TAIPEI (TVBS News) — The iSee Taiwan Foundation unveiled Thursday (Sept. 18) a Singapore-based cultural initiative to export Taiwan's gastronomy and design globally. Chief Executive Don Chen warned businesses must adapt to technological disruption by transitioning to knowledge-based services. The foundation plans to use Singapore as a gateway to introduce Taiwan's cultural products to international markets.
Chen delivered his announcement during a keynote address at Singapore's World Business Design Forum, celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Design Business Chamber Singapore. The forum assembled hundreds of Asian business leaders to discuss industry transformation strategies. The initiative is strengthened by the Foundation's membership in the ProFederal platform, which enhances knowledge service industry value.
"With AI and robotics replacing many routine jobs, businesses must rethink their strategies," Chen said during his address. "By adopting design as a core strategy, industries can transition to knowledge-based services and fuel the experience economy, creating differentiated and sustainable value." Chen underscored the need for new approaches in this era of rapid technological change.
The foundation plans to collaborate with Asian enterprises to elevate Taiwan's specialties through design-driven innovation across the region. The initiative focuses on gastronomy as primary cultural expression, integrating culinary traditions with innovative design approaches. The Foundation has long championed Taiwan's cultural and geographic distinctiveness through various cultural programs.
The foundation, established in 2003 by Sayling Wen and led by Chairman Ted Wen since 2008, has built partnerships with 40 art and design associations spanning five continents. Its network includes collaborations with the World Design Organization and Design Business Chamber Singapore. The foundation is guided by the vision of "becoming an essential portal for the world to see Taiwan."
The organization previously supported establishing the Service Science Society of Taiwan in 2011 and launched the iSee Design platform in 2015. The foundation operates under four strategic pillars: discovery, integration, marketing and service. The organization also hosted Taiwan's first stage-based experiential showcase as part of its cultural promotion efforts. ◼