Chief Secretary Betty Hu of the Ministry of Digital Affairs (the MODA) led the   Forward-looking Infrastructure Development Program and Telecommunications Universal Service Committee members to inspect Kinmen County’s communication network infrastructure achievements on 11th November. Through the “Golden 5G, AI Coming” event, Kimen County demonstrated various applications of 5G and AI technologies in healthcare, education, and cultural tourism to the public. Chief Secretary Hu also exchanged ideas with Kinmen County Magistrate Chen Fu-hai and his team on strengthening digital infrastructure and applications in Kinmen.

MODA pointed out that to enhance Kinmen’s communication network resilience and universalize high-speed communication networks, it has sped up the deployment of high-speed communication networks through the Telecommunications Business Universal Service Fund and the Forward-looking Infrastructure Development Program. The MODA also expanded the microwave system capacity between Kinmen and Taiwan’s main island with significant results. Additionally, the  MODA has installed low-orbit satellite terminal equipment in Kinmen, which, through joint testing with the Kinmen County Government, ensures the ability to maintain essential and secure communication in emergencies.

As of the third quarter of 2024, the 4G and 5G mobile network coverage in Kinmen County has exceeded 99%, while the household coverage of 100 Mbps fixed broadband internet is over 97%. In addition to high-speed broadband subsea cables, there is also a backup microwave network with a capacity of 3.5 Gbps connecting Kinmen to Taiwan’s main island, which ensures a robust communication network. To encourage the local community to use high-speed broadband networks for industrial transformation and to inspire innovative application services, the MODA, in collaboration with telecom operators, demonstrated One-Stop Remote AI Clinics, 5G Telemedicine Demonstrations, AI Smart Heritage, Smart Education and other digital services, allow the public to experience the applications and development of 5G and AI technologies.

On the 12th, the MODA visited Sikuo Elementary School in Lieyu Township to inspect local communications network coverage achievements. The MODA, with the Department of Education and school faculty and students, experienced digital applications such as AR story theater, VR baseball experience, and telemedicine to understand how high-speed broadband networks are changing learning methods and providing diverse education opportunities.

MODA emphasized its commitment to encouraging telecom companies to expand high-speed broadband networks in remote areas like the outlying islands, using solutions such as the installation of subsea cables, microwaves, and satellite equipment to enhance the resilience of communication networks. The MODA will also continue to promote industrial transformation, digital economic development, and a range of digital innovation services.