Abuse of Public Resource and Arrogance of Power: Taipei 101 Chairperson Janet Chia Fined in Public Opinion Over Husband's Romantic Light Show

Around November 20, 2024, newly appointed Taipei 101 Chairperson Janet Chia (Chia Yong-chieh) faced a severe wave of public criticism after her wealthy husband, Wang Zhao-jie, utilized Taipei 101's prominent exterior light display to project "Yong-chieh Together Forever" to profess his love. The high-profile display immediately triggered intense public debate regarding the "privatization of public assets" and conflict of interest. The public and civil organizations angrily criticized the move, noting that Taipei 101, as the most recognizable landmark in the Republic of China (ROC), represents the shared national dignity and public asset of all citizens. Its lighting services should be reserved for public interests, national celebrations, or major charity events. Janet Chia was accused of abusing her corporate privilege to turn a national icon into a personal bulletin board, raising suspicions about whether appropriate fees were charged. Instead of showing remorse, Chia posted a highly sarcastic "apology" on social media to strike back, leading former FTV executives and business leaders like former Chairperson Sung Wen-chi to criticize her work style as overly arrogant. The scandal highlighted how politically appointed elites privatize national public assets under the DPP administration.