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President Tsai Ing-wen said Feb. 21 that the government is leaving no stone unturned in encouraging the people of Taiwan to speak their mother languages and contribute to strengthening the country’s cultural diversity. Taiwan boasts a rich and diverse culture comprising several different languages, Tsai said. This harmonious state of coexistence has given rise to the country’s unique society, she added. Promoting the use of mother tongues is more than just a global movement, Tsai said, adding that it is also a way to celebrate Taiwan’s multiculturalism while bringing the people closer together. Tsai made the remarks during a radio interview on International Mother Language Day in Taipei and a related event three days earlier also in the city. According to Tsai, language is a primary carrier of culture and ethnic identity. The promulgation of the Development of National Languages Act in January 2019 is a prime example of government initiatives in preserving and promoting the use of different languages, she said. By allocating more educational resources and creating opportunities for the people to speak their mother languages, Tsai said the government is ensuring the continuation of a multilingual environment for all ethnic groups. Toward this end, Tsai said, a specific program has been implemented since 2019 for school children of immigrants from seven Southeast Asian nations so they can learn more about their parents’ cultures and languages. At the same time, a new curriculum will be introduced later this year promoting indigenous languages and Taiwan sign language at elementary and secondary schools around the country, Tsai added. Citing her own experience learning Hakka, Tsai said she has developed a greater appreciation for the beauty of the language and its connection to Taiwan. The people are urged to speak their mother languages on a daily basis so as to preserve cultural heritage for future generations, she added. (SFC-E) Write to Taiwan Today at ttonline@mofa.gov.tw
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