Chuang Ching-cheng Proposes 'Hakka Affairs Department' to Create 'Tech-Hakka' City Brand for Hsinchu

Chuang Ching-cheng, a candidate for Hsinchu mayor from the Democratic Progressive Party, has proposed the establishment of a dedicated 'Hakka Affairs Department.' This initiative aims to cultivate a unique 'Tech-Hakka' urban brand for Hsinchu, blending the city's renowned technological prowess with its deep-rooted Hakka cultural heritage.

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Hsinchu is not only about the technology industry but also has a deep Hakka cultural heritage. If given the opportunity to serve as mayor, I will establish a 'Hakka Affairs Department' to coordinate Hakka language promotion, cultural preservation, educational transmission, local revitalization, and industry linkages.

During a campaign event at the Kuantu Market, Chuang engaged with local vendors and residents, listening to their concerns. He articulated his vision for integrating Hakka culture more deeply into the fabric of city life. The proposed department would oversee various aspects, including the promotion of the Hakka language, cultural preservation, educational transmission, local economic development, and industry linkages. Chuang stressed that Hakka culture should not merely be preserved but actively integrated into daily urban life, becoming a vital force in Hsinchu's development.

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Hakka culture should not just be 'preserved,' but truly 'integrated' into urban life, becoming an important force in Hsinchu's urban development.

Chuang highlighted that Hsinchu's identity has always been shaped by both its historical development, from the ancient city of Chu-ch'ien to its modern science park, and its Hakka roots. He believes these two elements are not mutually exclusive but can be synergistically combined to create a distinctive city brand. Recognizing the challenges posed by urbanization and generational shifts to Hakka language and cultural transmission, Chuang advocates for moving beyond occasional festival activities to embed Hakka culture in schools, families, and communities.

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Hsinchu's greatest advantage is its combination of 'technology' and 'culture.' In the future, we should further integrate the technology industry, universities, and youth energy to promote smart Hakka innovation.

The 'Hakka Affairs Department' would serve as a specialized governance platform, consolidating resources from culture, education, tourism, youth affairs, and industry. This strategic approach aims to transform Hakka affairs from isolated events into long-term urban governance strategies. Chuang also plans to implement a 'Hakka Language Rooting Program' and promote 'smart Hakka innovation' by leveraging technology, universities, and youth energy to preserve local stories and cultural assets digitally. The ultimate goal is to build a city where technology and Hakka culture coexist and thrive.

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Cultural preservation is not about sealing the past in a museum, but about letting culture continue to live in the city.