Shizi Township holds Millet Harvest Festival and sports meet

Shizi Township in Pingtung County held its annual sports meet and Millet Harvest Festival from August 21 to 23. Despite heavy rain affecting local transportation, the event combined Paiwan traditional rituals, cultural performances, and athletic competitions to promote tribal heritage and community cohesion.

Legislator Su Ching-chuan attended the event to support indigenous welfare and infrastructure. Su advocated for improved medical care and education in remote areas, noting the gap in healthcare access between urban and rural regions. He also proposed a welfare policy where indigenous residents aged 55 and older could be exempt from National Health Insurance premiums without wealth-based restrictions.

Additionally, Su emphasized the need for upgrading grassroots sports facilities. He noted that while many indigenous youths possess natural athletic talent in track and field or basketball, a lack of local training resources often forces them to leave their homes, leading to a loss of local talent.