of Kaohsiung Municipal Ta-Tung Elementary School (1964), the Kaohsiung Business Bank (1964), the Fengshan Ming-Shan Temple (1965), the Kaohsiung Fruit and Vegetable Cooperative Pingtung Office (1969), the CPC Kaohsiung Dormitories, Longhu Monastery (1970), and the Fengshan Meat Market (1976/1985). 

Chen’s works integrate expressiveness of structure with sensitivity in consideration of the local climate, revealing a distinctive form of structural expressionism rooted in regional character. His architecture prophesied the healthy direction of Taiwan’s architectural culture—diverse, inclusive, dynamic, and creative. In photographs, Chen often appears as a figure ”next-to-you” —an “Ojisan” (middle-aged man in local dialect) who you bump into on the streets in Kaohsiung. This everydayness reflects the genuine regionality embodied in his works. The path he forged continues to serve as a vital reference for the future development of Taiwan’s architectural culture.

　Bringing together art, craft, and everyday living, focus in SELECT is a curated concept store that presents “CREATOR Waves,” a themed collaborative project featuring ten original talents. B6 drawing man（B6 速寫男）captures the port's iconic landmarks through expressive linework; KINGJUN, Baozi Studio（包大山製作所）, and Lin Yan-liang（林彥良）showcase the creativity and rhythm of southern Taiwan; Square Studio（方坊）, 1G, and Macaron TOE（馬卡龍腳趾）evoke the emotional nuances of daily life in the harbor city; while Chen Wei-ting (陳威廷）, Xu Writing Corp（阿旭寫字公司）, and Bopomoo（波波畝）convey inner dialogue and a sense of ease through text and imagery. The project's key visual character, Lang Zi, designed by Korean artist Jung Jisook（鄭知淑）, has also been extended into a series of cultural merchandise, showcasing a vibrant and multifaceted creative energy.

　Dining is another highlight of this space. MIAMANDAY's（鰻魚日記）new brand, Unagi Moment（鰻悠), specializes in Japanese eel slow-roasted at low temperatures to preserve its delicate texture and rich aroma. Rather than buy from a wholesaler, the establishment raises its own eels, ensuring freshness and consistency.

　Meanwhile, FULA COFFEE（芙拉咖啡）features tiered seating that seamlessly connects indoor and outdoor views, offering sweeping ocean vistas. Inspired by the “flavors of the sea”, the café has also created a Kaohsiung-exclusive Mentaiko Basque Cheesecake as a tribute to the city's maritime identity.

　From sea-facing views to thoughtfully curated flavors, every detail at FOCUS 13 Coral Plaza captures the vibrant rhythm of Kaohsiung's port city soul. It is a destination worth revisiting, a harbor landmark where simple yet refined pleasures continue to unfold.

To bring the excitement to an even wider audience, the Bureau will also host pop-up promotional events on April 1 and 2, offering children the chance to meet the dinosaurs up close and enjoy interactive encounters ahead of the main event. Chen noted that the city has planned a wide range of engaging activities at Weiwuying for the Children’s Day holiday. He also instructed the Education Bureau to closely monitor weather conditions and ensure effective crowd management and surrounding traffic flow during the event.

The meeting also included a special report on net zero emissions presented by the Environmental Protection Bureau, covering topics such as ISO 14064-1 greenhouse gas inventories, ISO 14064-2 project-based reduction initiatives, and the role of carbon pricing in driving industrial emissions reductions. Chen emphasized that, with regard to carbon fee policies, the Environmental Protection Bureau should continue assisting local industries in developing and implementing voluntary reduction plans to achieve substantive emissions reductions and qualify for preferential rates. He further instructed all departments to cooperate with training initiatives led by the Environmental Protection Bureau to ensure that key personnel obtain relevant certification, thereby embedding a culture of net zero and sustainability within the city government.

Photo 1: Mayor Chen Chi-mai invites visitors from across the country to gather in Kaohsiung during the Children’s Day holiday to experience lifelike dinosaur stage performances up close and enjoy a festival full of imagination and surprises.

Photo 2: The Education Bureau presents the “Dinosaur Cool Park” program at the municipal meeting, highlighting the debut Taiwan performance by Japan’s DINO-A-LIVE troupe.

Photos 3–6: During the Children’s Day event, Weiwuying will be transformed into a prehistoric-themed “Dinosaur Grassland,” featuring multiple lifelike animatronic dinosaurs and immersive scenic installations, allowing visitors to step into a prehistoric world and capture memorable photos.

Photo by Wu Bo-yuan

　Kaohsiung Green Park has become a vibrant wildlife estuary! Common moorhens glide smoothly through lush aquatic plants, while the sweet aroma of common orange jasmine blossoms fills the air with a gentle breeze. Light-vented bulbuls flit happily over the grass, and cattle egrets gather among the wetlands. Crested serpent eagles and crested goshawks soar above Chengcing and Jinshi Lakes. Squirrels actively move through the tree canopy, spreading seeds and enhancing biodiversity. Seeing this beautiful landscape restored and thriving in natural harmony is truly inspiring.

Photo by Huang Jing-wun

　Walking along the trails, visitors can observe the changing seasons reflected in the park's vegetation: the fragrant blooms of common orange jasmine and sweet osmanthus in spring; lush greenery in midsummer; cotton trees flowering in autumn; and cascades of falling leaves in winter.

Photo by Cindy Lee

　The park has become the city's most accessible outdoor educational space. By enforcing zoning rules and sustainable management practices, it maintains ecological health while providing a peaceful place for recreation. Guided tours educate visitors about environmental sustainability, while reminding bird photographers to keep a respectful distance. The focus has shifted from tourism to ecological awareness, fostering a stronger connection to nature and marking a significant achievement in environmental education.

Photo by Huang Jing-wun

Written by Li Siao-ping　English translation by Lin Yu-ciao
Photos by Huang Jing-wun, Wu Bo-yuan, Cindy Lee

During the meeting, the Sports Development Bureau delivered a special report on the progress of the Kaohsiung Sports Center program. The report noted that overall usage increased significantly, rising from 1.31 million visits in 2024 to 2.15 million visits in 2025. For administrative districts that do not yet have a sports center, the city has introduced mobile fitness vans that travel to rural and remote communities, offering exercise services for older adults. These mobile units serve more than 30 community locations annually and provide structured exercise programs designed to improve muscle strength and endurance among seniors. The program served approximately 3,500 participants in 2024 and 4,500 participants in 2025. With the addition of a second mobile fitness van this year, service capacity is expected to double. As newly constructed sports centers gradually begin operations, Kaohsiung’s sports facility network will become increasingly comprehensive.

The municipal administrative meeting also approved a supplementary budget proposal and advance payment appropriations to be submitted to the City Council for review. The supplementary budget focuses on three key priorities. First, to support families and reduce the financial burden on parents, the city will provide free nutritious lunches at all public junior high and elementary schools, benefiting approximately 190,000 students citywide. The supplementary budget for this measure exceeds NT$1.1 billion.
Second, the city will significantly expand benefits under the Senior Citizen Card program, increasing the allowance to 600 points per month to make transportation and daily activities more convenient for older residents. 

Beginning in July this year, the annual allowance of 1,200 points will be replaced with 600 points per month, supported by a supplementary budget of approximately NT$160 million. In addition to the increased allowance, the program will also expand eligible uses to include registration fees at public municipal hospitals and health centers, while the point deduction for contracted taxi services will be increased to 85 points per trip, further improving daily mobility and convenience for seniors.

Third, in response to tariff pressures and global economic impacts, city departments have proposed a range of support measures accompanied by additional funding. These initiatives will assist groups including farmers, fishermen, traditional industries, and market vendors, while also strengthening employment support for young people. In addition, advance payment appropriations totaling more than NT$80 million from the previous fiscal year will also be submitted to the City Council for review.

A series of major events will take place in Kaohsiung starting in mid-March, including the Kaohsiung Sakura Festival, the “Mazu Escort! Straw Hat Pirates Parade,” and the Megaport Festival. Mayor Chen instructed relevant departments to assist with traffic management and actively promote city marketing efforts to stimulate Kaohsiung’s economy. In response to recent workplace safety incidents, the city government will also strengthen occupational safety measures and require businesses to reinforce workplace safety management in order to reduce occupational accidents.

Before the meeting, Finance Bureau Director-General Lee Chiung-hui took the oath of office. Mayor Chen also presented awards to 20 borough chiefs who have served for more than 30 years, recognizing them with the 2025 Third-Class Interior Affairs Professional Medal of the Ministry of the Interior in appreciation of their long-standing dedication and contributions to public service.

Captions 1–3
The municipal administrative meeting approved a supplementary budget proposal and advance payment appropriations for submission to the City Council, including measures such as free nutritious lunches at public junior high and elementary schools, increased Senior Citizen Card allowances, and support programs to address tariff-related impacts.

Caption 4
Mayor Chen Chi-mai presented the 2025 Third-Class Interior Affairs Professional Medal of the Ministry of the Interior to borough chiefs in recognition of their long-standing service and dedication to grassroots municipal governance.

Caption 5
Finance Bureau Director-General Lee Chiung-hui took the oath of office during the municipal administrative meeting.

Emphasizing the importance of citizens’ health and daily well-being, Mayor Chen also reviewed the current situation and response measures related to enterovirus, dengue fever, and hantavirus. With schools having recently resumed classes, he instructed the Department of Health to continue monitoring outbreaks of viral gastroenteritis. He also asked the Education Bureau to strengthen public awareness campaigns on preventing norovirus and enterovirus infections, encouraging frequent handwashing and proper environmental disinfection. In addition, teachers and students returning from Southeast Asia should carry out two weeks of self-health management, and those experiencing suspected dengue symptoms should suspend work or classes and seek medical screening promptly.

Regarding hantavirus prevention, Mayor Chen directed the Economic Development Bureau and the Agriculture Bureau to continue strengthening environmental cleanup, bleach disinfection, and rodent control in high-risk areas such as markets, vendor areas, night markets, and commercial districts. He also asked the Civil Affairs Bureau, Department of Health, and Environmental Protection Bureau to promote the “Three Nos for Rodent Prevention” campaign: no entry for rodents, no shelter for rodents, and no food for rodents, in order to maintain sanitation in daily living environments, reduce disease transmission risks, and eliminate rodent infestations.

Meanwhile, Kaohsiung continues to host a wide range of exciting events. Following the successful conclusion of Kaohsiung Wonderland, Mayor Chen thanked the Tourism Bureau and participating agencies for their efforts. He also highlighted the globally anticipated 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC). From March 5 to March 8, the Sports Development Bureau and the National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying) will jointly host live broadcast events at Weiwuying Banyan Plaza. For the March 6 game against Japan, which will take place in the evening, the main cheering stage at Weiwuying will be relocated to the outdoor lawn area to enhance the viewing atmosphere. A dual-screen cheering setup will also be introduced so that more fans can join in the excitement. In addition, to rally support across the entire city, a second cheering venue will be set up for the first time at the southern plaza of the Kaohsiung National Stadium. On March 6, Kaohsiung will adopt a dual-venue cheering mode, with the TSG Wing Stars cheerleading squad joining fans in the city to create the most passionate baseball viewing event in southern Taiwan and cheer on Team Taiwan together.

