Ke-Yi has recovered well following her Cesarean section. After a period of rest and observation, she has gradually returned to her normal enclosure and daily routine. Yi Bao, however, was born prematurely with underdeveloped lungs and other organs, requiring a higher level of medical support. He therefore remains the veterinary team's highest priority for intensive care.

Because Yi Bao was born prematurely, his lungs and other organs were not yet fully developed at birth. He initially required endotracheal intubation and mechanical ventilation to support his breathing. As his ability to breathe independently gradually improved, the medical team determined that he was ready for extubation. He is now receiving oxygen therapy through a high-flow nasal cannula while his breathing and overall physical condition continue to be closely monitored.

With continuous care, Yi Bao has been steadily gaining weight. His activity level, limb movements, and responses to external stimuli have all become more noticeable than they were shortly after birth. He has also recently begun bottle-feeding sessions with assistance from his caregivers to practice sucking and swallowing. For Yi Bao, who was born prematurely, every seemingly small improvement—from breathing and feeding to increasing activity—marks an important milestone in his development.

However, the immaturity of Yi Bao's lungs resulting from his premature birth remains the greatest medical challenge. During his recovery, he has experienced episodes of lung collapse and inflammation, and he still requires respiratory support through a high-flow nasal cannula. His digestive system is also not yet fully developed, and he has experienced bloating and digestive difficulties. The veterinary team continues to monitor his lungs and overall physical condition through clinical observation, diagnostic imaging, and laboratory testing, adjusting his treatment and care plan on a daily basis. Because all of his organs are still developing, his condition may change as he grows. Although encouraging progress has been seen in his weight, activity level, and feeding, it is still too early to say that he is out of danger.

Since Yi Bao was born on June 29, the Taipei Zoo's medical team has provided round-the-clock care through a three-shift schedule. While continuing to meet the daily medical needs of the zoo's other animals, the team has remained dedicated to Yi Bao's care, adjusting his treatment plan according to his clinical condition each day. They have watched him progress from requiring intensive life support to gradually developing the ability to breathe, suck independently, and become more active. Every milestone has been hard earned.

This unique medical journey has also benefited from valuable interdisciplinary collaboration. The Taipei Zoo sincerely thanks the Neonatology team at National Taiwan University Hospital for providing ongoing professional support and clinical advice. Their expertise in respiratory care, nutrition, gastrointestinal tolerance, and the assessment of premature newborns has offered invaluable guidance. This collaboration between human and veterinary medicine has provided the zoo's medical team with additional expertise to support clinical decision-making while caring for this rare and complex premature case.

Annually on August 19, International Orangutan Day raises awareness of the conservation challenges orangutans face in the wild. The Bornean orangutan (Pongo pygmaeus) is listed as Critically Endangered, with wild populations continuing to decline due to deforestation, habitat fragmentation, human-wildlife conflict, illegal hunting, and wildlife trafficking. Orangutans reproduce slowly, and their young depend on their mothers for many years to learn essential survival skills such as foraging and nest building. As a result, once wild populations decline, recovery can take many decades.

Yi Bao's story is still unfolding. The Taipei Zoo's veterinary and animal care teams will continue supporting him every step of the way as he overcomes the challenges associated with premature birth. Everyone hopes that one day, when Yi Bao is physically mature and medically stable, he will be able to reunite with his mother, Ke-Yi. Until then, every decision will continue to be made with his health and welfare as the highest priorities and based on careful assessment of his condition. We sincerely thank everyone for their continued care and encouragement, and hope that International Orangutan Day will inspire greater awareness not only of Ke-Yi and Yi Bao, but also gain a deeper understanding of the conservation challenges facing orangutans and the habitats they depend on.

In early 2025, Taiwan officially recognized a newly described endangered endemic frog species. Previously regarded as the Taiwanese population of the Harpist frog, it was confirmed as a distinct species through research conducted by teams from National Taiwan Normal University, the Biodiversity Research Institute of the Ministry of Agriculture, and the Forestry Research Institute of the Ministry of Agriculture. The species was named the Yuchi Music Frog (Nidirana shyhhuangi) after the area where it is found, while its specific name honors Professor Shyh-Huang Chen, who first discovered the species. Today, the Yuchi Music Frog is known from only two wetland habitats—Lianhuachi and Sun Moon Lake in Yuchi Township, Nantou County. At one point, the adult wild population was estimated to have declined to only a few hundred individuals. Because of its extremely restricted range, the species is highly vulnerable to human disturbance, environmental pollution, climate change, invasive species, and habitat loss caused by land development.

As part of the Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency, Ministry of Agriculture 's Endangered Species Conservation Action Plan, Taipei Zoo has participated in conservation efforts for the Yuchi Music Frog since 2022. The zoo received tadpoles rescued by the Biodiversity Research Institute after falling autumn water levels left them stranded outside shrinking wetlands. Through captive breeding, the zoo established an ex situ assurance population and successfully bred adult frogs beginning in 2023. By 2026, more than 3,000 juvenile frogs had successfully completed metamorphosis, providing an important source population for future reintroduction efforts. The Yuchi Music Frog displays a unique mud-nesting behavior. Male frogs dig flask-shaped mud chambers, where they call to attract females for breeding. Eggs are laid inside these nests and develop into tadpoles. When rainfall breaks open the mud nests, the tadpoles are washed naturally into nearby water, where they continue their development. To recreate the frogs' natural habitat, zoo keepers carefully selected suitable clay-rich soil and provided leaf litter, sheltering vegetation, and rocks to simulate the moist, soft mudflats found along forest streams. These conditions allow the frogs to settle comfortably and encourage natural nest-building and breeding behavior.

The newly renovated Yuchi Music Frog exhibit near the exit of the Amphibian and Reptile House recreates the environmental conditions needed for the species to grow and breed. This area already features exhibits for Taipei frog and Asiatic Banded Water Snake, and the relocation of the Yuchi Music Frog exhibit creates a dedicated space introducing Taiwan's native endangered amphibians and reptiles. Through close-up observation, visitors can learn about these unique native species while also gaining a deeper understanding that conserving wild populations depends on the long-term collaboration and research efforts of local communities, conservation organizations, and scientists.

As the last eastern grey kangaroo at the zoo, she had become like an old friend who had witnessed the zoo's changes over the years. Born at Taipei Zoo, she spent her energetic younger years hopping across the grassy enclosure, accompanying generations of visitors as they grew up.

As she grew older, Grandma Kangaroo gradually developed age-related eye conditions, while her digestive function and other bodily systems also began to decline. Despite the dedicated care and constant companionship of the keepers and veterinary team, her body continued to age with time, eventually peacefully passed away on August 15, 2026.

Thank you, Grandma Eastern Grey Kangaroo. Through your 20 years and 11 months of life, you taught us valuable lessons about life, aging, and the meaning of companionship.

The Shida Road Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project, which won the Excellent Award in the 2026 Walkable Roads engineering category, is a recent model project in Taipei that uses sidewalk widening and road dieting as the core of people-oriented environment improvement. Shida Road is located near the main campus of National Taiwan Normal University, Shida Night Market, and Shida Park, and is also an important daily route for residents of nearby Guzhuang, Gufeng, and Longquan villages. The project integrates and optimizes various aspects of daily life, including food, clothing, housing, transport, work, commerce, and learning. It also incorporates the planning of pedestrian priority areas and friendly zones in the three surrounding villages, expanding the improvement scope from a single corridor to a broader area and extending people-oriented connectivity throughout the entire Shida living circle. The project also won the top prize in the “Impact of the Year Award” category at CommonWealth Magazine’s 2025 Excellence in City Governance Awards last year. It is hoped that the renewed Shida Road will serve as a pioneer in gradually transforming road design from a car-centered approach into a spatial concept centered on people.

The Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project on Sec. 3, Zhongxiao East Road, from Jianguo South Road to Fuxing South Road, which received a Merit Award, continues eastward from the earlier pedestrian environment improvements along Sec. 1 to Sec. 3 of Zhongxiao East Road. With green roads, people-oriented roads, resilient roads, and smart roads as its four core improvement goals, the project includes measures such as sidewalk widening, parking bay installation, new refuge islands, improved accessible environments, and cable duct installation along the route. It also uses permeable pavement to strengthen rainwater infiltration and pavement water retention, while increasing green coverage to effectively improve the safety of the people-oriented environment, green coverage, and urban microclimate regulation.

The Liugong Green Corridor Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project, which also received a Merit Award, is located in a prime area of Taipei’s East District. Before the improvement project, the site consisted of back lanes behind Zhongxiao East Road and parking areas in the local commercial district, where pedestrian space had long been constrained. The New Construction Office used a “people-oriented walking environment” and “East District green corridor connectivity” as its core concepts, stitching together the road and plaza on the south side of Lane 135, Sec. 1, Fuxing South Road. A large-scale shared plaza was introduced to connect pedestrian circulation, while a mist ring recreates the historical hydrological imagery of the former Dawan River. Multilayered green space and rain gardens were also used to create an urban ecological green island in Taipei’s East District.

In addition, the Chongqing South Road Sec. 3 Traffic Environment Improvement project, which received an Honorable Mention, was carried out in conjunction with the Zhongzheng Bridge Reconstruction Project, taking the opportunity to also demolish the Chongqing South Road overpass. After the overpass was removed, a people-oriented design concept was adopted. Spacious pedestrian areas and plantings were arranged along the corridor and extended to the new cross-river bridge section, fully connecting pedestrian and bicycle networks. The project improved the local streetscape, opened up the previously blocked skyline, reshaped an urban landscape suited to modern life, and helped drive local commercial development. Another Honorable Mention project, the Xinsheng-Heping Pedestrian Overpass Demolition Project, mainly involved removing the existing pedestrian overpass and improving the overall intersection. Measures included setting back crosswalks, giving pedestrians an early start signal, adding refuge islands, and installing corner guardrails. The original overpass piers and stair structures were located at the intersection corners, where they easily created blind spots for turning vehicles. After demolition, visual obstructions were reduced, improving pedestrian and traffic safety and putting people-oriented transport principles into practice.

In addition, Chi-Wei Chang, Assistant Engineer of the New Construction Office, and Hsiu-Ho Han, Chief of Guangwu Village in Da’an District, received the Individual Contribution Award and the Public Service Enthusiasm Award, respectively, for their long-term enthusiasm and active involvement in promoting Walkable Roads related work, with significant results.

