Lai Qingde will be awarded the Medal of the Grand Ribbon Scenery Star and affirms Yang Lihua’s three major contributions

President Lai Ching-te attended the premiere of the documentary "Yang Lihua's First Love of the Century" yesterday. He affirmed Teacher Yang Lihua's long-term efforts in promoting Gezi opera and her profound contribution to Taiwan's traditional culture. He also announced at the scene that he would award Yang Lihua the "Grand Ribbon Star Medal" on behalf of the country. He thanked her for her life-long dedication to Taiwan's traditional culture and art. There was also warm applause at the scene, and the two were even more moved and hugged each other.

Lai Ching-de shared that when he was a child, he accompanied his mother to watch Yang Lihua's opera, and he knew that she brought countless joy to people of different generations. He also detailed Yang Lihua's three major contributions: first, accompanying the growth of different generations and bringing happiness to Taiwanese people; second, dedicating herself to promoting Gezi Opera and making Gezi Opera a precious traditional cultural asset of Taiwan; third, through Gezi Opera, conveying loyalty, filial piety, justice, and Taiwanese culture. The President also quoted Yang Lihua's words, "Yang Lihua will grow old, but Gezi Opera will never grow old." He emphasized that Gezi Opera is Taiwan's very precious traditional art culture and should be passed down forever.

Regarding the president's on-site announcement of the honorary award, Yang Lihua could not conceal her excitement and said that she would share this honor with the big opera family across the country. The President stated that he would grandly present the medal at the Presidential Office at a scheduled date to express his deepest gratitude and respect to Teacher Yang Lihua on behalf of the people of Taiwan.