Mayor Chen said that the games are expected to be thrilling matchups and noted that a 400-inch giant screen will be used for live broadcasts. He emphasized that the atmosphere of cheering together at a live viewing event is completely different from watching at home. He also remarked that one of baseball’s greatest charms is that the outcome remains uncertain until the final out of the ninth inning. He expressed confidence that the Taiwanese team will demonstrate strong teamwork and skill, strive for excellent results, and invited citizens to come together to support and cheer for Team Taiwan.

Photo Captions

1. At the municipal administrative meeting on March 3rd, the Social Affairs Bureau and the Department of Health presented reports on Kaohsiung’s gender equality initiatives and epidemic prevention efforts. Mayor Chen Chi-mai emphasized placing gender equality governance at the core of policymaking and addressing the differing needs of various genders and diverse groups. He also instructed relevant bureaus and departments to continue monitoring enterovirus, dengue fever, and hantavirus while strengthening public awareness of disease prevention measures to reduce transmission risks.

2. Mayor Chen Chi-mai invited citizens to gather in Kaohsiung to watch the live broadcasts of the globally anticipated 2026 World Baseball Classic (WBC) and cheer on Team Taiwan together.

The widely popular Kaohsiung Wonderland will conclude during the upcoming 228 Peace Memorial Day holiday weekend, with a series of highlight activities continuing until then. Ultraman-themed lanterns will be distributed at the event venue. In line with the event theme, the Youth Bureau has launched the “Kaohsiung Youth Defense Team” at Pier-2 Art Center’s Pier 3, bringing together quality youth entrepreneurship brands to create a parent-child craft market. Meanwhile, the Sports Development Bureau has organized interactive sports challenge experiences, inviting families to participate in fun activities and enjoy an energetic weekend together. Mayor Chen encouraged the public to take advantage of the remaining event period and asked the Police Department, Transportation Bureau, and Environmental Protection Bureau to continue maintaining traffic order and environmental cleanliness.

During today’s municipal administrative meeting, the Transportation Bureau delivered a report on the application of smart transportation technologies. Through big data integration and cloud computing, the city has established a next-generation smart transportation platform capable of predicting traffic speeds up to two hours in advance and monitoring real-time conditions of more than 5,000 roadside devices. A total of 227 AI-enabled traffic signal intersections are expected to be completed by the end of this year to comprehensively improve traffic flow. Mayor Chen also tasked the Transportation Bureau to utilize “sovereign AI” as the core driving force for smart traffic governance, ensuring completion of smart signal infrastructure by year-end. He further urged continued efforts to secure support from central government agencies and private-sector partners to enhance transportation platform services and ensure technology delivers tangible improvements to citizens’daily lives.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Census of Agriculture, Forestry, Fishery, and Animal Husbandry will commence in April. From April 10 to June 30, surveys will be conducted covering approximately 86,000 operators citywide. A dedicated census office will be established on March 2, with the mayor serving as Census Director. The three largest census areas are Meinong, Lujhu, and Daliao, and the survey scope will include smart production practices and industrial transformation trends. Mayor Chen Chi-mai stated that the census aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the current development of related industries across the city. The resulting statistics will serve as an important basis for the city government in formulating future policy directions and development plans. He also instructed relevant agencies to fully cooperate and carry out the census in accordance with the schedule and division of responsibilities established by the Department of Budget, Accounting and Statistics.

Prior to the municipal administrative meeting, Mayor Chen personally commended four organizations — Taiwan Land Bank Sanmin Branch, Kang Zheng Hotel Co., Ltd. (Zhanqian Branch), PX Mart Co., Ltd. Lingya Zhongzheng First Branch, and the Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation Fengshan Liaison Office — for receiving the Ministry of the Interior National Land Management Agency’s 2025 Excellence Award in the Supervision of Accessible Living Environments in Public Buildings (Metropolitan Category).

Photo Captions

1. Mayor Chen Chi-mai thanked personnel across various agencies for their dedication during the Lunar New Year holiday, acknowledging their hard work in maintaining public services. He encouraged municipal agency directors and district chiefs to continue giving their full effort in the final year of his term, serving citizens and advancing city development.

2. The Transportation Bureau presented a report on smart transportation applications during the municipal administrative meeting. Through big data integration and cloud computing, a next-generation smart transportation platform has been established, with 227 AI-enabled signalized intersections scheduled for completion by the end of this year to further improve traffic flow.

3. Mayor Chen Chi-mai personally presented certificates of commendation to four private-sector organizations that received the Ministry of the Interior National Land Management Agency’s 2025 Excellence Award in the Supervision of Accessible Living Environments in Public Buildings (Metropolitan Category).
 

　Since childhood, illustrator Ou Pei-ling（歐佩玲）has loved doodling. Growing up, studying, and working entirely in Kaohsiung has allowed her art to stay deeply rooted in everyday life. This year, she was invited to create the 2026 Kaohsiung Hand-Drawn Calendar, transforming her impressions of the city into artistic beauty.
　Ou shares that her afternoon walks are a major source of inspiration. One stop on her walking map is the Kaohsiung Port Cruise Terminal（高雄港旅運中心）, which rises from the harbor like a graceful whale coming up for air. She especially recommends the third-floor Haiyun Art Plaza（海韻藝術廣場）, where you can take in both the city skyline and the wide-open harbor. If a cruise ship happens to arrive, she likes to wave to the passengers on deck—an unexpected moment that always brightens her daily strolls.
　Dingjia Dessert & Coffee（頂加點心咖啡）is her favorite refuge, whether she's working on illustrations or simply taking a break during a walk. The space is simple and cozy, and every dish and cup of coffee conveys the owner's warmth. She often orders a small piece of cake and an iced coffee, settles into a seat by the window, and enjoys a quiet afternoon all to herself.
　Ou also loves the lively atmosphere along the Whale Promenade（鯨魚堤岸）. Joggers, cyclists, ripples left by passing yachts, and birds skimming across the water all bring a vibrant energy to the harbor. The green corridor around Jhongdu Vision Bridge（中都願景橋）is her preferred walking route; it is lined with homes, shops, and shady trees. The glow of city lights gives the neighborhood a gentle rhythm, accompanying her as she observes life’s small details and gathers inspiration for her art.

Written by Su Yu-ling　English translation by Lin Yu-ciao　Photos by Zeng Sin-yao　
Photos courtesy of Ou Pei-ling

With the approach of the nine-day Lunar New Year holiday, the Civil Affairs Bureau, Tourism Bureau, Public Works Bureau, Labor Affairs Bureau, and Department of Health delivered briefings on environmental maintenance at key locations including major roads, tourist attractions, parks, and green spaces, as well as reports on occupational safety inspections during year-end maintenance, as well as epidemic prevention measures. Mayor Chen instructed relevant departments to strengthen site management and facility maintenance, continue environmental cleaning and lawn upkeep, and provide a high-quality recreational environment for the public.

Regarding public safety, the city government has integrated public and private sector resources to safeguard worker safety. Kaohsiung is the only special municipality to have received the Ministry of Labor’s Excellence Award for “Performance Evaluation of Occupational Safety and Health Promotion in Government Agencies” for two consecutive terms. In 2025, the number of fatalities from major occupational accidents declined to 24, the lowest since Mayor Chen took office and the lowest since the county-city merger, demonstrating concrete results in advancing occupational safety. In response to the anticipated increase in temporary operations such as year-end maintenance, cleanup, and rush construction before the holiday, the Labor Affairs Bureau will continue supervising businesses to ensure operational safety. With regard to medical and epidemic preparedness, the Department of Health reminded the public to guard against norovirus, hantavirus, and dengue fever. The Department will continue monitoring emergency room capacity, strengthening reporting mechanisms at medical institutions, conducting environmental cleanup and disinfection, and carrying out rodent control measures. Inspections of markets, temples, tourist attractions, and construction sites will be completed before the Lunar New Year to prevent standing water and mosquito breeding, safeguarding public health.

Photo 1
Mayor Chen Chi-mai thanked TS Financial Holding Co., Ltd. for donating funds to support Jianshan Elementary School in Taoyuan District for its educational exchange trip to the United States.

Photo 2
At the municipal administrative meeting, Huang Tai-hsiang of Houjing Junior High School was commended for winning the junior high school 3-kilometer championship and setting a new event record at the 74th New Year Race Walk in Tokyo in 2026.

Photo 3
Mayor Chen Chi-mai reviewed parking arrangements and environmental readiness in areas surrounding the 2026 Kaohsiung Wonderland, instructing relevant municipal agencies to ensure proper site maintenance so that the public may fully enjoy the festive atmosphere.

The Transportation Bureau stated that the four newly installed intersections represent the City’s first corridor-wide application of a proactive broadcasting system, which differs from traditional push-button-activated audible signals. Under this design, the system automatically emits audible cues during the pedestrian-crossing phase, enabling persons with visual impairments to receive directional guidance without the need to physically activate a device. In addition, the system allows for time-based volume adjustment, increasing sound levels during daytime peak-noise periods and automatically lowering the volume at night to balance pedestrian safety with the living environment of nearby residents.

This installation adopts wireless pedestrian signal transmission modules, effectively preventing the need for conventional road excavation or additional pole installation. Notably, the intersections at Heping/Tongcing and Heping/Linde are the first in the City to introduce a “cricket-chirp” audible tone for the pedestrian-exclusive phase. This provides an alternative to existing audible cues such as the cuckoo sound (indicating north-south crossings) and bird-chirping sound (indicating east-west crossings), offering clearer orientation and enhancing crossing safety and convenience for persons with visual impairments.

The Transportation Bureau noted that this installation corridor is adjacent to key facilities including MRT stations, the Cultural Center, Wufu Junior High School, and National Kaohsiung Normal University. Priority installation locations were determined in coordination with local organizations for persons with visual impairments and the City Government’s Committee for the Promotion of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, and the final sites were selected following thorough consultation with local stakeholders. The Bureau expressed appreciation for the support and recommendations provided by all participating parties. Moving forward, the Bureau will continue gathering public feedback, reviewing installation criteria, and progressively expanding the deployment of Audible Pedestrian Signals for Persons with Visual Impairments, advancing toward a safer and more inclusive traffic environment.

Chien stated that he was honored to receive the commendation and encouraged the public to act bravely when facing emergencies, while also emphasizing the importance of personal safety. He reminded fellow citizens that in similar situations, they should prioritize their own safety and contact the police as soon as possible. Chien’s father, who accompanied him at the ceremony, said he was proud of his son’s actions and noted that such conduct reflects the sense of responsibility of conscientious citizens. He also used the occasion to remind his son to respond to similar incidents in the future with even greater caution and sound judgment.

