August 1 this year marked 10 years since the Executive Yuan designated this date as Indigenous Peoples’ Day. On the eve of the celebration, the Council of Indigenous Peoples (CIP) held a commemorative event at the Taipei International Convention Center (TICC) with the theme “Tapuluq: Ten Dreams Resonate,” inviting and honoring individuals who have made outstanding contributions to indigenous affairs with a presentation of Indigenous Peoples’ Medals.

Indigenous Peoples’ Day commemorates the historic campaign for the formal recognition of indigenous peoples. On August 1, 1994, the term “indigenous people” was officially incorporated into the Constitution, and in 1997, it was further amended to “indigenous peoples,” reflecting the concept of collective rights.

CIP Minister Ljaucu·Zingrur stated that “tapuluq” means the number 10 in the Paiwan language and marks the 10th anniversary of the official recognition of Indigenous Peoples’ Day. He emphasized that indigenous peoples should feel proud of their culture, mother tongue, and Indigenous identity.

Minister Ljaucu·Zingrur also highlighted that Southern Taiwan is currently facing severe rainstorms, and the government is actively responding to disasters. He expressed special gratitude to those on the frontlines of disaster relief. He further noted that the 12 honorees recognized at the event, who have contributed across various fields including education, culture, legal and administrative affairs, and military and public safety, are being honored for their dedication to advancing indigenous affairs. The event serves to pay tribute to these heroes and to encourage more people to serve indigenous communities.

The opening ceremony featured a collaborative performance by the Puzangalan Children's Choir, Sangpuy, and Wu Hao-en, performing the Paiwan song of friends “Lalai,” symbolizing generational cultural inheritance and highlighting that Taiwanese indigenous peoples are friends to all parts of society and to the world.

 Following the awards presentation, the Chin-Ai Music Orchestra performed musical stories with indigenous violin melodies. Kumu Basaw, winner of Best Indigenous Singer at the 36^th Golden Melody Awards, led a group of performers to showcase indigenous unity. The Puzangalan Children’s Choir sang Paiwan folk songs in classical choral style, touching the audience deeply, while Sangpuy concluded the event by blending Puyuma songs with modern rhythms, taking the audience on a free-spirited musical journey, and inspiring indigenous peoples to continue moving forward with courage.