It is also worth noting that Kun-Hu Lin, Director of the New Construction Office, shared Taipei’s experience with the “Pedestrian Environment Improvement Project on Shida Road, Da’an District, from Sec. 3, Roosevelt Road to Sec. 1, Heping East Road” during the morning forum, exchanging views with representatives from other counties and cities. Director Lin emphasized that Taipei’s New Construction Office has in recent years been committed to promoting people-oriented environmental development. In addition to continuously improving the quality of urban road and sidewalk maintenance, it has also transformed past car-centered road design into a people-centered spatial concept. Beyond improvements at the engineering level, the Office has in recent years continued to use measures such as PCI testing, performance-based contracts, and visualized management systems to move Taipei’s roads toward smarter and more precise management. Looking ahead, the New Construction Office will not become complacent because of these awards. It will continue to promote, optimize, and upgrade pedestrian and vehicle safety in Taipei, providing residents with a livable, sustainable, and safe living environment. Through changes in the road environment, the public will see Taipei’s progress and the vision of “walkable roads for a more accessible Taipei” will be realized.

Time: 14:00-17:30

Date: Aug.27, 2026

Venue: Meeting room 206, 2F , North Wing, Taipei City Hall

The New Construction Office said the “Chenggong Market Redevelopment Project”, winner of the Special Award, centers on both shopping convenience and quality of life. To meet the land use objectives of the urban plan, the project adopts an innovative “semi-underground market” design, with 196 modern stalls on the first basement level and underground parking planned from the second to fourth basement levels. The ground level has been transformed into a broad, lush landscaped park plaza. Through a continuous open space that connects the terrain and plantings, the design not only greatly reduces the visual pressure of the underground structure, but also creates a diverse, multifunctional leisure space for residents, reshaping the traditional image of a market.

The “Reconstruction Project for Yong-Fu Home of the Taipei Municipal Yang-Ming Home for the Disabled”, winner of the Gold Award, is located at the intersection of Sec. 2, Yangde Boulevard and Zhuangding Road in Shilin District. The project is planned as a modern care facility with two underground floors and seven above-ground floors. The project will comprehensively address issues in the original aging building, including insufficient seismic resistance, poor ventilation and natural lighting, and inadequate sound insulation. It will also integrate complete public service spaces, including a community activity center, multi-purpose classrooms, rehabilitation rooms, and medical consultation rooms. The building exterior and landscape design make special use of local Yangmingshan andesite and a green-toned color palette, allowing the facility to blend seamlessly into its surrounding natural environment. The project will create a warm “home” for people with physical, mental, and mobility disabilities, combining daily care, skills guidance, and medical care.

The New Construction Office emphasized that the recognition of these two projects shows that, in promoting public works, Taipei City not only pursues construction quality, but also deepens its vision of coexistence with the local environment and social welfare care. Looking ahead, the Office will continue to uphold high standards in design and construction and accelerate project completion, bringing residents a more comfortable, inclusive, and modern living environment.

The fire department stated that the event was themed "Shop with Peace of Mind, GO for Disaster Prevention!" It was held in conjunction with Shin Kong Mitsukoshi's "Little Firefighter Experience" activity, leveraging the crowded commercial area and high participation from local families to allow citizens to easily acquire disaster prevention knowledge while enjoying shopping, leisure, and quality family time. Through educational and interactive experiences, disaster prevention education is woven into daily life, strengthening citizens' self-help, mutual help, and public cooperation capabilities, while building a universal consensus on disaster prevention to jointly create a safe and resilient living environment.

The event featured a variety of disaster prevention experience booths, including CPR and AED operation training, residential fire alarm promotion, residential fire safety, electricity, cooking fire, and gas safety education, water safety guidance, and emergency reporting practice. Additionally, participants used the Fire Safety Demonstration Vehicle to practice initial fire suppression and experienced the Earthquake Simulator Vehicle to learn earthquake evacuation techniques. Through hands-on operation and scenario simulation, participants gained disaster prevention knowledge and response skills, further enhancing their self-protection abilities and disaster response concepts.

The fire department pointed out that Shilin District is a major commercial, educational, and tourist hub in Taipei City, with a high density of department stores, commercial districts, markets, schools, and residential communities, attracting large crowds on both weekdays and weekends. Therefore, public venue fire safety and community disaster prevention are particularly vital. Beyond commercial venues implementing strict fire safety management, citizens should also establish correct home fire prevention and emergency response concepts, preparing for disasters in advance to effectively reduce losses when disasters occur and jointly protect lives and property.

According to the fire department's 2025 fire statistics, electrical factors were the leading cause of fires. The fire department reminds the public to adhere to the "5 No's and 1 Must-Have" principle when using electrical appliances and extension cords: "No overloading, No bundling wires, No keeping plugged in when not in use, No dirty or damaged plugs, No flammable materials around appliances, and Must-Have a safety certification label." Citizens should also regularly inspect home electrical equipment and wiring conditions, replacing old or damaged items immediately to reduce the risk of fire.

The firedepartment emphasized that disaster prevention relies on joint efforts between the government and local communities; more preparation during normal times leads to fewer losses during disasters. In the future, the department will continue to combine community resources and local characteristic activities to promote disaster prevention education, deepen public risk awareness and response capabilities, and work together to build a safe, livable, and resilient living environment.

The Department of Finance Commissioner Hu Hsiao-lan said that from 2023 through June 2026, the Taipei City Government completed 60 investment solicitation projects, attracting NT$98.3 billion in private-sector investment in Taipei, with significant results in investment promotion. This year, the City Government continues to promote six investment solicitation projects, including the Yongjian and Xiushan Long-Term Care Park BOT project, the public urban renewal project in the Linyi Section of Zhongzheng District, the land development project at Y20 Station (Jie 4) on the MRT Northern Loop Line, the ROT project for the Neihu Sports Center, the grant of superficies rights for the former site of the Taipei City Council, and the ROT project for space provided for use free of charge. These projects will accelerate urban development, stimulate local economic growth, and generate additional revenue for the city treasury, helping Taipei’s self-financing resources remain steadily above NT$120 billion for three consecutive years, the highest ratio of annual revenues among the six capital.

Commissioner Hu further stated that, while actively promoting major infrastructure projects and municipal services, the City Government has consistently adhered to the fiscal management principles of increasing revenue, reducing expenditures, and paying down debt. On the one hand, it has expanded sources of revenue through proactive investment promotion; on the other, it has prudently managed the level of debt and reduced interest expenses, thereby strengthening the City’s overall fiscal resilience. Following the repayment of NT$10.6 billion in debt in May this year, the Taipei City Government today (August 7th) completed an additional NT$3 billion debt repayment appropriated under the first supplemental budget for fiscal year 2026, demonstrating its continued commitment to fiscal discipline and sound financial management.

Since Mayor Chiang took office at the end of 2022, the Taipei City Government has reduced its debt by a total of NT$43 billion, the largest reduction among local governments nationwide. The outstanding debt balance has fallen substantially from NT$89.8 billion to NT$46.8 billion, while per capita debt has declined from NT$36,000 to NT$19,000, a reduction of approximately NT$17,000 over the past four years. The City’s fiscal position continues to improve, laying a stronger foundation for municipal development.

The Department of Finance further stated that sound fiscal management is the strongest foundation for advancing municipal development. In recent years, the Taipei City Government has actively attracted investment, expanded sources of revenue, continued to reduce debt, and enhanced the efficiency of fiscal management. These efforts have not only effectively reduced the City’s debt burden but also further strengthened Taipei’s fiscal resilience in responding to changes in the external economic environment and the demands of major infrastructure projects. Going forward, the City Government will continue to uphold fiscal discipline and, while balancing municipal development with fiscal sustainability, make prudent use of fiscal resources to accelerate major infrastructure projects and advance various municipal policies, thereby continuously improving residents’ well-being and Taipei City’s overall competitiveness.

Xisong Elementary School has a long history dating back to the Japanese colonial period. However, some of its school buildings have aged over time, and the campus has long lacked a large indoor venue and adequate sports facilities. To meet the teaching and learning needs of teachers and students while easing parking demand among nearby residents, the city government has actively planned this new smart and green building, realizing the shared goal of allowing the campus and the community to benefit together.

Ming-Shen Kao, Section Chief of the Construction Section of the New Construction Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government, noted that the project is planned as a steel structure with two underground floors and six above-ground floors. The interior will include parking facilities on the two underground floors, while the above-ground floors will house a swimming pool, preschool, auditorium, rhythmic classroom, multi-purpose ball court, and other facilities. In the future, the center will not only lay the foundation for the school’s diverse development, but also effectively ease the shortage of parking spaces in nearby areas.

Wen-Yen Chen Architects & Associates, which is responsible for design and supervision, has also shown thoughtful attention to architectural aesthetics. Chia-Wei Huang, Director of the Nangang Construction Office of the Taipei New Construction Office, explained that the activity center’s main design is built around three core concepts, “water ripples”, “dynamic musical notes”, and “speed and energy”, which correspond respectively to the swimming pool, auditorium, and multi-purpose ball court. High-saturation blue, red, and yellow frames and grilles are used to accent the light-gray exterior walls, creating a vivid, modern, and functional architectural appearance.

Director Huang said the project officially broke ground on May 20, 2024, and today’s successful topping-out ceremony marks a key milestone in the construction process. The overall project is expected to be completed in 2027. Once completed, it is expected to fulfill Xisong Elementary School’s vision for diverse education, create a new highlight for education in Taipei, and provide teachers, students, and community residents with a high-quality, sustainable, friendly, and safe activity space.

Youths Standing on the City’s Stage – Every Performance is the Beginning of a Dream

This year’s Youth Diversity Performance Stage featured over thirty groups of youth performers, with performances ranging from singing, rapping, self-accompanied vocals, street dancing, K-Pop Covers, DJ performances, handpan performances, freestyle basketball, and acrobatics. Last year’s well-received “Open Stage” attracted nearly fifty groups of young participants, showcasing their endless creativity through music composition, dance, and street performances. At the event, world-champion wotagei performance group CHROnoZ fused glow stick dance with the art of light and shadow, delivering an unforgettable visual experience. 

Furthermore, new-generation singer KezINE highlighted her unique electronic pop style, while creative singer Pika Chiu (邱振哲) performed his well-known song “Sun”, which has surpassed 100 million views, to the festival. The audience sang along in unison, bringing the atmosphere to its peak. Freestyle basketball performer Shenwei (Kao Mu-Kai) showcased his high-difficulty interactive performance, earning applause from audiences. This year also marked the debut of the Encore Stage, where the festival invited popular youth performers from last year to return to the stage. Through this platform, more youth performers and creators gained valuable performance experience, exposure, and opportunity to showcase their talents.

