EZ News is designed to help learners improve their English. It is a production of ICRT News, and is posted on our web site and app weekdays.
2025 洪佩瑜《開》北流演唱會 ◖ 演出時間:2025 年 12 月 6 日(六)19:30 ◖ 演出地點:台北流行音樂中心 表演廳 ◖ 演出地址:台北市南港區市民大道八段 99 號 ◖ 售票時間:2025 年 10 月 18 日(六)中午 12:00 ◖ 票 價:NT$3,680 / $3,280 / $2,680 / $2,280 / $1,880 [全區座席] ◖ 主辦單位:KKLIVE、其後音樂、何樂音樂 ◖ 製作單位:KKLIVE ◖ 購票方式:KKTIX、全家便利商店 FamiPort ◖ 購票連結:https://sofm.pse.is/874pjw -- 蘋果愛美獎投票衝啦! 每天登入FB投票,就能抽iPhone 17、PGO文青機車、萬元LE CREUSET鍋,還有週週禮券大放送!快來選你心中的人氣診所、名醫、療程,投越多中獎率越高! https://sofm.pse.is/874pjy -- 全台南最多分店、最齊全物件,在地團隊懂台南,也懂你的需求。 不管是買屋、賣屋,還是從築夢到圓夢, 房子的大小事,交給台南住商,讓你更安心。 了解更多:https://sofm.pse.is/877lse ----以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- Labor ministry launches employment support program for laid-off workers Taipei 101 lights up to support flood victims, thank 'Shovel Superheroes' 91 students remain trapped in collapsed Indonesia School Hurricanes Humberto Imelda approaching Schwarzenegger supports Vatican's environmental initiative. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 158 points this morning from yesterday's close, at 25,738 on turnover of $13.5 billion NT Shares in Taiwan moved sharply lower Friday, led by large cap stocks, as investors rushed to pocket recent gains amid growing concerns that the local stock market is overvalued. Selling was seen almost across the board with non-tech stocks under heavy pressure throughout the session. Analysts say ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to put tariffs on imports to the United States also cast a shadow over future prospects. Allies Urge Taiwan Participation in UN Taiwan's diplomatic allies are once again urging the U.N. to allow the island's meaningful participation in the global body. At the close of the 80th United Nations General Assembly debate yesterday, St. Lucia's foregin minister Alva Baptiste emphasized that relevant UN resolutions do not prohibit or exclude (把…排斥在外) Taiwan's participation in the UN system. While St. Kitts and Nevis Prime Minister Terrance Drew said earlier during the meeting that allowing Taiwan to contribute to public health, technology, and disaster relief is not about taking sides, but about pragmatism (實用主義). He stressed that excluding Taiwan from organizations like the World Health Organization and the International Civil Aviation Organization harms the world's ability to solve problems together. Allies, including St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Lucia, Paraguay, the Marshall Islands, Palau, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Belize, Tuvalu, and Eswatini, all called on the U.N. to welcome Taiwan. (NS) Missile Attack Hits Ship in Gulf of Aden Officials say a missile attack by Yemen's Houthi rebels set a Dutch-flagged cargo ship ablaze in the Gulf of Aden, wounding two mariners. The owner of the ship says the crew abandoned the damaged vessel, which caught fire in the attack. The company says the damage done to the vessel is “substantial” (重大的). The ship's owner, says crew members were evacuated by helicopter. The French military says the Iranian-backed Houthis carried out the attack. The rebels have not claimed the assault, though it can take them hours or days to acknowledge their attacks. DRC Clashes Between ProGov Militia and M23 Rebels Fighting has erupted in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo between M23 rebels and a pro-government militia after days of a lull (暫時平靜[) in fighting. Chris Ocamringa has more from Kinshasa.. OpenAI New Parental Controls for ChatGPT OpenAI has announced new parental controls for ChatGPT to make it safer for teens. This comes after concerns about AI chatbot safety for young users, including tragic cases where teenagers took their lives after using ChatGPT. To get started, parents can send an email or text invite to their teen to link accounts. Teens can also invite parents. The new controls include automatic safeguards for teen accounts, such as reduced (減少) graphic content and restrictions on sensitive topics. Parents will have a dashboard to adjust settings and receive notifications if their child might be in distress (憂慮,悲傷,痛苦). That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 蘋果愛美獎投票衝啦! 每天登入FB投票,就能抽iPhone 17、PGO文青機車、萬元LE CREUSET鍋,還有週週禮券大放送!快來選你心中的人氣診所、名醫、療程,投越多中獎率越高! https://sofm.pse.is/86vhgq -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 26-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 25,998 on turnover of $5.2-billion N-T. FM in New York to meet with allies on sidelines of UN General Assembly Foreign Minister Lin Chia-lung is reportedly in New York, where he's been meeting with representatives from Taiwan diplomatic allies on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has declined to release any information concerning Lin's trip. However, pictures posted by the Palauan government appear to confirm that Lin is in New York. The office of the presidency of Palau has published photographs on Facebook of Lin at a reception hosted by American Global Strategies with Palau's President Surangel Whipps. The U-S State Department has refused to comment on Lin's presence in America. Several of Taiwan's allies have spoken up in support of the island's participation in the U-N this week. National Palace Museum makes Tourism Expo Japan debut The National Palace Museum is participating in the Tourism Expo Japan for the first time - as it seeks to attract visitors to experience Chinese cultural heritage in Taiwan. The event is part of the museum centennial anniversary. The National Palace Museum's booth is part of the Taiwan Pavilion and was unveiled (揭幕) on the exhibition's opening day. The booth features a reproduction of "Myriad Butterflies" by Qing Dynasty painter Yu Sheng, official merchandise, as well as collaborations (合作) with Sanrio and LINE. The National Palace Museum is also planning to stage a series of landmark exhibitions in October at its Taipei branch and its southern branch in Chiayi County to celebrate its centennial. Trump signs Tiktok deal for US ownership US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order (行政命令) leading to a possible US deal to take over TikTok. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Mexico Protesters on Eve of College Students Disappearance Anniversary Protesters who want justice in the case of 43 students who disappeared in 2014 have rammed the gates of a military base in Mexico City with a truck and set the vehicle on fire. The protest Thursday came on the eve of the anniversary of the disappearance of the teachers' college students. Authorities believe the students were abducted (被綁架) and killed by a criminal cartel with ties to government and military officials, and dozens of people have been arrested, including a former attorney general and military officers. However, nobody has been convicted yet . Canada Postal Workers on Strike The Canadian Union of Postal Workers has declared a countrywide strike. The announcement Thursday came hours after Canada's federal government said door-to-door mail delivery will end for nearly all households within the next decade. The government announced sweeping changes aimed at shoring up Canada Post's finances in response to a decline (減少) in letter mail and the government corporation's small share of the parcel market. The changes include more community mailboxes and slower delivery times. The union says all of its members are on strike “effective immediately." That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 新潤建設機構為北台灣前十大建商,建築與品質嚴格把關,售後服務貼心周到。住戶透過報修App能即時回應,維修快速高效。 社區引進自有品牌 Ruenn Café,打造下樓就能享受美食的便利;同時不定期舉辦互動課程,豐富公設活動。 一起來了解新潤,發現家的更多可能
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 128-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 26,067 on turnover of 10-billion N-T. The market's recent record breaking winning streak stuttered on Wednesday and it closed slightly lower, as investors took cues from a decline on Wall Street overnight amid concerns about overvalued equity prices. Lai talks democracy UNGA side event President Lai Ching-te has warned that the expansion of authoritarian regimes is undermining the international order and urged democracies to strengthen cooperation in response. In a prerecorded address to the 2025 Concordia Annual Summit, Lai said the "international order is being undermined" as "geopolitical tensions rise and authoritarian regimes converge (聚集) and expand." According to Lai, "democratic societies are now more heavily targeted by disinformation and other forms of external interference, posing a serious challenge to global peace." It is the second time Lai has addressed the Concordia Annual Summit with a prerecorded message. Free flu vaccines from next week The government will be rolling out phase (階段) one of it's annual free flu vaccine program next Wednesday. Those eligible include minors from 6 months old through senior high school; seniors aged 65 and over; medical workers; high-risk individuals; pregnant women and parents of babies under 6 months old. The second phase of the free flu vaccine program will begin on November 1 - when people aged between 50 and 64 will also be eligible for a shot. Rollout of phase one of the program comes as the Centers for Disease Control is warning that this year's flu season has now entered an epidemic phase. Ukraine President Warns World of Arms Race Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is telling world leaders that the world is in “the most destructive (破壞性的) arms race in human history." He called on the international community to act against Russia now, asserting that Vladimir Putin wants to expand his war in Europe. Zelenskyy's comments came a day after he met with President Donald Trump, who expressed support for Ukraine's efforts and criticized Russia. Trump said Tuesday that he believed Ukraine could win back all territory lost to Russia, a dramatic shift from the U.S. leader's repeated calls for Kyiv to make concessions to end the war. Zelenskyy said international institutions like the U.N. are weak and today “Weapons decide who survives.” Texas immigration facility shooting leaves two victims dead Three people have died - including the attacker- after a shooting by a suspected sniper at an immigration facility in Texas. The gunman is dead from a self-inflicted (自己造成的) gunshot wound after the incident. Charlotte North reports from Washington Ecuador to Offer More Land for Oil Exploration Ecuador's plans to offer dozens of blocks of land for oil exploration for more than $47 billion has prompted opposition from seven Indigenous peoples in the Amazon. Those groups say 18 of the proposed blocks overlap their ancestral territories and that they were not consulted. Government officials say their plan is key to modernizing (現代化) an oil sector that supplies Ecuador's top export. The dispute comes amid a state of emergency and a national strike over fuel prices, extractive (提取的) projects and the government's failure to honor a referendum limiting drilling in Yasuni National Park. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 147-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 26,389 on turnover of 10.8-billion N-T. The market continued to close at yet more record highs on Tuesday, as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing extending its streak of record finishes amid optimism over artificial intelligence applications following Nvidia announcement of plans to invest in OpenAI. MOEA announces tech export rules over South Africa office dispute The Ministry of Economic Affairs has announced new export controls on 47 products shipped to South Africa. The products include integrated circuits, chips and memory. The measure is in response to South Africa's repeated downgrading and renaming of Taiwan's representative offices in the country. The government has previously said that move is being driven by political pressure from Beijing intended to reduce Taiwan's standing internationally. According to the economics ministry, it is now amending (修改) regulations covering exports from free trade ports so that 47 designated products bound for South Africa must first obtain approval. Taiwan and UK sign MOU to boost space industry cooperation The Taiwan Space Agency has signed a memorandum of understanding with the UK-based Satellite Applications Catapult to expand collaboration (合作) on satellite technologies. The agreement was signed by space agency director-general Wu Zong-xin and and applications catapult director John Abbot during the UK-Taiwan Space Roundtable. Wu is describing the five-year M-O-U as the result of years of trust-building and exchanges between to the two entities and will pave the way for future joint initiatives. While Abbott says it will will open new opportunities for businesses in both markets, particularly in in-orbit services and environmental monitoring. Trump attacks UN in General Assembly speech US President Donald Trump has delivered a scathing (嚴厲的) attack of globalism at the United Nations General Assembly in New York CIty. In a lengthy speech he told global leaders their countries are being ruined by immigration and questioned the UN's purpose. Toni Waterman at the UN in New York says Trump also targeted immigration and climate initiatives. Canada on TikTok Efforts to Keep Underage Children Out Canadian privacy authorities say TikTok's efforts to keep children off the platform and prevent the collection and use of their sensitive personal information are “inadequate” but the company is taking steps to address concerns. The country's federal privacy commissioner says TikTok must do more to keep underage children off its platform and must better explain its data collection practices, especially to youth. The platform is not for those under the age of 13. The commissioner says TikTok has agreed to enhance underage assurance methods to keep underage users off the platform and to strengthen privacy communications so that users understand how their data is being used. Last year, the Canadian government said it won't block access to the popular video-sharing app but ordered the dissolution (解散) of its Canadian business after a national security review of the Chinese company behind it. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 新潤建設機構為北台灣前十大建商,建築與品質嚴格把關,售後服務貼心周到。住戶透過報修App能即時回應,維修快速高效。 社區引進自有品牌 Ruenn Café,打造下樓就能享受美食的便利;同時不定期舉辦互動課程,豐富公設活動。 一起來了解新潤,發現家的更多可能
