THE Republic of the Marshall Islands and New Taipei City have formalised a sister museum partnership to strengthen cultural cooperation and preserve Austronesian heritage.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed between the Alele Museum and Public Library of the Republic of the Marshall Islands and the Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology of New Taipei City during the opening of this year’s New Taipei City Austronesian Cultural Festival on July 25.
The agreement establishes a framework for long-term collaboration in museum development, research, exhibitions, educational programmes, professional exchanges, and cultural preservation linking the Marshall Islands and Taiwan.
The signing took place during one of Taiwan’s leading celebrations of Austronesian culture, bringing together representatives from Taiwan’s Indigenous communities and regional partners.
The festival featured cultural performances by Taiwan Indigenous groups, Marshallese and Tuvaluan students studying in Taiwan, as well as performers from Indonesia and Malaysia.
Representing the Marshall Islands, Secretary of the Ministry of Culture and Internal Affairs and Chairperson of the Alele Museum and Public Library Board, Brenda Alik-Heine, and Ambassador Anjanette M. Kattil signed the agreement on behalf of the Alele Museum. New Taipei City Mayor Hou Yu-ih signed on behalf of the Shihsanhang Museum of Archaeology.
Ambassador Kattil said the partnership reflected the close relationship between the Marshall Islands and Taiwan and their mutual commitment to protecting Austronesian traditions.
“The Marshall Islands is proud to join New Taipei City in celebrating our Austronesian heritage. This sister museum partnership reflects the enduring friendship between our two nations and our commitment to preserving the traditions, histories, and stories that define our peoples.”
She said the collaboration would deepen cultural understanding, encourage educational exchanges, and help ensure future generations continue to value that heritage.