Free Creator’s Market Stalls – Encouraging Youth Brands to Enter the Market and Engage with Consumers

Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou of the Department for Youth stated that the Youth Dream Life festival is not only an opportunity for performances, but also an important starting point for youth entrepreneurship. This year’s festival featured more than thirty-five youth-created brands, spanning from sustainable design, stationery products, culture creativity, and unique culinary experiences. Among these brands were the Venusians (金星男子), FUXING MART (福星超市), and YO-SI (酉時喝酒), which are supported by the Department for Youth. These brands demonstrate young people’s ability to transform creativity into products and their aspirations into achievements through entrepreneurship.

The Youth Creator’s Market also incorporated interactive booths by reinterpreting classic elements such as Beyblade and Mini FWD (Mini Four-Wheel Drive), allowing youths from different age groups to collaborate together through teamwork and competitions, bridging generations through laughter and shared memories. Many Youth Creator’s Market vendors state that providing free market stalls helped alleviate the financial pressure of rental costs. More importantly, the initiative created opportunities for them to gain exposure in Xinyi District – the area with the most foot traffic – while directly engaging with consumers and receiving valuable feedback.  During the event, members of the public even followed the brands’ social media accounts on the spot and inquired about purchasing information, allowing the two-day event to become an important source of momentum for the continued growth of these brands.

From Monster Look-Alike Portraits to International Collaboration – Creativity Becoming an International Language for Communication.

Beyond the Creator’s Market and performance stages, this year’s festival incorporated elements that supported youths' self-exploration and broadened their horizons through interactive exhibitions and international artist collaborations. The Golden Melody Award-winning design team Blob Club’s “Be Unique – Mysterious House” and the limited edition “monster look-alike portrait” attracted large crowds eager to line up and experience the exhibition. Each youth received their unique monster character, symbolizing the core concept of “be your unique self”. Meanwhile, through the four interactive zones – “Ideal Divination Station,” “Future Telecom,” “Co-Creation Graffiti Wall,” and “Youth Photo Booth” – youths were able to discover themselves and envision their future. Many youths took selfies with their fortune poems, and also wrote letters to their future selves, creating meaningful and lasting memories of their youth.

This year, the festival also invited artists from the United States, Spain, Malaysia, and the Philippines to participate in the International Art Experience Workshop, bringing diverse  artistic experiences including breathing-inspired art, collage, 3D printing model painting, keychain collages, city hero collaborations, and portrait sketching. During the workshop, artists and youths shared their cultures and life stories, transforming art into an international language of communication and turning Xinyi Xiangti Avenue Plaza into an important platform for international youth collaboration.

Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou explained that the theme “Youths are the Main Character” is not only the theme of the festival, but also the guiding principle for the Department for Youth. What youths need is not merely performance opportunities, creator’s markets, or exhibitions, but rather a stage that believes in and supports their potential. The Department for Youth will continue to provide resources in entrepreneurship, performances, career development, and international collaboration, accompanying young people as they transform creativity into creations, ideas into actions. Through these efforts, more youths in Taipei City discover their unique stage, making the city shine through the energy and creativity of youths.

Fully focusing on AI applications and technological innovation while prioritizing robotics-related products, this year's contest drew 76 startup teams from 17 countries—an increase of 4 countries and 26 international teams compared to last year, reaching a record high. While Singapore led the entries with 13 teams, the event attracted startups across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Australia—including Germany, Italy, and the UK in Europe; Thailand, Japan, Vietnam, India, Indonesia, the UAE, and Iraq in Asia; Canada, the US, and Chile in the Americas; as well as Australia—demonstrating the competition's growing international visibility.

The applicants represented seven diverse sectors, including newly added categories for fintech and energy technology. Healthcare led the field with 11 teams, followed by manufacturing, education and HR, AI and enterprise software, and transportation and logistics, showing strong interest from global startups across various industries in Taipei’s business market.

A panel of judges—representing AppWorks, ASUS, and Wistron—evaluated the applicants based on technological innovation, market potential, and international scalability. Following an initial document review by the three judges, 10 teams from Canada, Singapore, South Korea, Vietnam, and the UAE advanced to the online pitch round, and ultimately, six international startups were selected to travel to Taipei from October 14 to 16 for the Taipei AI+ Startup Demo Day, corporate visits, and tailored business-matching sessions. The six selected startups are (Sorted alphabetically):

• Ailytics (Singapore): Applying AI video analytics to improve construction-site safety and productivity.
• ASKaFOX (Canada): Using AI to support supplier sourcing and factory audits.
• Autonomique (Canada): Bringing physical AI to robotics for the precise manipulation tasks required in manufacturing.
• IMBdx (South Korea): Developing AI-powered liquid-biopsy solutions for cancer diagnostics.
• LAgentBot (Singapore): Providing AI-agent and workflow-automation solutions for enterprises.
• Tilda (South Korea): Delivering AI optimization solutions for manufacturing and energy operations.

Together, the selected startups represent a broad range of AI applications, including physical AI, supply chains, medical diagnostics, video analytics, manufacturing, energy, and enterprise automation. Their selection reflects both the diversity of global AI innovation and Taipei’s continued efforts to connect with international startup ecosystems.

The six teams will join a three-day Taipei business visit from October 14 to 16. The program will include in-person pitches at the Taipei AI+ Startup Demo Day, corporate visits, and customized matchmaking sessions. Notably, three local Taipei-based startups aligned with this year’s AI theme will also be invited to present alongside the international teams, fostering technology matching and cross-border collaboration. These activities are designed to help founders understand local industry needs, with the aim of attracting foreign startups to set up operations in Taipei and boosting the city's global competitiveness.

The Fire Department advises residents to take advantage of the re-maining preparation time before the typhoon arrives by thoroughly inspecting their homes and surroundings. Secure or bring indoors potted plants, hanging objects, signboards, and other items that may become airborne in strong winds. Clean balconies, rooftop drains, and nearby drainage ditches to reduce the risk of flooding caused by blocked drainage. Construction site fences, scaffolding, and large billboards should also be inspected and reinforced. Residents living in low-lying areas, on hillsides, or near rivers should prepare sand-bags and flood barriers in advance, remain alert for landslides and debris flows, and immediately comply with any evacuation orders is-sued by the authorities.

In addition, residents are encouraged to prepare an emergency go-bag containing at least a three-day supply of drinking water, non-perishable food, a flashlight, a first-aid kit, a portable radio, a power bank, and other daily necessities in case of power outages or emer-gency evacuation. During the typhoon, avoid going outdoors unless absolutely necessary, and do not visit mountainous, river, or coastal areas for sightseeing, wave watching, fishing, or other recreational activities. During power outages, avoid using open flames for light-ing to reduce the risk of fire. In an emergency, call 1999, 119, or 110 for assistance.

The Fire Department also reminds residents to stay informed through the Disaster Prevention Taipei website (eoc.gov.taipei), download the Taipei City Disaster Prevention App, and subscribe to the Taipei City Government's official LINE account to receive the latest updates on weather conditions, flooding, evacuation shelters, school and office closures, floodgate operations, and temporary parking regulations. By staying informed and well prepared, everyone can help safeguard lives and property.

Source: Industry and Business Division of the Department of Economic Development, Taipei City Government

The Taipei City Animal Protection Office (TCAPO) stated that, under the Regulations for Volunteer Service Awards, volunteers who accumulate 3,000, 5,000, and 8,000 hours of volunteer service are eligible to apply for the Bronze, Silver, and Gold Volunteer Service Medals, respectively. Statistics show that between 2023 and 2025, a total of 10 volunteers from the Taipei Animal Shelter received Volunteer Service Awards from the Ministry of Health and Welfare, including 4 Silver Medals and 7 Bronze Medals. In this year's award application, the Taipei Animal Shelter once again achieved excellent results. The shelter successfully nominated its outstanding volunteers for one Gold Medal (upgraded from Silver) and three Bronze Medals (first-time recipients). One of the award recipients, Xiao-Wei, said, "I joined the volunteer team in 2008, and over the past nearly 20 years, the 3,000 hours behind this Bronze Medal represent my unwavering commitment to every life. During this time, I have devoted myself to providing temporary medical foster care for injured and sick cats. To date, I have cared for more than 300 kittens and accompanied seriously ill senior cats through peaceful end-of-life care with dignity. I hope to continue taking action to bring hope to shelter animals and help change their fate." TCAPO noted that this dedication reflects the spirit of all shelter volunteers. Their quiet dedication over thousands of days is not only the highest recognition of the individuals being honored, but also brings warmth and positive energy to society. TCAPO hopes that the stories of these award-winning volunteers will inspire more people who love animals to participate in volunteer service and work together to change the lives of more shelter animals.

TCAPO stated that, to continue strengthening animal protection capacity, the second volunteer recruitment drive of 2026 is scheduled to take place from August to September. The recruitment guidelines and registration information will be announced in the Volunteer Recruitment section of the Taipei City Animal Protection Office website Link . Members of the public who are passionate about animals and share our commitment are encouraged to follow the recruitment updates and join our volunteer team as we work together to change the lives of more stray animals.

• Effective August 1, 2026: The commercial district surrounding Xinzhongshan Linear Park and the Dihua Street commercial district are designated as areas where smoking is prohibited except in designated smoking areas. Where no designated smoking area is provided, smoking is completely prohibited.
• Effective August 10, 2026: The “Gouzikou” bus stop for westbound services and the “Yongjian Elementary School” bus stop for eastbound services on Section 1, Muzha Road, Wenshan District, together with the sidewalks surrounding both bus stops, are designated as areas where smoking is completely prohibited.
• Effective August 17, 2026: The outdoor areas belonging to the Taipei Taiwan Temple of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and the surrounding sidewalks are designated as areas where smoking is completely prohibited.

This designation is made in accordance with Paragraph 1, Subparagraph 4 of Article 19 of the Tobacco Hazards Prevention Act.

Violators will be subject to a fine ranging from NTD 2,000 to NTD 10,000, as stipulated in Paragraph 2 of Article 40 of the aforementioned Act.

Taipei Mayor Chiang, Wan-An said that Guanshan Riverside Park on the Songshan side of Minquan Bridge and Rainbow Riverside Park on the Neihu side are important recreational spaces where residents walk and jog on weekdays and enjoy activities such as baseball, softball, and cycling on weekends. To further upgrade residents’ leisure experience, the city government team applied creative thinking and successfully transformed the temporary traffic-maintenance bridge originally used during the “Minquan Bridge Superstructure Renovation Project” into this cross-river scenic pedestrian bridge. Mayor Chiang emphasized that after the opening of the Minquan Bridge Scenic Pedestrian Bridge, residents can not only enjoy sweeping views of the Keelung River, surrounding mountains, and lakes, but also experience the impressive sight of aircraft taking off and landing up close. The project not only strengthens convenient access between the urban area and riverside green spaces, but also realizes the vision of comfortable waterfront living shared by all.

