Representative Anne Hung of Taipei Economic and Cultural Office in Malaysia, hosted the 111th National Day Reception of the Republic of China on 5 October, 2022 at the JW Marriot Hotel Kuala Lumpur, with 800 guests from circles of the government, diaspora, business, academics, media and diplomatic corps in attendance.
Representative Hung in her speech mentioned that Taiwan is now world’s 16th largest trading nation and 21st largest economy, with per capita income of US$33,000, and its purchasing power parity is near US$64,000 surpassing most OECD countries. Taiwan’s economic growth rate in 2021 was 6.57%, the highest in eleven years.
Taiwan is well known for its healthcare and high-tech industries, among other things. Taiwan’s healthcare system index has been ranked as the best in the world according to online database Numbeo, The global shortage of semiconductor chips over the past two years has highlighted Taiwan's importance in the supply chain. Taiwan is home to the world’s largest foundry and packaging and testing sectors, and second largest in IC design sector.
Taiwan and Malaysia have long enjoyed close relationships. Among the ASEAN countries, Malaysia is the largest source of students and visitors for Taiwan. As Taiwan is set to lift its mandatory quarantine and enforce a seven-day self-initiated epidemic prevention measure for international travelers on 13 October, it is expected that this much anticipated relaxation of border restriction will further enhance bilateral exchanges.
Representative Hung stressed that as a responsible member of the international community, Taiwan is willing to do its part to contribute to the peaceful development of the region. However, China has recently conducted unprovoked military actions in and around the Taiwan Strait, eliciting global concern. Many like-minded countries have continued to show their high regard for peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait and their staunch support and firm commitment to preserving the status quo. The government of the Republic of China (Taiwan) has once and again emphasized that it will resolutely safeguard its national sovereignty and security, exercise restraint, and refrain from instigating disputes. At the same time, Taiwan will not bow to external pressure. Taiwan will steadfastly enhance its self-defense capabilities and work with democratic nations to jointly defend the rule-based international order.
Representative Hung after the speech invited guest of honors to get on the stage to join the toast and birthday cake-cutting, and to express the best wishes for Happy Birthday of the Republic of China (Taiwan). Videos of the National Day’s “Resilient Taiwan, One with the World” were played out, with flags of the Republic of China and Malaysia displayed at the reception. The atmosphere was grand and warm.
Many brochures and leaflets were also provided at the reception, with exhibitions of Taiwan’s brands such as China Airlines, EVA Airlines, Shangyin Technology, Acer E-Sports, One Township One Specialty, Kavalan Whisky in the foyer which showcased Taiwan’s soft power.
Ambassador Anne Hung toasted with distinguished guests
