The State of Taiwan: "Eating Other People's Melons, Leveling Up Our Own"
Welcome back to the channel. Today we're shifting our slogan to "eating other people's melons, leveling up our own." We'll be diving into many issues, as I've been dedicating the last 8 months primarily to work. This has limited my time for editing, potentially impacting the video quality compared to before. I apologize in advance for this.
Current Issues in Taiwan
Let's discuss the pressing matters. This follows our previous video, elaborating on why I chose to leave Taiwan. I'll share my thoughts while on the road, as this topic is closely tied to my personal situation. Do you perceive chaos in Taiwan? I've addressed this on YouTube and Facebook extensively, yet the situation has deteriorated rapidly in the past six months. The current atmosphere resembles Germany in 1937-1938, during the rise of Nazi Germany.
This era was marked by the suppression of dissenting voices as the Nazis consolidated power. It's disturbing to witness such a shift in Taiwan, a place historically known for its gentle and tolerant nature. Observe the scene I'm showing. If you're a rational individual, you likely share my unease about this transformation.
Concerns Regarding Information Sources and Public Discourse
My concern lies with figures like "Ba Jiong," whom I consider an unreliable source of information. If someone tells me they regularly watch Ba Jiong's YouTube channel, I question their critical thinking and ability to evaluate information. I personally avoid such sources due to their inaccuracy.
I am troubled by the actions of a YouTuber in what appears to be a public space, perhaps near a subway station in the Eastern District. This individual uses aggressive and confrontational tactics to address those holding differing opinions. This is a worrying phenomenon.
Potential Consequences and Parallels to History
What makes this alarming is the apparent acceptance of such behavior by bystanders. If this trend continues unchecked, what will Taiwan become? I believe nobody wants this outcome. The unsettling reality is this could become the new normal. Germany, historically known for its high standards, implemented compulsory education early on, albeit initially aimed at producing factory workers. Regardless, it elevated overall national standards, mirroring Taiwan's present situation.
Economic Pressures and National Pride
A prevalent theory suggests that economic pressures and the burden of World War I reparations shattered Germany's national pride. The war debts crippled the post-war economy, severely impacting people's livelihoods and self-worth. People with no money are in despair. Does this resonate with Taiwan today?
While Taiwan's thriving technology sector is undeniable, how many people does it actually employ? Even including the Science Parks and related industries, it barely covers one-tenth of the population. What about the remaining nine-tenths, particularly those in the cultural, publishing, retail, and food service sectors? How do they navigate this landscape, unable to benefit directly from the tech boom?
The Technology Sector and International Investments
Remember the events of early April? TSMC's commitment to invest an additional $160 billion in US factories confirms my previous prediction: Taiwan's technology sector will be relocated overseas.
Furthermore, consider Donald Trump's possible return to power. He is not known for compromise. If these predictions materialize, Taiwan faces significant economic, political, and military pressures, leading to the current state of chaos. This is the result of excessive pressure in politics, economy, and people's livelihood.
The Specter of War and Societal Division
One might argue that I'm exaggerating, suggesting imminent war. However, this isn't my claim. News outlets across Taiwan and globally, including CNN, BBC, and Al Jazeera, are echoing similar concerns. I foresaw this situation last year. That's why I chose to be abroad. It's clear that I am not in Taipei.
What lies ahead? As our new slogan suggests, we must prepare for the worst. The current situation will only worsen. The scene with Ba Jiong is merely a precursor. Even more alarming is the potential success of recall efforts.
Erosion of Reason and Suppression of Dissent
Don't dismiss the possibility, assuming rationality will prevail. The onlookers in the Ba Jiong video, seemingly condoning the harassment of someone with differing views, don't inspire confidence in their ability to engage in rational, democratic discourse.
While the majority of Taiwanese society likely values democracy and open communication, the loudest voices are often the least receptive to dialogue. The next phase involves the amplification of these voices, leading to the relentless silencing of others, labeled as "non-belongers."
The result is a distorted reality where only their voices are heard, creating a false impression of widespread agreement. This is chilling, reminiscent of scenarios that seemed impossible in Taiwan just months ago. Yet, they've become reality: the tech sector weakened, societal pressures intensified, and Taiwan society looks different now.
Political Purges and Military Threats
The next steps could involve the complete elimination of dissenting voices, especially those opposed to the ruling party. Opposition parties will be forced into subservience or outright elimination.
Furthermore, expect increasingly frequent and intrusive military exercises by China, potentially reaching the point where their forces are visible from Taiwan's shores.
I'm not exaggerating. They will continue to claim these are merely exercises while normalizing their presence, blurring the lines between drills and invasion. Logistics and supplies can be concealed, even in seemingly civilian vehicles.
Restrictions on Travel and Mandatory Military Service
Restrictions on foreign exchange, international travel, and tourism may be imposed, mirroring practices seen in mainland China and potentially Hong Kong. Recent reports of passport shortages may be a precursor to such measures, effectively confining people within the country. Why restrict travel? To facilitate conscription. How else can the government guarantee soldiers?
The final point: I predict that President Lai Ching-te will announce the reinstatement of two-year mandatory military service this year. This may sound impossible, but consider the recent images from Ukraine, where fathers were being conscripted immediately after dropping their children off at school. Lai may follow this model.
Hope Amidst Uncertainty
Fortunately, we have music and fellow countrymen who love Taiwan. Never assume anything is impossible. Too many things are possible. Continue to follow my channel as we analyze what surprises the government might give us. I will also be offering courses and, yes, I will make money from them. Join me to prepare for what's ahead, even if that requires paid courses.
I encourage you to make decisions freely, driven by your own will, living boldly. Goodbye. I will see you soon.