The New Construction Office pointed out that rich environmental aesthetics were incorporated into the design of the Minquan Bridge Scenic Pedestrian Bridge. The main structure adopts a lightweight steel design, giving the bridge a smooth silhouette like an elegant ribbon gently sweeping across the Keelung River. Together with MacArthur No. 1 Bridge and MacArthur No. 2 Bridge in the background, it creates a layered urban skyline. The bridge deck has been carefully planned with a spacious, flat viewing platform and a barrier-free, user-friendly circulation route. In the future, whether residents wish to take in the vibrant nightscape of Neihu Technology Park or capture the sunset glow along the Keelung River, they will be able to move freely and comfortably across the bridge. It is expected to become a new destination for photography enthusiasts and social media photo lovers.

In addition to its streamlined daytime appearance, the nighttime light installation of the Minquan Bridge Scenic Pedestrian Bridge is another major highlight of the project. The bridge features an innovative lighting design that echoes the existing illumination along both banks of the Keelung River. At night, the bridge will shift through different lighting colors and themes according to the time and festive occasions. Reflected on the shimmering river surface, the light and shadow resemble a brilliant galaxy. This not only greatly improves safety for nighttime jogging and walking, but also adds a romantic touch to Taipei’s nightscape. The New Construction Office added that after its opening, the Minquan Bridge Scenic Pedestrian Bridge safely and comfortably connects Guanshan Riverside Park on the Songshan side with Rainbow Riverside Park on the Neihu side. Residents are welcome to visit after the opening and enjoy this “light trip” that brings together greenery and waterfront scenery, while experiencing the new charm of Taipei as a waterfront city.

Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou delivered a keynote presentation titled “Empowering Young Futures: Taipei’s Career Pathway for Youth,” introducing Taipei’s four pillars of youth career development: “Discover,” “Experience,” “Create,”  and “Go Global.” Through one-stop career support services, industry talent development programs, domestic and international internship opportunities, and entrepreneurship support, these initiatives accompany young people as they explore their identities, gain practical experiences, and prepare for the global workforce. The Department also shared Taipei’s practical experiences and achievements in supporting youth development with youth policy experts from around the world. 

The forum was hosted by the Seoul Metropolitan Youth Center, with Seoul Mayor Oh Se-hoon delivering opening remarks. Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou presented Mayor Oh with a signature gift representing Taipei’s youth creativity and innovation, symbolizing the strong friendship and partnership between Taipei and Seoul in advancing youth exchange and collaboration. 

During the forum, the Department for Youth also engaged in in-depth discussions with experts from the National Youth Policy Institute of Korea, the Korea Research Institute for Vocational Education and Training (KRIVET), and the National University of Singapore. By exchanging experiences and learning from each country’s approaches to youth policy, the Department gained valuable insights that will serve as an important reference for further strengthening Taipei’s youth policies. 

Another key outcome of the visit was the return visit to Seoul Metropolitan Government’s Youth & Future Planning Bureau, where Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou and Youth & Future Planning Bureau Representative Kim Cheol-hee signed the renewed Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Youth Affairs Cooperation. Through the renewed MOU, both parties reaffirmed their commitment to continuing youth policy exchanges, promoting engagement between young people in Taipei and Seoul, and establishing a cooperation mechanism for government officials responsible for youth affairs, further strengthening the partnership between the two cities. 

The Department for Youth also visited the 2026 Seoul Youth Policy Expo to gain firsthand insights into Seoul’s integrated youth policies supporting employment, entrepreneurship, and daily life. The delegation observed innovative initiatives such as the Youth Comprehensive Consultation Counter and Pre-employment Color Analysis, learning how Korea integrates cross-departmental resources to provide one-stop youth services. These experiences offered valuable references for further enhancing Taipei’s youth services and policy development. 

Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou emphasized that since its establishment, the Department has actively supported youths in broadening their global perspectives and developing cross-cultural competencies through international forums, city exchanges, overseas internship opportunities, and volunteer programs. Building on Seoul’s participation in Taipei’s 2025 Global InnoYouth Summit, the Department was invited this year to attend the Forum and renew the MOU on Youth Affairs Cooperation. This not only demonstrates international recognition of Taipei’s youth policies but also further strengthens the foundation for collaboration between Taipei and Seoul. Looking ahead, the Department will continue partnering with more international cities to expand opportunities for youth exchange and learning, fulfilling its vision of “Connecting Taipei’s youth with the world and bringing the world to Taipei.”

Reservations are now open for two unique learning experiences: "Inside a Pumping Station" and "Neihu's Hidden Gem." 🚀

The plum rain season may leave everything feeling damp, but have you ever wondered where all that rainwater goes?

How does a major city like Taipei safely withstand one torrential downpour after another?

The Water Co-Learning Park (Xinsheng-Jianguo Pumping Station) and the Jinrui Flood Management Park, located in the upstream and downstream sections of the city's drainage system, each play a unique role in protecting Taipei from flooding.

Through thoughtfully designed interactive activities and guided tours, these programs offer an engaging way to learn about urban water management. Whether you're a teacher planning an educational field trip or an organization looking for an in-depth group experience, these two sites will change the way you think about water infrastructure.

Program duration: Approximately 2–3 hours (ideal for a half-day trip, including travel time)

Group size: School classes or community groups of approximately 15–20 participants

Admission: Free of charge, organized by the Hydraulic Engineering Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government

👉 Reserve your visit today! (Reservations are accepted up to three months in advance.)

Water Co-Learning Park:

https://www.ff-eco.com/environmentaleducation-2/

Jinrui Flood Management Park:

https://www.ff-eco.com/environmentaleducation-3/

The “Taiwan Pharmaceutical Reporting Awards,” organized by the Federation of Taiwan Pharmacists Associations, focused this year on themes such as pharmaceutical expertise, epidemic prevention, public health, and charitable contributions. The aim was to enhance public understanding of pharmacists through high-quality reports, fostering positive interactions between pharmacists and the public, and building a high-quality professional image for Taiwanese pharmacists.

The station’s program Lohas and Health received an Excellence Award for its segment The Fine Line Between Medicine and Drugs, which explored the topic of “From Drug-Impaired Driving Prevention to Campus Outreach: Pharmacists Protecting Medication Safety.” Host Ming-Hui Chou used recent, high-profile drug-impaired driving cases as a starting point, focusing on etomidate commonly known as “zombie vape.” She interviewed the Taipei Pharmacists Association and frontline pharmacists, drawing on their expertise to analyze the substance’s medical uses, abuse risks, and impact on public safety. The segment further examines the fine line between medicine and drugs, illustrating the important role of pharmacists in the management of controlled substances, the promotion of medication safety, and anti-drug education. The program explored how pharmacists are bringing drug prevention education into schools through game-based teaching, going beyond simple reporting on social issues. By examining the issue from a pharmacy and public health perspective, it helped the public to better understand the vital role pharmacists play in protecting health and ensuring social safety. 

The Happy Life in Taipei program received an honorable mention for its segment Pharmacist at My Home, specifically the episode titled “Promoting Mental Health Hand in Hand with Pharmacists: A Word of Concern, a Guidance, a Ray of Hope.” Host Wei-Hua Lin used commonly experienced mental health issues as a starting point, sharing stories from community pharmacies and insights from professional pharmacists. The episode highlighted that pharmacists do more than ensure medication safety; they also provide timely resources and assistance for mental health. It explored how pharmacists can become guardian angels, preventing individuals from falling into crisis, by offering a word of concern, helpful guidance, and prompt referrals to appropriate resources.

The Happy Life in Taipei program airs from 10:00 to 12:00 every Monday through Friday, while Lohas and Health airs from 20:00 to 21:00 every Saturday and Sunday. Both programs can be heard on TBS’s FM 93.1 and AM 1134 channels. They are also available on the “T Radio” Internet radio platform (https://tradio.gov.taipei/), where listeners can enjoy a wide range of high-quality programs, including all episodes from the past year. For the latest program updates, please visit the TBS Facebook fan page (https://www.facebook.com/FM93.1AM1134).

TBS’s Ming-Hui Chou, host of the program Lohas and Health, received an Excellence Award in the Audio Category for the segment The Fine Line Between Medicine and DrugsTBS’s Wei-Hua Lin, host of the program Happy Life in Taipei, received an “Honorable Mention in the Audio Category” for the segment Pharmacist at My Home

The Department for Youth has specially invited Karencici、Ivy Lee (艾薇) 、Mango Jump (芒果醬)、Wendy Wander (溫蒂漫步)、GGteens (公館青少年) 、Dremedreman (曾妮)、Hogan T. (鄒序) , and Sandwich Fail (打倒三明治) to perform during the two-day event, demonstrating musical creativity through diverse music genres and bringing youths’ unique rhythms to the summer.

Unique Youth Creator’s Market – A Combination of Food and Drinks!

The Department for Youth states that aside from music performances, the event will also include a “Creator’s Market” and a “Youth Diversity Performance Stage”. The Youth Creator’s Market includes more than thirty-five youth brands, spanning unique designs, delicious food, and explorations of foreign cultures. Among these is the Department for Youth Support Team, which will showcase entrepreneurship achievements. Other featured brands include Sentimental, FUXING MART, and TOMU (望山穗), a unique beverage brand that incorporates traditional Taiwanese rice wine with a modern twist. Furthermore, we have creative brands such as YOU-SI (酉時喝酒), which combines tea and alcohol. Moreover, there are also interactive events such as Beyblade tournaments. Spending over a designated amount also allows visitors to redeem limited-edition gifts. We invite everyone to visit the Creator’s Market while exploring youth creativity.

The Youth Diversity Performance Stage includes more than thirty performance groups, featuring handpan performances, tap dancing, DJs, and acrobatics, unleashing vibrant creativity through diverse mediums. We’ve also expanded the “Open Stage” from 2025, attracting over fifty youth groups to participate, featuring self-accompanied singing, rap, musical instrument performances, and dance, transcending different fields of creativity on stage. In addition, this year, we have added an encore stage, allowing last year’s popular experimental performers to return to the stage. There will also be exciting dance battles, Suspension Production’s “Elastic Partner” circus acrobatics, the Qinji Golden Melody DJ Open-Air Party, and many other exciting performances, inviting youths to participate in a lively and creative summer weekend.

Fourth Themed Exhibitions Explore Youths’ Ideal Lives Through a Mystical Whimsical House created by the Golden Melody Award-winning Design Team.

The Department for Youth is launching four interactive zones, including “Ideal Divination Station,” “Future Telecom,” “Co-Creation Graffiti Wall,” and “Youth Photo Booth”, and has invited the Golden Melody Award-winning design team Blob Club to design the “Be Unique – Mysterious House.” This incorporates creative interactive experiences, guiding youths to explore themselves, imagining the future and searching for their unique ideal lives.

