Dama Village in Guangfu Township, Hualien County, suffered severe damage following the overflow of a barrier lake along the Mata’an Creek, with significant impact on residential housing, public facilities, and overall community life. Since the disaster, Dama Village Chief Wang Tzu-an has devoted himself tirelessly to frontline efforts, including resident relocation, household outreach, and coordination of reconstruction work. After nearly two months of sustained high-pressure responsibilities, he was recently hospitalized due to health issues and underwent surgery at Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital. The Council of Indigenous Peoples (CIP) expressed deep concern over Chief Wang’s condition. On November 21, CIP Minister Ljaucu·Zingrur assigned Liu Wei-che, Director-General of the Public Construction Department, to visit the hospital on his behalf, conveying his condolences and well wishes from both the CIP and the Executive Yuan.

The CIP noted that since the disaster, Chief Wang has remained on the front lines, bearing critical responsibility for villagers’ safety and recovery efforts. The prolonged physical and emotional strain he has endured has been substantial. Minister Ljaucu·Zingrur expressed sincere appreciation for Chief Wang’s dedication to the community, as well as gratitude to his family for their steadfast support. During the visit, CIP representatives conveyed words of encouragement and presented a condolence payment, wishing him a smooth recovery and peace of mind during his recuperation.

The Executive Yuan has also expressed strong concern about the situation, emphasizing that the central government will continue to stand alongside local communities throughout the recovery process. This includes close coordination with the Hualien County Government and the Guangfu Township Office on disaster damage assessments, relief fund disbursement, and transitional housing arrangements, ensuring that residents’ rights and interests are fully safeguarded. The CIP further called on all local officials and community members engaged in post-disaster reconstruction to look after themselves. The Council reaffirmed its commitment to accompanying every indigenous community through the challenges of recovery, underscoring that no community is alone on the path to rebuilding.