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 240-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 26,121 on turnover of 9.8-billion N-T. The market closed at another record high on Monday, rising more than 300 points, as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing hit a record high on the back of ample (充足) liquidity. Land warnings for Super Typhoon Ragasa lifted The Central Weather Administration has lifted its land warning for Super Typhoon Ragasa. The weather administration is expected to lift its sea warning this evening at the earliest. Ragasa is continuing to move in a westerly direction into the South China Sea. However, rain advisories remain in effect for much of the island. Extremely torrential rain warnings have been issued for mountainous areas of Hualien and Taitung. Torrential rain alerts are in effect for lowlying areas of Hualien and Taitung as well as for mountainous areas (多山,山區) of Kaohsiung and Pingtung. While extremely heavy rain alerts are in effect for all of Yilan, lowlying areas of Pingtung as well as for mountainous areas of New Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung and Nantou. All of those rain advisories are currently expected to be be effect through tonight. Taipei-Shanghai City Forum postponed The Taipei City Government has announced that this week's Taipei-Shanghai City Forum will not take place as scheduled due to "unresolved details." According to the city government, both sides have agreed that the annual forum should be well-prepared rather than rushed. City Hall is still working on two memoranda of understanding with the central government and its Shanghai counterpart. Deputy Mayor Lin Yi-hua says the city government sent those M-O-Us to the central government about a month ago to comply (遵守) with regulations. One is still awaiting approval from several agencies, while details of the other are still under negotiation. DRC M23 Rebels Clash with Congolese Army Fighting between the Congolese army and the M23 rebels erupted in the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo over the weekend leaving a trail of death and destruction. Chris Ocamringa has more from Kinshasa… Egypt ProDemocracy Activist Freed by Presidential Pardon Pro-democracy activist Alaa Abd el-Fattah was released from prison after being granted a presidential pardon. He and five other prisoners had been pardoned Monday after the National Council for Human Rights acted on behalf of their families and urged President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi to consider (考慮) the prisoners' situation on humanitarian grounds. His campaign said el-Fattah was released after being imprisoned almost all of the past 12 years and was now in his home in Cairo. He was arrested 2014 for participating in an unauthorized protest and allegedly assaulting a police officer. el-Fattah was one of the most prominent Egyptian activists in the 2011 Arab Spring uprising. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 21-points this morning from Friday's close, at 25,599 on turnover of 4.7-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Friday despite setting more record highs through much of last week and after Wall Street rallied on the back of tech stocks led by Nvidia and Intel. Typhoon Ragasa Outer Circle to Reach Hengchun by Noon Forecasters say Typhoon Ragasa's outer circle is expected to reach the Hengchun Peninsula before noon today, as the storm continues to gain strength. The Central Weather Administration says the typhoon's outer bands are already bringing rain to eastern Taiwan, and it expects the rainfall to increase in that area, as well as Pingtung and Kaohsiung through this afternoon and into tomorrow. As of 9am, the storm is about 360 kilometers southeast of Eluanbi, moving in a west-northwesterly direction, at speeds of about 20 kilometers per hour. A land is in effect for Pingtung, Kaohsiung, Taitung and the Hengchun Peninsula, while the sea warning covers the Bashi Channel, the southern Taiwan Strait, and the seas southeast of Taiwan. The CWA says strong winds may also occur in central and northern Taiwan, Kaohsiung, and eastern regions, and waves up to 10 meters or higher may occur in waters near the typhoon's center. (NS) NIA to fully roll out online arrival card for visitors on October 1 The National Immigration Agency says Travelers to Taiwan will need to fill out their Taiwan Arrival Card online before arriving beginning next Wednesday .. when airlines are set to stop handing out paper landing cards. According to the agency, the move is part of efforts to streamline (精簡) the immigration process and eliminate the need for paper arrival cards Q-R codes providing links to the Taiwan Arrival Card website will be displayed during flights and at the port of origin for travelers who need to fill out an arrival card, allowing them to scan and provide the requested information. Devices are also being installed at Taoyuan International Airport for those without mobile phones to fill out the required information electronically. Brazil Demonstrations for Bolsonaro Pardon Brazilians have taken to the streets in all 26 states and the Federal District to protest a potential pardon for former President Jair Bolsonaro and his allies convicted of (被定罪) attempting a coup. Demonstrations grew after the lower house passed a constitutional amendment making it harder to arrest lawmakers. The measure now heads to the Senate. Bolsonaro was sentenced to 27 years and three months in prison on Sept. 11 for attempting to stay in power after losing a 2022 reelection bid. He is the first former president convicted of trying to overturn an election in Latin America's largest economy. Bolsonaro denied any wrongdoing (違法犯罪). Sonny Curtis dies at 88 Sonny Curtis, Crickets member who penned ‘Mary Tyler Moore Show' theme, dies at 88 AP correspondent Donna Warder reports on the death of songwriter Sonny Curtis. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 25-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 25,795 on turnover of $10-billion N-T. Taiwan shares closed at a record high Thursday after the U.S. Federal Reserve cut interest rates and signaled more reductions this year following its two-day policy meeting. Analysts say tech stocks led the rally as lower interest rates made growth shares more attractive (吸引人的) compared with their dividend yields. In contrast, non-tech shares were mixed, with "Military concept stocks" weakening as expectations of higher defense spending had already been priced in. Public Alert Testing for National Disaster Prevention Day The island is conducting a nationwide disaster drill today to test its public alert system, in conjunction with (連同) National Disaster Prevention Day. The Central Weather Administration says members of the public received an alert on their mobile phones at 9:21am, as part of efforts to help people become familiar with the alert system and to improve their ability to respond in a real disaster. The exercise is simulating a magnitude 8.5 earthquake off the coast of eastern Taiwan, and a subsequent tsunami. The drill will also include all schools and kindergartens. Students will practice the "drop, cover, and hold on" procedure to learn how to protect themselves during an earthquake. (NS) Taipei MRT Abnormality Caused by Jammed Passenger Item A Taipei MRT train on the Bannan Line experienced a delay (延遲) during rush hour this morning, causing a platform at Xinpu Station to become overcrowded. The Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation says a door on a train heading toward Nangang Exhibition Center Station gave a warning signal at about 8:20 a.m. The company says the door was likely jammed by a passenger's personal item. To ensure safety, the transit authority asked the one thousand passengers to get off the train and wait for the next one. After the issue was resolved, the train resumed service at Ximen Station. This is the second time the Bannan Line has experienced a delay this week. (NS) US CDC Panel to Vote on Controversial Changes to Childhood Vaccines The CDC's vaccine advisory panel will vote Thursday on controversial changes to the childhood vaccine schedule - including delaying the Hepatitis B shot for newborns. It may also change guidance (指導,引導) on the MMRV jab - which offers protection against measles, mumps, rubella and chickenpox. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr, a vaccine skeptic (懷疑論者), fired the existing panel and replaced it with his own picks. Toni Waterman has more. Iran Withdraws UN Resolution Prohibiting Attacks on Nuclear Facilities Iran has decided at the last minute to withdraw a resolution prohibiting attacks on nuclear facilities that it put forward for a vote before an annual gathering of the U.N. nuclear watchdog's member nations. The draft resolution “strongly condemned” the “deliberate and unlawful attacks carried out in June 2025 against nuclear sites and facilities of the Islamic Republic of Iran,” adding that this constituted a “clear violation of international law.” Western diplomats said Thursday that the U.S. has been heavily lobbying (遊說) to prevent the resolution from being adopted, also raising the possibility of reducing funding to the International Atomic Energy Agency That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 新潤建設機構為北台灣前十大建商,建築與品質嚴格把關,售後服務貼心周到。住戶透過報修App能即時回應,維修快速高效。 社區引進自有品牌 Ruenn Café,打造下樓就能享受美食的便利;同時不定期舉辦互動課程,豐富公設活動。 一起來了解新潤,發現家的更多可能
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 104-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 25,543 on turnover of 5.8-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Wednesday as investors locked in profits from the previous session ahead of the conclusion of the U-S Federal Reserve's two-day policymaking meeting. Analysts says the downturn came as no surprise, as investor sentiment turned cautious following a lackluster performance on Wall Street overnight. KMT lawmakers call for 2-round presidential voting system by 2028 K-M-T lawmakers are proposing creating a two-round absolute majority system for choosing Taiwan's president in time for the 2028 election. According lawmaker Lo Chih-chiang, the proposal has two parts .. … one being to amend the Constitution to change the presidential election system to an absolute majority two-round system, and the other to revise election laws to resolve the difficulties of minority presidents. Lo is criticizing the current relative majority (絕對多數決) system saying it results in candidates working to split the opponent's camp and manipulating strategic voting - making voters afraid to support their favorite candidate. Birth subsidy payments to begin next year Minister Without Portfolio and former health minister Chen Shih-chung says a government birth subsidy program will take effect on January 1 of next year. According to Chen, the program is aimed at addressing payout discrepancies for subsidies across government insurance programs and will provide payments of up to 100,000 N-T. Participants in any national insurance program will be eligible (有資格的) for the payment for every new child they have and the program is also expected to benefit some 7,000 people who are not covered by any government insurance programs. Chen says the subsidies will also cover couples undergoing artificial fertilization procedures. EU Warns Iran on Nuclear Program European officials have warned Iran that it needs to take specific actions to avoid the return of United Nations sanctions over its nuclear program. The warning Wednesday after a call between Iran, France, Germany, the United Kingdom and the European Union's top diplomat. Iran hasn't commented on the call. The "snapback" process is part of Iran's 2015 nuclear deal. It is set to take effect at the end of September unless the U.N. Security Council intervenes. It would freeze Iranian assets (資產) abroad and halt arms deals, further impacting Iran's economy. US Autopsy on Black Student Found Hanged in Mississippi From the US…. Police are awaiting (等待) autopsy results for Black student found hanged at Mississippi university. AP correspondent Haya Panjwani reports Nigeria Lifts Emergency Rule Nigeria's president has lifted emergency rule in Rivers State and reinstated the local governor and lawmakers. This decision comes after a six-month emergency rule due to a political crisis and vandalism of oil pipelines. President Bola Tinubu stated the emergency was necessary to prevent anarchy (無政府狀態,混亂狀態). The crisis began with a confrontation (衝突) between a governor and state lawmakers, who accused him of illegal actions. This is the first emergency declared in Nigeria in over a decade. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 85-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 25,543 on turnover of 6-billion N-T. The market closed at yet another new high on Tuesday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing set a closing record after Wall Street finished at all-time highs overnight on the hopes the U-S Federal Reserve will cut interest rates. President Lai witnesses installation of Danjiang Bridge's final span President Lai Ching-te has attended a ceremony marking the installation of the final span (跨距) of the Danjiang Bridge in New Taipei's Tamsui District. Lai was accompanied at the ceremony by Transportat Minister Chen Shih-kai and New Taipei Mayor Hou Yu-ih. All three observed the installation of the final prefabricated (預製的) segment - when the structure officially became the world's longest asymmetric (不對稱的), single-mast bridge nearly seven years after construction began. An official opening ceremony for the 920-meter long bridge has been scheduled for May 9 next year. CDC warning that flu season likely to happen earlier than usual The Centers for Disease Control is warning that this year's flu season is likely to happen earlier than usual. It comes as the health officials say the number of flu-like illnesses are on the rise and a new epidemic period is expected to begin this week. C-D-C spokeswoman Tseng Shu-hui says data shows 100,909 people sought outpatient or emergency care for flu-like illness from September 7 to 13 - marking a 10.4-per cent increase from the previous week. The C-D-C says the current increase may be related to close contact among students due to the start of the new school year. The first phase (階段) of the year's free flu vaccine program begins as usual on October 1. UN Experts Conclude Israel Committing Genocide in Gaza A team of experts commissioned by the U.N.'s Human Rights Council has concluded that Israel is committing genocide in Gaza. The Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory and Israel has issued a report that calls on countries to end the genocide and take steps to punish those responsible for it. Neither the commission nor the 47-member-country council can take action against a country. The findings, however, could be used by prosecutors at the International Criminal Court or the U.N.'s International Court of Justice. Israel has adamantly (堅決地) rejected genocide (種族滅絕) allegations against it. NY judge tosses terrorism charge against Mangione In the US, a New York judge has thrown out terrorism charges against Luigi Mangione, who is accused of (被指控) killing a healthcare executive. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. District court once again grants bail to Ko Wen-je and Angela Ying The Taipei District Court has upheld its previous ruling and approved bail for Taiwan People's Party founder and former Chairman Ko Wen-je . The hearing came after the Taipei District Prosecutors' Office appealed the court's earlier decision to free Ko on bail of 70-million N-T. The court also upheld its earlier decision to free Taipei City Councilor Angela Ying on bail of 30-million N-T. Prosecutors appealed the bail orders, arguing that key witnesses had not yet completed their testimony (證詞) in court and that Ko had contacted witnesses two witnesses after posting bail. Prosecutors now say they make a decision later this week on whether or not to appeal the latest lower court ruling. Education ministry to review petition to delay school start times The Ministry of Education says it will review a citizen-initiated petition to delay junior and senior high school class starting times to 10AM after it gained more than 10,000 signatures in less than a week. It calls for classes to run from 10AM to 4PM and for nonessential courses to be cut to give students more sleep and improve learning efficiency. Most junior and senior high school students currently begin classes around 8AM. According to the petition, students can already commute on their own and do not need to match parents' work schedules, while shorter hours would allow more time for hobbies and social activities. The education ministry will issue its formal (正式的) response by November 14. New Taipei's Wugu records Taiwan's highest temperature Monday The Central Weather Administration says New Taipei's Wugu District recorded the highest temperature a islandwide on Monday - as the mercury there hit 39 degrees. The temperature in Wugu was recorded at 12:10PM, It was followed by New Taipei's Sanxia District - where the temperature reached 38.3-degrees at 12:40PM. Neihu District in Taipei, Sigang District in Tainan, and Luzhu District in Taoyuan recorded temperatures above 37-degrees on Monday. While parts of Chiayi, Pingtung, and Taitung reached highs of 36-degrees or more. DRC Begins Ebola Vaccination Campaign The Democratic Republic of Congo has begun vaccinating health workers and people infected with Ebola in the southern province of Kasai where an outbreak was recently declared (宣告). The vaccination campaign follows an increase in cases of the infectious disease in the region. Chris Ocamringa has more from Kinshasa…. Ghana Confirms West Africans Deported from US Sent to Home Countries The government of Ghana says 14 West Africans deported from the U.S. were sent to their home countries. Lawyers representing some of the men argue they face risks of persecution (迫害) or torture. The group included 13 Nigerians and one Gambian. News of the deportation emerged last week, leading to a lawsuit by U.S. lawyers. They claim the U.S. is trying to evade immigration laws. On Monday, Ghana's minister for government communications confirmed the deportees, 13 Nigerians and one Gambian, have left for their home countries. The case has drawn parallels to other deportations under the Trump administration, raising legal and ethical concerns. Russian Owner of Beirut Explosion Ship Arrested Bulgaria has arrested the Russian owner of a cargo ship linked to the massive explosion in Beirut in 2020. At least 218 people were killed and over 6,000 wounded when hundreds of tons of ammonium nitrate detonated in a warehouse. Igor Grechushkin's arrest comes nearly five years after a Lebanese judge issued warrants for him and the ship's captain. Lebanese officials are preparing documents to request Grechushkin's extradition for questioning. No Lebanese official has been convicted (被定罪). New leaders elected in early 2025 have vowed to complete the investigation and hold those responsible accountable. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 19-points this morning from Friday's close, at 25,494 on turnover of 4.6-billion N-T. The market closed at a new high on Friday as it notched up a fifth consecutive trading session - with buying fueled by lingering optimism over a the U-S Federal Reserve cut its interest rates later this week. Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing contributed about 160 points to the Tai-Ex's rise and help send the electronics index up by 1.12-per cent. Government sends agricultural buying mission to US The Ministry of Foreign Affairs says a delegation is making its annual visit the U-S this week to purchase American agricultural products. According to the ministry, this year's mission is taking place under the title "agricultural trade goodwill mission (親善訪問團)." It's being led by Agriculture Minister Chen Jun-ji. The foreign ministry says the mission's first stop is Washington, D.C., before it splits into three groups - a soybean and corn group, a wheat group and a beef group. Those groups will then travel to different parts of the U-S, where they will be meeting with local politicians and farmers' associations. National Military Museum to open in 2027 The Military News Agency say the National Military Museum is now scheduled to open in 2027. The museum is currently under construction in Taipei and is already more than two-thirds complete. According to the museum's preparatory office, the venue will feature various types of retired weapons systems and platforms including an M-5-A-1 tank, an F-5 fighter jet, an M-I-M-23 HAWK missile and an OH-13 helicopter. The museum's preparatory (籌備的) office is also touting the seven-story building's 30-meter-high lobby and a corridor flanked by installations inspired by color guards and marching bands .. .. saying they have been designed to create an "awe-inspiring atmosphere" that reflects the discipline of the nation's armed forces. Qatar slams Israel ahead of major summit Qatar is denouncing (斥責) Israel's attack on Hamas leadership in the country's capital, ahead of a major summit. Donna Warder has more. Spain Cycling Tour Cut Short Due to Protests Spanish authorities said more than 100,000 people took part in the latest pro-Palestinian protests that interrupted the final stage of the Spanish Vuelta and forced organizers to cut short the Grand Tour event on Sunday, capping a campaign of disruptions. The central government's representative for the Madrid region said that authorities estimated more than 100-thousand people were on the streets during Sunday's protests which criticized the presence of the Israel Premier Tech cycling team. Officials say two people were detained by police and 22 people were injured, none of them seriously. The number of protesters could not be independently verified (驗證). Visma-Lease a Bike rider Jonas Vingegaard was confirmed as the overall winner of the three-week cycling race. There was no stage winner and the podium ceremony was called off because of security concerns. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 134-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 25,350 on turnover of $8.5-billion N-T. Ocean Affairs Council seeking funding for patrol vessels and surveillance systems The Ocean Affairs Council says it's seeking 29-billion N-T under a special budget to fund the construction of 40 new patrol vessels and improvements to maritime surveillance. The statement comes after the Cabinet announced a 550-billion N-T budget proposal for the special budget earlier this week. According to council minister Kuan Bi-ling, the proposed spending will fund the procurement (採購) of drones, artificial intelligence applications, and the establishment of visible light and infrared systems to improve surveillance throughout the day. Kuan says the total proposed amount, 8.7-billion N-T will partially fund the 40 new vessels from 2025 to 2033. Kaohsiung to end contract with screenwriter accused of sexual harassment The Kaohsiung City Government's Bureau of Cultural Affairs has announced that it's terminating (終止) a contract with screenwriter Tsai Kuen-lin after he was accused of sexually harassing a female student. According to the bureau, it's asked Tsai to cooperate with an investigation by the Department of Social Welfare and will respect the findings. Tsai was one of the writers of the 2024 horror-comedy movie "Dead Talents Society" and also served as both the responsible contractor and chief mentor for the "screenwriter practical connection project." City government officials say the contract will be canceled to protect the project's credibility and are reaffirming a zero-tolerance policy for sexual harassment, pledging to handle the matter strictly under relevant regulations. UK ambassador to US sacked days before Trump UK state visit The UK's ambassador to the United States has been sacked just days before U.S. President Donald Trump is due to arrive on a state visit to Britain. It's after further details emerged about the extent of (…的程度) Peter Mandelson's relationship with convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. Kate fisher reports from Washington UN Agency on Suspected Scam Operation in East Timor A U.N. agency says a suspected scam call operation and a suspicious network of companies was discovered with links to a new free trade zone in East Timor. The U.N. Office of Drugs and Crime says police in East Timor raided a suspected scam center in late August in the Special Administrative Region of Oecusse, and that other companies in the region had apparent links to online scam networks. Such centers are usually walled compounds ((圍起來的)場地) in remote areas that conduct computer-enabled scams estimated to cost victims tens of billions of dollars per year. Scam centers have proliferated across Southeast Asia and spread across the world, and the report highlights the ability of the criminal enterprises to relocate as governments in the region launch crackdowns. SKorea Spy Agency: Kim Daughter Solidifies Status as Heir South Korea's spy agency says the young daughter of North Korea leader Kim Jong Un was assessed to have solidified what it calls her status as her father's likely heir as she accompanied her father on his recent China trip. Kim brought his young daughter on a major recent trip to China, her first known overseas appearance. The girl, believed to be named Kim Ju Ae, is around 12 or 13 years old. Since 2022, Kim Jong Un has increasingly showcased her at major public events, fueling speculation (猜測) she is being groomed (培訓) as the country's next leader. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex surged on opening this morning - adding 316-points from yesterday's close to hit 25,509-points on turnover of 14.9-billion N-T. The market closed at yet another all-time high on Wednesday - as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing beat its closing records on the back of continuing investor optimism over artificial intelligence development. Lai talks up four key areas for national security resilience President Lai Ching-te has highlighted what he says are the key areas of Taiwan's national security resilience. Speaking at a forum on national security and economic resilience in Taipei, Lai said the four key areas of resilience (復原力) cover digital communications, supply chain security, the economy and whole-of-society defense. According to Lai, his administration will also continue taking steps to improve Taiwan's key technological capacities, due to the island's critical role in the global semiconductor supply chain. Lai also told the forum that the government will promote multi-layered network construction and protection - and is looking to deploy Taiwan's own satellites to ensure uninterrupted digital communications. Lee Yang promotes daily exercise on first day as sports minister And, Newly appointed Sports Minister, Lee Yang has marked his first day in office by jogging for 30-minutes around the Ministry of Sports building, underscoring (強調) his pledge to make exercise part of everyday life in the country. Taking to Facebook, Lee said "national fitness starts with me" and he posted photographs of of himself signing his first policy initiative, which urges the public to exercise for at least 30-minutes a day. The ministry also shared pictures on its official Threads account of Lee running alone around the building - noting that he covered 5,000 meters in half an hour. The two-time Olympic badminton champion is Taiwan's youngest-ever Cabinet minister at the age of 30. US Investigation into Charlie Kirk Shooting Continues Authorities are actively searching for information related to the killing of conservative activist and close Trump ally Charlie Kirk at a university campus in Utah. He had been hosting an event in front of hundreds of students when a single shot rang out (響起). AP correspondent Haya Panjwani reports SKorea Plane Carrying Workers to Leave Georgia Today South Korea said that a charter plane carrying South Korean workers will leave Atlanta, Georgia at noon today local time. South Korea's Foreign Ministry made the announcement but gave no further details. Airport officials at Atlanta earlier said the return flight with the workers on board planned for Wednesday had been canceled. A total of 475 workers, more than 300 of them South Koreans, were rounded up in the Sept. 4 raid at the battery factory under construction at Hyundai's sprawling auto plant. U.S. authorities released video showing some being shackled with chains around their hands, ankles and waists (被戴上手銬或腳鐐,被鐵鍊鎖住). South Korea's government later said it reached an agreement with the U.S. for the release of the workers. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- PDF文電通專業版,提供完整的PDF功能:PDF編輯、合併、批次轉檔,不僅功能齊全、操作高效,價格更親民。 立即體驗企業專屬兩個月免費試用: https://sofm.pse.is/85lf9n 文電通官網結帳輸入「RightPDF」(2025/10/31前),全站再享 9 折優惠! -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 177-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 25,032 on turnover of 15-billion N-T. The market closed at yet another record high on Tuesday, as investors took cues from gains posted by the tech-heavy Nasdaq overnight to buy large-cap electronics stocks. Prosecutors appeal release of Ko Wen-je The Taipei District Prosecutors' Office is appealing a decision by the Taipei District Court to release Taiwan People's Party founder and former chairman Ko Wen-je on bail, pending his trial on corruption charges. Ko was released from the Taipei Detention Center on Monday on bail of 70-million N-T. He is required to wear an ankle monitor, banned from leaving his residence and prohibited from contacting codefendants or witnesses in the case. According to the prosecutors' office, it's appealed (上訴) Ko's release as it has arranged to question several witnesses in October. And prosecutors are arguing that a defendant should be detained until witness questioning is complete. Gongguan roundabout removal to begin Sept. 13 despite protests The Taipei City Government says it will begin removing the Gongguan roundabout (圓環) and filling in the bus underpass (地下道) on September 13 as scheduled. The statement comes as civic groups are planning a protest on Friday they hope will stop the city from beginning work to demolish the roundabout and bus underpass City transportation officials says the project is expected to be completed in late November. When completed it will replace the roundabout at Roosevelt and Keelung roads and its three lanes with a standard four-way junction controlled by traffic lights. European Commission leader prepares for annual setpiece speech at time of global uncertainty The European Commission leader Ursula von der Leyen is preparing for her annual setpiece (具有強烈效果的片斷,事先佈置好的戰術) speech, which comes at a time of global uncertainty, and political instability in France. The speech is usually an hour-long address to mark the start of the new policy agenda after the summer vacation. Ross Cullen reports. French President Names New Defense Minister French President Emmanuel Macron has appointed Defense Minister Sebastien Lecornu as France's new prime minister. The 39-year-old Lecornu is the youngest defense minister in French history. A former conservative who joined Macron's centrist movement in 2017, he has held posts on local authorities, overseas territories and during Macron's yellow vest “great debate,” where he managed mass anger with dialogue (對話). Macron's quick decision to name Lecornu comes ahead of a day of mass disruption planned today by a protest movement called ‘'Block Everything'' that prompted the government to deploy (調動) an exceptional 80-thousand police to keep order. Iran Egypt Sign Cooperation Agreement Iran and the International Atomic Energy Agency have signed an agreement in Cairo to open the way for resuming cooperation, including on ways of resuming inspections of Iran's nuclear facilities. Egypt's foreign minister met Tuesday with his Iranian counterpart. They discussed developments involving Iran's nuclear capabilities. The meeting came at a sensitive time as France, Germany and the United Kingdom on Aug. 28 began the process of reimposing (重行) sanctions on Iran. Iran's president had signed a law July 2 suspending all cooperation with the U.N. nuclear watchdog. It followed Israel's 12-day war on Iran in June, during which Israel and the U.S. struck Iranian nuclear sites. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 103-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,650 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The market closed at a new high on Monday - with buying focused on the semiconductor sector as investors remain upbeat about global demand ahead of the opening tomorrow of SEMICON Taiwan. VP highlights need to bolster defense as new patrol cutter delivered Vice President Hsiao Bi-khim is underscoring the importance of strengthening national defense in the pursuit of peace and prosperity. Hsiao made the comment while overseeing (監督) the delivery to the Coast Guard Administration of the fourth 1,000-tonne class patrol cutter. Speaking at a handover ceremony at C-S-B-S's Keelung shipyard for the vessel - which has been named the "Hualien" - Hsiao underlined the importance of a modernized Coast Guard fleet amid geopolitical uncertainties. Hsiao also christened the fifth 1,000-tonne patrol cutter the "Penghu," at the ceremony. That vessel will be delivered to the Coast Guard Administration at a later date. Germany debuts at SEMICON Taiwan for stronger chip ties with Taipei And,Germany will be setting up its first ever national pavilion at SEMICON Taiwan - when the event opens tomorrow in Taipei. Semiconductor investment expert at Germany Trade & Invest, Martin Mayer says his country is looking to raise its profile (形象) and strengthen semiconductor ties with Taiwan as global chip demand accelerates. According to Mayer, Taiwan is seen as a crucial (至關重要的) partner in developing Germany's semiconductor ecosystem … … and Germany's first ever appearance at at the international semiconductor exhibition in Taipei is intended to "show presence" and signal its commitment to semiconductors, while building trust with Taiwanese companies, government and industry associations. Israel Strikes on Lebanon Kills Hezbollah Members Israel has launched airstrikes on the outskirts of northeastern Lebanon, killing five people, including four Hezbollah members. An Israeli military spokesperson said the air forces targeted Hezbollah positions and infrastructure. This comes as global pressure mounts to disarm (解除武裝) the Lebanese militant group. Since a U.S.-brokered ceasefire ended a war between Hezbollah and Israel in November, Israel has struck southern Lebanon almost daily, targeting the group. The Lebanese government has recently backed a plan to gradually disarm Hezbollah, which the group opposes. Hezbollah has not fired at Israel since November. It maintains it no longer has an armed presence south of the Litani River, but refuses to discuss disarmament until Israel stops its attacks and withdraws from five hilltop points that it captured during the war. US Supreme Court rules LA immigration raids are legal The Supreme Court has cleared the way for the Trump Administration's immigration agents to resume what critics call indiscriminate sweeps in Los Angeles. The unsigned ruling lifted a lower-court order that had blocked (封鎖,阻止) stops based on race, language, or type of work. Ira Spitzer reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 中國信託聯手統一集團推出uniopen聯名信用卡 2025年12月31日前消費享最高11%回饋 完成指定任務加碼每月免費跨行轉帳10次,ATM存領外幣各1次免手續費 了解詳情> https://sofm.pse.is/84pk5e 謹慎理財 信用至上 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