“Ideal Divination Station” uses traditional cultural stories as its setting, allowing youths to receive their own fortune poems and explore future paths through different choices. “Future Telecom” is a vintage telephone booth inviting youths to leave a voice memo to their future selves, recording their thoughts and aspirations. Then, we have the “Co-Creation Graffiti Wall”, encouraging youths to unleash their creativity, and work together to create  unique youth memories. Lastly, “Youth Photo Booth” combines retro aesthetics with real-time imagery to preserve the memories of your youth in the present moment.

Designed to empower youths to discover their inner charm, the “Be Unique – Mysterious House” interactive castle installation features whimsical designs that convey the inspiring core concept that “being unique is your own superpower,” encouraging youths to discover their personal charms. Furthermore, there will be a limited edition “monster look-alike” activity by Blob Club Art Design Crew, transforming youths’ facial features into trendy monster characters and creating a memorable keepsake from this summer in the city.

The 2026 Taipei Youth Dream Life Festival will be completely free. We sincerely invite everyone to join us on July 25 and 26 at Xiangti Avenue Plaza in Xinyi District. Let’s explore Taipei’s youth culture and creative power together. By completing designated on-site activities, you’ll have the opportunity to win exclusive prizes, including Taipei City Government Department for Youth ChaKao (查高) illustration co-branded phone mirror stands, cute doll bags, and limited edition card holders.

TBS Director Shao-Chien Hu noted that this year’s concert will revive classic Taiwanese Hokkien pop songs spanning the 1930s to the 1980s, paying tribute to five iconic masters: Yu-Hsien Teng, San-Lang Yang, Hsia Wen, Ang It-Hong, and Chen-Nan Tsai. These timeless tracks will be reinterpreted by five acclaimed artists, Anna Wang, Ming-Te Li, Roger Wang, Kuljelje, and Mei Lin. Featuring 20 beloved hits such as “Red in All Four Seasons,” “Rainy Night Flower,” “Wish You Come Back Soon,” “The One I Yearn For,” “Daydream,” and “Falling Flowers.” The music of every generation represents an epitome of Taiwanese Hokkien music’s rich evolution and enduring historical memory. Hosted by popular radio personality Ho Chin and renowned singer Ming-Te Li, the event promises to be an immersive summer celebration of classic Taiwanese Hokkien music.

The “Love in Taipei: Summer Concert” will take place on July 18 from 15:00 to 17:00. Free tickets will be available starting July 10 at 10:00, both at Taipei Zhongshan Hall and online through KKTIX. The public can claim physical tickets at “Taipei Zhongshan Hall” or secure electronic tickets through the “KKTIX online platform”. This performance features reserved seating. Each person is limited to two tickets. Tickets are available while supplies last.

The concert will also be livestreamed on the radio station’s YouTube channel, allowing those unable to attend to enjoy the performance online in real time. For more information on the event, please visit the “Taipei Broadcasting Station” official website and Facebook fan page (https://www.radio.gov.taipei/).TBS’s 2026 “Love in Taipei: Summer Concert” - Free Tickets Available Starting July 10

According to the Department for Youth, Taipei City Government, the Overseas Volunteer Program aims to encourage young people to step outside their comfort zones, explore different aspects of the world through international volunteer service, and discover their own value while addressing local needs. This year marked Taipei’s second youth volunteer mission in Floridablanca, Pampanga. In addition to continuing its partnership with Camachile Elementary School, the program added Nabuclod Integrated School to its partner list. Lillian Chen, the head of the delegation and Subdivision Chief of the Global Engagement Division under the Department for Youth, Taipei City Government, also met with Vice Mayor Allan Policarpio to further strengthen bilateral cooperation. Through volunteer service with the Department for Youth, Taipei City Government strives to build friendships with other cities while enabling volunteers to profoundly experience the transformative power of education and service, demonstrating an alternative form of international diplomacy for Taipei.

Apart from classroom activities, the volunteers worked alongside local schools to create a more welcoming learning environment. By integrating the English alphabet, numbers, and everyday vocabulary into campus murals and desk designs, they transformed ordinary school corners into colorful, engaging spaces for learning English. These efforts aim to inspire students to boldly explore a broader world throughout their educational journey. Following the delegation to the Philippines, other volunteer delegations will travel to Thailand and Vietnam in late July and mid-August, ensuring that Taipei’s youth continue to connect with the world through the power of service.

This year’s delegation also made its first visit to Quezon City, Taipei’s sister city in the Philippines, where volunteers engaged in exchanges with students from Miriam College and members of the Pook Libis community. As the visit coincided with the Dragon Boat Festival, the youth volunteers from Taipei introduced the cultural significance of dragon boat racing and showed Filipino youths how to make traditional scented sachets. In return, their Filipino partners organized traditional games, providing opportunities for youth from both sides to learn about each other’s cultures and daily lives amid laughter. Later, the volunteers and local youth visited the Pook Libis community together, where community leaders presented local development initiatives. The volunteers then designed digital literacy courses for children in the community to help them build foundational concepts of safe Internet use. Through these volunteer services, the youth gained a deeper understanding of the challenges and needs faced by different social groups.

Casper, the leader of the delegation to the Philippines, noted that the children maintained their innocence and enthusiasm despite living with limited resources. They would cheer for a heavy rain or smile brightly because of a single balloon, reminding the volunteers of the profound strength found in simplicity and sincerity. He added that the volunteer experience allowed him to witness the children’s pure vitality and resilience, prompting him to rethink the meaning of happiness and companionship. He deeply appreciated the opportunity to participate in the Overseas Volunteer Program, which broadened his perspective on the world.

Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou of the Department for Youth, Taipei City Government, expressed her gratitude to the Department of Education, Schools Division Office of Pampanga, Camachile Elementary School, Nabuclod Integrated School, Miriam College, Aguman Kapampangan, the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in the Philippines, and other partners for their immense support. Their partnership enabled Taipei’s youth to engage with local communities, respond to their needs through meaningful action, and build invaluable international friendships during these exchanges.

The Overseas Volunteer Program represents a journey of growth through which young people discover the world, better understand themselves, and put civic engagement into practice. Moving forward, the Department for Youth, Taipei City Government will continue to help more young people take their first steps into international volunteer service by providing comprehensive training, resources, and global cooperation networks. Through these efforts, the Department for Youth, Taipei City Government hopes to ensure that every act of kindness transcends borders while showing the world how Taipei’s youth turn compassion into action and drive change through service.

Time: 14:00-17:30

Date: Jul. 23, 2026

Venue: Meeting room 206, 2F , North Wing, Taipei City Hall

Source: Industry and Business Division of the Department of Economic Development, Taipei City Government

Hu Hsiao-lan, Commissioner of the Department of Finance, stated that the core objective of this project is to leverage public-private partnerships (PPP) to attract the innovative thinking and operational highlights of professional private management teams. This seminar focused on outlining key terms and conditions of the tender documents. Through dialogue with the market participants, the Department of Finance gathered extensive feedback from potential investors. These valuable insights will serve as a crucial reference for drafting the official tender documents, thereby enhancing the project’s feasibility and investment attractiveness. Together, the public and private sectors will revitalize the city government's designated space, creating a new urban landmark that blends deep historical-cultural heritage with innovative vitality.

The Department of Finance stated that the project site (floors 1 to 8, with a total floor area of approximately 7,679 square meters) boasts a premier location adjacent to Taipei Main Station. The project is being promoted under the ROT (Rehab-Operate-Transfer) model of the Act for Promotion of Private Participation in Infrastructure Projects . By introducing private resources and professional management capabilities, the project aims to integrate diverse functions such as cultural exhibitions, tourism services, smart technology, and innovative experiences. This will not only shape Taipei’s historical memory, future vision, and cultural identity, but also further elevate the city's cultural tourism competitiveness and international visibility.

The Department of Finance announced that the project is scheduled for an official tender announcement in the fourth quarter of 2026. Enterprises with outstanding operational track records are cordially invited to actively bid and participate. Together, we can build a new paradigm for Taipei's urban development and unlock new opportunities for the cultural and tourism industries.

The Taipei City Animal Protection Office launched its annual Free Rabies Vaccination Tour for Pets on June 18. Runing through September 4, the program includes 44 vaccination events across Taipei’s mountain communities. Up to 100 free rabies vaccinations are available at each event, and pet owners are encouraged to take advantage of this service to keep their pets protected against rabies.

According to the Animal Protection Office, seven districts of Taipei City, Xinyi, Wenshan, Neihu, Nangang, Shilin, Beitou, and Da’an, are located adjacent to mountain areas. This year, the office will once again partner with local neighborhood offices to bring free rabies vaccination services directly to community residents.

Dogs and cats aged three months and older are eligible to receive vaccinations at the tour events. Pet registration services are also available on site. Rabies is a zoonotic viral disease that can infect all mammals. The virus is primarily transmitted through contact with infected saliva, usually through bites or open wounds. Once symptoms develop, rabies is almost always fatal. Annual rabies vaccination remains the most effective way to prevent the disease.

The Animal Protection Office will send text-message reminders to pet owners when their pets are due for the annual rabies vaccination. Under Act on the Prevention and Control of Infectious Animal Disease, owners who fail to have their dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies every year may face fines ranging from NT$30,000 to NT$150,000.

The Animal Protection Office added that recent rabies cases in Taiwan have mainly been found in wildlife, particularly ferret-badgers and masked palm civets. Since pets may come into contact with wild animals during outdoor activities, the public is urged to follow the rabies prevention principle of “Two Don'ts and One Do”:

Do not touch wild animals. 

Do not abandon pets. 

Do take your dogs and cats for the annual rabies vaccination. 

By following these simple precautions, pet owners can help protect both animal and public health. For more information about rabies prevention and a schedule of free vaccination sessions, please visit TCAPO’s dedicated rabies prevention webpage at:

The theme of this year’s forum was “Initiatives that support adolescents,” bringing together representatives from 20 cities and countries across Europe, North America, and the Asia-Pacific region, including Auckland, Berlin, Brussels, Copenhagen, London, New York, Singapore, Vienna, and Toronto. The discussions focused on practical experiences from different cities in responding to the challenges of youth development, particularly in areas such as understanding mental health, building a sense of belonging, and providing opportunities for real-world experiences and career exploration. The forum also served as a platform to help open policy dialogue and strengthen cooperation among cities.

At the forum, Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou of Department for Youth, Taipei City Government delivered a speech titled “Lighting Up the Future: Taipei’s Career Pathway for Adolescents” in which she introduced Taipei’s long-term career development framework. She outlined how the city introduces career exploration and industry exposure at elementary and junior high school levels. In senior high schools, students are provided with one-stop career guidance and internship opportunities. Through the connected pathway, young people can gradually transform their interests into future careers.

