Nonprofit R&D organization Industrial Technology Research Institute and Zen drumming group U-Theatre won the group category of the new biennial award. Franz Collection Inc. founder Franz Chen and ITRI researcher Jerry Yu were named individual honorees.
“In keeping with President Ma Ying-jeou’s vision of national development, the award was founded Aug. 9 last year to recognize innovative achievements in culture, management, marketing, organization, products, service and technology,” the Presidential Office said.
Winners were selected by a 16-member panel of experts and Cabinet ministers. “The honorees are representative of Taiwan’s innovative development,” the Presidential Office added.
Hsinchu County-based ITRI was honored for its contribution to the development of optoelectronics, PC and semiconductor industries. Since its establishment in 1973, ITRI has helped train over 140 corporate CEOs, fostered 244 startups and accumulated more than 20,000 local patents.
Combining contemporary performing arts with the cultural heritage of the East, U-Theatre was recognized for its longtime dedication to promoting art at all levels of society. The originality of its art and the extent of its reach were especially commended by the award organizer.
Franz Chen won the honor because his porcelain collection is at the vanguard of Taiwan’s cultural and creative industry development. Jerry Yu was recognized for using his expertise in intellectual property strategy management to help the nation’s optoelectronics industry strengthen its global presence.
The four winners will each receive a cash prize of NT$2 million (US$66,940), along with a diploma and medal. The awards ceremony is scheduled for July 25 at the Presidential Office. (YHC-SDH)
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