無論是駕駛、行人或自行車騎士,「停讓先行」不僅是口號,更是城市交通文化的核心。 讓我們將安全意識化為日常實踐,共同為行人、自行車及校園周邊建構更安全的用路環境,讓澎湖成為全齡友善的宜居城市。 交通部及澎湖縣政府關心您。 -- 114年住宅補貼開放申請囉! 9月1號到9月30號,不論是自購住宅還是修繕老屋, 只要符合資格,就能申請貸款利息補貼 ! 線上申辦或是郵寄直轄市、縣(市)政府都可以 更多資訊請上網搜尋住宅補貼專區 導連網址 (整合住宅補貼資源實施方案專區):https://sofm.pse.is/84etqm 內政部國土管理署廣告 ----以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- MOFA to spend NT$1 billion more in 2026 on Latin America Taiwan wins women's 500-kg at World Outdoor Tug of War Championships Brazil-Bolsonaro-Protests Trial of Trump assassin opens today Australia's Poisonous Mushrooms Case -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 64-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,244 on turnover of $4.1-billion N-T. Expert: High Temps as Tropical Storm Heads to Japan Forecasters say Taiwan can expect high temperatures today as a tropical storm heads towards Japan. Meteorologist Wu De-rong says weather in Taiwan will be sunny both today and tomorrow, with highs in the north reaching 37 to 38 degrees Celsius. The Central Weather Administration has issued a head alert for Taipei and New Taipei in the north, as well as Chiayi County, Tainan City, and Taitung County. And afternoon showers and thunderstorms are expected in mountainous areas. Wu says those traveling to or from Japan should be on the lookout for (密切注意著) Tropical Storm Peipah, which is expected to hit Japan's Shikoku and southern Honshu islands today. From this weekend heading into next week, Wu says moisture from the south will increase, leading to a chance of thunderstorms and heavy rain in the afternoons. And also for travelers, he adds that a tropical disturbance in the South China Sea could affect Hong Kong and Macao on Monday next week. (NS) US Health Secretary RFK Jr hammered by lawmakers US Health Secretary Robert F Kennedy Jr has defended his leadership and vaccine policies during a grilling (審問,指責) by lawmakers on Capitol Hill. It follows the departure of several top officials from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Congo Suspected New Ebola Outbreak Kills Over a Dozen Congo's health minister says a new Ebola outbreak is suspected of causing 15 deaths among 28 people with symptoms. It's the 16th outbreak of Ebola in the central African country, and the minister says the fatality rate, estimated at nearly 54-percent, showed the gravity (嚴重性) of the situation. The suspected cases included four health care workers. They all had typical Ebola symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea and heavy bleeding. The World Health Organization said it dispatched its experts to Kasai province to strengthen disease surveillance, treatment and infection prevention and control in health facilities. It is also delivering supplies including personal protective equipment, mobile laboratory equipment and medical supplies. And the W-H-O says Congo has a stockpile of treatments and of the Ervebo Ebola vaccine. Peru Commission to Vote on Reserve for Uncontacted Tribes A commission in Peru was scheduled to vote Thursday on whether to create a long-delayed reserve in a remote stretch of the Amazon that would protect five uncontacted tribes from outside encroachment. It would be in the Loreto region near the Brazil border, and is roughly the size of Jamaica. The reserve would safeguard uncontacted tribes vulnerable to disease and exploitation, but faces opposition from logging interests and political resistance. The vote follows decades of delays and comes as Congress debates changes to the Indigenous Peoples in Isolation law that could weaken protections by allowing periodic (定期的) re-evaluation and possible reduction of reserves. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 135-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,235 on turnover of $8.1-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed moderately higher Wednesday as large-cap tech stocks stayed resilient, helping the broader market recoup earlier losses and shrug off overnight declines on Wall Street following a spike in U.S. Treasury yields. But analysts say the local index still stayed in consolidation, with turnover reduced as investors await more economic data for clues about how the U.S. Federal Reserve will implement a rate cut cycle. Visitors to Taiwan up 10% in 1st half of year The Tourism Administration says, total visitors to Taiwan in the first half of the year saw a 10% increase from the same period last year. Most visitors to Taiwan are Japanese people, with over 680,000 Japanese tourists coming to Taiwan in this period, accounting for (佔有、構成) over 16% of all visitors. Visitors from Hong Kong and Macau make up nearly 15%, while about 13% are from South Korea. Next up, about 9% are from the US, 7% from the Philippines, and 7% from China. In June, Taiwan received over 606,000 visitors, marking a 6% rise from in 2024. In particular Japanese visitors in june increased by 22%, while Chinese visitors increased by nearly 50%… many of whom came through the Mini Three Links connecting Kinmen and Matsu. The Administration says, it's holding overseas campaigns to boost visitors numbers in the fourth quarter of the year, which is usually the peak season for travelers to visit Taiwan. (AH) Portugal Street Car Derail Leaves Dead and Injured Portuguese emergency services say an electric streetcar that is one of Lisbon's big tourist attractions has derailed, killing 15 people and injuring 18 others. Emergency response officials said five of the injured are in serious condition and a child is among the injured. It said an unknown number of the injured are foreigners. The yellow-and-white streetcar, which goes up and down a steep downtown hill in tandem with (與……同時) one going the opposite way, was lying on its side on the narrow road after Wednesday's accident. Eyewitnesses said the streetcar careened down the hill, apparently out of control. The City Council suspended operations of other streetcars in Lisbon and ordered immediate inspections. US Over 1000 CDC Workers Demand RFK Jr Resignation More than 1,000 current and former employees of the US Department of Health and Human Services are demanding the resignation (辭職) of Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. In a letter they claim RFK Jr's leadership has "put the health of all Americans at risk,". Kate fisher reports from Washington Argentina LongLost Painting Recovered An Argentine federal court has announced the recovery of the long-lost “Portrait of a Lady,” an 18th-century painting by Giuseppe Ghislandi. The Nazis looted the artwork during World War II. The painting, not seen publicly for 80 years, surfaced in an online real estate listing last month. Dutch journalists discovered it while investigating Friedrich Kadgien, the Nazi officer accused of stealing it. Authorities have detained Kadgien's daughter and her husband on charges of concealment (隱瞞) and obstruction of justice. The painting is now stored in a special chamber to prevent damage. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 20-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,037 on turnover of $3.2-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed slightly lower Tuesday as investors locked in early gains, with caution prevailing in the absence of fresh cues after U.S. markets were closed overnight for the Labor Day holiday. Old economy stocks were mixed, while the financial sector rose on bargain hunting. MOFA urges Taiwanese in Indonesia to be vigilant The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is urging Taiwanese nationals in Indonesia to exercise caution… as week-long protests against a proposed hike in housing subsidies for lawmakers have left at least 6 dead following a government crackdown. According to MOFA, Taiwan's representative office in Jakarta temporarily closed for consular service on Monday due to the protests… but normal operations were resumed yesterday. MOFA told CNA that Taiwanese travelers should remain cautious and avoid areas near protests and demonstrations. Protests began on August 25th, as part of a broader civil unrest that has simmered (醞釀,積聚) since early this year over economic grievances. Although MOFA is calling for people to be cautious, the ministry currently maintains a yellow-color alert on Indonesia, which was issued late last year. Under MOFA's four-color travel alert system, the lowest level is gray, followed by yellow, orange and red. (AH-CNA) China Military Parade Chinese leader Xi Jinping and guests, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, are at Tiananmen Gate for a military parade in Beijing. The event today marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. Xi greeted guests on a red carpet before they moved to the viewing platform. Putin and Kim flanked Xi as they walked to their seats, pausing to shake hands with World War II veterans. The parade will showcase China's military might, including missiles and modern fighter jets, as the country seeks greater global influence (勢力). Judge rules Google won't have to sell Chrome in landmark antitrust case A US federal judge has ruled that Google won't have to sell off its Chrome browser but that the company won't be allowed to make exclusive (獨家的) agreements for searches and must share data with competitors. Ira Spitzer has more from San Francisco. Madagascar Receives Indigenous Skulls Returned from France Madagascar has received three skulls of Indigenous warriors returned from France, including one believed to be of a king killed by French troops 128 years ago. This marks the first use of a 2023 French law regulating the return of human remains to former colonies. The skulls, including that of King Toera, were taken during violent clashes in 1897 and kept in a Paris museum. They were returned to Madagascar's capital on Tuesday. The restitution highlights (使引起注意,強調) ongoing efforts by European countries to confront their colonial legacy, including the theft of cultural artifacts and human remains. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 42-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,113 on turnover of $3.4-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed lower Monday but bounced off early losses to hold above the 24,000-point mark, as late-session bargain hunting in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing helped the broader market recover. Selling was heavier in AI hardware developers, but financial heavyweights outperformed the broader market, with the sector index up 0.94-percent. Taipei District Court Questions Ko and Others The Taipei District Court is questioning former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-zhe and others connected with the Core Pacific City case today. Ko and former deputy mayor Pong Cheng-sheng (彭振聲) appeared in court today, with Peng questioned as a witness by prosecutors and defense lawyers. Prosecutors have accused Ko and nearly a dozen others of corruption and embezzelement, seeking a 28-and-a-half year sentence for Ko. Ko's lawyers have accused prosecutors of using "improper questioning" against Peng, and of pressuring him to testify against Ko. (NS) New NDC chief highlights AI as key to Taiwan's new economy Newly-appointed National Development Council Minister Yeh Chun-hsien says he will actively work to advance Taiwan's industrial innovation, and highlighted artificial intelligence as key to the country's new economy. Yeh, a research fellow at Academia Sinica's Institute of Economics, officially took over from Liu Chin-ching, who resigned (辭職) for health reasons. The new NDC chief said he will focus on the overall goals of the National Development Plan which prioritizes an innovation-driven economy, balanced development across Taiwan, improved governance, and talent investment. He says the NDC will also continue to promote the government's Five Trusted Industry Sectors, that's semiconductors, AI, military, security and surveillance, and next-generation communications. Without elaborating, Yeh said he plans 10 new AI infrastructure initiatives as the latter is central to Taiwan's new economy, and the NDC will continue to promote its NT$10 billion fund to support industrial transformation. US 1.2Million Laborers Gone Under Trump Policy From the US… Preliminary (初步的) data suggests that 1.2 million immigrants are gone from the US labor force under Donald Trump's presidency. AP's Lisa Dwyer reports NZ Easing Ban on Foreginers Buying Homes New Zealand is to ease a ban on foreigners buying homes to allow wealthy investors access to its housing market and boost the economy. Prime Minister Christopher Luxon said Monday that some wealthy overseas business investors can now purchase a single high-value home. The move partially reverses a ban imposed by (推行) the previous government in 2018 to cool the housing market. The adjustment applies only to a small number of wealthy foreigners who hold a residency visa reintroduced in April for those investing millions of dollars in local businesses. Critics argue the policy prioritizes (優先考慮) wealthy foreigners over local needs. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 中國信託聯手統一集團推出uniopen聯名信用卡 2025年12月31日前消費享最高11%回饋 完成指定任務加碼每月免費跨行轉帳10次,ATM存領外幣各1次免手續費 了解詳情> https://sofm.pse.is/848yeg 謹慎理財 信用至上 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 90-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,143 on turnover of $5.6-billion N-T. Military to build vertical wind tunnel for Army paratrooper training The Army Command Headquarters is proposing to spend over 510 million NT in the coming years to build a vertical wind tunnel for paratrooper training. That's according to a budget proposal that recently became public. That amount would be spent from 2026 to 2028 to construct a building to house the wind tunnel, as stated in the budget proposal sent to lawmakers for approval last week. The Army says, the facility is important to train paratroopers on free fall conditions in a controlled environment. They say, the wind tunnel is more cost-effective than using planes to conduct (執行) field training. (AH-CNA) CKS Memorial Hall holds concert on Taiwan's censored songs Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall held a concert yesterday featuring populat songs banned during the White Terror period… bringing to light memories for older listeners and offering glimpses (瞥見) into the past for younger ones. The free concert was held on the ground floor of the compound's main building, under the statue of Chiang Kai Shek. That's as part of the memorial hall's series to push forward transitional justice. Featured at the performance was singer songwriter Pig Head Skin, aka Chu Yue Xin, and commentary from a researcher of Taiwanese populat music/ The two discussed the motifs and hidden messages in songs that caused authorities during the White Terror to censor them. (AH-CNA) US judge bars government from sending Guatemalan children back, for now A US judge is barring the government from sending Guatemalan children back, for now. AP correspondent Julie Walker reports Aid Flotilla Sailing to Gaza Strip A flotilla of ships has set sail from Barcelona to the Gaza Strip with humanitarian aid and activists on board. The Global Sumud Flotilla is carrying essential (必不可少) supplies and demands safe passage. The convoy includes about 20 boats and delegations from 44 countries. Activists like Greta Thunberg are participating. This effort aims to break the long Israeli blockade of the Palestinian territory by sea. Israel has stepped up its offensive on Gaza City, limiting food and basic supplies. Food experts warned earlier this month that the city was in famine. Indonesia Revokes Lawmakers' Perks Amid Protests Indonesia's president has pledged to revoke lawmakers' perks, including a $3,000 housing allowance, to ease public anger after protests left six dead. On Sunday, Prabowo Subianto announced the decision alongside leaders of eight political parties in Jakarta. He said that by today, certain allowances will be scrapped and overseas trips suspended. Five days of protests began in Jakarta on Monday last week, sparked by reports that all 580 lawmakers receive a monthly housing allowance of $3,075 US dollars in addition to their salaries. The allowance, introduced last year, is almost 10 times the Jakarta minimum wage. Critics argue the new allowance is not only excessive (過多) but also insensitive (未意識到(他人感受)的) at a time when most people are grappling (努力解決) with soaring living costs and taxes and rising unemployment. The unrest intensified after the death of a ride-hailing driver during a rally. Subianto stated that police are investigating the incident and emphasized the importance of peaceful expression. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 202-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,438 on turnover of $6.8-billion N-T. The market's recent winning streak ended on Thursday, as the main board tumbled over 280-points after Nvidia's highly anticipated earnings report showed that sales of its artificial intelligence chipsets rose at a slower pace than analysts had anticipated. Lai admin. to hold more disaster response drills The government will be holding a series of drills that include trials (考驗,測試) of a earthquake warning system next month. According to the Ministry of the Interior, the drill will be taking place from September 17 through 19 and have been organized to coincide with the annual National Disaster Prevention Day - which falls on September 21. Deputy Interior Minister Ma Shih-yuan says the drills will simulate a magnitude 8.5 earthquake in the Ryukyu Trench east of Taiwan, followed by a tsunami .. .. while the main event will be a three-day exercise in Yilan County, simulating large-scale rescue operations. An earthquake rescue drill will also be held at Xinzhuang Sports Park in New Taipei City on September 18 and 19. Governor of Taiwan's central bank ranked A- by Global Finance Central bank governor Yang Jin-long has received an A- grade from New York-based Global Finance magazine. That grade is up from B+ last year. Based on the Central Banker Report Cards 2025, the magazine returned Yang to an A grade based on the bank's policies and decisions this year. Yang has worked for the central bank since 1989 and became governor in 2018. Yang's predecessor (前任) Peng Fai-nan has the distinction of being the only central banker in the world to have earned the top grade 14 times since the annual report was first released in 1994 - gaining straight A's from 2005-2017. UK Summons Russian Ambassador After Ukraine Strikes London says Russia's latest attack against Ukraine which killed at least 18 people in its capital, Kyiv, are "further sabotaging (破壞) international peace efforts." Russia launched nearly 600 drones and fired over 30 missiles overnight, hitting residential areas as well as the British Council building in Kyiv. Stuart Smith has more from London. US Seeks UN Authorization for Gang Suppression Force in Haiti The United States is seeking U.N. authorization for a new “Gang Suppression Force” to help tackle escalating violence in Haiti where the armed groups have expanded their activities from the capital into the countryside. Acting U.S. Ambassador Dorothy Shea made the announcement at a U.N. Security Council meeting Thursday, but it was unclear how it would differ from the Kenya-led Multinational Security Support force now deployed in the violence-torn Caribbean nation trying to help police curb (抑制) gang violence. She said the U.S. and Panama will be circulating (傳遞) a draft resolution to the Security Council to establish the Gang Suppression Force and create a U.N. Support Office to provide logistical support to it. In February, U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres proposed opening an office that would provide drones, fuel, ground and air transportation and other non-lethal support to the Kenya-led mission. Shea gave no indication of whether the United States would provide any military or police support to the new Gang Suppression Force. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 51-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,468 on turnover of 6.5-billion N-T. The market closed higher on Wednesday, as artificial intelligence-related stocks were in focus ahead of the release of Nvidia's quarterly earnings report. Analysts says investors are upbeat about A-I development and that resulted in them picking up AI-related stocks, led by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. Olympic gold medalist pledges to boost Taiwan sports as new minister Two-time Olympic badminton gold medalist Lee Yang says he will do his utmost to "make Taiwanese sports stronger." The statement comes after it was announced that Lee will head the newly-upgraded Ministry of Sports. The ministry is slated to be officially established next month. According to Lee, accepting the new position means a lot and also comes with greater responsibility. Lee announced his retirement from professional badminton in December of last year. The government has said the Ministry of Sports will be responsible for the development of the sports industry and the promotion of competitive and recreational sports (休閒運動). First French Polynesian delegation in 40 years visits Taiwan And, A delegation of French Polynesian politicians (政治人物) is making its first visit to Taiwan in nearly 40 years. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the seven-member delegation is visiting Taiwan until Saturday. The delegation will visit several government agencies, including the Ministry of Education, Council of Indigenous Peoples and Ministry of Agriculture. The group will also visit the Ita Thao tribe at Sun Moon Lake in Nantou and travel to the Ocean Affairs Council in Kaohsiung. Trump to chair meeting on post-war Gaza: Witkoff US President Donald Trump is expected to chair a meeting today focused on a post-war Gaza plan - that's according to special envoy Steve Witkoff. It comes as Israel intensifies a land offensive around Gaza City and images of starving children continue to emerge (出現,露出). Toni Waterman has more. Israel Drone Strikes in Syria Leave 8 Soldiers Wounded Israeli drone strikes on a southern suburb of Damascus have killed eight soldiers and wounded others. Syria's Foreign Ministry condemned the strikes, calling them a violation of international law and a breach of sovereignty. The Israeli military has not commented on the strikes. Since the fall of Bashar Assad, Israel has carried out hundreds of airstrikes in Syria. Israel's defense minister says the country's forces will remain indefinitely (無限期) in a security zone to protect settlements. The Britain-based Syrian Observatory for Human Rights reported that the strikes hit a point linking Damascus with the southern province of Sweida. Mexico Suspends Postal Service to US Mexico says its postal service is suspending package shipments to the United States, following similar steps taken by countries from the European Union and elsewhere. The announcement on Wednesday comes ahead of the Trump administration's end to an exemption to tariffs on low-value packages this week. Mexico's postal service will temporarily halt deliveries as officials seek clarity on the new rules. The exemption allowed packages worth less than $800 to enter the U.S. duty-free. Mexico is in talks with U.S. authorities to resume (恢復) services. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 144-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,449 on turnover of 7.4-billion N-T. The market closed slightly higher on Tuesday following a lackluster performance on Wall Street overnight ahead of Nvidia's quarterly earnings report - which is due out tomorrow Taiwan time. First local dengue fever cases of year confirmed in Kaohsiung The Centers for Disease Control has confirmed the first local dengue fever cases of the year. According to the C-D-C, the cases were reported during the week of August 19 to 25 and involved a cluster of four people in Kaohsiung. The C-D-C says local health authorities have now expanded testing to 101 potential contacts. C-D-C spokeswoman Tseng Shu-hui says a regional management center is now working with the local government to reduce (減少) the risk of an epidemic .. …. while the local government has also set up a command center for disease prevention action. Sylvia Chang to receive Camellia Award at 30th Busan Film Festival Actress and director Sylvia Chang has been named the recipient of the Camellia Award at the 30th Busan International Film Festival. The award has been announced as Chang's upcoming film "Measure in Love" has been selected by the festival for the Open Cinema section - an outdoor screening venue (場地) showcasing new films that blend artistic merit with popular appeal. Speaking to reporters, Chang said she's delighted to receive the honor and hopes it will inspire other female filmmakers and those working in the arts. The Camellia Award was established in 2024 to honor the power of women in film. It will be presented to Chang at the opening ceremony of the festival on September 17. President Trump says government will seek death penalty in Washington, D.C., murder cases US President Donald Trump is suggesting the government will seek the death penalty for alleged criminals suspected of committing (犯) murders in Washington, D.C. Mitch McCann reports: Australia Police Officers Killed in Shooting Australian police have identified a suspect who shot and killed two police officers and seriously wounded a third as the search for the shooter entered day two in a vast, remote rural area in the country's southeast. Police say today that 56-year-old Dezi Freeman was heavily armed and experienced in wilderness survival skills. The shooting happened on Tuesday, when 10 armed police officers tried to execute a search warrant at Freeman's property in northeast of Melbourne. Australian news outlets widely reported that Freeman espoused (投身(活動),支持) so-called sovereign citizen beliefs, with members of self-proclaimed sovereign citizen movements using debunked legal theories to reject government authority. Sri Lanka ExPrez Granted Bail Sri Lanka's former President Ranil Wickremesinghe has been granted bail after being arrested over allegations of misusing (濫用) public funds while in office. Wickremesinghe is the most prominent among dozens of high former government and political leaders being investigated for corruption under President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, who was elected last year on an anti-corruption platform. Wickremesinghe is accused of using public funds to attend his wife's graduation ceremony in London. His party says he was invited in his official capacity. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 無論是駕駛、行人或自行車騎士,「停讓先行」不僅是口號,更是城市交通文化的核心。 讓我們將安全意識化為日常實踐,共同為行人、自行車及校園周邊建構更安全的用路環境,讓澎湖成為全齡友善的宜居城市。 交通部及澎湖縣政府關心您。 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 40-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,237 on turnover of 5-billion N-T. The market gained solid ground on Monday - closing up more than 500-points as investors were boosted by news that the U-S Federal Reserve could soon cuts interest rates. Vice premier confirms ongoing car tariff talks but gives few details Vice Premier Cheng Li-chiun says U-S car imports are part of ongoing tariff talks with Washington. Speaking at a legislative hearing, Cheng told lawmakers that Washington has expressed the hope for greater openness and expanded market access (市場准入) for U-S cars. According to Cheng, tariffs on U-S car imports and compliance with safety and emissions standards were still being negotiated. She failed to provide any further details. But Cheng did say she has held three video conferences with U-S officials since returning to Taiwan on August 1 .. KMT's Lo Chih-chiang joins race for party chair K-M-T lawmaker Lo Chih-chiang has announced his plans to seeking the party's leadership. Lo made the announcement in a Facebook post with a photo of him standing next to a statue of Sun Yat-sen. He survived a recall vote on July 26 and said in the post that his top priority (優先考慮的事,重點) will be to stop President Lai Ching-te from winning a second four-year term in 2028. Luo also said in the Facebook post that he will release further details of his campaign to seek the post of K-M-T chair later today. US Trump says he'll meet Kim Jong Un U.S. President Donald Trump says he will meet North Korean leader Kim Jong Un - potentially this year and that he 's open to further trade talks with South Korea - as he hosted President Lee Jae Myung at the White House The future of their military alliance (聯盟) was also on the agenda at the meeting just hours after President Trump suggested in a social media post that the US might stop doing business with the country. Kate Fisher reports from Washington. Brazil Buys US Tariff Affected Products Brazil's government says it will buy several domestic products that have been hit by the 50% higher U.S. tariffs on the country's exports. They include acai, coconut water, mangoes, Brazilian nuts, honey and fish. Most of these will be used in state schools or in stock building (增加庫存) nationwide. Officials say coffee and beef, which were also affected by the increase imposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, were not included on the government's list because there are other markets interested in them. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 無論是駕駛、行人或自行車騎士,「停讓先行」不僅是口號,更是城市交通文化的核心。 讓我們將安全意識化為日常實踐,共同為行人、自行車及校園周邊建構更安全的用路環境,讓澎湖成為全齡友善的宜居城市。 交通部及澎湖縣政府關心您。 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 344-points this morning from Friday's close, at 24,108 on turnover of 7.5-billion N-T. The market closed lower on Friday as investors anxiously awaited a keynote speech planned by U-S Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell at the annual economic policy symposium in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, later in the day. DPP caucus leader Ker Chien-ming refuses to step down despite recall failure D-P-P legislative chief convener Ker Chien-ming is dismissing calls for him to step down following the failure this past Saturday of the remaining seven recall votes targeting K-M-T lawmakers to pass. According to Ker, he plans to remain in his post. Ker was one of the party's most vocal supporters of the recalls - even claiming (聲稱) that when they were successful he planned to seek the post of legislative speaker. Ker's refusal to step down comes after D-P-P legislative caucus whip Wu Szu-yao and caucus secretary-general Chen Pei-yu both said they will now step down from their posts to take responsibility for the failed recalls. 19 rescued by Coast Guard after yacht breaks down near Liuqiu Island Nineteen people have been rescued after the yacht (遊艇) they were on suffered mechanical failure near Liuqiu Island. According to the Coast Guard Administration, the vessel was carrying two crew members and 17 passengers when it lost power about one nautical mile north of the small island. The Coast Guard sent two patrol boats to the yacht and all 17 passengers were rescued and taken to Pingtung County's Donggang Township. The yacht, operating on only one engine, was then escorted back to port for repairs. Migrant Deaths Crossing Mediterranean Sea Tens of thousands of migrants have died attempting (試圖) to cross the Mediterranean Sea. AP correspondent Donna Warder reports Venezuela Over Dozen Released from Prison Venezuelan opposition leaders and civil society groups said that the government released 13 people jailed in a crackdown by the government of President Nicolas Maduro following last year's disputed elections. Venezuelan authorities did not immediately confirm the releases. Opposition leaders like Henrique Capriles celebrated on social media, calling it a “step forward for those behind bars.” He said eight people were freed, while five more were released under house arrest. It comes more than a year after the South American nation once again erupted (爆發) following presidential elections in July. Australia Protests Demanding Actions to Save Palestinians Tens of thousands of people have marched through Australian cities demanding action to save Palestinians. Peaceful rallies took place on Sunday in Sydney, Melbourne and other cities, urging sanctions on Israel and an end to Australia's arms trade with the country. Police estimated about 10,000 people took part, while organizers claimed 100,000 marched in Sydney alone. The protests followed a report on Friday stating that Gaza's largest city is gripped by famine (飢荒). The report warned of catastrophic hunger levels, with many at risk of dying from malnutrition-related causes. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened 71-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,033 on turnover of $7.2-billion N-T. Taiwan and US sign MOU on combating cross-border drug trafficking Taiwan and the United States have signed a memorandum of understanding to jointly combat transnational drug trafficking. According to the American Institute in Taiwan, the agreement will enhance intelligence sharing between the U-S Drug Enforcement Administration and the Taiwan High Prosecutors Office .. ….. by "enabling more efficient investigations and prosecutions of transnational drug trafficking organizations." A-I-T has issues a press release quoting D-E-A Asia Pacific Division Special Agent in charge John Scott as saying that the annual forum represents the "shared commitment of Taiwan and the United States to combat the scourge (禍害) of drug trafficking." NPM to show 'meat-shaped stone' in first exhibition in Yilan The National Palace Museum has announced that its iconic "meat-shaped stone" and 14 other artifacts will be going on disply in Yilan for the first time. The artifacts will be part of a special exhibition co-organized with the Lanyang Museum in December. Along with its famed "meat-shaped stone," the National Palace Museum also selected a jade duck piece dating back to the Song and Yuan dynasties, a porcelain chicken cup in doucai painted enamels from the Ming dynasty … … and a revolving vase with swimming fish in cobalt blue glaze (釉) from the Qing dynasty as some of the artifacts that will be featured in the Yilan exhibition. Moscow says foreign troops in Ukraine would be ‘unacceptable' Russia called "absolutely unacceptable" the idea of deploying foreign forces in Ukraine discussed by Europe and Kiev as part of security guarantees for Ukraine. Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov accused the so-called "coalition of the willing" countries of attempts to undermine US President Donald Trump's peacemaking efforts. And reiterated (重申) any discussions of European security, Ukraine included, must involve Russia. Daria Bondarchuk reports from Moscow. Uganda Announces US Deal to Take Deported Migrants Uganda's foreign ministry says the African country has agreed to a deal with the United States to take deported migrants as long as they don't have criminal records and are not unaccompanied minors. The ministry said in a statement Thursday that the agreement had been concluded but that terms were still being worked out. It added that Uganda prefers that the migrants sent there be of African nationalities (國籍), but did not elaborate on what Uganda might get in return for accepting deportees. The U.S. embassy in Uganda declined to comment on what it called “diplomatic negotiations." Human rights activists criticized the deal as possibly going against international law. New Evidence of Earlier Modern Humans and Neanderthals Interaction And new findings suggest that modern humans and Neanderthals may have interacted 100-thousand years earlier than previously thought. That's according to researchers who used CT scans and 3D mapping to study the bones of a child they believe was the result of interbreeding between the two distinct groups. The child was buried in a cave in Israel some 140-thousand years ago. Because no ancient DNA was extracted from the fossilized (變成化石的) remains, it's impossible to confirm the child's origins, but scientists say microscopic details in the bones indicate the child had traits of both groups. The findings, recently published in a peer-reviewed journal, help shed light on when the two groups began interacting and offers clues about their relationships. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 情況緊急、靈感斷線、加班爆肝、心情低氣壓? ♫速速速,速神湯啦♫ 30秒沖一杯,讓你一口補神氣! 忙碌的日子裡,別忘了給自己一點剛剛好的照顧 @bullhead_1958 #牛頭牌速神湯 https://sofm.pse.is/845xm5 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up114-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,740 on turnover of $6.9-billion N-T. The market tumbled on Wednesday - losing more than 700 points as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing came under heavy pressure, which pushed the electronics sector lower following a decline by tech stocks on Wall Street overnight. It was the first time the Tai-Ex had closed below the 24,000 point mark since August 6 and analysts says the steep declines among U-S tech stocks overnight prompted local investors to pocket gains from previous sessions. AI system predicting rogue waves to be deployed in 16 coastal regions The Central Weather Administration say it's developed an artificial intelligence-powered system that predicts the occurrence (發生) of rogue waves. It's been developed in conjunction with the National Cheng Kung University and can predicts rogue waves over the next 24 hours. According to the weather administration, the system will now be implemented (實施) in 16 of Taiwan's coastal municipalities by the end of this year. Administration deputy head Fong Qin-zi says rogue waves are not traceable like the weather but occur as a result of specific environmental conditions, which requires more precise predictions than simply issuing warnings of long waves. The Coastal Ocean Monitoring Center says a total of 430 rogue wave incidents have been recorded over the past 25 years, causing 750 casualties, one-third of which were fatalities. UN Warns IS Exploiting Instability and Remains a Threat U.N. counterterrorism experts warn that Islamic State extremists are exploiting instability in Africa and Syria and remain a significant threat in Afghanistan, Central Asia and Europe. They told a U.N. Security Council meeting on Wednesday that the militant group is now using advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, and social media, which poses a new challenge. The Islamic State group declared a self-styled caliphate in a large swath of Syria and Iraq that it seized in 2014. It was declared defeated in Iraq in 2017 following a three-year battle that left tens of thousands of people dead and cities in ruins. But its sleeper cells remain in both countries and it has affiliates (附屬機構) and supporters in many other countries. Trump Administration slaps sanctions on more ICC judges The Trump administration has imposed fresh sanctions on four ICC judges and prosecutors, including individuals associated with cases involving alleged war crimes linked to Israel and the US. Critics say the sanctions threaten to impede the Court's ability to investigate other cases, including alleged (被指控的) war crimes carried out by Russia in Ukraine. Toni Waterman has more. NZ Announces Military Spending for Planes and Helicopters New Zealand's government has announced new military spending of $1.6 billion to replace aging planes and helicopters. Officials unveiled the package today, citing growing global tensions and a deteriorating security environment. The purchase of military planes and helicopters is the first procurement in a plan to double defense spending from 1% to 2% of GDP in the next decade. The procurement includes five Seahawk helicopters and two Airbus aircraft. New Zealand's defense minister says the government would move quickly to procure (採購) the helicopters through the United States' foreign military sales program. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 中國信託聯手統一集團推出uniopen聯名信用卡 2025年12月31日前消費享最高11%回饋 完成指定任務加碼每月免費跨行轉帳10次,ATM存領外幣各1次免手續費 了解詳情> https://sofm.pse.is/8487b6 謹慎理財 信用至上 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 44-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,309 on turnover of 4.6-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Tuesday due to investor concerns over the impact of U-S tariffs on the local job market after machine tool maker Taiwan Takisawa Technology urged its employees to take three days off a week due to a decline in orders. Analysts say the Takisawa report delivered a shock to investors as it is a listed old economy company and there's now fear the impact will affect more Taiwanese machinery makers given the higher tariff burden plus a stronger New Taiwan dollar. Lai calls on defense medical university to strengthen battlefield medicine President Lai Ching-te says the newly upgraded National Defense Medical University needs to further enhance its training in battlefield trauma care. Speaking at a ceremony marking the school's elevation from the National Defense Medical Center, Lai said greater global exchanges will help it specialize ( 專精) in battlefield medicine and trauma care. According to Lai, international cooperation will allow the university to learn from other countries' military and medical education systems and apply those lessons to not only support the armed forces but also strengthen (加強) society's broader capacity to respond to crises. Lai described the university as a crucial asset for infectious disease research and prevention during his speech … The university was officially upgraded on August 1. Over 5 million votes required to pass nuclear power plant referendum The Central Election Commission says at least 5 million votes will be needed to pass Saturday's referendum on whether to extend the service of the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant in Pingtung. Under the Referendum Act, the vote will pass only if votes in favor account for more than one-fourth of the total eligible voters and outnumber the votes against. According to the election commission, number of eligible (有資格的) voters is 20,002,091 - translating to a minimum threshold of 5,000,523 votes for passage of the referendum. The referendum question reads: "Do you agree that the Maanshan Nuclear Power Plant should continue operation upon approval by the competent authority and confirmation that there are no safety concerns?" US favors Budapest for Russia-Ukraine meeting The Trump administration is considering the Hungarian capital Budapest as the location for a summit (高峰會) between Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy. It comes as the White House weighs offering US air support as part of security guarantees for Ukraine to help end the conflict. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Mexico Maya Train Derailment A tourist-focused Maya Train running along Mexico's Yucatan Peninsula has derailed while moving slowly toward a station platform. The train was traveling Tuesday from Cancun to Merida when it left the tracks at a station in Izamal. Passengers were uninjured and transported by bus. The accident is under investigation, but the train is operating normally between other stations. The Maya Train began running in late 2023, but has had low ridership (客流量). Environmentalists have documented severe impacts on the delicate (脆弱的) cave systems under the train line. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 11-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 24,494 on turnover of $4.9-billion N-T. Shares in Taiwan closed at a new high Monday as buying in the bellwether electronics sector accelerated in the wake of gains posted by markets in the United States pointing to a possible higher opening later in the day. Amid optimism toward artificial intelligence development, iPhone assembler and AI server maker Hon Hai Precision Industry rose 1.45 percent. In the old economy sector, petrochemical stocks continued an uptrend led by Nan Ya Plastics Corp., on optimism over its supply of materials to PCB makers. 4.9 earthquake strikes Hualien No injuries or damage are being reported after a magnitude 4.9 earthquake struck Hualien at 9:26. The Central Weather Administration says, the depth of the quake was measured at 17.1 kilometers, and the epicenter was located 11.7 kilometers east of Hualien County Hall, in the ocean. The quake was felt at a maximum intensity of 4 in Hualien and a 3 in Yilan. (AH) UN: IS Backed Congo Rebels Kill Dozens The United Nations peacekeeping mission in Congo says that Islamic State-backed rebels in the eastern part of the country have killed at least 52 people. The mission says the attacks blamed on the Allied Democratic Forces took place from Aug. 9 to Aug. 16 in North Kivu province. The violence included abductions, looting (搶劫), and the burning of homes and vehicles. The death toll is expected to rise. Eastern Congo has faced deadly attacks from armed groups like the ADF, which has ties to the Islamic State. US Democrats End Walkout Over Redistricting From the US…. Texas Democrats are ending their walkout over redistricting (重新劃分選區), as California prepares to retaliate. AP correspondent Ed Donahue reports Air Canda Flight Attendant Strike Air Canada and the union representing 10,000 flight attendants have resumed talks for the first time since their strike began three days ago. That's according to a person familiar with the negotiations. The renewed talks on Monday come after the union for the Air Canada flight attendants said they won't return to work even though the strike has been declared illegal. It has affected about 130-thousand travelers per day during the peak (高峰) summer travel season. Labor leaders are objecting to the Canadian government's repeated use of a law that cuts off workers' right to strike and forces them into binding arbitration. Cambridge Dictionary Adds 6000 New Words The Cambridge Dictionary has added over 6,000 new words including slang terms like “skibidi,” pronounced SKIH-bih-dee, "tradwife" and "delulu." Cambridge Dictionary says it uses the Cambridge English Corpus database of more than 2 billion words to monitor (監測) how new words are used, how often and in what contexts. Other additions this year include "mouse jiggler" for a tool to simulate (模擬) activity during remote work and “forever chemical” for persistent environmental pollutants. Representatives at the world's largest online dictionary say it has only added words it thinks have “staying power.” That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Two Taiwanese receive suspended sentences for filming US warplanes in South Korea A-Mei to perform at CPBL home run leader's retirement game Latest about Plastic Pollution Treaty Wallet found 240,000 km away and years later -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
正聲廣播2025 Podcast YeAr播客年會優質聲音節目競賽開跑! 生活風格、SDGs永續以及正聲創意業配獎3大類,特優2萬、優勝1萬、佳作5千,即日起開放報名! 活動詳情: https://sofm.pse.is/849apb ----以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- Highway Bureau says 5 provincial roads still blocked MOL expands subsidy program for furloughed workers amid tariff shock Taiwan-funded mobile clinics help 7,000 underprivileged in Guatemala Torrential rain battered South Korea capital National Guard arriving in Washington DC -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
情況緊急、靈感斷線、加班爆肝、心情低氣壓? ♫速速速,速神湯啦♫ 30秒沖一杯,讓你一口補神氣! 忙碌的日子裡,別忘了給自己一點剛剛好的照顧 @bullhead_1958 #牛頭牌速神湯 https://sofm.pse.is/843dy3 ----以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- Tai-Ex opening up Typhoon Podul latest 10AM news Taiwan faces Mexico in Little League World Series opener Trump Zelensky to talk before US-Russia summit Russia Ukraine ceasefire deal -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Sea warning issued for Typhoon Podul Real wages and total earnings up in H1 2025 Two dead and 10 injured in steel plant in Pennsylvania AOL is finally shutting down its dial-up internet service US Antarctica Pilot stuck in Antarctica -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
情況緊急、靈感斷線、加班爆肝、心情低氣壓? ♫速速速,速神湯啦♫ 30秒沖一杯,讓你一口補神氣! 忙碌的日子裡,別忘了給自己一點剛剛好的照顧 @bullhead_1958 #牛頭牌速神湯 https://sofm.pse.is/8438xc ----以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- CWA expected to issue sea and land warnings for Tropical Storm Podul Women's tug-of-war team wins 6th straight World Games title European leaders support Ukraine ahead of Trump-Putin meeting Many Countries Criticized Israel Armenia-Azerbaijan react to "peace deal" -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
