A virtual reality film “Three Crucial Steps” explaining the Taiwan Model for combating COVID-19 was released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Oct. 21 at a news conference in Taipei City.
 
Featuring former Vice President Chen Chien-jen and Digital Minister Audrey Tang, the film unveils the core principles—prudent action, rapid response and early deployment—behind the country’s successful disease-management measures. Other key aspects detailed in the video include the surgical mask rationing system, implementation of mandatory 14-day quarantine for all arrivals, and R&D of testing kits and vaccines, as well as the country’s commitment to transparency and democratic ideals amid the pandemic.
 
MOFA Deputy Minister Harry Ho-jen Tseng said during the release ceremony that the effectiveness of Taiwan’s response can also be attributed to the government’s caution at the seven suspected cases of atypical pneumonia first reported in the Chinese city of Wuhan last December, resulting in the swift decision to strengthen border controls and increase production of surgical masks.
 
The film is built on the success of a VR video on the historic Twin Oaks estate in Washington released last year by the MOFA as part of celebrations marking the 40th anniversary of the Taiwan Relations Act, Tseng added.
 
According to the MOFA, Chinese and English language versions of the film are available on the ministry’s official website and its Trending Taiwan YouTube channel, with Google Cardboard and Cardboard-enabled smartphone apps necessary for watching in 3D.
 
A VR experience station will also be set up at the Presidential Office in Taipei next month to allow visitors to get the full immersive experience, the ministry said. (YCH-E)
 
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