Office of the President Republic of China(Taiwan)

President Ma Ying-jeou traveled to Chiayi City on the evening of July 2 to attend the opening ceremonies for the 2011 World Association for Symphonic Bands and Ensembles (WASBE) Conference and the 20th Chiayi City International Band Festival. The president enjoyed the various performances and had a pleasant evening listening to the music with the crowd.

In remarks, the president noted that Chiayi City has a population of only 270,000 people, but has been able to hold the International Band Festival year in and year out. This year is particularly special, as the festival is being held together with the WASBE annual conference. President Ma said that while buildings and public works can help create a city's infrastructure, what truly makes a great city is its culture. He pointed out that Chiayi's thriving culture makes it a great city despite having a limited population. The president expressed his best wishes for a successful festival and conference.

Earlier in the day, the president paid a visit to the Associated Chiayi City Chiayi Charity and its director Tseng Mao-sen (曾茂森). The president expressed his admiration for the charitable activities carried out and donations made by the organization over the years. President Ma said he believes every person has the instinct to do good, adding that he hopes the Chiayi Charity will help foster a virtuous cycle that induces even more people to do good deeds and give back to society. After concluding his visit to the organization, the president then headed to Wenhua Night Market to sample some of the local treats on offer. He received an enthusiastic welcome from the public while browsing through the market and said that the enthusiasm of the people of Chiayi and the delicious food there left a deep impression on him.