The Founder of Hantec Group, Tang Yu Lap recently accepted a feature interview from Europe Chinese Newspapers in Italy. Found in 1990, Hantec Group (the Group) has established numerous subsidiaries all around the world. The Group celebrated its 33^rd anniversary on 3 March 2023, a significant moment made even more memorable by the easing of Covid restrictions. Mr. Tang pointed out that the Group managed to survive tough times and thrive by nurturing talent and fulfilling its social responsibility despite facing numerous crises.  

Although Mr. Tang has retired from his role, his founding philosophy, that revolves around people, talent cultivation, business integrity, and social responsibility, continues to be a central part of the Group’s practices.  

Even though the founder has retired from his heavy responsibilities, his thirst for travel and exploration has never waned. He has already visited 148 nations and aims to reach his goal of 160. Despite his advancing age, he remains energetic and curious. Earlier this year, Mr. Tang hosted a travelogue sharing session in Taipei, during which he shared his experience travelling to Tibet and across Europe during the pandemic. In addition, he will be holding a photo exhibition in Huashan 1914 Creative Park in Taipei this coming June, showcasing the stunning photographs he took in Italy. Mr. Tang welcomes everyone to come and visit, as his photos beautifully capture his curiosity, spirit of exploration, passion and dedication to humanity, history and life. 

Recently, Mr. Tang revisited Taiwan to attend a conference held by the International Association of Chinese Traders. During his trip, he met with the mayor and deputy mayor of the city, and expressed appreciation for their effort to actively promote local specialties and cultures while keeping pace with new development, creating a modernized yet culturally rich society. Mr. Tang was amazed by Taiwan’s waste sorting and its economic recovery and noted that the arrival of high-tech talents from India would benefit the cooperation in the semiconductor industry. He also observed that an increasing number of visitors in the city come from Southeast Asia and Cantonese-speaking areas, and he believes that the rapid recovery of tourism can help the catering and accommodation industries to rebound. Mr. Tang expressed great confidence in Taipei’s economic development and property price control, and looks forward to a brighter future for the city. 

At the end of the interview, he was asked about the current issues and conflicts between the borders. From his observations, he noted that Taiwanese citizens generally have a calm and peaceful attitude towards these matters. Especially after having conversations with the locals, he concluded that people on both sides share the same culture and roots. While national unification takes time, it is the great trend of history. He firmly believes that people from both sides belong to the same big family and that neither would want a war. Despite some media outlets fueling the flames of conflict, he believes that at least 80% of people in Taiwan hold a positive view. Under the sensible leadership of the authorities, external forces will not meddle in the issues between the sides, and they will eventually be resolved. He therefore suggests that people should not be too worried about these issues. 

Mr. Tang also mentioned the upcoming Taiwanese presidential election next year and expressed confidence that Taiwanese citizens will make a sensible choice. The election should help Taiwan revive its economy and quicken the pace of peaceful unification.