Minister: Language is Like Breathing and Food in Multilingual Taiwan

Taiwan's Minister of Culture, Li Yuan, likened the natural presence of diverse languages in Taiwan to fundamental aspects of life, stating, "Language is as natural as breathing, and as important as the food we eat every day." Speaking at the opening ceremony of the 3rd National Language Development Conference in Tainan, he observed the multilingual conversations in a local breakfast shop, reinforcing his view of Taiwan as an already diverse linguistic society that values mutual respect and tolerance.

“

Language is as natural as breathing, and as important as the food we eat every day.

Li Yuan elaborated on the concept of "Taiwanese languages," addressing past skepticism about adding the qualifier "Taiwanese" to national languages. He described it as "Taiwan's destiny," reflecting the island's unique historical context. Under various past regimes, linguistic policies often limited people to Japanese or Mandarin as the "national language," hindering a sense of cultural belonging for many ethnic groups living together on the island.

“

This is Taiwan's destiny.

He stressed that language is the most basic element of culture. By acknowledging all languages as national languages, Taiwan is entering an era of multilingual coexistence and multiculturalism, underscoring a significant declaration of language equality. Li Yuan expressed hope that the conference, held under Tainan's clear skies, would foster a shared sense of belonging on the land, allowing people to speak their accustomed languages and breathe free air after a century of historical change.

“

Language is as simple as breathing.

Liu Kuo-wei, Vice Minister of Education, reported that the ministry continues to promote Taiwanese Hokkien certification, with approximately 30,000 people taking the exam annually and a pass rate of 70-80%. The first official immersive Taiwanese Hokkien learning center is slated to open in Chiayi this year, aiming to extend immersive language learning environments from early childhood education to all citizens. The Ministry of Culture stated that since the National Languages Development Act took effect, efforts have been made to preserve, inherit, and promote national languages, gradually building a friendly environment for multilingual coexistence.

“

The Ministry of Education continues to promote Taiwanese Hokkien certification, with approximately 30,000 people taking the exam annually, and a pass rate of 70-80%. The first official immersive Taiwanese Hokkien learning center is expected to be established in Chiayi this year.