Recalling the incident, Fengshan Junior High School student Chiang said that while riding a bicycle home, he noticed an older adult with disabilities at a pedestrian crossing and became concerned about the person’s safety. He therefore dismounted and walked alongside the individual to assist him safely across the street. Chiang’s mother said she was deeply moved when she first received a message from her son’s homeroom teacher. She noted that her child has always been kind and considerate, and that having received help from many caring individuals over the years, he has learned the value of helping others unconditionally.

During the same municipal administrative meeting, the Public Works Bureau also delivered a briefing titled “Special Report on Response Strategies for Surplus Construction Earth and Stone in Kaohsiung City.” Mayor Chen stated that, in response to challenges related to the disposal of surplus construction materials, the city government has proactively formulated concrete countermeasures and implementation plans. He instructed the Public Works Bureau to strengthen communication with relevant industry stakeholders and to continue enforcing the city’s management measures for construction surplus soil, including promoting land preparation projects at the Port of Kaohsiung to accept earth and stone, streamlining transportation procedures, and fully implementing electronic manifests and GPS tracking mechanisms. These measures aim to ensure orderly disposal, traceable material flows, and the safeguarding of environmental sustainability.

On the same day, the City Government also invited the Metal Industries Research and Development Centre (MIRDC) to deliver a keynote briefing on the impact of tariff measures under Section 232 of the U.S. Trade Expansion Act on the fastener industry. MIRDC noted that, overall, the impact of the Section 232 tariffs on Taiwan’s fastener sector constitutes structural cost pressure rather than a comprehensive loss of market share. Given the limited production capacity in the United States, Taiwan manufacturers’ continued control of key distribution channels, and the strong emphasis placed on quality and supply reliability in mid- to high-end applications, Taiwan’s fastener industry is expected to retain a competitive foundation in the short term. Current government policy tools are therefore focused on helping the industry accelerate transformation, diversify risk, and upgrade its overall industrial structure.

Drawing on her extensive experience in the airline industry, Ms. Kung guided participants to reflect on the question: “What makes good service?” She emphasized that safety and comfort are fundamental, but attitude and empathy are the true differentiators. A simple smile, a kind greeting, or a proactive gesture can greatly enhance passengers’ experiences and make public transportation feel warmer and more considerate.

During the session, bus drivers also shared their own service stories. A driver from E-Da Bus Company, Mr. Chu, recounted assisting a mother and child who were waiting for a hotel shuttle at an intermediate stop—he took the initiative to contact the hotel reception and remind the shuttle driver to look out for them, earning heartfelt appreciation from the passengers. Another driver from Kaohsiung Bus Company, Mr. Chien, described feeling discouraged after being misunderstood by a passenger while giving a safety reminder, which was perceived as poor attitude. Through the instructor’s guidance, these real-life cases helped drivers learn how to balance firmness in ensuring safety with a more empathetic and tactful communication style—achieving service that is “caring without intrusion.”

Director-General Chang Shu-chuan of the Transportation Bureau noted that this is the first event in Taiwan to introduce flight attendants’ service experience into a bus industry training program. The initiative encourages drivers to view service and emotional management from new perspectives. She further emphasized that bus drivers shoulder heavy responsibilities—ensuring safety while meeting passengers’ needs—and asked the public to understand that a driver’s firm tone is often for safety reasons. She also encouraged citizens to offer more positive feedback to drivers, helping them stay motivated and cheerful in their work.

The Transportation Bureau hopes that through this cross-industry exchange, Kaohsiung’s bus services will continue to blend professionalism with warmth, providing not only safe and reliable transportation but also allowing every passenger to feel the “heartwarming” spirit of Kaohsiung’s bus service with every ride.

During the meeting, the Tourism Bureau outlined the series of activities planned for 2026 Kaohsiung Wonderland, along with related traffic management measures. The event will take place from February 7 to March 1. This year’s curatorial theme, “Ultraman Descends upon the Harbor City,” features the beloved Japanese classic IP hero Ultraman, celebrating his 60th anniversary. Two large-scale themed inflatable installations will make their debut at Love River Bay. In addition to the landmark installations, the Tourism Bureau and other departments are organizing character meet-and-greet sessions, nighttime light shows, pop-up stores, and a wide range of interactive activities. Together, these elements will create an “Ultraman Celebration” that blends harbor scenery, urban festivity, and family-friendly entertainment, bringing lively winter cheer to Kaohsiung.

Mayor Chen noted that this marks the third consecutive year of collaboration between the city government and Taiwan International Ports Corporation. During the event, Kaohsiung Port Piers 16 to 18 will once again be transformed into a waterfront amusement zone, creating a warm and inviting winter festival atmosphere. With exciting programs scheduled every week, the public is invited to experience Kaohsiung’s distinctive harbor tourism appeal. He also instructed the Transportation Bureau, Police Department, Environmental Protection Bureau, and other relevant agencies to fully support the event by carefully planning traffic flow and maintaining the surrounding environment, ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors. The Tourism Bureau was further tasked with coordinating early-stage promotional efforts together with relevant partners.

In addition, the Department of Health presented a special report on AI-assisted mental health services, outlining the city’s current initiatives and future development plans for applying AI technology to psychological support services in response to residents’ mental health needs. Mayor Chen directed the Department of Health to place citizens’ needs at the center of these efforts, developing AI-based mental health services into a long-term, trusted, and sustainable public support platform. He also asked Deputy Mayor Lo Ta-sheng and the Research, Development and Evaluation Commission to assist in continuously refining service content, strengthening localized applications, and enhancing professional review mechanisms to ensure service quality and public trust.

Photo Captions

1. Mayor Chen Chi-mai announced that 2026 Kaohsiung Wonderland will open on February 7, featuring the first-ever appearance of Ultraman, the iconic Japanese IP hero beloved across generations, at Love River Bay.

2. From February 7 to March 1, Ultraman will appear at Love River Bay and at Piers 16 to 18 of Kaohsiung Port.

3. The pier-side amusement park features mechanical rides and inflatable attractions especially popular with children (file photo).

Mayor Chen noted that, across 18 government-led urban renewal projects promoted along rail corridors under the city’s TOD strategy, cumulative private investment has reached NT$195.5 billion, delivering substantial results. In 2025, three government-led urban renewal projects have already broken ground. In 2026, one project is expected to be completed, and seven projects are scheduled to begin construction. Mayor Chen instructed all responsible agencies to urge project implementers to advance work in accordance with the approved timelines. He also called for continued use of the existing government-led urban renewal progress-tracking platform to coordinate and integrate administrative reviews, approvals, and interagency coordination, ensuring smooth and timely implementation.

With the Lunar New Year holiday approaching, Mayor Chen reminded relevant agencies that the pre-holiday period is a peak season for factory annual maintenance shutdowns, accelerated construction schedules, and year-end banquets. He instructed the Labor Affairs Bureau, Public Works Bureau, Transportation Bureau, Police Department, and other agencies to step up workplace safety inspections, road safety measures, drunk-driving enforcement, and public security efforts. He also tasked the Economic Development Bureau, Fire Bureau, and Public Works Bureau to continue strengthening safety inspections for public venues.

As residents begin purchasing Lunar New Year goods, Mayor Chen directed the Agriculture Bureau and Marine Bureau to intensify promotion of the city’s high-quality agricultural specialty products and seafood. He also instructed the Economic Development Bureau to work with business districts and local merchants to strengthen marketing efforts, while maintaining cleanliness and order in commercial areas. For seasonal food items such as Lunar New Year provisions, he asked the city’s food safety task force to continue strengthening inspections. In addition, Mayor Chen directed the Education Bureau to remind schools to enhance public awareness campaigns on anti-fraud measures and the prevention of substance abuse. He also urged students to carefully assess risks and remain mindful of personal safety when taking part-time jobs or leisure activities during winter break.

Prologue
"Where there is water, there are people; where there are people, there is faith."
The Gaoping River, historically known as the Xiadanshui River, is Taiwan's second-longest river. Since ancient times, it has nourished countless ethnic communities and given birth to a rich tapestry of faith traditions. Across this vast basin, mountains and plains interweave as migrating peoples established settlements, leaving behind traces of their historical journeys.

The river flows like silk threads, weaving connections between people and deities, between ethnic communities and their ancestral lands. From the nature worship of indigenous peoples in the upper reaches, through folk festivals in Hakka villages along the middle course, to traditions passed down through generations in Hoklo settlements downstream—this is a mighty river that carries faith and mirrors life itself. Let us follow the river's pulse as we journey downstream, walking alongside the gods, entering the stories of different peoples, and witnessing the magnificent folk heritage that flourishes along these riverbanks...

The exhibition is divided into four main sections：

A.Rivers Flow Through Human Lives

B.Sacred Lands Where Spirits and People Coexist

C.Rituals of Heaven, River Worship, and the Sacred Farewell to Written Words

D.Heroic Souls and Guardian Deities

Special Themed Activity: Create Your Riverside Scenery (DIY Stamp Postcard)

Take a journey along the upper, middle, and lower reaches of the Gaoping River to discover the diverse folk festivals and traditions of the region’s communities. Collect stamps from each exhibition zone and piece together your own vision of the riverside landscape. Once completed, don’t forget to send your one-of-a-kind postcard to a friend—or to yourself—to share the stories and emotions you’ve discovered along this river, through both image and words.

Mayor Chen further noted that, to ensure knowledge transfer and effective execution, agencies should adopt dedicated teams or task-force structures. He requested that relevant personnel receive priority training at the Net Zero Institute, and directed agencies to deliver preliminary results for their carbon credit plans by the end of June this year, with a results presentation to be held in July.

With the Lunar New Year holidays approaching, Mayor Chen asked all agencies to plan ahead for outreach to civic groups and outreach activities for frontline staff, and to invite senior city officials to join these visits as appropriate. He also instructed responsible agencies to complete final wrap-up work on ongoing construction projects before the holiday period. For projects that cannot be completed in time, agencies should at least finish key phase-based work, while strengthening site safety management and maintaining cleanliness in surrounding areas.

Given unstable winter temperatures, Mayor Chen directed the Social Affairs Bureau and district offices to continue proactive outreach to seniors living alone, people experiencing homelessness, and other vulnerable groups, and to provide assistance in a timely manner. In addition, noting that aquaculture may face delayed cold damage, he asked the Marine Bureau to maintain close communication with fishermen’s associations and monitor any potential losses so that support can be provided promptly.

 

Photo caption1-2:

The Kaohsiung City Government held a municipal administrative meeting on the 13th at the Net Zero Institute. After receiving briefings on the city’s carbon credit flagship plan, Mayor Chen Chi-mai also called for continued outreach to seniors living alone, people experiencing homelessness, and other vulnerable groups, with timely assistance when needed.

