The Prepper Movement in Taiwan: A Story of Preparedness and Resilience
In the bustling city of Linkou, northwest of Taipei, Jenny Huang can be found near a creek, practicing the art of water purification. With a meticulous process involving pantyhose to filter out sediment, coffee filters for smaller particles, and iodine to eliminate bacteria, Jenny is preparing for a future where such skills might be a necessity. This 48-year-old mother of one has joined a growing community of “preppers” in Taiwan who are taking proactive steps to ensure their families are prepared for any potential crisis.
The Rising Tide of Preparedness
Jenny’s journey into the world of prepping began out of a deep-seated fear of military aggression from China, which could potentially cut off her family’s access to basic necessities. This concern is not unique to her; it is shared by many in Taiwan who are wary of the looming shadow of Xi Jinping’s ambitions to bring Taiwan under the fold of the People’s Republic of China by 2027, by any means necessary.
A Call to Action
Jenny Huang’s background as an activist further fueled her commitment to preparedness. Following the local elections in 2018, she mobilized a group of Taiwanese mothers to stand against unification with China and advocate for democracy in Taiwan. The urgency of their mission led them from online activism to in-person training, with a focus on practical skills that could be vital in times of crisis.
Training for Resilience
Once the COVID-19 restrictions eased in 2022, Jenny and her peers wasted no time in organizing training sessions for their community. What started as a small group of 10 members has now blossomed into a movement with over 700 followers on social media. Together, they engage in various activities ranging from first aid training to strength-building exercises, all with the goal of equipping themselves for whatever challenges may lie ahead.
A Community of Preparedness
Jenny’s story is just one of many in Taiwan who are taking proactive steps to ensure their families’ safety and well-being in uncertain times. From civil defense courses to survival workshops, the popularity of preparedness training has surged in response to global events like Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Organizations like Forward Alliance have seen a significant increase in participation, reflecting a growing awareness of the need for readiness in the face of potential threats.
The Personal Touch
For Lin Ping-yu, a New Taipei City Council representative and father of four, preparedness is not just a personal endeavor—it’s a civic duty. With supplies to last his family a week and a plan to relocate to a family farm in the countryside if needed, Lin embodies the spirit of resilience that drives many in Taiwan to prepare for the worst.
A Tale of Two Worlds
In the bustling city of New Taipei, a man known as “Robinson” leads a double life. To his family, he is a loving father with a passion for camping and outdoor activities. But behind closed doors, he is a meticulous prepper, with a farmhouse stocked with supplies and a keen eye on the horizon for potential threats. His story is a reminder that preparedness comes in many forms, each tailored to the unique circumstances and needs of individuals and families.
Looking Ahead
As Taiwan grapples with the specter of military aggression and the uncertainty of a changing geopolitical landscape, the need for preparedness and resilience has never been more pressing. While experts may debate the likelihood of a blockade or invasion, for many in Taiwan, the only certainty is the need to be ready for whatever the future may hold. As Jenny Huang and others like her continue to train, stockpile supplies, and build networks of support, they stand as a testament to the human spirit of adaptability and determination in the face of adversity.