She also shared a case from the Youth Fashion Design Competition, where a girl who initially saw drawing and design as a personal interest was able, through structured training and professional mentorship, to turn her hobby into tangible creative work. She ultimately went on to receive recognition for her achievements. Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou noted that Taipei City values not only outcomes, but also the city’s ability, at every key stage, to ensure that young people have opportunities to be understood, supported, and seen.

During the meeting, Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou also discussed issues with representatives from different countries, including Tokyo’s concerns over rising youth loneliness and academic pressure, Vienna’s challenges in allocating resources for mental health prevention, and Copenhagen’s focus on cyberbullying.

Commissioner Yi-Hsi Chou exchanged views on how cities can provide support within both education systems and out-of-school environments. She also introduced Taipei’s Youth Overseas Internship Program, explaining that the city collaborates with multiple international partners to offer young people cross-border practical experiences. These opportunities allow students to explore their interests in diverse workplace settings, build competencies, and broaden their global perspectives. She expressed hope that future exchanges with participating cities can be further deepened, leading to more sustained and concrete forms of cooperation.

During the visit to Japan, the delegation also returned to Waseda University to build upon the existing cooperation in youth internships and talent exchange. The two sides reviewed the achievements of the two Waseda University interns who completed placements at Department for Youth, Taipei City Government last year, highlighting their learning experiences and practical contributions. Additionally, the delegation and Waseda University signed an agreement to continue collaboration under this year’s International Student Internship Program. Furthermore, the delegation traveled to Yokohama to reconnect with artist Luise Ono, who participated in the International Young Artist Residency Program in 2025. During the visit, members toured the artist’s latest work, a collaborative art project created with students at Yokohama Seya Elementary School, to promote the 2027 GREEN×EXPO in Yokohama. Through ongoing exchanges and dialogue, Taipei City continues to deepen partnerships with international counterparts across youth education, internship, and cross-cultural artistic collaboration. These efforts aim to transform youth exchange from a series of standalone initiatives into enduring networks that span years and cities, creating more opportunities for young people to engage with the world while also bringing the world closer to Taipei.

According to Department for Youth, Taipei City Government, this visit to Tokyo not only strengthened policy dialogue with cities worldwide on issues related to youth development, but also further advanced meaningful cooperation in areas including youth internships and cultural and artistic exchange. Moving forward, Taipei City will continue to use itself as a platform for international collaboration, expanding upon existing initiatives and strengthening partnerships with overseas counterparts. By doing so, the city aims to create more opportunities for young people to actively engage, gain practical experience, and broaden their global perspectives.

According to the Fire Department, this year’s event, themed “Splash into Summer, Challenge Your Disaster Preparedness Skills,” combined the fun and refreshing atmosphere of the Water Splashing Festival with disaster prevention education. By integrating learning with entertainment, the event encouraged residents to make disaster preparedness a part of everyday life while strengthening community resilience.

The event featured a variety of hands-on activities, including CPR and AED training, residential fire and electrical safety education, fire alarm promotion, gas safety demonstrations, water safety awareness, fire extinguishing exercises, and earthquake evacuation simulations. Participants gained practical disaster prevention knowledge and emergency response skills through interactive experiences.

The Fire Department noted that Datong District is one of Taipei’s oldest urban areas, with many aging residences, historic buildings, and cultural heritage sites. Older electrical equipment and wiring may increase fire risks if not properly maintained. In addition, densely built neighborhoods can allow fires to spread rapidly, threatening both public safety and valuable cultural assets. Therefore, fire prevention and community preparedness remain especially important in the district.

According to the Fire Department’s 2025 fire statistics, electrical factors remain the leading cause of fires. Residents are reminded to follow the “Five Don’ts and One Must” principle when using electrical appliances and extension cords: do not overload circuits, do not bundle cords together, do not leave unused appliances plugged in, do not use damaged plugs, do not place combustible materials near appliances, and must ensure products have safety certification marks.

The Fire Department emphasized that disaster preparedness requires cooperation between government agencies and local communities. Moving forward, it will continue to promote disaster prevention education through community partnerships and local events, helping build a safer, more livable, and resilient city.

Fire department is specially organizing the Fire and MRT Disaster Prevention Experience Camp during the summer vacation. The event runs from July 6 to 22, 2026, and will be held in batches from Monday to Wednesday each week, targeting students in the first to fourth grades of elementary school. The activities are not just about listening to lectures, but also about hands-on practice and personally stepping into simulated scenarios. From fire prevention and earthquake preparedness to evacuation and escape, children will learn important disaster prevention knowledge and emergency response skills while having fun.

"You can ride the MRT, but have you ever thought about how to escape from it?" This is the biggest highlight of this event. Fire Department teams up with the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation for the first time to launch the course—"Actually stepping into the MRT to learn how to escape!" In the highly realistic "MRT Escape Experience" course, children walks onto MRT platforms, into train carriages, and through simulated train tunnels to challenge various emergency response tasks.Through scenarios such as simulated train malfunctions and emergency evacuations, they learn to make calm judgments, protect themselves, and assist those in need around them during unexpected incidents. During the opening ceremony of this event, the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation's mascot "JAMIE" is specially invited to make a guest appearance, unboxing the emergency evacuation bag with the children. Through relaxed and fun interactions, children learn what items should be prepared in the evacuation bag, where it should be kept normally, and why it needs to be updated regularly, unlocking the first lesson of the camp's disaster prevention learning.

Fire department stated that disaster prevention education should not be limited to textbook knowledge, but should be reinforced through immersive experiences and hands-on practice to enhance learning outcomes. Through this disaster preparedness camp, Fire department hopes to help children develop correct disaster prevention concepts, strengthen their awareness and emergency response capabilities, and encourage them to share what they have learned with their families, schools, and communities, thereby promoting a stronger culture of disaster preparedness throughout society. Fire department will continue to collaborate with partners from various sectors to advance disaster prevention education and adopt diverse and innovative learning approaches to cultivate more disaster preparedness ambassadors, working together to build a safer, more resilient, and sustainable Taipei.

Taipei currently offers eight designated riverside graffiti mural art zones. The largest is the Chengmei Left Bank Riverside Park Graffiti Zone in Nangang District, covering 2,120 square meters. The second largest is the Guanshan Riverside Park Graffiti Zone in Songshan District, with an area of 1,450 square meters. Additional graffiti zones are located in Meiti, Fuhe, Jingmei, Chengmei Right Bank, Longshan, and Yingfeng Riverside Parks. These walls regularly feature impressive works by local artists and have gradually evolved into distinctive urban art spaces.

To maintain a dynamic visual landscape and keep the embankment walls looking fresh, HEO repaints the graffiti walls white every four months before reopening them for new creations. As a result, artwork may remain on display for up to four months. However, any content containing obscene language, inappropriate imagery, or political slogans and messages will be removed immediately. Through this regular maintenance program, HEO hopes to foster a more welcoming public art environment where residents can unleash their creativity and tell their own stories through art.

HEO also reminds the public that graffiti is permitted only within the eight officially designated riverside graffiti zones. Graffiti in any other area of the riverside parks is prohibited and constitutes a violation of regulations. Under Article 11, Subparagraph 10 of the Taipei City Park Management Ordinance, unauthorized writing, painting, flag placement, hanging, or posting of materials on park facilities is prohibited. In addition to requiring offenders to remove the graffiti, penalties ranging from NT$1,200 to NT$6,000 may be imposed pursuant to Article 16 of the same ordinance.

Unauthorized graffiti negatively affects the city's appearance. Members of the public who observe illegal graffiti are encouraged to report it through the Taipei Citizen Hotline 1999.

Information on Taipei's eight designated riverside graffiti zones is available at: https://heo.gov.taipei/cp.aspx?n=F0C117C22579454F

The Fire Department encourages residents to make full use of this weekend to prepare for the approaching typhoon. Secure or bring indoors loose objects such as potted plants, signs, and other items on balconies. Clear drainage outlets on balconies, rooftops, and nearby gutters to prevent flooding caused by blocked drains. Residents living in low-lying areas are advised to prepare sandbags in advance and ensure that flood barriers or flood gates are functioning properly. Emergency go-bags should include at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and drinking water, and residents should also check that flashlights, portable power banks, and other emergency lighting and communication devices are fully operational in case of power outages.

The Fire Department encourages residents to make full use of this weekend to prepare for the approaching typhoon. Secure or bring indoors loose objects such as potted plants, signs, and other items on balconies. Clear drainage outlets on balconies, rooftops, and nearby gutters to prevent flooding caused by blocked drains. Residents living in low-lying areas are advised to prepare sandbags in advance and ensure that flood barriers or flood gates are functioning properly. Emergency go-bags should include at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food and drinking water, and residents should also check that flashlights, portable power banks, and other emergency lighting and communication devices are fully operational in case of power outages.

Finally, the Taipei City Fire Department strongly advises residents to stay indoors as the typhoon approaches and passes whenever possible. Please avoid traveling to mountainous or coastal areas and refrain from activities such as wave watching, fishing, or other outdoor recreation, as these may pose a serious risk of injury or becoming stranded during severe weather.

Young Muntjacs Wander into Taipei City 

Taipei’s lush, low-elevation mountains mean wildlife sightings are pretty common, but recently, some unexpectedly cute visitors have been wandering into the urban jungle. This past May, the Taipei City Animal Protection Office (TCPAO) successfully rescued two Formosan Muntjac fawns—both under four months old—after they strayed into residential neighborhoods. While these "barking deer" look incredibly cute, experts warn they are also notoriously fragile. High levels of stress can cause them to go into shock or even die. Fortunately, thanks to quick reporting from local residents, both fawns were safely secured and are now thriving under professional care while they prepare to return to the wild. 

So far this year, the TCPAO has already responded to 24 Muntjac rescue calls, with most sightings concentrated in the Shilin and Neihu districts—areas packed with shrubs and ferns these animals love to snack on. However, rescuing them is a race against time. Nearly 30% of the Muntjacs reported this year didn't make it, essentially "scared to death" before rescuers could even reach them. Officials are stressing a major warning to the public: if you spot a Muntjac, do not chase, corner, or try to catch it yourself. Doing so triggers extreme panic, which can lead to sudden heart failure.

For a rescue to be successful, these highly sensitive animals need to be kept in a quiet, dark, and well-ventilated space. Officials strictly advise against binding or tying them up, as the physical restraint causes fatal stress. If you spot an injured or trapped muntjac, keep your distance and immediately call the 24-hour 1959 Animal Protection Hotline. Residents can also use the Taipei City Government LINE@ official account to upload photos or videos, allowing rescue teams to quickly identify the species and assess the situation before heading out.

