Taipei: Taiwan’s first National Archives, located in Linkou, New Taipei, has drawn more than 100,000 visitors since its soft opening on September 2. The archives feature exhibits on the nation’s high-tech development and documents by Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. (TSMC) founder Morris Chang, according to the National Archives Administration (NAA).
According to Focus Taiwan, a centerpiece of the archives is the permanent exhibition “Island Reading: Our Story.” This exhibition presents rare government records chronicling Taiwan’s economic transformation and the roots of its high-tech industry in the 1970s and 1980s. Among the highlights are documents related to the establishment of the Industrial Technology Research Institute and Chang’s policy proposals outlining a blueprint for the country’s electronics sector.
One notable exhibit showcases Chang’s 1981 recommendations to the Executive Yuan, where he urged a transition from labor-intensive to technology-driven industries. This vision played a significant role in shaping Taiwan’s rise as a global technology hub.
The archives’ first to third floors are open to the public and include permanent and special exhibitions, a children’s interactive area, cultural and creative shops, and a caf©. The upper floors house professional facilities for the preservation, maintenance, and research of archival materials.
NAA Director Lin Chiu-yen stated that public enthusiasm since the September 2 trial opening has far exceeded expectations. The agency is working on improving visitor flow and signage ahead of the official opening on November 22, which will coincide with the NAA’s 25th anniversary.
