On the afternoon of May 22, Legislative Yuan President Daniel K.Y. Han hosted a banquet at the Kang-Yuan restaurant of the Legislative Yuan in honor of a homecoming delegation from the Japan International Mazu Association. President Han was accompanied by KMT Legislator Hung Mong-Kai, DPP Legislator Ho Hsin-Chun, International Affairs Department Director Kevin C.F. Lin, and Secretary-General Jung Yu-O of the Overseas Community Affairs Council (OCAC).
President Han first welcomed the delegation and Councilor Chen Li-Na of the Kaohsiung City Council, who accompanied the delegation. President Han stated that the Mazu faith has a long-standing history in Taiwan, dating back as early as 1624, with a heritage spanning 400 years. He also mentioned that Tainan’s Mazu Temple is the first Mazu temple in Taiwan and that it is known as the “Grand Mazu Temple” due to its unique historical significance.
President Han further pointed out that the Mazu deity, also known as the “Holy Mother of Heaven” and “Goddess of the Sea,” is closely connected to maritime civilization. In regions where trade and shipping are prominent, Mazu worship is commonly found. Taiwan’s Mazu pilgrimage has been ranked alongside the Islamic Hajj and the Catholic Christmas Mass at the Vatican as one of the three major religious events in the world. Statistics show that out of Taiwan’s total population of 23 million, as many as 10 million are Mazu followers. Every year around Mazu's birthday on the March 23rd of the lunar calendar, massive pilgrimage groups form across Taiwan. Tens of thousands, especially in Changhua and Yunlin, participate, demonstrating powerful religious devotion and cultural cohesion.
President Han specifically highlighted that the reason the Mazu faith transcends religion, ethnicity, and political affiliation lies in its embodiment of three core values: the first is compassion—embracing all people regardless of one’s background or faith; the second is selflessness—as in the legend where Mazu burned her own attic at night to guide fishermen safely to shore; the third is courage—as demonstrated when Mazu risked her life to save her father and brother, reflecting great love, determination, and fearlessness. Japan, being surrounded by the sea, shares a natural affinity with the Mazu faith. President Han said that the growing number of Mazu believers in Japan and the flourishing development of the Japan International Mazu Association represent the deep intercultural ties and friendship between Japan and Taiwan.
President Han concluded by emphasizing that the three greatest kinds of people in the world are: educators, who guide and inspire; philanthropists, who give selflessly with great love; and spiritual figures, who attain enlightenment while guiding others. The spirit of the Mazu faith embodies all three, spreading kindness and care to every corner of the world.
President Tseng Feng-Lan of the Japan International Mazu Association expressed her admiration for President Han’s enduring respect and commitment to religious beliefs and traditional culture. Regardless of social status or political affiliation, she noted, President Han consistently offers care and support. President Tseng also remarked on the profound influence of Taiwan’s religious culture; for instance, the 12-day Mazu pilgrimage draws massive crowds of enthusiastic participants and brings peace to many. Although the Japan International Mazu Association is not a large organization, its members are deeply devout. The association has established nearly 20 sister organizations across continents, all dedicated to spreading Mazu’s compassionate spirit. In closing, President Tseng offered her blessings and expressed hope that President Han will continue to speak out for Taiwan so that the spirit of Mazu may spread globally and bring more positive energy to the world.
Following the remarks, both sides exchanged commemorative gifts. President Han, together with the attending legislators, councilor and delegation members, posed for group photos to mark the occasion before officially commencing the banquet. During the luncheon, Legislator Hung and Legislator Ho engaged warmly with members of the delegation. The event lasted approximately two hours, concluding on a high note amid a lively and joyful ambiance.
