To promote the spirit of Yimin, a collective phrase for Hakka martyrs who sacrificed their lives to defend their homeland, Hakka Affairs Council (HAC) Minster Lee Yung-de attended ceremonies relating to the 2019 Hakka Yimin Festival in New Taipei City and Taoyuan City on Aug. 11.

Co-organized by HAC and the Hakka Affairs Department of New Taipei City, the Yimin Festival took place at the Hakka Cultural Park in Sanxia District from Aug. 10 to 12. The main worship ceremony was attended by officials from the Papua New Guinea Trade Office in Taiwan, ambassadors and representatives from 14 countries, international students, and local Hakka residents. In Lee’s statement, he said that this year’s edition is different from those held in previous years because of these foreign friends who were invited to explore Hakka heritage.

Minister Lee and New Taipei City Mayor Hou You-yi (侯友宜) first officiated the worship ceremony together, leading attendees to perform the ancient ritual and pray for the prosperity of Taiwan and Hakka culture.

Minister Lee thanked Mayor Hou and his team of government officials for being devoted to Hakka affairs, adding that he was impressed by the people’s active participation. On behalf of President Tsai Ing-wen, Lee noted that Tsai, who is of Hakka descent, places great emphasis on Hakka matters and often praises the loyalty and bravery of the Yimin. She vows to continue promoting Hakka culture and boosting the industrial development of Hakka settlements, added Lee.

A series of activities was held at the three-day festival in New Taipei City, including traditional opera performances, talent shows, and a graffiti demonstration. In addition, Hakka creative stores also displayed exquisite indigo dye products made by local villagers and vocational school students. Those who took part in the festival surely experienced the richness of Hakka history and culture.