Figure 1: TCPAO rescuers ensure plenty of space and water when saving a vulnerable Muntjac fawn. 

Figure 2: A Muntjac wanders into a residential backyard, triggering a call to the TCPAO. 

• 奉核檔.pdf

The selected civil servants and members of maintenance workers were publicly honored by Mayor Chiang Wan-an with awards, bonuses and gift vouchers ranging from NT$15,000 to NT$50,000. In presenting these awards, the Taipei City Government hopes to improve morale and encourage others to learn from such positive examples.

During the meeting, the Department of Government Ethics reported on its response measures and promotional efforts regarding the implementation of the Public Interest Whistleblower Protection Act. They also outlined plans to establish cross-agency communication channels within the city government. Mayor Chiang emphasized that the key to success lies in building whistleblowers' absolute trust in the agencies handling their reports, alongside the continuous enforcement of robust protection measures.

Furthermore, to ensure the quality and safety of the city's public works, the Public Works Department presented a performance report of the city's Construction Inspection Task Force over the past three years, detailing upcoming improvement strategies. Mayor Chiang directed that since construction quality directly impacts the safety of citizens' lives and property, all agencies must effectively rectify any shortcomings identified during inspections and actively strengthen their project management capabilities.

The attending committee members focused their discussions on strengthening the whistleblower protection network and enhancing the practical effectiveness of construction inspections. They also highly praised the city government's ongoing efforts in promoting clean governance and safeguarding construction quality.

Finally, Mayor Chiang thanked the members for taking the time to attend and provide valuable feedback. He noted that regularly holding these committee meetings harnesses the power of external oversight, deeply embedding the core values of integrity and transparency into every major infrastructure project and administrative action, ultimately achieving the goal of clean urban governance.

Mayor Chiang Wan-an attended the event, first expressing his deep respect for the police officers who stand fast at their posts to protect citizens, as well as the government ethics personnel who maintain a clean administrative system. He encouraged the officers, who bear the heavy responsibility of enforcing the law, serving, and protecting the public, to uphold their professionalism and core value of integrity. Mayor Chiang emphasized the need to hold the line on clean conduct and act according to the law even in complex operational environments, achieving a culture of "clean policing and transparent discipline."

National Police Agency Director-General Chang Jung-hsing also delivered remarks, stressing that "the police are the embodiment of justice." He hopes this cross-sector exchange will reignite officers' original passion for joining the force, foster deep self-discipline, and shape an outstanding, clean, and professional image for the police. Meanwhile, Deputy Director-General Lin Chao-hung of the Agency Against Corruption pointed out that the police are a vital foundation for social stability and prosperity, making clean governance within police departments absolutely critical. He expressed his hope that this forum, starting from the perspective of corruption prevention, will work hand-in-hand with police agencies to help officers accurately identify potential ethical risks amid complex social environments and various temptations.

Co-hosted by the Department of Government Ethics and the Taipei City Police Department, the forum focused on three main topics:

(1) Clean Policing: The Guiding Role of Professional Ethics in Complex Environments

(2) Law Enforcement Boundaries and Career Protection: Distinguishing Between Illegal Profiteering and Providing Public Convenience

(3) Digital Safety Net: The Evolution of Police Information Security and Career Risk Prevention

The event featured keynote presentations from Professor Chou Su-hsien (Graduate School of Criminology, National Taipei University), Division Chief Teng Yuan (Agency Against Corruption, Ministry of Justice), and Associate Professor Wu Szu-chien (Department of Public Policy and Management, Central Police University). Together with several experts, scholars, and city representatives, they used practical cases to guide officers in reflecting on the importance of police ethics and legal compliance. The sessions provided practical guidance to help officers reinforce their ethical thinking and actions of integrity when facing temptations or workplace dilemmas.

Wrapping up the event, Commissioner Wu Tsang-fu of the Department of Government Ethics concluded that clean policing is a cornerstone of urban governance. Moving forward, the department will continue to assist the city government team in building a safe, transparent, and trustworthy city. By protecting citizens with professionalism and safeguarding the future with integrity, this unwavering commitment will serve as the driving force propelling Taipei steadily forward.

Zhongzheng Bridge is an important transportation hub spanning the Xindian River and connecting Zhongzheng District in Taipei City with Yonghe District in New Taipei City. However, the bridge had faced problems including aging structures and insufficient seismic resistance. The reconstruction project first demolished the Chongqing South Road Viaduct and the Ziqiang Market beneath it, then renovated the surface section of Chongqing South Road and added new sidewalks, reshaping the surrounding urban landscape, improving the pedestrian environment, and revitalizing local development.

The newly rebuilt bridge integrates two major features, namely “engineering aesthetics” and “historical preservation.” The new main bridge adopts a large span steel arch design with no piers placed in the river, using twin arch rib trusses and suspended steel cables to create a graceful curved form. In addition to providing a spacious and comfortable driving environment for traffic traveling between Taipei and New Taipei, it has also become a new landmark along the Xindian River.

During construction, the Chongqing South Road Viaduct was demolished in just 87 hours over the Lunar New Year holiday. With overall traffic volumes in Taipei at their lowest during the Spring Festival period, the road closure caused the least possible disruption to the public. A large number of construction personnel gave up their holiday to meet this highly time sensitive challenge. Later, innovative methods such as curved incremental launching and steel arch rib lifting were adopted to reduce high altitude operations, significantly lower labor risks, strengthen worksite safety protections, and provide a more worker friendly construction environment.

In addition, part of the old Zhongzheng Bridge was originally the “Kawabata Bridge,” completed in 1937 during the Japanese colonial period, and it has been registered as a historic building. To meet flood control requirements, the original bridge piers were raised and preserved through restoration. The new bridge’s bicycle path now connects to Kawabata Bridge, linking the riverside park corridors of Taipei and New Taipei, while the historic bridge itself has been transformed into a scenic bridge exclusively for pedestrians and cyclists, restoring the beauty of its former appearance. Through the approach ramp along the side of the bridge, the public can directly access the floodplain riverside parks along the waterfront in both Taipei and New Taipei, enjoying a variety of experiences such as walking, cycling, recreation, and exercise.

The nighttime lighting of the “Zhongzheng Bridge Reconstruction Project” uses light and shadow as its medium to express the modern structural strength of the “new bridge,” adding another urban landmark to the nightscape of the Xindian River. A smart dimming system is concealed within the 285 meter arch ribs, and 2700K warm white lighting highlights the texture of the steel structure. The suspended steel cables are precisely illuminated from below, so that from a distance they resemble strings vibrating above the water’s surface. In addition, the project strictly controlled lighting angles to effectively prevent light pollution and reduce disturbance to the aquatic ecosystem, putting its commitment to environmental friendliness into practice.

Time: 14:00-17:30

Date: Jun. 25, 2026

Venue: Meeting room 206, 2F , North Wing, Taipei City Hall

TCG DOF Commissioner Hu Hsiao-lan stated that the project site is located in a prime area of Zhongshan District, adjacent to Liaoning Park and just a 3-minute walk from Nanjing Fuxing MRT Station, an interchange station for two MRT lines. The site enjoys an excellent location, with vibrant commercial activity nearby while still offering a quiet and high-quality residential environment. The project attracted enthusiastic bids from six companies, demonstrating the private sector’s strong confidence in and support for the Taipei City Government’s implementation of the “Great Urban Renewal Era.”

Commissioner Hu further explained that the “Zhongshan Yiju” Public Urban Renewal Project covers an area of 1,063 square meters, with an estimated total sales value exceeding NT$2.4 billion after renewal. In addition, a mechanism to encourage the integration of adjacent land has been incorporated to encourage investors to further integrate surrounding parcels, with the goal of expanding the project into a full-block integrated development of 1,874 square meters. The project aims to create and share benefits together for the implementer, the investor, and private landowners, thereby enhancing investment attraction and improving the urban landscape. The city government plans to introduce public resources into this project, including “Happiness Housing” and a neighborhood community center, to provide housing that supports marriage, family formation, and child-rearing and to enhance community services. In addition, the architectural design is required to comply with the disaster-prevention-oriented detailed plan, comprehensively enhancing the site’s earthquake resistance and disaster resilience while actively fulfilling Mayor Chiang Wan-an’s policy vision of a “Resilient and Livable City.”

Based on the overall concept of “Shared Living, Urban Greenery, and All-Age Care,” Sinyi Development Co., Ltd. plans to construct one steel-reinforced concrete (SRC) building with 16 floors above ground and 4 floors underground. The company has committed to obtaining Gold-rated Green Building certification, Gold-rated Smart Building certification, Low-Carbon Building certification, and a Building Energy Efficiency Rating of 1+, creating high-quality residences that coexist in harmony with the environment.

Finally, the DOF stated that the Taipei City Government has been actively revitalizing city-owned assets. The government-led public urban renewal projects on large-scale city-owned land spearheaded by the department have produced fruitful results. Currently, among the 15 projects, 7 have been completed, 3 are under construction, and 3 have completed investor selection. The remaining projects are undergoing reviews of urban renewal business plans and rights transformation plans as well as pre-solicitation preparations. The city government is also continuing preliminary urban renewal planning for other potential sites. By the end of this year, another public solicitation for investors for a government-led urban renewal project in a prime location is expected to be launched. The city government welcomes enthusiastic participation from the industry to join hands in creating a future of urban regeneration and livability for Taipei.

This event will feature a stamp-collection challenge with prizes and a variety of interactive educational booths covering topics such as home electrical safety, CPR and AED operation experience, residential smoke alarm education, summer water safety awareness, earthquake response knowledge, and a disaster prevention promotional vehicle display.

To create a festive Dragon Boat Festival atmosphere, special performances will also be presented by the Heping Senior Rhythmic Dance Group and the Heping Japanese Singing Class, adding excitement and entertainment to the event. Traditional Dragon Boat Festival rice dumplings will also be distributed on-site. Participants who complete the fire safety challenge activities will have opportunities to receive special gifts, allowing both children and adults to enjoy fun while learning valuable safety knowledge.

The Fire Department also reminds citizens that according to Article 16 of the Taipei City Fire Prevention Autonomous Ordinance, managers of residential buildings not equipped with automatic fire alarm systems are required by law to install and maintain residential smoke alarms. In addition, townhouses and multi-story residences are encouraged to prioritize the installation of wireless interconnected residential smoke alarms, enabling alarms to be transmitted simultaneously throughout different areas of the home, thereby providing valuable evacuation time in emergencies. Residential smoke alarms can be installed easily in approximately three minutes and significantly improve household safety, making them an essential protective measure for every family.

