Aima's Giant Water Balloon Returns to Keelung Port for Future Discussions

In the aftermath of Typhoon Chapala, the waterways of Keelung Port have gradually returned to normal, and the port’s usual bustle has resumed. This morning, a giant inflatable water balloon named “Yellow Ama” made its return to the harbor, drawing significant attention from local media and the public. The balloon serves not only as a decorative feature but also as a precursor to upcoming speeches by Tong Ziwei, the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP) candidate for Keelung mayor, and Shen Boyang, the DPP candidate for Taipei mayor, who are scheduled to address an audience at Ocean Square. Its presence symbolizes the two candidates’ emphasis on the Keelung Port area and their aspirations for its future development.

Originally positioned at the port before the typhoon’s arrival, “Yellow Ama” sustained partial damage due to rough seas and wave action. Following repairs, it was redeployed today, serving as a symbolic marker of “revival.” The large water balloon plays a role in visual campaigning for the DPP, using its vibrant colors and ocean-themed design to capture voters’ attention and convey the candidates’ focus on the port economy and maritime safety.

Since serving as a Keelung City Councilor starting in 2014, Tong Ziwei has been involved in various port renovation and fisheries development projects, giving him a deep understanding of the port’s economic and environmental issues. As the DPP’s mayoral candidate for Keelung, he advocates for “symbiosis between the port and the city,” promoting the integration of port upgrades, fisheries conservation, and tourism. His goal is to rebrand Keelung with a new image as a “maritime city.” The return of “Yellow Ama” today represents a concrete manifestation of his reaffirmation of his plan for the port’s future on the electoral stage.

Shen Boyang, the DPP’s mayoral candidate for Taipei, has previously served as a Taipei City Councilor and as an assistant to the mayor, accumulating extensive experience in urban governance and public infrastructure. His decision to personally visit Keelung and deliver a joint address with Tong Ziwei at Ocean Square underscores his focus on the northern region and the DPP’s coordinated strategy for local elections. In the Taipei mayoral race, Shen has championed the concepts of a “green city” and a “smart city.” His visit to Keelung also reflects his desire to extend these ideas to the port city, fostering collaboration between local and urban centers.

Ocean Square