Uncovering Taiwan: Fascinating History, Culture, and Modern Realities of a Country That’s Still Not Fully Recognized

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Welcome to Taiwan—a small island with a big story. Despite having its own government, economy, and unique cultural identity, Taiwan still isn’t officially recognized as an independent country by the United Nations. Much like Palestine, Taiwan is a place whose sovereignty is a subject of global debate, primarily due to China's claim that it remains a province of the People's Republic of China.

But beyond the politics, Taiwan is a land full of surprises. With a minimum monthly wage of around NT$28,590 (approximately IDR 13.5 million), it has become one of the top destinations for Indonesian migrant workers—especially women—seeking better job opportunities.

So, what’s life like in Taiwan today? Let’s dive into the history, culture, and modern-day realities of this unique island nation.

A Journey Through Taiwan's Deep History

Archaeological evidence from places like Choukoutien and Gangzilin suggests that humans have inhabited Taiwan as early as 30,000 to 20,000 years ago. Around 3,000 BC, Austronesian-speaking people—believed to have originated from Taiwan—began migrating across Southeast Asia, laying the foundation for many of today’s Southeast Asian cultures.

Taiwan’s first appearance in written history came during China’s Yuan Dynasty in 1292. By the late 1500s, Han Chinese migrants began settling on the island. In 1542, Portuguese explorers arrived and named the island Ilha Formosa, meaning "Beautiful Island".

Soon after, colonial powers began vying for control. The Dutch East India Company (VOC) established Fort Zeelandia in 1624, while the Spanish set up a northern colony in 1626. A fierce struggle followed, ending with the VOC ousting the Spanish in 1642 and claiming full control.

In 1661, remnants of China’s defeated Ming Dynasty, led by General Koxinga, attacked the VOC and established the Kingdom of Tungning. The Dutch were expelled in 1662. But in 1683, the Qing Dynasty launched a massive assault, bringing Taiwan under Qing rule.

Fast-forward to 1895, after the Qing Dynasty lost the First Sino-Japanese War, Taiwan was handed over to Japan. It remained under Japanese rule until 1945, when World War II ended and the island was returned to China.

Shortly after, China descended into civil war between the Nationalist Kuomintang (KMT) and the Chinese Communist Party. By 1949, the Communists had seized power in mainland China, prompting the KMT and nearly 2 million supporters to retreat to Taiwan and establish what they called the Republic of China—an alternative Chinese government that remains in place today.

Taiwan at a Glance

• Official Name: Republic of China (Taiwan)

• Government: President (Head of State), Prime Minister (Head of Government)

• Capital: Taipei

• Geography: Located in East Asia, between the East and South China Seas

• Area: 36,197 km²

• Population: Approximately 23.9 million

• Religion: Predominantly Buddhist

• Ethnicity: Majority Han Chinese

• Official Language: Mandarin

• Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (NT$) – 1 NT$ ≈ IDR 474

• Economic Status: High-income, industrialized nation

Taiwan's economy is powered by cutting-edge industries such as semiconductors, electronics, pharmaceuticals, steel, shipbuilding, and vehicle components. Its main export partners include China, ASEAN countries, and the United States.

Life in Taiwan: High Wages, High Living Costs

Taiwan is considered one of Asia’s wealthier regions and was even dubbed one of the "Four Asian Tigers" alongside South Korea, Singapore, and Hong Kong from the 1950s to 1990s. However, its wealth is not due to natural resources—Taiwan relies heavily on its highly skilled workforce.

The country is home to some of the largest semiconductor manufacturers globally, producing about 20% of the world’s supply. If you’re using a smartphone, chances are it contains a chip made in Taiwan.

But with higher wages come higher costs. As of September 2024, Taiwan’s minimum wage is NT$28,590 per month (around IDR 13.5 million). Yet, someone earning below NT$19,101 (roughly IDR 9 million) is considered to be living in poverty.

Cost of living highlights:

• Rent (1-bedroom apartment): NT$15,000–30,000/month (IDR 7–14 million)

• Transport: NT$1,000–2,000/month (IDR 500,000–1 million)

• Meals: NT$150–300 per meal (IDR 70,000–140,000)

• Internet & Phone Plans: Around NT$500/month (IDR 250,000)

Indonesian Migrant Workers in Taiwan

Taiwan is a major hub for Indonesian migrant labor. As of 2023, over 278,991 Indonesians were living and working in Taiwan, making them the largest foreign community on the island.

According to Indonesia's National Agency for the Placement and Protection of Indonesian Migrant Workers (BP2MI), Taiwan ranked as the top destination for overseas Indonesian workers, especially for women working in domestic and healthcare sectors.

The China-Taiwan Conflict: One Country, Two Realities

The complex relationship between China and Taiwan stems from a decades-long political rivalry. After the Communist Party won the Chinese Civil War in 1949, the defeated Kuomintang retreated to Taiwan and claimed to be the legitimate government of all China.

Since then, the People's Republic of China (PRC) has viewed Taiwan as a breakaway province that must be reunified—by force if necessary. Meanwhile, Taiwan continues to govern itself independently under the name "Republic of China."

Currently, only 11 small countries recognize Taiwan diplomatically. Most countries, including Indonesia, follow a "One China Policy" to maintain relations with Beijing. This leaves Taiwan diplomatically isolated, even though it operates like a fully sovereign nation.

Austronesian Roots: Taiwan and Southeast Asia’s Shared Ancestry

Did you know that Taiwan is believed to be the origin of the Austronesian peoples? From around 3000 to 1500 BC, Austronesians began migrating from Taiwan across the Pacific and Southeast Asia—including to what is now Indonesia.

While modern-day Taiwanese are predominantly Han Chinese, indigenous peoples still inhabit the island. They make up about 2.3% of the population and belong to 16 officially recognized tribes.

Interestingly, Austronesian languages have many similarities. For example, here’s how one indigenous Taiwanese group counts from 1 to 10:

Ita, rusa, celu, sepat, lima, un, picu, alu, shiva, tapulu

Sounds familiar, doesn’t it?

Ghost Month: Taiwan’s Mystical Beliefs

Despite being a modern, industrialized society, many in Taiwan still hold deep spiritual beliefs. One such tradition is the observance of Ghost Month, which occurs in the 7th month of the lunar calendar.

It is believed that during this time, the gates of the underworld open, allowing spirits to roam the Earth. People offer food, incense, and paper offerings to appease these wandering souls.

Some taboos during Ghost Month include:

• Avoiding hospitals and surgeries

• Not traveling long distances after dark

• No major purchases like cars or homes

• Avoiding large events such as weddings or funerals

In a 2019 survey, 66% of Taiwanese admitted to still believing in the spiritual significance of Ghost Month.

Taiwan is a country of contrasts—a place where ancient beliefs meet futuristic innovation, and where political ambiguity belies a strong sense of identity.

Whether you're fascinated by its rich history, planning to work abroad, or just curious about one of Asia’s most unique places, Taiwan definitely deserves a closer look.***