The inaugural World Indigenous Traditional Games is scheduled for December 10 to 12 in Pingtung and Kaohsiung. On November 28, the torch relay traveled from Pingtung to Taitung’s South Link region, beginning in Daren Township and then passing through Dawu, Jinfeng, and Taimali. The goal of the torch relay is to foster interaction among ethnic groups, showcase local communities, and highlight the distinct characteristics of each culture.
The CIP Deputy Minister accompanied the torch team to Taitung County for the relay, with Daren Township being the first to receive the torch. The Mayor of Daren Township expressed his hope that the torch, symbolizing brightness and continuity, would travel across the country and allow more people to experience the strength of Indigenous culture.
Chen, Shin-Hu, Daren Township Mayor: “The first stop for the torch in Taitung County is Daren Township. We hope the torch will be successfully relayed nationwide, and that our athletes will achieve outstanding results in the Games.”
Adralriw Abaliusu, CIP Deputy Minister: “The torch relay, in my view, represents the spirit and passion of the athletes at the World Indigenous Traditional Games. Additionally, the torch allows us to experience the perpetual continuity of Indigenous culture.”
The torch was carried through the four South Link townships of Daren, Dawu, Jinfeng, and Taimali. The relay is scheduled to spend three days in Taitung, traveling along the Taitung coast and the East Longitudinal Valley, and then crossing over to Lanyu. The Deputy Minister noted that the torch relay showcases Taiwan’s rich cultural diversity, and encouraged local residents to attend the event and cheer for the athletes.
CIP Deputy Minister Adralriw Abaliusu shared: “We encourage our fellow citizens to bring their families on December 10 and come to either Laiyi Senior High School in Pingtung or Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung, and join us in cheering for the athletes of the World Indigenous Traditional Games.”
This major international sporting event centers on “Indigenous peoples,” bringing together Indigenous athletes from around the world to gather in Taiwan. Through traditional competitions and cultural exchange, the Games aim to highlight the spirit of Indigenous sports and the vitality of Indigenous cultures.