Deputy Minister Chiu stated that many Hakka people brought that same spirit when moving to New Taipei in search of better opportunities. Whether the pole carrying or traditional raising of large pigs for sacrifice, these all represent the Hakka Ngi Min’ia religious customs. They serve to commemorate the people who sacrificed their lives to protect their homeland, a sense of loyalty worth being passed down through the ages.
A number of distinguished guests graced the event, including HAC Deputy Minister Chiu, Legislator Su Chiao-hui, Legislator Chang Chih-lun, Legislator Yeh Yuan-chih, New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih, Director General Liu Kuan-yin of the Hakka Affairs Department, New Taipei City Government, and Deputy Speaker Chen Hung-yuan of the New Taipei City Council.
This year’s New Taipei City Hakka Yimin Festival was themed on “Transforming New Taipei Together”, carrying forward the love of the homeland and group cohesiveness of the Hakka forebears. The pole carrying parade especially invited drag performers from the Haus of Wind and the music band J Hall to give thrilling shows this year, fusing tradition with modern creativity. Multiple other talent and singing performances were arranged for the occasion, connecting Hakka culture with modern vibrancy to exhilarate spectators.
