Indonesian New Resident Wins US$10,000 in Taichung Shopping Festival Indonesian Representative Cheers the Victory: “Foreign Friends—Don’t Miss Out!”

A Donut Run Turns Into a US$10,000 Surprise 
TAICHUNG, Taiwan –Taichung’s first-ever “Foreigners-Only Draw” stole the spotlight yesterday (20th) as Taichung shopping festival crossed the NT$10 billion spending milestone—and the mystery winner was revealed. The lucky star is Ms. Nora Lin, an Indonesian new resident who won the US$10,000 prize with nothing more than a receipt under NT$1,000 from a donut purchase at a department store.

When the Economic Development Bureau (EDB) contacted her, Nora thought it was a prank. Only after her husband double-checked the notification in the official app did she finally shout, “It’s real!” Now crowned as the festival’s first foreign winner, she promises to be a proud ambassador—encouraging Indonesians and all foreign friends to join the fun.

Indonesian Representative Mr. Arif Sulistiyo, one of Taichung Shopping festival’s six international ambassadors, also sent his congratulations and thanked the city for inviting him to be part of this vibrant celebration.

From Sumatra to Taichung—And Now to the Winner’s Circle
The EDB shared more of Nora’s story: originally from Sumatra, she came to Taichung years ago for her studies, earned her degree, fell in love, and settled down with her Taiwanese husband in Xitun District. “We walk past the city hall area all the time,” her husband laughed. “I just never imagined we’d walk in one day because she was a prizewinner!”

Nora said this was her first time downloading the festival app after a friend recommended it. She found the process surprisingly easy—just link your digital receipts and you’re in. With zero expectations of winning, the call from city government staff stunned her. After her husband helped confirm the push notification, the reality hit her: she was US$10,000 richer. Nora plans to upgrade home appliances and send warm thanks to Taichung city government for bringing such unexpected joy. She even filmed cheerful shoutouts in English and Indonesian urging her community to join the festival.

A Lucky Boost From Indonesia’s Representative
According to the EDB, it was Nora’s husband who later reminded her that Indonesian Representative Mr. Arif Sulistiyo is one of this year’s official ambassadors—making her win feel like a “double blessing” for Indonesians living in Taiwan. Upon hearing the news, the Indonesian Economic and Trade Office promptly conveyed the representative’s congratulations.

Mr. Arif Sulistiyo once again thanked Taichung City and Mayor Lu Shiow-yen for the invitation, saying it was especially exciting to see an Indonesian become the very first foreigners-only prizewinner. He wished Taichung Shopping Festival booming success as it heads into its final stretch in December.

Nearly 100 Countries Join—And Two More US$10,000 Prizes Await
The EDB added that foreign user downloads now span 98 countries and regions—almost breaking the 100 mark. The top four participating regions are Malaysia, Hong Kong, Vietnam, and Indonesia.

Foreign participants enjoy all the standard draws—daily, weekly, monthly, and even the grand luxury home draw—but also receive bonus entry for the exclusive foreigners-only prize. With this “one receipt, many chances” design, Taichung ensures that visitors and residents worldwide can enjoy both the fun and the rewards of the event. Two more US$10,000 prizes are waiting—download the app, register your receipts, and who knows? The next lucky winner could be you!

Advertorial by Economic Development Bureau, Taichung City Government.