TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — After a year shaped by challenges and recovery, President Lai Ching-te (賴淸德) said the government will continue strengthening national defense and advancing economic growth in his Lunar New Year address on Sunday.
Lai said Taiwan had weathered multiple challenges over the past year while becoming more resilient. He said the country’s strength came from citizens across all professions who worked steadily through adversity, according to the Office of the President.
He cited rescue teams and volunteers who rushed to disaster zones, engineers who braved harsh weather to restore roads and utilities, and those who lost their lives during emergency response efforts. He also paid tribute to citizens who risked their own safety to help others.
Lai highlighted the role of micro-, small- and medium-sized enterprises, which account for about half of Taiwan’s economy. Looking ahead, he said the government will continue promoting economic development to keep Taiwan competitive in global technology and industry, help companies expand overseas, and provide stronger support for small businesses.
On social policy, Lai said birth-related benefits now total NT$100,000 (US$3,186) per child. Monthly subsidies for low-income individuals rose by NT$1,000, while those for lower-middle-income individuals increased by NT$750.
He added that the Cabinet has approved raising monthly allowances for elderly farmers from NT$8,110 to NT$10,000 and increasing National Pension old-age benefits from NT$4,049 to NT$5,000. The measures will take effect pending approval by the Legislative Yuan.
Lai also thanked service members for patrolling surrounding waters and safeguarding Taiwan’s maritime borders. He noted that many — including military personnel, police, firefighters, medical staff, customs and immigration officers, sanitation workers, and public transportation workers — continue serving through the Lunar New Year holiday, ensuring essential services remain in place while families across Taiwan gather to celebrate.
“Taiwan’s most beautiful scenery is found not just in our mountains and seas, but also in the silhouettes of all the people who stand by one another through adversity,” Lai said. He closed by wishing the public peace and prosperity in the coming Year of the Horse.