In response to the unfortunate traffic accident that occurred today (the 18th) on Jianguo Road in Sanmin District, in which an elderly driver drove against traffic and crossed lanes, the Transportation Bureau emphasizes that while road conditions can change in an instant, physical risk is the most difficult and dangerous factor to prevent. Senior drivers are more prone to misjudgment due to age-related vision deterioration or sudden physical discomfort, which may result in irreversible tragedies causing injury or loss of life to themselves or others.

The Transportation Bureau explained that physical discomfort can be more fatal than road conditions. Common issues among older adults include chronic illnesses as well as declines in vision and reaction time. Symptoms such as dizziness, chest tightness, hypoglycemia, or drowsiness caused by medication may lead to a sudden loss of vehicle control. Elderly drivers are urged to ask themselves before setting out, “Am I fit to drive today?” If feeling unwell, they should switch to public transportation, take a taxi, or ask family members for assistance. Family members are also encouraged to step in and dissuade driving when necessary.

Regarding traffic safety for senior road users, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications is promoting a new graded and supportive senior license renewal policy, scheduled to take effect in May 2026. Under this policy, drivers aged 70 and above will be included in a care-based license renewal program, which includes health examinations and free traffic safety education. Eligible drivers are advised to follow notifications issued by motor vehicle offices.

The Transportation Bureau further calls on families to pay close attention to the physical health of elderly family members, to show care and concern regarding their safety when driving or riding, and to remind them to comply with traffic signs, markings, and signals, and to avoid wrong-way driving or lane crossing, so as to prevent irreparable tragedies and jointly safeguard road traffic safety.

The Water Resources Bureau further noted that by 2026, five additional flood detention ponds are expected to be completed, increasing the total number from 26 to 31, with total detention capacity projected to reach 5.78 million metric tons, further strengthening flood mitigation. Mayor Chen instructed the Water Resources Bureau to continue advancing drainage improvement projects, extending from northern to southern Kaohsiung and covering coastal areas as well, to comprehensively enhance the drainage system and build a safer and more resilient city.

The Bureau also reported that the Nanzih and Ciaotou reclaimed water plants are key projects for strengthening industrial water supply resilience. Construction of the Nanzih plant commenced in 2025, while the Ciaotou plant is scheduled to supply 30,000 metric tons of reclaimed water per day in 2026, with expansion to 35,000 metric tons per day in 2027. Mayor Chen emphasized the importance of completing these projects on schedule and to high quality standards to ensure sustainable reclaimed water management. He also directed continued efforts to improve riverbank landscapes and water quality, creating more accessible and enjoyable waterfront spaces for residents.

In preparation for the upcoming Lunar New Year holiday, Mayor Chen reminded relevant departments to enhance the appearance of major gateways and connecting roads, with particular attention to landscaping quality, vegetation maintenance, and upkeep of road facilities. He also instructed agencies to strengthen inspections and cleanliness at major scenic areas, while ensuring comprehensive public safety and traffic arrangements.

Director-General Chang Shu-Chuan stated that Shared Kaohsiung GO first launched in Meinong District in 2022 and has since expanded to two additional districts annually. To date, the service has been provided in six districts, delivering more than 260,000 passenger trips. Over 70% of all passengers are made by students commuting to school and older adults traveling for medical care or long-term care needs, while other trips include daily shopping and visiting friends. The Liouguei District Shared Kaohsiung GO even awarded the Gold Transport Award from the Highway Bureau, MOTC for 2025, demonstrating its effectiveness in improving mobility autonomy and happiness felling in rural areas.

The Transportation Bureau has completed demand assessments in Tauyuan and Namasia this year and has now begun trial operations. During the trial period, passengers will be provided free of charge, and rolling review service will be made based on actual local needs. The service is scheduled to enter official operations in early 2026. Director Chang emphasized that with the addition of Tauyuan and Namasia, the entire neighboring Cishan and Meinong mountain areas is now fully covered by the Shared Kaohsiung GO network, achieving a 100% service coverage rate and fulfilling the Kaohsiung City Government’s goal of advancing transportation equity in rural communities.

Tauyuan and Namasia cover vast mountainous areas with highly dispersed populations, making it challenging for conventional bus services to concentrate headways or design routes that do not excessively detour to accommodate scattered needs. After reviewing local travel demands and service capacity, the Transportation Bureau adopted a point-to-point reservation model to better meet community mobility needs. This approach allows passengers to reach their destinations in the most direct manner while paying only standard bus fares, thereby enhancing the efficiency of rural public transportation.

The Transportation Bureau explained that Shared Kaohsiung GO adopts a reservation-based system, allowing passengers to board and alight at any point within the designated service zone. Residents may make trip reservations through familiar local offices—such as district offices, household registration offices, village offices, hospitals, clinics, schools, long-term care stations, and community care centers—or by calling the toll-free hotline 0800-660-696 or through the official LINE account “高市交通局高雄GO.” More information is available on the Transportation Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government website (https://www.tbkc.gov.tw) or the Shared Kaohsiung GO website (https://www.khgo.net/Meinong/WebPage/PublicWebModule/pagMeinongmotc.aspx).

Responsible Unit:

Transportation Supervision Division

Division Chief Wang Wei-Che

0933-088-533

Centered on themes of passion, youth, and romance, the “2026 Kaohsiung Hi Party” reflects the city’s readiness to usher in the new year with a rich and vibrant program. The City Government reminds the public to plan transportation and accommodation in advance and invites everyone to gather at the Dream Mall area on December 31 to count down to the new year beneath dazzling fireworks. For more information on Kaohsiung’s New Year’s Eve events, please visit the official website: https://khnewyear.tw/.

Prior to the municipal administrative meeting, Mayor Chen also presented commendations for the 2025 Community Development Work Awards for Outstanding Communities organized by the Ministry of Health and Welfare. The Zhongzhuang Community Development Association of Daliao District received the Bronze Excellence Award. The Xingang Community Development Association of Yong’an District and the Sugar Refinery Community Development Association of Cishan District were honored with the Excellence Award. The Guangfu Community Development Association of Cishan District and the Wanshan Community Development Association of Maolin District received the Outstanding Award, while the Xingbang Community Development Association of Cianjhen District and the Huzhuang Community Development Association of Hunei District were awarded the First-Class Award.

Photos 1–2:
To accommodate New Year’s Eve crowds, Kaohsiung MRT and the Circular Light Rail (LRT) will extend service hours, with the MRT operating until 2:00 a.m. on January 1 and the LRT until 1:30 a.m. Taiwan Railways will also add extra train services. The City Government encourages the public to use public transportation for both arrival and departure.

Photo 3:
The “2026 Kaohsiung High Party” New Year’s Eve Party enters its final countdown, featuring 17 domestic and international acts, including an exclusive performance by Korea’s “Waterbomb Queen” Kwon Eun-bi, along with a spectacular 6,900-firework, 240-second display to welcome the new year.

Photos 4–5: Mayor Chen Chi-mai chairs the municipal administrative meeting to review the “2026 New Year’s Eve Party and Traffic Management” briefing and presents awards to communities recognized in the 2025 Community Development Work Awards for Outstanding Communities organized by the Ministry of Health and Welfare.

The Police Department stated that the city has established a comprehensive surveillance network with no blind spots, integrating live feeds from 37 surveillance cameras and aerial drone footage. These images are transmitted in real time to the forward command center, implementing the principle of “where the situation is, the cameras are there, and the police are there.” The department has also strengthened public–private cooperation by establishing real-time intelligence-sharing mechanisms with private security providers, enabling rapid reporting and control of suspicious individuals to ensure public safety. In addition, police manpower has been reinforced, with on-site incident response teams deployed in front of the main stage and dedicated anti-crowd-crush units in place. These measures are designed to ensure rapid response and core-area protection, shortening reporting and handling times so that residents can participate in New Year’s Eve celebrations with peace of mind.

During the same meeting, the Environmental Protection Bureau delivered a briefing on its “Carbon Credits and Net-Zero Emissions Framework Plan.” Mayor Chen emphasized that carbon credits and net-zero carbon emissions are a government responsibility. He noted that net-zero emissions are not only an international trend but also a key factor in urban competitiveness. The city government, he said, must advance concrete actions from policy formulation through implementation, demonstrating Kaohsiung’s commitment and leadership in sustainable development and positioning the city as a model net-zero city.

Mayor Chen also reminded the Education Bureau to strengthen campus safety management across all levels of schools, promote safety awareness among faculty and students, and establish robust emergency response and reporting mechanisms. The Police Department will continue to provide support as needed to ensure campus safety.

Photos 1–3: The Kaohsiung City Government held a municipal administrative meeting on December 30, during which Mayor Chen Chi-mai instructed all departments to actively implement measures related to New Year’s Eve event security, the promotion of carbon credit policies, and campus safety management.
 

[Kaohsiung News] 

Kaohsiung City is vast with a sparse population, and its residents are spread out. Buses mainly run along main routes, making it difficult to reach every neighborhood. To improve public transportation services and ensure that rural residents can easily access transportation, the Transportation Bureau began operating bus-style "Taxi-Bus" in 2014. These buses replace regular buses, allowing them to navigate narrow lanes and pick up passengers on demand. In 2023, the Happiness Bus was launched, offering flexible, point-to-point reservation services, breaking down time and space limitations. This service has enhanced the coverage of public transportation to 100%, ensuring that rural residents can feel the benefits of public transit.

Currently, Kaohsiung runs 47 bus-style Taxi-Bus routes, covering 34 administrative districts. The Happiness Bus services districts such as Meinong, Shanlin, Liouguei, Neimen, Jiasian, and Maolin, with over 260,000 vistors taken to date. Notably, seniors account for 75% of the passengers, making it a model for age-friendly transportation. By the end of 2025, the service will be extended to the Tauyuan and Namasia districts, achieving the goal of transportation equality in rural districts.

This year, the Kaohsiung Happiness Bus was honored with the Ministry of Transportation and Communications' "2025 Happiness Bus Golden Transportation Award – Outstanding Award." The Transportation Bureau expresses its gratitude to local organizations, drivers, and the support of rural residents. During the award ceremony, Dong Jia-Hong, the chairman of the Liouguei line of Happiness Bus operator, the Fu-Tian Association, pointed out that many elderly people in rural areas, especially those living alone, choose to reduce their outings to avoid bothering their children. The Happiness Bus not only improves transportation but also encourages elderly residents to leave their houses. During busy farming seasons, children don't need to walk home alone, making their journeys safer.

Ms. Zhong, chairman of the Shishan Community Development Association, also shared a story about a grandmother at a community care station who had not been going out due to family reasons. Through continuous visits by the association, she was invited to attend classes at the station, where she regained her smile. Chairman Zhong said, “When the grandmother first came, she wouldn't speak to anyone. But thanks to the Happiness Bus, we picked her up every day to bring her to the station. Gradually, she started talking to others, and eventually, she became someone who never missed a day.”

The Happiness Bus can be booked through district offices, community care stations, medical institutions, schools, and other organizations. Additionally, passengers can directly call the customer service hotline at 0800-660-696 or join the official LINE account "Kaohsiung City Transportation Bureau - Kaohsiung GO" to make a reservation.

