Surprise Seating: Young Man Sits Beside President, Gets Book Recommendations

Pingtung local Zeng Dingkai experienced a moment of unexpected delight when he attended a presidential concert in his hometown. Upon entering the venue, he discovered his seat was directly beside President Lai Ching-te.

Zeng, who has dedicated over a decade to the arts, was invited to the concert held at the Pingtung County Stadium. He described the experience as deeply moving and felt the president was supportive of young people, offering them opportunities. During the concert, Zeng seized the chance to ask President Lai for reading recommendations. The president suggested works by author Li Chiao, noting his numerous awards, and the book "The Native," which focuses on Hakka culture.

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President, what books do you recommend I read? What should I look at?

Reflecting on the event, Zeng highlighted the government's commitment to multiculturalism. As a Hakka youth, he feels the administration actively supports Hakka culture. He noted the concert's diverse program, emphasizing cross-cultural themes, which deeply resonated with him. Zeng believes Taiwan's unique resilience, inclusivity, and ability to overcome challenges are its greatest strengths. He felt inspired to do more for Taiwan, recognizing its strength and the spirit of its people.

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Teacher Li Chiao's books, read as much as possible, because he has won many awards, and 'The Native,' and books related to Hakka people.

"Taiwan is very special, very resilient, very inclusive. This is what makes Taiwan feel so great," Zeng said. "It makes me want to do more for Taiwan. And Taiwan is not as lonely as imagined. Taiwanese people have a kind of resilience."

Zeng is the leader of the "Yi Huo Ren Performance Production Group," a team of young artists dedicated to innovative and cross-disciplinary work. The group has been recognized as an outstanding team in Pingtung County for three consecutive years. He was one of four local youths invited to sit near the president at the concert.

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Taiwan is very special, very resilient, very inclusive. This is what makes Taiwan feel so great. It makes me want to do more for Taiwan. And Taiwan is not as lonely as imagined. Taiwanese people have a kind of resilience.