Taipei: An exhibition marking the 102nd anniversary of the birth of the late Taiwanese democracy activist, legal scholar, and politician Peng Ming-min opened Thursday at the National 228 Memorial Museum in Taipei. The event, titled "Inspiring the Island's Path to Freedom: The Beliefs and Actions of Peng Ming-min," is organized by the Peng Foundation for Culture and Education.

According to Focus Taiwan, the exhibition is divided into 10 sections highlighting different stages of Peng's life and activism, from his youth and academic career to his 1964 manifesto, years under government surveillance, and dramatic escape from Taiwan in 1970. On display are personal items he used during his escape, including glasses, a fake beard, and a shoulder bag. The exhibition uses a life-story narrative to guide visitors step by step through Peng's journey, from being groomed by the Kuomintang (KMT) as a model rising star to becoming a leader of Taiwan's self-determination movement.

In her opening speech, the foundation's chairwoman, Yang Huang Mei-hsing, stated that Peng's life spanned three generations and emphasized his belief that Taiwan and China are separate countries and that intellectuals must serve their nation. She noted Peng's indomitable spirit and willingness to sacrifice for Taiwan's future should inspire generations to come.

Speaking on behalf of President Lai Ching-te, Presidential Office Deputy Secretary-General Mark Ho Chih-wei remarked that Peng's impact on Taiwan is not measured in 100 or 200 years but will last forever. He expressed that the exhibition is not only a commemoration but also an inspiration, encouraging everyone to visit.

Kazuyuki Katayama, Japan's representative to Taiwan, also attended the event and reflected on Peng's contributions to Taiwan's democratization, expressing the highest respect to Peng Ming-min and those who have worked toward Taiwan's democracy.

The exhibition on Peng, who passed away at the age of 98 in 2022, is being held until Nov. 2.