Taiwan’s MODA warns budget cuts risk internet security
<p>TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The Ministry of Digital Affairs (MODA, 數發部) warned on Tuesday (Jan. 14) that slashing business expenses and other budgets to NT$1 or eliminating them entirely could jeopardize Taiwan's internet security and transmission quality. The ministry emphasized its critical role in defending against cyberattacks, likening itself to Taiwan's military in cyberspace.<br /> <br /> According to media reports a day earlier, Legislative Speaker Han Kuo-yu (韓國瑜) is set to convene a cross-party negotiation session on Wednesday (Jan. 15) to discuss the central government's fiscal year 2025 budget proposal. Reports indicate that the main opposition Kuomintang (KMT, 國民黨) plans to propose significant cuts to the business expenses of the MODA and the National Communications Commission (NCC, 國家通訊傳播委員會).<br /> <br /> Huang Wen-che (黃文哲), the NCC's secretary-general, highlighted that administrative costs, including utilities, fall under business expenses. He noted that removing these funds could disrupt agency operations and impact even basic functions. The KMT's proposal also includes freezing 70% of most agencies' business expenses and completely removing promotional funds, which could significantly hinder government operations.<br /> <br /> As Taiwan navigates a unique political and economic landscape, MODA stressed the importance of cybersecurity as a cornerstone of internet governance. The ministry's concerns underscore the potential ramifications of budget cuts on the nation's digital infrastructure and security.</p>