KMT presidential contender unveils Indigenous community policies

Taipei, Nov. 16 (CNA) Kuomintang (KMT) presidential nominee Hou Yu-ih (侯友宜) outlined his policies toward the Indigenous communities in Taiwan on Thursday, vowing to do his utmost to better protect and boost the well-being of around 586,000 Indigenous peoples across Taiwan.

Speaking at a news conference in New Taipei's Xizhi District, Hou said Taiwan's Indigenous peoples are the original inhabitants of the country, and must be fairly treated and afforded equal opportunities to flourish and develop to their fullest potential.

As tribal elders are key figures who conserve and pass on the cultural heritage and traditional craftsmanship of their communities to younger generations, Hou proposed a full national health insurance subsidy for those aged 55-64 (excluding those above a certain income level) to ensure improved health outcomes.

As most Indigenous communities across the country face a shortage of resources, he promised a larger central government subsidy to build sustainable businesses by training locals and exploring local resources and cultural heritage, as a way of creating more jobs for young people, attracting greater numbers of tourists to their settlements and selling more agricultural and farm products.

Underscoring his resolve to build a well-rounded education system to ensure the continuing vitality of each Indigenous language and culture, Hou said he will promote amendments to the Education Act for Indigenous peoples so they have the right to choose schools where their mother tongue is used.

Turning to the issue of safeguarding Indigenous peoples' right to claim their traditional ownership of territories, Hou said he firmly supports the passage of the draft "oceans and lands rights act" currently stalled in the Legislature, which would honor their traditional way of living in harmony with mother nature and also designate traditional territorial boundaries.

Taking pride in his Indigenous name "Mayaw" given to him by Amis friends, Hou said it signifies that the 23 million people living in the Republic of China, regardless of their ethnicity or origin, will strive in unison for a happy and prosperous tomorrow.

Hou and Taiwan People's Party (TPP) chairman and presidential nominee Ko Wen-je (柯文哲) have agreed to a joint ticket in the January 2024 presidential race against ruling Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) presidential candidate Lai Ching-te (賴清德).

Hou and Ko are waiting for poll results to be made public on Nov. 18 to decide who will top the ticket in their concerted efforts to defeat the DPP.

Related News

Nov. 16: Ko proposes bilingual classes, better higher education to address low wages

Nov. 16: Poll selection disputes could disrupt joint opposition ticket: Expert

Nov. 15: KMT, TPP to form joint presidential ticket based upon polling results

Nov. 14: Terry Gou officially qualifies for presidential election

Oct. 30: KMT, TPP agree to collaborate in legislative elections