  Du Bao-jhen（杜寶珍）, from Baoshan tribal community in Kaohsiung’s Taoyuan District, brews a refreshing sweet-and-sour kombucha using Taiwan’s native mountain tea. By combining traditional brewing techniques with stylish packaging, she has created the local Kaohsiung brand JANKOMBU（珍康普茶）.

  Over 60 years ago, Du’s grandfather cultivated Taiwan’s indigenous mountain tea on the family’s land. Wanting to ease her aging parents’ burden, she resigned as a registered professional nurse. She returned home, embracing eco-friendly farming practices while creatively promoting the tribe’s high-quality native tea.

  Du Bao-jhen uses wild-grown mountain tea from her family’s Hanaku（哈娜谷）tea garden. Small batches of the tea are carefully hand-picked, blanched, and rolled before undergoing a natural fermentation process. The result is a delicate, champagne-like kombucha. “The original intention behind this brand was to support Kaohsiung’s local, indigenous mountain tea. Every sip of kombucha is a show of support for small local farmers,” she says.

  JANKOMBU infuses tribal ingredients into its flavors, offering Classic Original, Makauy Lemon Ginger, Osmanthus Ailanthus Prickly Ash, and Rose Hibiscus Fruit kombucha. For first-time drinkers, she recommends taking a small sip to appreciate the full flavor before diluting with water. Adding a shot of espresso creates a unique taste reminiscent of Sicilian coffee, while mixing it with light beer transforms it into a fruity cocktail. With its diverse flavors, JANKOMBU promises a delightful surprise with every sip.

According to the Economic Development Bureau, the 2025 Kaohsiung Christmas Festival features immersive lighting installations, live music performances, themed markets, and cross-sector commercial collaborations. The highlight of the event is “Christmas Golden Week – Golden Park Main Stage,” scheduled from December 20 to 24. For the first time in the event’s history, live performances will run for five consecutive days, marking the largest and most ambitious lineup to date. The star-studded roster includes Sunset Rollercoaster, Fire EX., Amazing Show, MIXER, Enno Cheng, WeiBird, Gummy B, Pei-Yu Hung, Fool and Idiot, among others, with a total of 25 acts delivering festive, joyful, and romantic holiday vibes as the year draws to a close. For more information, please visit the official event website at https://kaohsiung-christmas-party.tw

The Department of Budget, Accounting and Statistics reported on the implementation status of capital expenditures for Fiscal Year 2025. Mayor Chen instructed all agencies and departments to actively advance project execution in order to improve the overall implementation rate. In response to recommendations raised by city councilors during general interpellation sessions, Mayor Chen also urged all departments to carefully review and proactively address the proposed measures.

As temperatures continue to drop and day–night temperature differences increase, Mayor Chen requested the Social Affairs Bureau, Civil Affairs Bureau, and district offices to further strengthen protective measures for vulnerable groups, including people experiencing homelessness and seniors living alone. He also asked the Fire Bureau and Civil Affairs Bureau to continue promoting the installation of residential fire alarms to ensure household safety.

In addition, Chen Yen-Chu, a program director at Kaohsiung Broadcasting Station under the Information Bureau, was awarded the Sound Effects Award at the 60th Golden Bell Awards. This marks the station’s third consecutive year winning the award. Mayor Chen presented the honor during the municipal administrative meeting, commending her outstanding performance. Furthermore, students from Feng-Shan Senior High School, Fuhwa Senior High School, and Kaohsiung American School, representing Taiwan at the 2025 iENA International Trade Fair for Ideas, Inventions, and New Products in Nuremberg, Germany, were awarded Gold Medals. Mayor Chen also recognized and congratulated the students on their achievements.

Caption 1: The Kaohsiung Christmas Festival officially kicks off, with Mayor Chen Chi-mai expressing hope that collaboration with department stores will boost year-end consumer spending.

Captions 2–3: Chen Yen-Chu of Kaohsiung Broadcasting Station receives the Sound Effects Award at the 60th Golden Bell Awards, and was formally presented with the honor by Mayor Chen Chi-mai.

Caption 4: Students from Feng-Shan Senior High School, Fuhwa Senior High School, and Kaohsiung American School, representing Taiwan as part of the national delegation, won Gold Medals at the 2025 iENA International Trade Fair for Ideas, Inventions, and New Products in Nuremberg, Germany, and were formally commended by Mayor Chen Chi-mai.

Captions 5-7: A major highlight of the Kaohsiung Christmas Festival is “Christmas Golden Week – Golden Park Main Stage,” featuring the festival’s largest-ever lineup and, for the first time, five consecutive days of live performances, inviting the public to join in the festivities.

To strengthen the response capacity for major maritime accidents and marine oil spill incidents in Kaohsiung Port, the Ministry of Transportation and Communications (MOTC) and the Kaohsiung City Government jointly conducted the “2025 Kaohsiung Port Large Passenger Vessel Disaster Prevention Exercise” war game at 10:00 a.m. today (22) at the Kaohsiung Port Cruise Terminal, demonstrating the emergency response mechanism and coordinated handling capacity between central and local authorities.

This war game comprised two major scenarios: “Maritime Rescue Response (including mass casualties)” and “Ship Oil Spill Response,” further divided into six exercise items and nine unexpected situations. The simulated scenario involved the passenger-cargo vessel PENGHU carrying approximately 200 passengers and 32 crew members returning from Magong, Penghu to Kaohsiung Port. While passing the VTS position at the First Harbor entrance of Kaohsiung Port, the vessel suffered an engine room fire and collided with the harbor shuttle ferry CHI FU No. 2, resulting in a major maritime accident. Kaohsiung Port authorities and the City Government immediately activated the cross-agency joint response mechanism.

During the exercise, upon receiving the report, the Kaohsiung City Government promptly established an Emergency Operations Center and a forward command post on-site to monitor disaster information and coordinate response efforts with central authorities. The Kaohsiung City Fire Bureau and Department of Health simultaneously activated the mass casualty triage mechanism. The Transportation Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government planned recommended evacuation routes for patient transport, ensuring the rapid transfer of the injured to hospitals, thereby significantly enhancing rescue efficiency.

In the oil spill response drill, the central government and Kaohsiung City’s Marine Bureau demonstrated the deployment and readiness of containment booms, sorbent booms, and other response equipment and supplies, successfully verifying the mechanisms for oil spill containment and cleanup.

This exercise encompassed multiple aspects, including firefighting, passenger rescue, mass casualty medical evacuation, and marine oil pollution response. It fully integrated the professional capacities of central and Kaohsiung City agencies, showcasing the effectiveness of cross-agency cooperation. The exercise also utilized comprehensive geospatial data presentations, war gaming tables, and other auxiliary tools to enhance the accuracy of scenario simulation and response validation, further demonstrating the port district’s overall emergency response capability.

The Kaohsiung City Government emphasized that this war game was successfully and smoothly completed through the close collaboration of central and local participating agencies. It not only validated the practicality of the response system but also reinforced the port’s disaster joint defense mechanism, enhancing harbor safety and public confidence. The City Government will continue to progressively strengthen disaster preparedness capabilities and work hand in hand with central authorities to safeguard maritime transportation safety, creating a sustainable and secure harbor living environment.

◎Temperature Studio（溫度劑）

Located on Gangshan Street, late-night private kitchen Temperature Studio has been included in the latest Michelin Guide. It offers a no-menu dining experience with just six counter seats. Chef Li You-jyun (Alen)（李宥均）, who developed a love for cooking in junior high school, gained his fine-dining experience in Taipei. He selects fresh ingredients daily, often incorporating local Gangshan specialties such as longan honey and fermented bean paste into his dishes, serving refined home-style cuisine. He says, “I want everyone to experience different cooking techniques in a way that feels approachable and not overly luxurious.” This has attracted gourmet visitors from as far afield as Taipei who make day-trips to Gangshan just to dine here.

◎Dechang Mutton Hotpot（德昌羊肉）
　Established in 1944, Dechang Mutton Hotpot has been a pioneer in the Gangshan lamb trend, nourishing generations of area residents. Fourth-generation owner Syu Ding-lian（許鼎濂）returned to help run the family business during his first year of college. After countless failures and training, he has mastered a wok technique to stir-fry tender lamb with shacha sauce, bringing out the unique nutty aroma of the shacha powder, making it irresistible to eat. Another popular dish is lamb ribs marinated with traditional Chinese medicine. The meat is soft and tender, but due to high demand it is only available in limited quantities.

◎Long Ji Meat Pie（龍記餡餅）

　Long Ji offers only pork-flavored meat pies, a snack that many people in Gangshan have enjoyed since childhood. The dough is rolled and filled on-site, then half shallow-fried before being half pan-fried in oil. The filling is fresh, sweet, and full, mixed with the aroma of green onions. The golden, crispy crust is chewy with a nice bite. In addition to being highly affordable, it is delicious even when eaten without the dipping sauce.

Written by Li Siao-ping English translation by Lin Yu-ciao Photos by Carter

Citing relevant data in its report, the Department of Health pointed out that Kaohsiung has the largest land area in Taiwan and the second-highest proportion of older adults among the six special municipalities. To improve cancer screening outcomes, the department will seek assistance from other municipal agencies by, among other measures, working with borough and neighborhood networks to strengthen household outreach and invitations; integrating household registration data to build the “Kaohsiung Health Checkup Reservation Platform” so that residents can check their screening eligibility and make appointments; incorporating cancer screening items into workplace health examinations; and launching “taxi-bus services” in rural areas to provide transport to hospitals or screening sites, thereby improving access to examinations and diagnoses.

In addition, Kaohsiung has recently hosted several large-scale events. To address issues such as long queues and limited quotas, the Research, Development, and Evaluation Commission piloted an “online registration system for digital citizens” to reduce on-site queuing. In its briefing, the commission reported positive results from the pilot at the Marine Bureau’s “Kaohsiung Ocean Party Inflatable Playground” in October, noting enthusiastic online registration and rapid filling of available slots. Within two weeks, more than 7,200 new users registered as digital citizens. On-site check-in also became more efficient, with 90% of attendees able to enter by scanning a QR code on their mobile phones, and most participants expressing satisfaction with the user experience. Mayor Chen reminded the team to remain mindful of the digital divide, emphasizing that while online services offer convenience, offline services must still be maintained, and that online mechanisms should be adopted selectively for suitable events to ensure overall fairness.

Finally, the 2025 National Top 10 Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Groups were selected through a multi-stage process from township and district level to municipal, regional, and national levels, with winners chosen from more than 5,700 groups. This year, Fruit Production and Marketing Group No. 16 in Meinong District and Grouper Production and Marketing Group No. 8 in Yong’an District, Kaohsiung City, were both named among the award recipients. Representatives were commended by Mayor Chen at the municipal administrative meeting and presented with plaques recognizing them as “Shining Stars in Agricultural Production and Marketing” and “Benchmark in Production and Marketing” in honor of their outstanding performance.