Citizens are sincerely invited to bring family and friends to join this community event during the Dragon Boat Festival season. Through fun and engaging activities, participants can develop correct disaster prevention concepts and strengthen their ability to help themselves, help others, and assist the community in emergencies, working together to build a safer living environment for everyone.

Ming-Shen Kao, Chief of the Public Works Section of the New Construction Office, Public Works Department, Taipei City Government, stated that the original Yong-Fu Home building had been in use since 1982. It was a residential welfare institution for persons with disabilities with one basement level and six above-ground floors, originally planned to accommodate 172 beds. After a seismic evaluation was completed in 2018, both the chloride ion content and the level of concrete carbonation were found to exceed standards, and structural safety concerns had already emerged, including corroded reinforcing steel, wall cracks, and concrete spalling. Coupled with the continued growth in demand for disability care services in recent years, the city proceeded with the reconstruction of Yong-Fu Home in order to ensure residential safety for service users and improve overall care capacity. The original building was demolished in July 2024. The reconstruction site covers approximately 5,502 square meters and is planned as a modern welfare building with two basement levels and seven above-ground floors. Upon completion, the ground floor will include a lobby, a community activity center, a kitchen, a laundry room, an audiovisual classroom, a sensory classroom, a computer classroom, an examination room, and storage space. Floors two through seven will be planned for bedrooms and living areas, activity rooms, rehabilitation rooms, nursing and administrative office space, and meeting rooms, together with well-equipped common service areas and related mechanical rooms. A healing garden for residents will be planned on the roof. The basement levels will be used for temporary pick-up and drop-off, parking, an air raid shelter, and mechanical rooms, improving overall circulation safety and usage efficiency.

Fu Chung-kai, Director of the Shilin Office under the New Construction Office, stated that after reconstruction, Yong-Fu Home’s service capacity will increase to 196 beds. A dual-operator management model will be adopted, and under the principle of shared use of common spaces, the project will gradually promote the community-based development of services, providing persons with disabilities with more comprehensive, diverse, and humane care services. The project also incorporates the site’s topography and reduces its impact on the natural environment. It is planned to obtain a Gold Green Building Label, introduce smart equipment and energy-saving materials, and adopt structural design standards equivalent to those of a medical center for seismic resistance, comprehensively improving building safety, convenience, and comfort while implementing energy-saving and carbon-reduction policies and creating a welfare facility that combines sustainability, intelligence, and safety.

Director Fu further explained that the project was officially awarded on January 6, 2026, and is being jointly undertaken by Wan Ding Engineering Service Co., Ltd. and Hao Zhi Engineering Co., Ltd. Construction began in April 2026, with a construction period of 1,430 days, and is expected to be completed by April 2030. Once opened, it is expected to relieve the current overcrowding at the Taipei Municipal Yang-Ming Home for the Disabled, expand service capacity, and achieve the goal of building a safe, sustainable, and smart Yong-Fu Home.

Before 2019, Taipei Zoo was closed only one day each year, on Lunar New Year’s Eve. In order to carry out essential maintenance while continuing to serve visitors, the zoo’s indoor exhibition facilities used to take turns closing on different Mondays each month, with closures postponed to the following day if a Monday fell on a national holiday. Under year-round operations, however, major repairs and maintenance work on large facilities and landscapes could only be carried out in separate phases by carefully coordinating time and space. This fragmented approach often increased construction time and costs, while also prolonging the impact on visitors and animals. Since 2019, with public support, the zoo has therefore added a short closure period in late June, before the summer vacation season, when visitor impact is relatively low. This allows large machinery to enter the park more efficiently and enables multiple maintenance projects to be completed at the same time.

During this year’s 10-day closure from June 22 to July 1, the zoo will carry out a range of maintenance projects. Planned work includes improvements to animal habitats, such as repairing activity spaces for orangutans in the Tropical Rainforest Area, replacing climbing structures for clouded leopards in the Taiwan Animal Area, pruning vegetation in the lemur habitat in the African Animal Area, trimming the tree canopy in the Pangolin Dome, and updating native species displays in the Amphibian and Reptile House. In addition, various buildings and visitor facilities throughout the park will be cleaned and maintained, including pavilions, exhibition flooring, and visitor walkways, to create a more comfortable environment for future visits.

Other projects requiring heavy machinery will also be completed during this period, including typhoon-prevention tree pruning, drainage clearing and dredging, road resurfacing, and inspections of fire safety, air-conditioning, and electrical systems. Animals in key construction areas will be temporarily relocated from spaces undergoing renovation to reduce stress caused by the work. The zoo will also use this period to conduct a series of educational training programs and professional drills, including routine diver training, ticketing staff training, summer snake-encounter response training, and shuttle train accident drills. Through improvements in all these areas, Taipei Zoo hopes to further enhance animal welfare and strengthen service quality.

During these 10 days when the zoo is closed to the public, Taipei Zoo will work intensively to complete a wide range of maintenance projects. Through this efficient maintenance plan, the zoo aims to carry out comprehensive environmental inspections and facility upkeep, improve the quality of visitor recreation and viewing experiences, and shorten construction schedules to reduce disturbance to the animals. We sincerely apologize for any inconvenience and appreciate your understanding. Looking forward to welcome everyone back on July 2 for the summer vacation season!

As they search the sea for a legendary reef, the friends encounter a variety of intriguing environments, from kelp forests to sunken wrecks — and even outer space! Their unforgettable journey brings them face-to-face with an octopus, dolphins, anglerfish, and other exotic creatures. Throughout their adventure, they must avoid hungry sharks, hazardous pollution, and other dangers, as they seek a reef that may be a myth.

Legend of the Enchanted Reef is filled with humor and imagination that the whole family will enjoy. This touching animated fulldome show combines entertainment and education with an important message about the impact of ocean pollution.

Screening dates: April 3, 115 to April 2, 116

Running time: Approximately 45 minutes

From the sun-scorched surface of Mercury to the icy expanses of Pluto and beyond, prepare to be subjected to the myriad dangers and wonders of our Solar System, on a breathtaking tour that reveals just how precious our home planet really is.

Be warned though, the Observatorium isn’t just for show. It will transport the audience right to the heart of some of the deadliest locations in our slice of the heavens. It’s going to take some fancy flying to get everyone back in one piece!

Screening Dates: January 1 to December 31, 115

Running Time: Approximately 26 minutes

Bilingual Language: English (headphone)

Source: Industry and Business Division of the Department of Economic Development, Taipei City Government

of Taipei City Fire Department, in collaboration with the Taipei Hakka Culture Foundation, 

hold the “Taipei Hakka Academy 115-1 Achievement Exhibition and Summer Water Safety 

& Disaster Prevention Carnival” on Saturday, June 6, 2026, from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. at 

the Taipei Hakka Cultural Park (No. 2, Sec. 3, Tingzhou Rd., Zhongzheng District, Taipei 

City). 

The event features a variety of disaster prevention booths covering water safety, earthquake 

preparedness, fire prevention, and gas safety. Through interactive games and hands-on 

experiences, participants gain practical disaster-readiness skills and learn how to respond in 

an emergency. The Fire Department stated that, in addition to water safety during the summer 

season, the public should also pay attention to earthquake preparedness and household fire, 

electricity, and gas safety. Taking preventive measures in daily life can help reduce the risk 

of accidents: 

(1) Water Safety: Choose safe water areas with certified lifeguards and avoid dangerous or 

unauthorized locations. When facing drowning incidents, remember the five rescue steps: 

Call: Shout for help 

Call: Call for Help, for example 119, 110 

Reach: Extend a long object, such as a bamboo pole or tree branch to the person. 

Throw: Throw objects that float, such as a ball, rope, or empty plastic bottle. 

Row: Paddle a boat, surfboard, or other large flotation device to them.

(2) Earthquake Preparedness: Prepare an emergency evacuation kit and secure large 

furniture and electrical appliances in advance. During an earthquake, immediately follow the 

life-saving actions: “Drop, Cover, and Hold On.”

(3) Gas Safety: Choose stoves equipped with flame-failure and temperature-sensing safety 

devices, and regularly inspect gas equipment and pipelines to reduce the risk of fires and 

explosions.

Citizens are warmly invited to participate with family and friends to learn disaster prevention 

knowledge and strengthen home safety awareness. Participants who complete designated 

challenge activities also receive special gifts.

The New York Festivals Radio Awards, established in 1957, is one of the world’s five top radio awards and has a history of over 60 years. The works selected for the awards have been considered benchmarks in the global broadcasting and media industry, and this year’s winners represent top-tier global media outlets such as the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and National Public Radio (NPR). The judging panel, composed of 100 international judges from 20 countries, scores the entries, and only a selected few top works passed the initial review to reach the finals. Taipei Broadcasting Station received its first Finalist Certificate at the New York Festivals Radio Awards, recognizing its program. The program’s name and the host’s name have been permanently listed on the official website of the New York Festivals Radio Awards.

The program Wonder in Sizhu is one of the few Chinese music programs in the country. Host Mali Liu combines music and storytelling with meticulous arrangement and rhythmic control, leading listeners through diverse musical landscapes and showcasing an innovative interpretation of classical music programs. This year, two episodes, Listening to the Muse II - Song of Pipa Virtuoso and Islands in Between - International Day of Peace Special, were submitted for the competition. Listening to the Muse II - Song of Pipa Virtuoso, themed around Bai Juyi’s Song of the Pipa, delves into Tang dynasty poetry and music. The Islands in Between - International Day of Peace Special introduces the development of traditional Chinese music in Kinmen, Matsu, and Penghu. These three frontline islands have transformed into peaceful havens and, in the turbulent global situation of 2026, use music to call for universal peace, highlighting Taipei Broadcasting Station’s continued success in producing high-quality program content.

Program host Mali Liu holds a Doctor of Musicology and has been a long-time professor of musicology in the Department of Music. She has also been deeply involved in the broadcasting industry for many years and has won numerous awards. Wonder in Sizhu adopts a curatorial approach, creating a symmetrical auditory framework that serves listeners with both music and knowledge. The program features regularly scheduled mini radio dramas titled Good Night, Music Story House, introductory segments, AI-driven scientific insights, and the English segment Let’s listen to and enjoy, all designed to cultivate listening habits and continuously refine the program’s content.

Wonder in Sizhu continues to air every Sunday at 10 PM on Taipei Broadcasting Station’s FM93.1 and AM1134. It is also available on the “T Radio” online radio station (https://tradio.gov.taipei/). More diverse, high-quality programs from Taipei Broadcasting Station are available on-demand through the “T Radio”online radio station.

Host Mali Liu’s program, Wonder in Sizhu, was awarded a Finalist Certificate at the 2026 New York Festivals Radio Awards.