Culture Minister Shih Che (史哲) announced on Tuesday that starting next year, 16 to 22 year-olds are included in the ministry’s NT$1,200 (US$38.85) cash handout program.
Officially known as Culture Points, the program was originally eligible for the 18 to 21 year-old age group only. The points are aimed at cultivating an appreciation for culture and the arts by young adults and also supporting the cultural and creative sector in Taiwan.
With the expansion, the number of eligible recipients will increase from the current 1 million to 1.5 million next year.
One point is equivalent to NT$1. The points can be used for exhibitions, performances, museum visits, screenings of Taiwanese films, purchasing of books, and creative crafts among others.
The points can be claimed digitally through the Culture Ministry app and can be availed of by Taiwanese nationals and foreigners with an Alien Resident Certificate. Points can be redeemed starting January 20 next year and used until December 31, 2024.