Taipei: Former Minister of Culture Shih Che has been appointed as the new chairman of Taiwan High Speed Rail Corp. (THSRC), succeeding James Jeng. Jeng has been selected to take over as chairman of Taiwan Railway Corp., as announced by Minister of Transportation and Communications Chen Shih-kai.

According to Focus Taiwan, Shih was chosen for his previous experience managing high-speed rail systems, especially as the construction of extensions, like the Kaohsiung to Pingtung County section, is set to begin. Shih, who served as a deputy mayor under two Kaohsiung mayors from 2016 to 2023, was also recognized for his innovative marketing strategies in Kaohsiung. His efforts included attracting international artists such as Coldplay, Maroon 5, and Kylie Minogue to perform in the city, enhancing its cultural profile.

Jeng, who took on the role of THSRC chairman in February, has accepted the position of chairperson at Taiwan Railway, a position left vacant by Du Wei in March. The outgoing THSRC chairman and president is expected to focus on the transformation of Taiwan Railway, which transitioned to a state-owned company on January 1, 2024, amid financial challenges.

The transportation minister emphasized Jeng's extensive experience as a manager in the shipping, airline, and train industries, which is crucial for the reform of Taiwan Railway. The railway is a vital part of the country's transportation network, serving 650,000 to 700,000 passengers daily, whereas THSRC serves approximately 220,000 passengers.

Jeng's career includes joining the high-speed train operator in 2014 following a successful tenure at the Evergreen Group, where he held significant management roles, including chairperson of EVA Airways. He was also involved in the initial bid to develop and operate the country's high-speed rail services.

Bob Chen, the current operation senior vice president and head of the maintenance management division at THSRC, has been appointed to succeed Jeng as THSRC's president, as announced by the transportation minister.

Additionally, Taiwan Railway board member Chen Yu-hsiu has been named the new head of the Tourism Administration. Chen Yu-hsiu previously served as director of Taipei Culture Foundation's Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, which became profitable under her leadership from 2019 onwards. The transportation minister highlighted that she is the first Tourism Administration chief with a background in the tourism business rather than as a career civil servant.