TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim (蕭美琴) on Monday honored recipients of the 22nd Golden Rudder and Bright Youth Awards, praising their professionalism and long-term dedication to helping at-risk youths reintegrate into society.
Hsiao met with this year’s award winners at the Presidential Office, describing them as a vital part of Taiwan’s social safety net. She said rapid social change has placed many young people at risk, prompting the government to strengthen cooperation with the education system and the private sector to better protect youth and enhance social stability, per a press release.
In her remarks, Hsiao said the award recipients come from a wide range of backgrounds, including schools, nongovernmental organizations, correctional institutions, and prosecutorial agencies, demonstrating that every role is indispensable in today’s society.
She said many teenagers struggle to navigate changes in social norms and interpersonal relationships brought about by new technologies. While technological advances have created more opportunities for younger generations, they have also introduced new challenges, including diminished warmth in human interactions, which can contribute to young people losing their way.
Hsiao said that through the professionalism, patience, and commitment of counselors and frontline workers, many youths who have made mistakes have been able to confront their pasts, regain their footing, and return to society.
Referring to recent incidents, including a random stabbing attack in Taipei, Hsiao said the events serve as a reminder that anxiety persists in society and that Taiwan’s social safety net must be continuously repaired and strengthened. She said greater vigilance is needed in the aftermath of such incidents to prevent similar tragedies from occurring.
Hsiao added that random acts of violence are not unique to Taiwan, noting that similar incidents occur in schools and public spaces around the world and are frequently reported in the media, influencing the lives and perceptions of teenagers.
She said that maintaining social stability and order requires collective effort, particularly at a time when young people are increasingly exposed to violence and uncertainty.
Hsiao said the awards demonstrate that even when teenagers temporarily go astray, coordinated efforts by schools, communities, and relevant agencies can help them turn their lives around and give back to society, inspiring others to follow a positive path.
In closing, Hsiao thanked this year’s award recipients for their long-standing commitment to youth issues, saying they have become some of the government’s most important partners in safeguarding social order and protecting young people.
