#Taiwan #Sustainable Development #Hualien #Social Empowerment #Asia Cement

Asia Cement's Achievement in Social Empowerment

Asia Cement Corporation (ACC), one of Taiwan's leading firms in the cement industry, has made significant strides in the realm of social impact. Recently, the company was honored with the 2026 Asia Responsible Enterprise Awards (AREA) in the Social Empowerment category, recognizing its steadfast commitment to fostering resilient communities. This achievement is not just a win; it signifies the long-standing efforts of ACC to engage collaboratively with Indigenous tribes and local residents in the areas where it operates.

Award Ceremony Highlights

On July 1, 2026, in Malaysia, Chen Zhi-xian, the Plant Manager of ACC, received the prestigious award and the Silver Emblem of Sustainability on behalf of the corporation. Chen remarked, "Receiving the Silver Emblem of Sustainability reinforces the importance that the international community places on sustainable development and community engagement." This sentiment is echoed in ACC's initiatives, where the focus lies on building partnerships with Indigenous tribes through co-governance, dialogue, and participation. The goal is to enhance local resilience and create shared value, fostering an environment where the industry and society flourish together.

Co-Governance Plan with Tribes and Communities

The company's successful initiative, titled "Co-Governance Plan with Tribes and Communities: Long-term Actions to Build Local Social Resilience," showcases ACC's dedication to sustaining meaningful partnerships with local communities, particularly in Hualien County, located in eastern Taiwan. Through collaborative dialogue, ACC ensures that Indigenous people's rights to consultation are respected and upheld, adhering to the principles of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC). This approach not only supports cultural preservation but also bolsters ecological education, disaster management, recovery efforts, and overall community development.

In 2025 alone, ACC committed approximately NT$15.52 million (around US$480,000) to local initiatives focused on education, culture, community revitalization, and emergency assistance. Such commitments have notably supported five after-school tutoring programs, benefitting 409 children, while promoting Truku-language education intertwined with AI-assisted creative learning methods.

The Success of the Taroko Mountain Market

Another significant achievement outlined by ACC is the establishment of the Taroko Mountain Market. Initiated as a means to uplift Indigenous culture and local economic development, this market has evolved into a community-managed initiative with increasing involvement from tribal residents. Over the years, it has generated sales surpassing NT$1.1 million (approximately US$34,000), with all proceeds benefiting Indigenous vendors and promoting local cultural products.

Commitment to Indigenous Rights and Land Recovery

ACC’s dedication extends to actively supporting the restoration of land rights for Indigenous peoples under Taiwan's Indigenous Peoples Basic Act. By 2026, around 15% of the relevant land-rights restoration agreements had been completed, underpinning the company’s efforts to engage with tribal communities through various dialogue platforms and community meetings.

ACC's achievements are not confined to the Hualien region; the principles of co-governance and community engagement are integral across all its operational locations. In 2025, ACC and its subsidiaries allocated NT$355 million (approximately US$11 million) towards community development, showcasing a long-term commitment to shared value creation.

A Legacy of Awards and Recognition

Since its inaugural participation in the AREA Awards back in 2018, ACC has consistently been recognized for its efforts across diverse sustainability categories, including Green Leadership, Corporate Governance, and Health and Sanitation. Its eight consecutive years of acknowledgment affirm the company’s unwavering commitment to responsible governance, environmental stewardship, and positive social impact.

Conclusion

As ACC continues along its path of sustainability, it emphasizes the importance of placing community engagement at the heart of its operations. The awards received not only signify recognition but also reflect ACC’s ongoing dedication to building a resilient and sustainable future for all stakeholders involved.

Asia Cement Corporation remains committed to innovating low-carbon solutions while actively engaging local communities, ensuring that environmental sustainability and social responsibility go hand in hand.