遠東商銀《爸媽不是ATM 建立孩子正確的金錢觀》親子理財直播講座 邀請薩提爾溝通引導講師李崇義和遠銀個金事業群副總經理張小倩教你如何和孩子「談錢說愛」 ♥️ 8/23 14:00 YouTube《小遠贏了》開播 ♥️ 參加直播抽老爺酒店住宿券 ♥️️ 活動報名:https://sofm.pse.is/7zb9wh ----以上為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- Tropical Storm Podul formed Control Yuan censures Fisheries Agency over typhoon crew evacuations failures Trump wants Intel's CEO to quit immediately United-Nations-Africa-Terrorism Judge halts construction of "Alligator Alcatraz" -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 270-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,717 on turnover of $12.2-billion N-T. The market fell sharply on Wednesday - as semiconductor stocks tumbled after U-S President Donald Trump announced that he will announce new tariffs on chips within the next week or so. NGO says migrant workers facing fraud but reluctant to report it The TransAsia Sisters Association says migrant workers in Taiwan are facing many types of fraud - but the cases are going underreported because of language barriers and other factors. According to the association, it has identified several potential problems in the effort to fight scams against migrants through interviews over the past year with mainly migrant workers and a small proportion (部分) of foreign spouses. The association says around 30-per cent of interviewees had experienced financial fraud, but that only a third of them reported their cases to authorities. The group is attributing the reluctance to report fraud cases to police to a lack of readily available multilingual services at police stations. The Workforce Development Agency says migrant workers can use the 1955 hotline, which provides multilingual services, to help them identify potential fraud schemes .. .. and the hotline can contact third parties on behalf of workers to verify suspicious situations and report cases to local labor authorities. Trump says 100% tariff coming on some imported semiconductors US President Donald Trump says he will impose a 100% tariff on imports of semiconductors. But he said he would exempt companies making their chips in the US… or are in the process of (的過程中) building chip fabrication facilities in the country. Toni Waterman has more. UN Report on Taliban Weaponizing Law Against Women and Girls The independent U.N. investigator on human rights in Afghanistan says its Taliban rulers have “weaponized” the legal and judicial system to oppress women and girls in what amounts to “crimes against humanity." Richard Bennett said in a report to the U.N. General Assembly circulated Wednesday that after seizing power in 2021 the Taliban suspended the 2004 constitution and specific laws protecting the rights of women and girls. These include a landmark law that criminalized 22 forms of violence against women, including rape and child and forced marriage. The Taliban defend their approach to justice by claiming they are implementing Islamic sharia law, but Islamic scholars and others have said their interpretation is unparalleled (無與倫比的) in other Muslim-majority countries and does not adhere to Islamic teachings. Bennett urged all countries to support efforts to bring Afghanistan before the International Court of Justice, the U.N.'s highest tribunal. Barbary Lion Cubs Born at Czech Zoo Four Barbary lion cubs have been born in a Czech zoo. The birth marks a significant boost for the rare species, which is extinct (滅絕的) in the wild. The three females and one male were seen playing at Dvur Kralove Safari Park on Wednesday. Soon, the cubs will be sent to other zoos as part of an international program to ensure (確保) their survival. Zoo officials say that while reintroducing the Barbary lion into its natural habitat is considered, it remains a distant goal. The Barbary lion once roamed northern Africa but was wiped out due to human activities. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 217-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,443 on turnover of 7.2-billion N-T. The market rebounded from slumps seen during the the previous two sessions on Tuesday following a strong showing on Wall Street overnight. **President Lai Ching-te vows to increase defense budget to more than 3% of **GDP President Lai Ching-te says he plans to increase next year's defense budget to more than 3-per cent of G-D-P. Speaking at the opening of the Ketagalan Forum-Indo-Pacific Security Dialogue in Taipei, Lai said the budget will be increased based on continuing reforms within the island's armed forces and more investment (投資) in national defense. According to Lai, his administration will also continue to boost Taiwan's economic resilience and advance economic security by stepping up trade cooperation with other countries, And Lai also used his opening address to say his government remains committed to maintaining cross-strait "status quo”and ensuring peace and stability across the Taiwan Strait. 10 KMT affiliates indicted in Chiayi for recall petition forgery The Chiayi District Prosecutors' Office has indicted 10 people affiliated with K-M-T for forging 2,067 signatures on a petition to recall D-P-P lawmaker Chen Guan-ting. Those indicted include Yang Fu-cheng, the secretary-general of the K-M-T's Chiayi County branch; Ho Bo-lun, the director of -K-M-T lawmaker Wang Yu-min's local office. The eight other people indicted all worked for the K-M-T' Chiayi County branch. According to the Prosecutors' Office, all 10 suspects have charged with forgery (偽造) and violations of the Personal Data Protection Act. Another eight people have been granted deferred prosecution for one year. NATO to coordinate regular and large-scale arm deliveries to Ukraine NATO is set to coordinate (協調) regular and large-scale arm deliveries to Ukraine The AP's Jennifer King reports. Nigeria Trafficked Birds Seized Nigerian customs have seized over 1,600 parrots and canaries being transported from Lagos to Kuwait without a permit. This is one of the biggest wildlife trafficking seizures in years. On July 31, customs agents seized ring-necked parakeets and green and yellow fronted canaries at Lagos airport. These are protected species. The birds were not accompanied by the required permits. An investigation is ongoing (正在進行的) to find those responsible. The birds will be handed to the National Parks Service for rehabilitation and release. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 挺你所想!與你一起生活的銀行 中國信託行動銀行APP 全新推出「交易中安全提示」防詐騙功能 開啟後,轉帳的同時也在通話,會自動跳出貼心提醒,力挺你的金融安 全 防護再進化,交易好安心! 馬上下載「中國信託行動銀行APP」 https://sofm.pse.is/7zc5n3 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 119-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,498 on turnover of 5.7-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday as selling was triggered by a decline on Wall Street at the end of last week. And analysts say U-S indexes dictated the local main board yesterday as it came under heavy pressure in a knee-jerk reaction to Friday's losses and U-S tariff announcements. Alaska's governor says Taiwan is close to record deal for 6 million tons of LNG The governor of Alaska says Taiwan is close to finalizing a deal to purchase 6-million tons of liquefied natural gas from the U-S state. According to Mike Dunleavy, when completed, it will mark the largest such sale in Alaska's history. The purchase will reportedly account for about 30-per cent of the Alaska L-N-G Project's planned annual output of 20-million tons. The government has not commented on Dunleavy's remarks. However, C-P-C says no information is available on the purchase volume or total cost of the deal as it's still waiting for the finalized (敲定) details from the seller. According to the Energy Administration, the U-S currently supplies 10-per cent of Taiwan's L-N-G, making it the country's third-largest source after Australia and Qatar. Torrential rain in Taiwan causes 5 deaths, 3 missing, 78 injuries The Central Emergency Operation Center has increased the death toll due to the torrential rains that have battered much of the south since July 28 to five. The center says a total of 78 rain related injuries have been reported and three people remain missing. According to the Central Weather Administration, it recorded accumulated rainfall of 292-centimeters in Kaohsiung's Maolin District and 236-centimeters in Pingtung's Wutai Township between 12AM on July 28 and 4PM yesterday. The Ministry of Agriculture is reporting estimated agricultural losses of 260-million N-T. Premier Cho Jung-tai says the Cabinet is set to pass a special bill with more than 30-billion N-T earmarked for rebuilding in the aftermath of Typhoon Danas. India says Trump plans to raise tariffs "unjustified" India's foreign ministry has described US President Trump's declaration that he would "substantially" raise tariffs on imports from India, as "unjustified and unreasonable." President Trump claimed that India is profiting (獲利) by reselling cheap Russian oil on the open market. Kate Fisher reports from Washington Denmark Zoo Asks for Donated Pets as Food for Predators A zoo in Denmark is asking for people to donate small pets as food for its predators. The Aalborg Zoo says it is trying to mimic the natural food chain of the animals housed there and offers assurances the pets will be “gently euthanized” by trained staff. The zoo in northern Denmark explained in a Facebook post that “if you have a healthy animal that needs to be given away for various (各種各樣的) reasons, feel free to donate it to us.” The zoo points to guinea pigs, rabbits and chickens as possible donations. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 174-points this morning from Friday's close, at 23,260 on turnover of 5.8-billion N-T. The market fell into negative territory in Friday after the U-S imposed a 20-per cent tariff on Taiwan's imports. Analysts say investors were caught off guard, as many had been anticipating Taiwan would get a 15-per cent tariff like Japan and South Korea and investors are concerned the higher levy (稅款) will make Taiwan exporters less competitive. Southern Taiwan sees over 2 meters of rain in 7 days The Central Weather Administration says over 2-meters of rainfall fell in parts the south from between July 28 to 9AM on Sunday. According to the administration, Kaohsiung's Taoyuan District saw total rainfall of 220-centimeters, while some 206-centimeters was recorded in Sandimen Township in Pingtung. The weather administration's forecast center says three factors have been contributing to the continuous intensive rainfall in the south. Those being successive southwestern air currents that moved landward, southwesterly winds brought in unstable air that developed into convection currents (對流…) .. .. and the southwesterly winds sweeping into southern Taiwan's mountainous areas causing intense rain in those areas. Village chief in Hualien dismissed over Chinese nationality A village chief in Hualien has dismissed from office over her China nationality status. The move means Teng Wan-hua has becoming the first local official to have been removed from office (撤職) for that reason. Teng served as chief of Xuetian Village in Hualien Fuli Township. According to the Ministry of the Interior, she is one of five village or borough chiefs who were found in January to hold China nationality in violation of the Nationality Act. Teng is denying any wrongdoing - saying she holds an R-O-C Taiwan passport, and not a Chinese one and also doesn't have P-R-C nationality. Israeli Minister Prays at Jerusalem Holy Site A far-right Israeli minister has visited and prayed at Jerusalem's most sensitive holy site, sparking regional condemnation. The visit by Itamar Ben-Gvir threatens to escalate tensions and complicate international efforts to halt Israel's nearly two-year military offensive in Gaza. Palestinian leaders, along with Jordan and Saudi Arabia, have condemned the visit as incitement. The visit followed Hamas' release of videos showing emaciated Israeli hostages that have caused an uproar (騷亂;騷動) in Israel. Meanwhile, hospitals in Gaza say 33 more Palestinians have been killed by Israeli fire while seeking food aid. Israel faces global criticism over famine-like conditions in the besieged strip. UK Oasis Fan Falls to Death During Concert Oasis has expressed shock and sadness after a man fell to his death during their concert at Wembley Stadium in London. The Metropolitan Police said officers and paramedics responded to reports of an injured person just before 10:30 Saturday night. A man in his 40s was found with injuries consistent with (符合) a fall and was pronounced dead at the scene. The police have urged anyone who witnessed the incident or captured it on video to contact them. Oasis offered condolences to the victim's family and friends. Their first tour in 16 years began July 4 in Cardiff, Wales. NZ Woman Faces Charges After Girl Found in Suitcase A New Zealand woman faces a child neglect charge after a bus driver found a 2-year-old girl in a suitcase. Authorities say the incident happened Sunday when the driver noticed movement in the luggage compartment (車廂) during a stop in Kaiwaka, north of Auckland. A detective reports the child was very hot but otherwise unharmed. The girl was taken to a hospital and remained there Sunday night. The woman, whose name has not been released, was charged with ill-treatment or neglect of a child and was due in court Monday. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 224-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,318 on turnover of $6.3-billion N-T. The market bucked a regional downward trend on Thursday and moved higher, as investors shrugged off a decline on Wall Street overnight caused by concerns that U-S Federal Reserve may not deliver interest rates cuts by September. Turnover also bounced back (恢復) from the decline seen during the previous session - as investor concerns over U-S tariff polices on Taiwan appeared to weaken. MOC launches new cultural program in tandem with Expo 2025 Osaka The Ministry of Culture says cultural program organized for Expo 2025 Osaka will premiere this weekend with a special exhibition featuring 50 selected picture books about various aspects of life in Taiwan. According to the ministry, the "We TAIWAN" cultural program is designed to partner with and make the most of the 2025 World Expo. The ministry says teams that left for Osaka last week have been setting up exhibitions (展覽) and rehearsing for the program - and the main "We TAIWAN" visual display has been set-up at the Grand Green Osaka venue. The first event of the program will be an exhibition of 50 picture books by Taiwanese writers and illustrators. The show will also feature elements from Taiwan's Indigenous Peoples, local folklore, daily life, as well as Taiwan's food culture, religions, arts and natural scenery (自然風光). The "We TAIWAN" program features 38 groups of artists from Taiwan and Japan who will put on a total of 129 performances from August 2 through 20. US special envoy meets Netanyahu as Gaza "famine" unfolds US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff has met Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem as global outrage intensifies over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Canada is the latest Western power to say it will recognise (正式認定) a Palestinian state. Kate fisher reports from Washington Macao ExDemocracy Lawmaker Arrested Under Security Law Macao police say they have arrested a man on suspicion of colluding with forces outside the Chinese casino hub to endanger national security. It was the first publicly known arrest under the city's national security law. Local media outlets report former pro-democracy lawmaker Au Kam San is the suspect. Police said Thursday the 68-year-old Macao resident with the surname Au allegedly colluded (串通;勾結;) with an anti-China group outside of the city and provided false and seditious materials for public display online or abroad. He also is accused of maintaining long-term contact with multiple anti-China entities outside of Macao and repeatedly providing unfounded information to them or their media outlets for dissemination. Peru PreIncan Tombs Discovered Utility workers in Peru's capital have discovered two pre-Incan tombs while expanding underground gas networks. One tomb was empty, but the other contained remains about 1,000 years old, along with clay and pumpkin shell vessels (容器, 器皿). Archaeologists say the vessels' (容器, 器皿) design links them to the pre-Incan Chancay culture. Lima, a city with over 400 archaeological sites, often reveals such finds during construction projects. The company responsible for the gas network has made over 2,200 discoveries in two decades. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下為 SoundOn 動態廣告---- 遠東商銀《爸媽不是ATM 建立孩子正確的金錢觀》親子理財直播講座 邀請薩提爾溝通引導講師李崇義和遠銀個金事業群副總經理張小倩教你如何和孩子「談錢說愛」 ♥️ 8/23 14:00 YouTube《小遠贏了》開播 ♥️ 參加直播抽老爺酒店住宿券 ♥️️ 活動報名:https://sofm.pse.is/7za4n3 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Rain Storms and Purple Rain Warning Lai apologizes for recall defeat and vows support for August 23 votes Government to spend NT$100bn on flood control US Fed keeps interest rates steady More killings in Gaza as people seek food -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
