Hakka Affairs Council (HAC) Deputy Minister Chung Kung-chao (鍾孔炤) attended a result presentation of the “Youth Helping Hand (後生添手團)” program in Miaoli’s Dahu Township on Dec. 10 to promote regional revitalization in Hakka settlements.

Chung said that HAC has long encouraged Hakka youth to return to their hometowns and develop businesses of their own, adding that young people can rely on their creativity and resourcefulness to market local agricultural products. Chung also invited the public to visit Miaoli more especially during this time when people cannot travel abroad due to the Covid-19 pandemic. Every Hakka settlement has its own distinctive beauty, the deputy minister added, recommending that this is a good season for visitors to pick strawberries—Dahu’s well-known farm produce.

The Youth Helping Hand program has been carried out in 12 villages of Miaoli’s Dahu area, aiming to support young people to build their careers in Miaoli through helping local youth regularly organize activities.

The first stage of the program focuses on the investigation of local community environment. The primary databases of industries, culture, and landscapes about the area have been completed.

The first stage of the program also helped a group “Young Power (返青富民)” to create their own brand “Eat Well (好好食飯),” an outdoor dining activity for participants to enjoy a meal made with local ingredients. Group members try to integrate local industries with Hakka culture, enabling people to experience life in Hakka villages.

In addition to continuing to promote young people’s return to their hometowns, the second stage of the program accentuates community cohesion and the prospect of long term development. Furthermore, a workshop established in Dahu will be operated sustainably for local youth to facilitate civic participation, deepening the connection with the community.