Photos 1–2: The Fruit Production and Marketing Group No. 16 of Meinong District and the Grouper Production and Marketing Group No. 8 of Yong’an District were selected among the Top 10 Outstanding Agricultural Production and Marketing Groups in Taiwan in 2025. The award recipients were recognized by Mayor Chen Chi-mai during the municipal administrative meeting.

Photo 3: Mayor Chen Chi-mai explained that cancer incidence varies across regions due to factors such as urban–rural disparities and environmental conditions. He emphasized prioritizing screening for high-risk populations and areas, as well as providing targeted subsidies to clinics to ensure that screening meaningfully enhances cancer prevention outcomes.

Pursuing the goal of “Vision Zero”, the Bureau advanced the “Three Arrows of Traffic Engineering”—namely, left-turn auxiliary lanes, road-marking roundabouts, and parking-bay protective designs to improve pedestrian–vehicle interaction. Taiwan’s first road-marking roundabout was established at the intersection of Wunheng 3rd Road in Cianjhen District, reducing accident rates by nearly 70 percent. On Bo-Ai 1st Road, the city pioneered parking-bay protected bicycle lanes, granting cyclists dedicated right-of-way and ensuring pedestrians a safer walking environment. 

In recent years, the Bureau has completed 134 sections of road-marking pedestrian paths, gradually introducing designs that integrate buffer zones so that citizens can experience safety and comfort in daily travel. Statistics show that traffic casualties in Kaohsiung have steadily decreased, with the 30-day traffic fatalities in 2024 reduced by 58 compared with 2022. 

Beyond engineering measures, the Bureau emphasizes public communication and participation. Through local workshops and on-site walk-throughs, it invited city councilors, village chiefs, and residents to jointly discuss designs and even allowed citizens to sketch their visions of street renewal. This bottom-up process has built community consensus, transforming street improvement from mere physical infrastructure into a public dialogue on quality of life. 

The Bureau stated that this award is not only recognition of the team’s dedication but also the beginning of greater responsibility. Moving forward, the Bureau will continue to deepen its people-oriented approach and advance left-turn auxiliary lanes, road-marking roundabouts, and parking-bay buffered pedestrian and bicycle lanes. By integrating smart traffic signals and big data analytics, and through inter-departmental collaboration and public–private partnerships, Kaohsiung will shape a safe, smart, and sustainable traffic environment—making the city one where walking feels secure and everyday life is enhanced. 

To ensure the safe passage of students from Guangwu Elementary School in Sanmin District, the Transportation Bureau has collaborated with Guangwu Elementary School, local village chiefs, and elected representatives. After discussions and coordination, a "parking-lane protected marked sidewalk" has been installed along Guangwu Road (from Guangfu Road to Jiouru 1st Road), aiming for completion before the start of the school term, to provide a safer walking space for the children.

Currently, there is ongoing construction on the east side of the road, which temporarily blocks the pedestrian area that students typically use, increasing safety risks. Additionally, considering the pickup needs of kindergarten parents and the demand for motorcycle parking from nearby residents, the Transportation Bureau has comprehensively considered the construction situation, parking requirements, and pedestrian safety. As a result, parking-lane protected marked sidewalks have been installed on both sides of Guangwu Road, effectively separating vehicles and pedestrians to enhance the safety of the walking environment. By using the parking lane as a buffer zone, the marked sidewalks not only protect students' safety when commuting to and from school but also improve overall traffic order, creating a win-win situation.

The Transportation Bureau reported that, in recent years, 134 marked sidewalks have been installed, which have generally received positive feedback from pedestrians, showing that these measures help improve traffic quality and safety. To further enhance pedestrian safety, the bureau will continue to promote the installation of marked sidewalks and, after completing installation on related road sections, will monitor the usage of both pedestrians and vehicles, evaluating whether the scope of these installations should be expanded in the future. Until physical sidewalks are fully developed, these marked sidewalks provide dedicated pedestrian space. The bureau urges drivers not to unlawfully occupy these areas and to follow traffic rules when passing intersections, ensuring that they stop and yield to pedestrians, demonstrating respect and protection for pedestrian rights.

The ceremony began with a choral performance by Indigenous youth, followed by the entrance of traditional leaders from various tribes. Chief Lin Hsin-ming offered blessings in the Amis language to Mayor Chen Chi-mai and attending officials, then personally dressed the Mayor in the traditional Amis men’s garment, the alusaysay, symbolizing the passing of blessings and friendship among peoples.

Mayor Chen stated that the Takao Festival has become one of Kaohsiung’s signature annual events. Now in its sixth year, the Kaohsiung Indigenous Peoples Joint Harvest Festival will be held on November 8–9 at Weiwuying Metropolitan Park. The event will feature a thousand-person circle dance, hands-on cultural experiences, and vibrant performances by Indigenous artists such as Abao (Aljenljeng Tjaluvie), along with around 160 booths offering Indigenous foods and crafts—promising a rich and exciting celebration. More details are available on the Facebook page “Kaohsiung Takao Festival – Kaohsiung Indigenous Peoples Joint Harvest Festival.”

Mayor Chen further noted that, in addition to promoting Indigenous cultural events, the 2025 Kaohsiung Seafood Feast series of events will run from November 8 to December 14, inviting the public to participate and support local fisheries. He reminded that as the year draws to a close, many businesses are rushing to complete projects or conduct annual maintenance. The City Government will therefore continue strengthening occupational safety education and inspections, especially at high-risk sites and in confined-space operations, which will be prioritized for inspection, to ensure that contractors fully implement worksite safety management and protect workers’ well-being.

Image Captions 1-3: Tribal Chief Lin Hsin-ming personally dressed Mayor Chen Chi-mai with the traditional Amis men’s garment, the alusaysay. Mayor Chen remarked that the Takao Festival blends tradition with innovation, inviting the public to join in and experience the beauty of Indigenous culture.

Image Caption 4: Mayor Chen also announced that the 2025 Kaohsiung Seafood Feast series will take place from November 8 to December 14. He instructed the Marine Bureau to strengthen promotional efforts and encourage public participation. In addition, he directed the Labor Affairs Bureau to enhance occupational safety education and inspections, and requested all city engineering agencies to reinforce worksite supervision and ensure contractors comply with occupational safety management requirements.

Image caption: Mayor Chen Chi-mai directed at the municipal administrative meeting that the city government strengthen interdepartmental collaboration to promote sustainable agriculture and enhance local food connections, showcasing Kaohsiung’s comprehensive achievements in food and agriculture education.

Mayor Chen noted that this year’s Halloween celebration will continue the excitement from last year, featuring the return of the 22-meter-tall giant pumpkin and a dazzling Pumpkin Light Show, now upgraded from 270 degrees to a full 360-degree spectacle with even more impressive lighting effects and creative visual displays. The spacious and convenient National Kaohsiung Center for the Arts (Weiwuying) provides the perfect venue for the festivities. On November 1, the much-anticipated Tombstone Parade by the Leofoo Village theme park team will also take place, with 10,000 limited-edition inflatable wristbands distributed to participants on-site.

During the municipal administrative meeting, the Education Bureau presented the event’s plans, announcing that this year’s festival will expand in scale and community involvement. In addition to the ever-popular “Giant Pumpkin” attraction, the program will feature a Halloween market, creative costume parade, immersive decorations, and themed booths in collaboration with local schools and neighborhoods. The event also ties in with the Kaohsiung Tourism Bureau’s “Wild Wild” campaign and Weiwuying’s “Spooky Market” event, blending outdoor indie style with spooky Halloween aesthetics across more than 100 market stalls. The Bureau encourages visitors to use public transportation and follow the official Facebook page of the Kaohsiung Education Bureau for the latest updates and event details.

Mayor Chen also expressed his appreciation to various city departments and agencies for their joint efforts during the BLACKPINK concert, which successfully concluded last weekend. The Police Department, Transportation Bureau, and Kaohsiung Mass Rapid Transit Corporation worked tirelessly to manage traffic and transportation, while the Economic Development Bureau and Bureau of Cultural Affairs supported related activities. The Sports Development Bureau assisted with venue coordination, and the Environmental Protection Bureau maintained a clean and orderly environment throughout the event.

Photo captions 1–3: Mayor Chen Chi-mai, dressed as a “Captain” character from an animated film, interacts with children and parents in Halloween costumes to announce the upcoming 2025 Kaohsiung Halloween event.

Photo caption 4:

The BLACKPINK concert successfully concluded last weekend. Mayor Chen expressed his gratitude to various city departments and the Kaohsiung Rapid Transit Corporation for their dedicated efforts during the event.

Photo Caption: Mayor Chen Chi-mai instructed the city agencies and departments to ensure venue safety, environmental cleanliness, and effective traffic and crowd management during all upcoming events.

In light of the recent rise in influenza activity nationwide, with the season expected to peak in October, Mayor Chen announced that free influenza and COVID-19 vaccinations will be administered concurrently starting October 1. Kaohsiung will provide a total of 790,000 free influenza vaccine doses, aiming for an estimated citywide coverage rate of 30%. The first phase of the vaccination campaign will prioritize eligible groups for free inoculation, including seniors aged 65 and above, young children, and other high-risk populations. Mayor Chen urged the Department of Health to fully implement the vaccination policy and step up efforts to raise coverage rates among high-risk groups. Individuals experiencing respiratory symptoms are advised to follow proper personal hygiene practices, including wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and seeking medical attention promptly. For high-risk individuals, antiviral prescriptions should be administered as soon as possible.

Mayor Chen also noted that the epidemic alert for local dengue fever in Gushan and Sanmin districts was lifted on September 29. However, he stressed the importance of thorough epidemiological investigations for imported dengue cases to prevent further spread and the development of new local outbreaks. High-risk environments such as markets, construction sites, schools, rooftop gutters, flooded basements, vacant lots, and abandoned buildings require continued monitoring and management. Relevant agencies have been instructed to carry out regular inspections and removal of mosquito breeding sources, strengthen community mobilization, and improve environmental cleanup efforts to effectively reduce the risk of vector-borne transmission.

On another note, the Bureau of Cultural Affairs briefed on the upcoming Taiwan Technology X Culture Expo (TTXC), which will take place from October 10 to 26. Jointly organized by the Kaohsiung City Government, the Ministry of Culture, the Ministry of Digital Affairs, and the Ministry of Economic Affairs, TTXC has become a flagship national exhibition brand. The program includes Asia’s largest XR film festival, featuring this year’s Venice Film Festival award-winning work The Clouds Are Two Thousand Meters Up, which sold out within 10 minutes, as well as a special XR edition of the classic film Titanic that allows audiences to immerse themselves in the story. Mayor Chen Chi-mai extended an invitation to visit Kaohsiung, the city at the forefront of AI innovation, to experience the future firsthand and help foster the vibrant growth of the cultural and technology sector.

