Weng Jhong-Liang Launches New Book, Tsai Ing-wen Attends to Show Support

(CNA reporter Wang Yang-yu, Taipei, July 17) Chiayi County Magistrate Weng Jhong-Liang held the launch event for his new book, 'Chiayi Is Now Seen,' today, sharing the transformation of Chiayi County. Former President Tsai Ing-wen attended the event in strong support, stating that Taiwan's strength comes not only from the central government or major cities, but from every place that works diligently and strives for change.

The Chiayi County Government hosted the book launch at the Huashan 1914 Creative Park in Taipei today. Tsai Ing-wen, former DPP legislator Chen Ming-wen, and DPP legislators Chuang Jui-hsiung, Wang Mei-hui, Tsai I-jou, and Chen Kuan-ting were among the many legislators who attended to show their support.

In her speech, Tsai Ing-wen said that during her presidency, she promoted a national development direction aimed at achieving more balanced growth across Taiwan. She emphasized that opportunities must not be concentrated in only a few cities. Moreover, for Taiwan to secure its position amid global supply chain reconfiguration, every region must find its own role.

Tsai noted that the Chiayi portrayed in this book is not just about industrial transformation, but also includes care for people—long-term care, educational innovation, youth entrepreneurship, environmental governance, and improvements in quality of life. These policies all point toward the same goal: enabling people to live securely, grow confidently, and have opportunities to realize their dreams in their hometowns.

Tsai pointed out that the book 'Chiayi Is Now Seen' documents how a locality has paved the way for the future through long-term, practical, and steady methods. It also reminds everyone that Taiwan's strength does not come solely from the central government or major cities, but from every place that works earnestly and strives for change.

In his speech, Weng Jhong-Liang expressed repeated gratitude to the residents of Chiayi County for their tolerance and affirmation. He said he hopes the book will record the people who have helped Chiayi and preserve the county's history. He added that regional development does not happen overnight, and that he simply seized the opportunity of Taiwan's southward development trend and Tsai Ing-wen's support for Chiayi. (Edited by Chai Szu-chia) 1150717