Nantou Appoints New Cultural Affairs Director to Boost Culture-Tourism Integration

Nantou County has appointed Chen Chih-hsien as its new director of the Cultural Affairs Bureau. Chen, who previously headed the county's Tourism Bureau, officially took office on July 16. His appointment marks a strategic move to bolster the region's cultural landscape by intertwining it with its thriving tourism sector.

During his inauguration speech, Chen emphasized that the fusion of culture and tourism represents Nantou's most significant potential and competitive edge for future cultural innovation. He expressed a belief in the principle of "the more local, the more international." Chen aims to leverage the county's rich local culture as a foundation, collaborating with various stakeholders to transform Nantou into a leading tourism destination that is deeply rooted in culture, fosters cultural tourism, and embraces smart sustainability.

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Culture is not just about preserving the past, but also about creating the future. Technology does not replace culture, but makes culture more diverse, more interesting, more convenient, and more far-reaching.

Chen succeeds Lin Jung-lin, who returned to teach at Chung Hsing University last year, leaving the position vacant with Deputy Director Lee Yu-lan serving as acting director. Chen's transition from tourism to culture signals a commitment to a holistic development approach for Nantou. He stated his intention to approach his new role with a "calm mind, a warm heart, and diligent feet," vowing to engage with communities and creators to ensure cultural policies genuinely respond to local needs and serve as a platform for collective effort.

Chen also highlighted the evolving role of technology in culture, noting that it does not replace cultural expression but rather enhances its diversity, accessibility, and reach. His vision for the Cultural Affairs Bureau involves a proactive and inclusive approach, aiming to make cultural initiatives more responsive and participatory for the residents of Nantou.

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I believe that the more local, the more international. I hope to use local culture as a foundation, and work with all parties to lead the Cultural Affairs Bureau team to build Nantou into a tourism capital with cultural roots, thriving cultural tourism, and intelligent sustainability.