Mayor Chen also reported on disaster relief efforts following the September 23 Typhoon-induced flooding at the Matai’an River landslide dam in Guangfu Township, Hualien. The Kaohsiung Special Search and Rescue Team was mobilized immediately upon request from the Hualien County Government, traveling overnight to provide assistance. The team has now returned to Kaohsiung, where Mayor Chen personally welcomed them back and expressed his gratitude. Upon learning that the disaster zone still required equipment such as skid-steer loaders, grapple trucks, and water trucks, Mayor Chen instructed relevant departments to quickly coordinate machinery and manpower to ensure timely delivery of resources and full support for relief operations.

Before the municipal administrative meeting, Mayor Chen also presented awards to students and teachers from Shengli Elementary School, Yangming Junior High School, and Kaohsiung Senior High School for their outstanding achievements at the 65th National Primary and High School Science Fair. Shengli Elementary won first place in mathematics at the elementary level, Yangming Junior High earned first place in physics at the junior high level, and Kaohsiung Senior High claimed top honors in both physics and astronomy as well as environmental science at the senior high level.

Photo 1: With influenza season expected to peak in October, Mayor Chen Chi-mai urges high-risk groups to receive the flu and COVID-19 vaccines, which will be available free of charge starting October 1.
Photo 2: Mayor Chen Chi-mai commends students from Shengli Elementary School, Yangming Junior High School, and Kaohsiung Senior High School for winning first place in the individual awards at the 65th National Primary and High School Science Fair.
 

Starting from August 4, 2025, holders of a valid Kaohsiung NT$399 or TKP NT$999 TPASS monthly or quarterly pass can present proof of purchase at the above-mentioned partner sports centers to enjoy exceptional discounts on monthly gym memberships, exercise classes, and venue rentals. Furthermore, the first 60 purchasers of a monthly gym membership at each participating sports center will enjoy prices as low as 38% of the original price. The public is invited to join in creating a healthy, low-carbon living environment.

The Transportation Bureau stated that TPASS monthly and quarterly passes not only serve as a convenient commuting tool for work and school but also as a bridge linking healthy and convenient lifestyles. This time, the Bureau has negotiated long-term discounts with the sports centers. In addition to continuing the original special price for monthly gym memberships, the program has been upgraded to offer the first 60 purchasers at each center a monthly membership for as low as NT$499 (approximately 38% of the original price). Other benefits include exercise classes, venue rentals, and summer-only promotions, enabling residents to enjoy convenient public transportation while engaging in more physical activity and embracing a healthy, low-carbon lifestyle.

Details of the offers from the five partner sports centers are as follows:

1. Lingya Sports Center

   • Monthly gym membership: NT$900 (originally NT$1,250); first 60 purchasers pay only NT$500.

   • Receive a free monthly gym membership (valued at NT$1,250) with the purchase of a personal training package.

   • 15% off with the purchase of a course package.

   • 15% off on walk-in court venue rentals.

   • Student Exclusive (Aug. 4–31): Special summer personal training package — 6 sessions for NT$5,000 plus a free monthly gym membership (valued at NT$1,250).

2. Fongshan Sports Center

   • Monthly gym membership: NT$900 (originally NT$1,250); first 60 purchasers pay only NT$500.

   • Group class discounts: Buy 2 NT$250 classes, get 1 free; buy 1 NT$400 class, get 1 free.

   • Present TPASS purchase proof to receive one free body composition analysis (valued at NT$200).

3. Gangshan Sports Center

   • Monthly gym membership: NT$900 (originally NT$1,250); first 60 purchasers pay only NT$500.

   • Group class discounts: Buy 2 NT$250 classes, get 1 free; buy 1 NT$400 class, get 1 free.

   • Present TPASS purchase proof to receive one free body composition analysis (valued at NT$200).

4. Zuoying Sports Center

   • Monthly gym membership: NT$900 (originally NT$1,300); first 60 purchasers pay only NT$500.

   • Aug. 4–31: Time-based tickets at 20% off (original price: NT$50/hour).

5. Cianjin Sports Center

   • Monthly gym membership: NT$899 (originally NT$999); first 60 purchasers pay only NT$499.

   • Quarterly gym membership: NT$2,299 (originally NT$2,399).

   • Buy one, get one free archery class (original price: NT$300/session).

The Transportation Bureau reminds the public that a valid TPASS monthly or quarterly pass proof of purchase must be presented to enjoy these offers. Some discounts are available in limited quantities and will be offered on a first-come, first-served basis. For more information about this campaign and TPASS monthly pass services, please visit the MeNGo APP, the official MeNGo website (https://men-go.tw/#/), the Transportation Bureau’s official website (https://www.tbkc.gov.tw/), or the websites of the participating sports centers.

To address the short-term parking needs of the general public and food delivery riders, the Transportation Bureau of Kaohsiung City Government is implementing “Smart Time-Limited Scooter Spaces.” Beginning September 1, 2025, five trial spaces will be available in Zuoying District on Bo-Ai 2nd Road in front of No. 364 (next to the Shihdai Fuhao Yousheng Enterprise Building). In addition, two other locations — in front of No. 251 Mincyuan 1st Road, Sinsing District (Asia Business Center Building) and in front of No. 29 Haibian Road, Lingya District (Taiwan Leading Enterprise Building) — will provide a total of nine spaces, scheduled for completion and opening in October. Moving forward, the Transportation Bureau will also plan additional short-term parking spaces for delivery scooters in line with commercial activity needs in various districts.

The Transportation Bureau explained that the “Smart Time-Limited Scooter Spaces” adopt automated management. Sensors, cameras, and license plate recognition systems will be installed around each space to automatically record parking duration and calculate parking fees (with no need for paper fee slips), while also capturing images for verification. The fee structure grants the first 20 minutes free of charge; minutes 21–40 are charged NT$10, minutes 41–60 are charged another NT$10, and so forth. The charging period runs daily from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Clear signage and yellow-marked scooter spaces will be installed on site for easy identification and compliance.

Furthermore, the Transportation Bureau will evaluate the trial results and continue to expand the installation of “Smart Time-Limited Scooter Spaces” on road sections with high short-term parking demand, where roadway conditions permit. By integrating advanced technology, the initiative aims to enhance parking turnover, meet local short-term parking needs, and improve overall parking order. Citizens are also welcome to propose suggested locations. After assessing local demand, the Transportation Bureau will establish additional spaces to provide the public with more convenient scooter parking options.

Photo Captions 1–2. Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai listens to the Department of Substance Control and Prevention’s report on innovative anti-drug initiatives at the municipal administrative meeting, emphasizing the need to strengthen community networks and ensure effective local implementation.
Photo Captions 3–4. The municipal administrative meeting recognized the Xiaobulao Football Club for winning championships in the U10, U11, and U12 divisions at the Grassroots FA Cup 2025, achieving a remarkable “triple crown.”

Caption:
Mayor Chen Chi-mai listens to a briefing at the municipal administrative meeting and instructs the city government team to implement pedestrian space improvements and strengthen dengue fever prevention measures.

To safeguard health and campus hygiene, Chen stressed that schools must step up the elimination of mosquito breeding source before and after the start of classes, strengthen epidemic-prevention education through multiple channels, and maintain strict health monitoring and reporting mechanisms. Any suspected cases of dengue fever, enterovirus, or similar illnesses should be promptly reported to local health centers to ensure timely response.

Addressing the dengue fever cluster outbreak in Gushan District, Chen called on all departments and bureaus to mobilize fully to prevent further spread. High-risk sites within the alert zone, including schools, parks, construction sites, markets, vacant land, abandoned houses, flooded basements, and temples, must be targeted for intensive vector-control operations.

He also urged citizens to maintain clean home environments, promptly remove breeding sources, and seek medical attention and undergo rapid testing if symptoms occur. The Environmental Protection Bureau has carried out source reduction and environmental cleanup within the designated alert areas, while reminding citizens to actively cooperate with dengue prevention efforts. As schools across all levels prepare to reopen, the Education Bureau continues to oversee dengue prevention work on campuses, while the Public Works Bureau is stepping up supervision of construction site maintenance to prevent the large-scale breeding of disease-carrying mosquitoes.

Chen also highlighted improvements to the 1999 Citizen Service Hotline during disaster periods, directing the Research, Development, and Evaluation Commission to refine call distribution mechanisms and adopt AI technologies such as text-based customer service and interactive voice response systems. These upgrades aim to enhance efficiency, service quality, and convenience, making the 1999 hotline more responsive to citizens’ needs.

In light of recent natural disasters affecting agricultural and livestock products, the central government has launched measures to stabilize prices. Chen instructed the city’s Price Monitoring Task Force to closely track market price and supply fluctuations, and tasked the Food Safety Task Force with stepping up inspections to ensure food safety and hygiene. In addition, Chen called for continued promotion of centralized joss paper burning while encouraging citizens to embrace the “Do Good Deeds Instead of Burning Joss Paper” policy.

The meeting also recognized six companies named among the city’s “2025 Outstanding Property Management Firms”: ChenFonWei Security Co., Ltd.; Ritz Property Management Co., Ltd.; Home Start Property Management Company; Central Security Co., Ltd.; ABV Facility Services Holding Company; and Lianan Security Co., Ltd.

Caption 1-2
Kaohsiung Mayor Chen Chi-mai attends the municipal administrative meeting to hear the Education Bureau’s report on back-to-school preparations and emphasized that campus safety and epidemic prevention measures must be implemented in tandem to ensure students and teachers can return to school with peace of mind.

Mayor Chen also directed that post-typhoon clean-up and disinfection be carried out comprehensively, especially in densely populated neighborhoods and areas where vector surveillance has recorded high container positivity rates. He tasked the Health Bureau with exploring the use of AI-powered image analysis to improve monitoring of mosquito density and breeding site positivity rates. This integration of innovative technology aims to enhance disease prevention and public health protection.

During the meeting, the Economic Development Bureau presented an update on the “Asia Asset Management Center - Kaohsiung Zone and Finnovation Hub” project. To date, 57 financial institutions have signed MOUs with the City Government, and 24 have received Financial Supervisory Commission approval for pilot operations. These span banking, investment trust and consulting, insurance, securities, and family office services. The city government is also advancing green fintech initiatives, including a “carbon-to-cash flow” proof-of-concept to gradually build a hub for asset management and fintech industries, highlighting the potential for regulatory innovation and industry integration.

Officially inaugurated on July 22, the Asia Asset Management Center - Kaohsiung Zone offers pilot operations in wealth management, international finance, high-net-worth and cross-border financial services, providing one-stop services such as family offices, policy loan services, and trust financing. In line with national policy, the city government aims to position Kaohsiung as the financial talent training hub of southern Taiwan. It is partnering with National Sun Yat-sen University’s School of Banking and Finance and the Taiwan Academy of Banking and Finance to strengthen expertise in global asset management and sustainable finance, linking to overseas capital and connecting with global markets.

