1. Matta’an Creek Landslide Lake Excavation Completed, President Honors Team

The disaster mitigation project at Hualien’s Matta’an Creek landslide lake, launched in December, has completed its first phase of dam excavation, reducing the lake's water volume from 279,000 to 26,000 cubic meters and significantly lowering potential risks. President Lai Ching-te presented gifts on January 30, delivered by Deputy Minister of Agriculture Du Wen-jen, to thank frontline workers for their dedication in navigating harsh conditions and ensuring safety. The Forestry and Nature Conservation Agency noted that sediment buildup and the dry season allowed tracked machinery access, but the site remained challenging, with falling rocks striking equipment. Strict safety protocols prevented any injuries. Working in remote mountain valleys with only radio communication, the team advanced cautiously, adapting to unstable slopes, rockfall, and weather changes. Deputy Minister Du praised their professionalism and commitment on behalf of the President.

2. Fresh Seafood for the Lunar New Year: Holiday Fish Fair Kicks Off in Taipei

To help the public conveniently purchase domestic seafood ahead of the Lunar New Year, Taiwan’s Fisheries Agency is partnering with the National Fishermen’s Associations to host the “Celebrate the New Year with Fresh Seafood” fair on January 31 at Taipei Hope Plaza. The event features 17 regional fishermen’s associations, the Taipei Fish Market, and aquaculture groups from Chiayi, Pingtung, and Tainan. Products on offer include golden pomfret, grouper, tilapia, golden perch, mackerel, white shrimp, eel, and holiday specialties such as mullet roe, flying fish roe sausage, cuttlefish balls, milkfish floss egg rolls, and collagen jelly drinks. Seafood gift sets and festive gift boxes are also available, with limited-time promotions and discounts to encourage the use of seasonal domestic seafood in holiday meals. Chefs at the fair will demonstrate quick and versatile recipes using fresh domestic fish, frozen whole fish, fillets, and processed products to create symbolic New Year dishes. Visitors can shop on-site at Hope Plaza or order online via the “Buy Fish” platform or the National Fishermen’s Association e-commerce site, with delivery straight to their doorstep.