打造綠能與AI科技的示範驗證場域,串聯嘉義、南科、高雄及屏東等園區,大南方智慧轉型的關鍵樞紐,歡迎一同探索沙崙智慧綠能科學城,共創智慧未來! 參訪進駐資訊請至 https://sofm.pse.is/7y3jcw 網站查詢 經濟部能源署/臺南市政府經濟發展局(廣告) -- 挺你所想!與你一起生活的銀行 中國信託行動銀行APP 全新推出「交易中安全提示」防詐騙功能 開啟後,轉帳的同時也在通話,會自動跳出貼心提醒,力挺你的金融安全 防護再進化,交易好安心! 馬上下載「中國信託行動銀行APP」 https://sofm.pse.is/7y3jct ----以上訊息由 SoundOn 動態廣告贊助商提供---- Tai-Ex opening up CWA's rain advisories for central and southern Taiwan Premier visits flood-hit Tainan Tsunami warnings for Japan, Alaska, Hawaii IMF raises global growth forecast -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened marginally higher this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,414 on turnover of 4.7-billion N-T. The market ended the day in positive territory on Monday, as investors reacted to the U-S' trade deal with the European Union and await the outcome of two-days of tariff talks between Washington and Beijing - which are taking place in Stockholm. Taipei MRT Wenhu Line Resumes After Morning Disruptions Taipei's Wen-hu MRT line has mostly resumed (恢復) normal operations after a system alert and disruptions earlier this morning. Around 8am today, the Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation reported a train alert message on the Wenhu Line, between Dazhi Station and Taipei Zoo Station in the direction of Taipei Zoo, was impacting train operations. This alert led to longer train stops and increased waiting times on platforms. Taipei Metro says the line has resumed operations, after advising passengers to allow an extra 15 minutes for their commute (通勤). The corporation says passengers who have questions regarding tickets or refunds can check at information counters or on the MRT's official website or the Taipei Metro GO app. (NS) CWB issues rain alerts And, The Central Weather Administration has issued rain advisories (公告,警告) for part of the island. Torrential rain alerts are in effect for Tainan, Kaohsiung and Pingtung. Extremely heavy rain warnings have been issued for Chiayi, Punghu and mountainous area of Taitung. While heavy rain advisories are in effect for Keelung and the North Coast area, New Taipei, Taipei, Taoyuan, Hsinchu, Chungua, Nantou, Yunlin and low lying areas of Taitung. All of the advisories will remain in effect through tonight. Trump cuts 50-day deadline for Russia to make a peace deal with Ukraine US President Donald Trump has reduced his 50-day deadline for Russia to make a peace deal with Ukraine, giving the Kremlin less than two-weeks to end the war or face massive (大量的,巨大的) secondary tariffs. The President set the new deadline ahead of a meeting with the UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer in Scotland. Toni Waterman has more from Washington Colombia President Found Guilty of Witness Tampering and Bribery Former Colombian President Alvaro Uribe has been found guilty of witness tampering and bribery charges. The ruling was announced on Monday by a judge in the country's capital, following a nearly six-month trial in which prosecutors presented evidence that Uribe attempted to influence witnesses who accused the leader of having links to a paramilitary group founded in the 1990s. Uribe faces up to 12 years in prison and the sentencing will be delivered in a separate (不同的) hearing. He is expected to appeal the ruling in a high court. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下訊息由 SoundOn 動態廣告贊助商提供---- 挺你所想!與你一起生活的銀行 中國信託行動銀行APP 全新推出「交易中安全提示」防詐騙功能 開啟後,轉帳的同時也在通話,會自動跳出貼心提醒,力挺你的金融安全 防護再進化,交易好安心! 馬上下載「中國信託行動銀行APP」 https://sofm.pse.is/7y3du3 -- 打造綠能與AI科技的示範驗證場域,串聯嘉義、南科、高雄及屏東等園區,大南方智慧轉型的關鍵樞紐,歡迎一同探索沙崙智慧綠能科學城,共創智慧未來! 參訪進駐資訊請至 https://sofm.pse.is/7y4e9k 網站查詢 經濟部能源署/臺南市政府經濟發展局(廣告) -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 112-points this morning from Friday's close, at 23,477 on turnover of 7.3-billion N-T. The market closed marginally lower on Friday ahead of strong technical resistance near the 23,500-point intraday-high mark and renewed concerns over U-S tariff policies. Work and School Cancellations Due to Rain School and work have been cancelled in parts of central Taiwan due to heavy rain and flooding. The Directorate-General of Personnel Administration says all of Chiayi County, as well as Shui-lin Township in Yunlin County will suspend work and classes, as both areas see precipitation through last night. Local officials are reporting flooding along several roadways and homes, up to 30 centimeters high, and hundreds of water pumps (抽水機) have been deployed. Forecasters say more thunderstorms are expected this afternoon, and they are advising the public to be on the lookout for more flooding as well as landslides. (NS) MAC bemoans China's recall comments The Mainland Affairs Council is slamming China's Taiwan Affairs Office for accusing the D-P-P of "political manipulation" and of saying it has lost public support following this past weekend's failed recall votes targeting 24 K-M-T lawmakers. According to the council, Beijing's "lack of democratic experience" means it has no right to comment on, or misinterpret (曲解), Taiwan's democratic system. The council is describing the recall vote as an example of Taiwan's democratic constitutional system and a major democratic achievement by civil society groups. The comments come after China's Taiwan Affairs Office issued a statement saying the D-P-P "has lost popular support and its policies run counter to the true mainstream public opinion in Taiwan." NKorea Rebuffs SKorea Efforts at Ties The influential sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has rebuffed (回絕) outreach by South Korea's new liberal government, saying that North Korea has no interests in talks with South Korea for whatever proposal its rival offers. It's North Korea's first official statement on the government of South Korean President Lee Jae Myung, which took office in early June. In an effort to improve badly frayed ties with North Korea, Lee's government has halted anti-Pyongyang frontline loudspeaker broadcasts, taken steps to ban activists from flying balloons with propaganda leaflets across the border and repatriated North Koreans who were drifted (漂流) south in wooden boats months earlier. Kim Yo Jong called such steps “sincere efforts” but she said the Lee government won't be much different from its predecessors, citing what it calls “their blind trust” to the military alliance with the U.S. and attempt to “stand in confrontation” with North Korea. US Terrorism Assault Charges for Walmart Attacker Authorities seek to file terrorism and assault (攻擊) charges against suspect in Walmart knife attack AP correspondent Julie Walker reports That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下訊息由 SoundOn 動態廣告贊助商提供---- 挺你所想!與你一起生活的銀行 中國信託行動銀行APP 全新推出「交易中安全提示」防詐騙功能 開啟後,轉帳的同時也在通話,會自動跳出貼心提醒,力挺你的金融安全 防護再進化,交易好安心! 馬上下載「中國信託行動銀行APP」 https://sofm.pse.is/7xtwsg -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 81-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,455 on turnover of $5.2-billion N-T. The market continued to gain ground on Thursday, but the day's gains were limited by strong technical resistance near the 23,500-point mark and renewed concerns over U-S tariff policies. Rita Jhang Interview (part B) Many Taiwanese voters are heading to the polls tomorrow to vote in recalls targeting 24 KMT lawmakers across the country, plsu suspended TPP Hsinchu Mayor Gao Hong An. ICRT spoke with academic and former secretary general of Green Party Taiwan, Dr. Rita Jhang, who described who has driven this movement. ***** Although she emphasized that there is hope in the new volunteers' participation, Jhang also raised concerns about increasing polarization (極化) and violence directed towards recall volunteers. Ukraine New Bill Restoring Independence of AntiCorruption Agencies Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has submitted a new bill restoring the independence of the country's anti-corruption agencies. Zelenskyy said on Thursday the new bill that was sent to parliament for review “guarantees real strengthening of Ukraine's law enforcement system, the independence of anti-corruption bodies, and reliable protection of the legal system from any Russian interference (干涉).” The two main agencies quickly welcomed the new bill. The development seeks to defuse tensions caused by his earlier approval of a controversial law placing them under his authority. That sparked a public outcry and protests, the first major demonstrations since the war began, as well as sharp criticism from the European Union. Trump spars with Fed chair over building renovations US President Donald Trump has made an unusual visit to the Federal Reserve's headquarters to inspect (檢查) the building's renovation… and continue his criticism of Fed Chair Jerome Powell. The president has been pressuring Powell to lower interest rates. Ira Spitzer reports. Italy Banksy Artwork Removed for Restoration and Display Art restorers have removed a deteriorating piece of graffiti by the street artist Banksy titled “The Migrant Child” from the side of a building overlooking a Venetian canal. It's a project to preserve the work for future public display. The removal and restoration is being financed by the Venice-based Banca Ifis carried out in consultation with people close to the secretive British street artist. The artwork depicting a shipwrecked child holding a pink smoke bomb and wearing a lifejacket appeared along Rio di San Pantalon in Venice in May 2019. The bank intends to display the work to the public as part of free cultural events organized by Ifis art once restoration (修復) is completed. No time frame was given. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下訊息由 SoundOn 動態廣告贊助商提供---- 打造綠能與AI科技的示範驗證場域,串聯嘉義、南科、高雄及屏東等園區,大南方智慧轉型的關鍵樞紐,歡迎一同探索沙崙智慧綠能科學城,共創智慧未來! 參訪進駐資訊請至 https://sofm.pse.is/7xxgvs 網站查詢 經濟部能源署/臺南市政府經濟發展局(廣告) -- 挺你所想!與你一起生活的銀行 中國信託行動銀行APP 全新推出「交易中安全提示」防詐騙功能 開啟後,轉帳的同時也在通話,會自動跳出貼心提醒,力挺你的金融安全 防護再進化,交易好安心! 馬上下載「中國信託行動銀行APP」 https://sofm.pse.is/7xs2es -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
挺你所想!與你一起生活的銀行 中國信託行動銀行APP 全新推出「交易中安全提示」防詐騙功能 開啟後,轉帳的同時也在通話,會自動跳出貼心提醒,力挺你的金融安全 防護再進化,交易好安心! 馬上下載「中國信託行動銀行APP」 https://sofm.pse.is/7xxj4c ----以上訊息由 SoundOn 動態廣告贊助商提供---- CTFA revokes suspended coach's license over bullying case Former Taipei Mayor Ko Wen-je's office head posts bail in corruption trial ICJ Delivers Ruling on Climate Change Turkey Rescuers Died Fighting Wildfire Iran Holds Public Holiday for Heatwave -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened up 75-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,063 on turnover of 5.3-billion N-T. The market came under heavy pressure on Tuesday - tumbling more than 350-points - amid increasing investors concerns over U-S tariff threats. Analyst says many investors are now turning downbeat about the ongoing tariff talks with the U-S - as the negotiations have yet to yield any conclusions. Competing rallies planned ahead of recall votes The D-P-P and the K-M-T are set to hold competing rallies on Ketagalan Boulevard in Taipei later this week as they make a final push ahead of Saturday's batch of recall votes targeting 24 K-M-T lawmakers. The D-P-P will be holding a rally there on Thursday. And according to the "Oppose CCP, Safeguard Taiwan Alliance," a livestreamed (直播) rally will also be held on Friday night on Jinan Road. Meanwhile, the K-M-T is set to hold a rally on Friday night on Ketagalan Boulevard. Traffic restrictions will be in place in the area on both days. 12 imported cases of dengue fever reported last week The Centers for Disease Control is reporting 12 new imported dengue fever cases. According to the C-D-C, the cases were recorded from July 15 through 21 and it's the highest single-weekly total this year. The C-D-C's Epidemic Intelligence Center says the cases came Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam, Myanmar and Cambodia. A total of 109 confirmed imported cases of the mosquito-borne disease have been reported here in Taiwan so far this year and 91.7-per cent of them have come from Southeast Asia. Indonesia accounted for (佔) the most with 45 cases. US agrees trade & security deal with Philippines The US and the Philippines have agreed a trade deal that will see goods (商品) from the Southeast Asian country face a 19% tariff. US President Donald Trump announced the news following a visit from the nation's President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Nick Harper reports from Washington. Syria Finds Thousand Deaths in Sectarian Violence A Syrian government investigation says more than 1,400 people died in sectarian (宗派的) violence along the coast earlier this year. The clashes began in March after armed groups loyal to former President Bashar Assad attacked security forces of the new government. Retaliation led to widespread violence against civilians, with sectarian motives largely driven by revenge. Meanwhile, recent violence in Sweida province has displaced over 128-thousand people. The Syrian Red Crescent reports dire (嚴重的;危急的) conditions with shortages of supplies and damaged infrastructure. Aid deliveries have started, but concerns remain about the long-term displacement. British Wreck Found on Scottish Beach Archaeologists have identified a 250-year-old shipwreck uncovered on a remote Scottish beach. The 18th-century naval warship and whaling vessel called the Earl of Chatham was revealed (露出) in February 2024 after a storm swept away sand. Local farmers and researchers worked together to recover the ship's 12 tons of oak timbers. Experts traced the ship's history using tree-ring dating (樹木年輪學) and historical records. It was originally named HMS Hind and it served in the American War of Independence before becoming a whaling ship. It was wrecked off Sanday in 1788. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. -- Hosting provided by SoundOn
Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 38-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 23,301 on turnover of 5.2-billion N-T. The market lost ground on Monday as Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing fell into consolidation mode on the back of lingering concerns over U-S tariff policies. US House approves 'Honest Maps' amendment targeting China's depiction of Taiwan The U-S House has passed an amendment banning the Defense Department from creating, buying, or displaying any map that shows Taiwan as part of the People's Republic of China. The "Honest Maps" amendment was proposed by Republican Representative Tom Tiffany and approved as part of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act for the 2026 fiscal year. The amendment prohibits using any funds from the Act to create, buy, or display maps that show Taiwan, Kinmen, Matsu, Penghu, Wuciou, Green Island, or Orchid Island as part of the P-R-C. The Act includes 831.5-billion U-S dollars in discretionary (自行決定的) spending. Officials deny 32% US tariff rumors Economics minister Kuo Jyh-huei is dismissing claims that the U-S has already set a 32-per cent tariff rate for Taiwan. Speaking at a legislative hearing, Kuo said he has no idea where the rumors came from and he remains confident that Taiwan can negotiate a lower tariff rate than the 25-per cent given to Japan and South Korea. Cabinet spokesperson Michelle Lee is also denying the rumors (謠言) about the tariff rate - saying the government has yet to receive any notification from Washington. The statements come after former Broadcasting Corporation of China Chairman Jaw Shaw-kang made the claim about the 32-per cent tariff rate for Taiwan. Vice Premier Cheng Li-chun is leading a delegation to the U-S this week for a fourth round of tariff negotiations. HARVARD ARGUES WHITE HOUSE VIOLATED CONSTITUTION OVER FUNDING FREEZE Harvard University lawyers argued in a Boston court on Monday that the Trump administration blatantly violated the U.S. Constitution by freezing federal funding. It follows the White House freezing (停止) around two billion dollars' worth of grants to the elite (精英) private university in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Mitch McCann reports: Milan Mayor Denies Wrongdoing in Real Estate Probe Milan's mayor says he will not step down in the face of a sweeping probe into the city's massive urban development over the last two decades. The city's top urban development official resigned while denying wrongdoing. Milan prosecutors last week announced the investigation into Milan's real estate boom that has seen skyscrapers transform the city's skyline and entire neighborhoods rebuilt. It includes the construction of a new Olympic village for the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games. The investigation targets more than 70 people for a system of corruption that prosecutors allege made Italy's financial and fashion capital “a commodity to be plundered (被掠奪).' That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. ----以下訊息由 SoundOn 動態廣告贊助商提供---- 挺你所想!與你一起生活的銀行 中國信託行動銀行APP 全新推出「交易中安全提示」防詐騙功能 開啟後,轉帳的同時也在通話,會自動跳出貼心提醒,力挺你的金融安全 防護再進化,交易好安心! 馬上下載「中國信託行動銀行APP」 https://sofm.pse.is/7xxgu3 -- Hosting provided by SoundOn