Taiwan’s Chiayi, Tainan and Taoyuan cities are among the seven finalists worldwide for the 2018 Intelligent Community of the Year award organized by New York-headquartered think tank IC Forum.
 
The smart metropolises were chosen as models of economic and social transformation in the 21st century, ICF said Feb. 8, adding that they also exemplify best practices in broadband deployment and use, digital inclusion and advocacy, as well as innovation and workforce development.
 
“They are charting new paths to lasting prosperity for their citizens, businesses and institutions.”
 
This is the first time for three Taiwan cities to make the list selected from 21 candidates announced in late 2017. Chiayi returns for a second consecutive year, Tainan makes its bow and Taoyuan repeats its 2017 and 2013 appearances.
 
The other contenders are Espoo, Finland; Hamilton, Canada; Ipswich, Australia; and Winnipeg, Canada. The winner will be announced at the conclusion of the ICF Global Summit June 4-6 in London.
 
Chiayi in southern Taiwan earned the nod from ICF’s international team of academic analysts for utilizing the latest technology in real-time monitoring of air quality, humidity and temperature. Other measures include the rollout of a broadband network with over 1,000 Wi-Fi hot spots and digital education programs.
 
Tainan in southern Taiwan got the thumbs-up for several app- and beacon-based tourist navigation services. The city’s focus on biotech, green energy and information and communication technology—advanced through its many science and technology parks—also turned heads.
 
Taoyuan in northern Taiwan gained the green light for its convenient public services and special resident’s card for purchasing fares on buses and metros, goods and services in 700-plus stores, and recording patronage of community sports facilities.
 
Taiwan is a strong performer in the IC awards. Taipei won Intelligent City of the Year in 2006 and central Taiwan’s Taichung City followed suit in 2013. (CPY-E)