Mayor Chen instructed the Economic Development Bureau to continue working closely with the Financial Supervisory Commission and industry partners to identify city services and planning initiatives that can expand market scale and talent development opportunities. He also encouraged municipal personnel to participate in financial services training courses or specialized programs to cultivate more professionals with globally competitive expertise.

Before the meeting, Mayor Chen also recognized the Kaohsiung Attackers FC for winning the women’s division championship at the 2025 Taiwan President FA Cup. He commended the players for their outstanding performance and urged them to keep striving for excellence and bringing pride to Kaohsiung.

Caption 1: In response to Typhoon Podul’s approach toward Taiwan, Mayor Chen chaired the municipal administrative meeting, directing all agencies and district offices to stay on high alert and strengthen all typhoon preparedness measures, while reminding residents to closely follow updates on the storm’s progress.

Caption 2: Mayor Chen presents the championship trophy to the Kaohsiung Attackers FC for winning the women’s division at the 2025 Taiwan President FA Cup, praising the team’s achievement. The Attackers FC will face New Taipei City’s Hang Yuan FC on August 16 in the Taiwan Mulan Football League, and the public is invited to attend and cheer them on.

With the new school semester just two weeks away, Mayor Chen also reminded the Education Bureau to ensure that schools provide clean and safe campus environments, smooth commuting routes, as well as proper public health and hygiene standards for school lunches. In addition, with the upcoming national referendum scheduled for August 23, Mayor Chen called on the Civil Affairs Bureau and district offices to make all necessary preparations, while urging the Police Department to strengthen security to ensure the smooth conduct of the vote.

Mayor Chen further highlighted that, to enhance early warning systems for fire safety, the city amended and promulgated the Kaohsiung City Self-Government Ordinance for Fire Protection on Aug. 15, 2024. Under the revised regulations, managers of residential buildings not required by law to install automatic fire alarm systems must equip their properties with residential fire alarms. Violators who fail to comply after a deadline for improvement will face penalties. The new rule takes effect on Sept. 1, 2025. Mayor Chen instructed the Fire Bureau, Public Works Bureau, and Civil Affairs Bureau to step up public awareness campaigns, reminding owners of townhouses and apartment buildings of their responsibility to install these devices for safety.

Addressing post-disaster reconstruction funding, Mayor Chen explained that the budget is divided into two parts. The first, which covers emergency repairs and reconstruction of roads and bridges, falls under the jurisdiction of the Highway Bureau. Citing the Minsheng Bridge to Namasia District as an example, he noted the total cost is estimated at NT$400 million, with construction scheduled to begin in 2027. He expressed gratitude to the Executive Yuan for its approval and urged that the funds be included in this special budget to expedite construction. Additionally, he called for accelerated repairs to three damaged bridges along Provincial Highway 20 leading to Taoyuan District. The second portion, under Kaohsiung City’s jurisdiction, covers roadways, river embankments, debris flow zones, and large-scale landslide alert areas, with an estimated budget of NT$1 billion earmarked for soil and water conservation and related reconstruction works.

Mayor Chen further noted that disaster assessments are underway. Rainfall in the mountainous areas reached levels comparable to those of Typhoon Morakot. He stressed the urgent need for the reconstruction of agricultural and forestry roads vital for local farmers. In response to crop damage caused by Typhoon Danas and the July 28 torrential rains, the central government has announced agricultural disaster relief measures, including aid categories, application periods, and extended deadlines. Mayor Chen directed the Agriculture Bureau and district offices to publicize this information and assist farmers in submitting their applications as quickly as possible.

Given Kaohsiung’s expansive geography, Mayor Chen pointed out that the heaviest rainfall occurred in the mountainous regions, causing significant damage and necessitating urgent repair and reconstruction efforts. In contrast, the coastal areas experienced no major incidents, thanks to the effective performance of retention basins, floodgates, and pumping stations. He reiterated the city’s commitment to accelerating water management projects across different areas. Mayor Chen also expressed his appreciation for the central government’s funding last year for the New Caogong Canal and Dianbao River, projects he personally inspected before the storm. He emphasized the importance of continuing to advance water infrastructure to build a resilient city capable of withstanding the challenges of extreme weather.

To ensure a comprehensive recovery, Mayor Chen instructed the Public Works Bureau to address fallen trees, damaged sidewalks, and potholes. He also requested that the Water Resources Bureau inspect storm drains, pumping stations, and flood-prone areas. The Transportation Bureau was tasked with repairing damaged traffic signals and pavement markings promptly and ensuring clear warning signs are in place during construction.

Regarding post-storm sanitation, Mayor Chen directed the Environmental Protection Bureau to intensify road cleaning, silt removal, and waste disposal, while coordinating with the Department of Health to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds and carry out necessary disinfection to prevent dengue fever and chikungunya outbreaks.

Also during the municipal administrative meeting, the Fire Bureau presented a report on joint inspections of lithium battery factories. After hearing the report, Mayor Chen stressed the importance of stringent safety management for such facilities. He instructed relevant departments to take the matter seriously and continue enhancing inspection efforts. For non-compliant facilities identified during inspections, Mayor Chen called for immediate rectification of hardware deficiencies, increased inspection frequency, and guidance to improve emergency response mechanisms. He also emphasized the need for cross-departmental coordination in enforcement and continued adherence to the “Public Safety Enhancement Plan for Industrial Parks” and “Management Approach for Assisting High-Risk Enterprises in Self-Managed Disaster Preparedness.”

Additionally, Mayor Chen recognized students from Youchang Junior High School and Rueisiang Senior High School for their outstanding achievements in the “2024/25 Academic Year High School Futsal League .” Youchang Junior High School won the championship in the junior high girls’ division, while Rueisiang Senior High School took third place in the senior high girls’ division. Mayor Chen presented awards at the meeting and celebrated their success with group photos and warm interactions.

Caption 1

Mayor Chen Chi-mai chaired the municipal administrative meeting, emphasizing the need to accelerate post-disaster recovery. He instructed the Public Works, Water Resources, Transportation, Environmental Protection, and Health bureaus to fully support restoration efforts. He also expressed concern for farmers’ needs, directing the Agriculture Bureau and district offices to assist with related relief applications.

Caption 2-3

Youchang Junior High School and Rueisiang Senior High School won the championship and third place, respectively, in the 2024/25 Academic Year High School Futsal League  in their respective divisions. Mayor Chen presented awards and commended the students for their outstanding performance.

Nearly 40 citizens from various sectors joined the course, creating a lively and enthusiastic learning environment. To enhance public understanding and compliance with traffic signal operations, the curriculum covered four major themes: “Basic Principles of Signal Design,” “Signal Coordination Design,” “Dedicated Signal Phasing,” and “Intelligent Signal Control.” The content ranged from introductory to advanced levels, offering a comprehensive overview.

Participants also had the opportunity to operate intersection signal controllers through a real-time simulation system. This hands-on experience allowed them to understand signal phasing and adjustments in practice. Many expressed surprise at the complexities involved in signal timing design, noting how factors such as traffic volume and pedestrian flow influence overall intersection performance and pedestrian safety. Avoiding vehicle-pedestrian conflicts was recognized as a key design priority.

During the session, participants provided valuable suggestions based on their experiences as road users, including the implementation of exclusive pedestrian phases, early pedestrian starts, and protected left-turn phases. These recommendations highlighted the public’s strong concern for traffic safety and desire for improvement.

Commissioner Chang Shu-chuan, Director-General of the Transportation Bureau, emphasized that building a safe traffic environment is a top priority for Kaohsiung City. Through the “Traffic Signal Academy,” citizens can gain a deeper understanding of signal operations and contribute practical suggestions based on their firsthand experiences. These citizen-driven recommendations play a vital role in advancing people-oriented transportation policies and are directly reflected in policy implementation. The Bureau will continue to prioritize human-centered principles in signal design to enhance traffic safety citywide.

(Press Office: Intelligent Transportation Center; Contact: Director Hsu Nai-wen, 0932-880839)

Reflecting on last year’s typhoons that heavily impacted Kaohsiung, Chen recalled being moved by the assistance received from other counties and cities. This time, Kaohsiung returned the favor, with its staff stepping up to support Tainan and Chiayi. To recognize their dedication and extended service, he awarded commendations, performance bonuses, and two days of merit leave.

During today’s municipal administrative meeting, the Tourism Bureau also presented a report titled “Kaohsiung Summer Highlights,” unveiling an exciting lineup of events and festivals for the season. Key events include the 2025 Taiwan–Japan Fruit Festival, the Cijin Kite Festival and Inflatable Water Amusement Park with more than a hundred ocean-themed kites soaring overhead, Kaohsiung’s largest ice dessert market “Kaohsiung Dagang Ice Festival,” the Shoushan Zoo’s “Summer Animal Season” offering free admission for children under 12, as well as concerts, sporting events, and cultural exhibitions. The colorful summer experience is tailored to diverse interests and showcases the city's coastal charm, inviting families and tourists to enjoy Kaohsiung’s summer allure.

Following the presentation, Mayor Chen instructed all relevant departments to ensure smooth traffic management and ensure cleanliness in and around event venues to guarantee a safe and pleasant experience for visitors. He also stressed the importance of promoting water safety during the summer vacation period to prevent accidents in high-risk aquatic environments and reminded the public to take precautions against heat-related illnesses.

As Taiwan enters the peak of typhoon season, Mayor Chen further instructed the Water Resources Bureau, Environmental Protection Bureau, Public Works Bureau, and district offices to step up flood preparedness, such as clearing roadside drains and debris, checking pumping equipment, and ensuring trained personnel and material readiness for effective drainage. He also emphasized workplace safety, directing the Labor Affairs Bureau, Public Works Bureau, Fire Bureau, and Environmental Protection Bureau to strengthen inspections and ensure contractors and businesses uphold rigorous self-management standards to safeguard construction sites, factories, foreign worker dormitories, and public works projects.

In addition, students from Fongsi Junior High School and Chun Shan Industrial & Commercial School brought honor to the city by winning third place in their respective categories at the "2024 Academic Year High School Football League"—the Boys' Division I (11-player) and the Girls' Senior High School Division (11-player). Mayor Chen presented each team with a NT$100,000 grant to recognize their outstanding performance and encourage them to continue striving for excellence. The students took photos with Mayor Chen, filling the venue with a vibrant and youthful energy.

Caption 1–2

Mayor Chen Chi-mai presides over the municipal administrative meeting and commends the hard-working staff of the Environmental Protection Bureau, Public Works Bureau, Fire Bureau, and Transportation Bureau for their dedicated support in post-disaster recovery efforts in Chiayi County, Chiayi City, and Tainan City following Typhoon Danas—showcasing the spirit of solidarity and mutual aid across the island.

Caption 3–4

Fongsi Junior High School and Chung Shan Industrial & Commercial School earned third place in the Boys’ Division I and Girls’ Senior High School Division, respectively, in the "2024th Academic Year High School Football League." Mayor Chen commended the students and awarded a NT$100,000 grant to each school to encourage continued excellence.