The 2026 Taiwan Lantern Festival has officially opened on a grand scale. Upholding the concept of child‑friendly support, the Chiayi County Government has established breastfeeding and lactation spaces at Service Stations No. 1, 4, 6, and 8. These areas are equipped with comfortable nursing sofas, diaper‑changing tables, and essential hygiene supplies, allowing families with infants and young children to enjoy the festival with comfort and peace of mind.

Deputy Minister Chuang Jen‑Hsiang of the Ministry of Health and Welfare stated during his on‑site inspection that creating a mother‑and‑infant‑friendly public environment is an important policy jointly promoted by the central and local governments. By incorporating lactation rooms into the overall planning of large international events, Chiayi County not only enhances the quality of mother‑and‑child‑friendly services but also demonstrates the city's commitment to families and the health of the next generation.

Considering the large crowds and long visiting hours during the lantern festival, well‑equipped lactation rooms have been set up within the exhibition areas to allow families with infants to participate with peace of mind. On March 2 and 3, the facilities recorded 80 uses, including by international visitors who breastfed their children on site. Chiayi hopes every visitor can feel the warmth of the city amid the dazzling lights.

Chiayi County Health Bureau Director Chao Wen‑Hua emphasized that breastfeeding is a crucial foundation for protecting infant health and an important policy supporting families. Breast milk helps promote postpartum uterine contraction, reduces bleeding, assists maternal recovery, and lowers the risk of breast cancer. For infants, it provides complete nutrition, strengthens immunity, aids digestion, and reduces gastrointestinal discomfort.

By including lactation rooms in the overall planning of the Taiwan Lantern Festival, combined with breastfeeding health education, the public can learn more about the long‑term benefits of breastfeeding for maternal and infant health while enjoying the lantern displays. This initiative brings the concept of mother‑and‑infant friendliness into major public events.