The project team of Tamkang University’s University Social Responsibility (USR) initiative, “Entering Tamsui, Connecting to the World: Promoting Taiwan’s Most Influential Classic Tours and Signature Banquets” (abbreviated as the “Historical Banquet Experience Program”), collaborated with the Department of History and Fullon Hotel Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf to host the launch event for “Huwei Banquet 1002 — French Artillery Bombardment” at noon on May 2. The banquet filled 36 tables and attracted nearly 400 guests from both within and outside the university community, including Academic Vice President Hui-Huang Hsu, Board Member Wan-Chin Tai, university administrators, distinguished Golden Eagle alumni Rui-Long Sun and Yang-Yuan Chen, Director Jeng-Wei Ma of the Second Bureau of the Presidential Office, and Tamsui District Chief Yi-Jun Chen. President Lai Ching-te and Vice President Bi-khim Hsiao also sent congratulatory messages recognizing Tamkang University’s continued contributions to local revitalization through its USR initiatives.

In his congratulatory message, President Lai expressed hope that the event would further deepen appreciation for Tamsui’s cultural heritage, highlight the beauty of its historical landmarks, and promote local cuisine while contributing to the development of a modern and culturally enriched society. Vice President Hsiao praised Tamkang University for advancing with the times, integrating regional industrial and economic consensus, promoting sustainable tourism development, and actively fulfilling the social responsibility of universities.

In his remarks, Academic Vice President Hui-Huang Hsu explained that the “Huwei Banquet” represents one of the achievements of Tamkang University’s USR program promoted by Taiwan’s Ministry of Education, combining academic expertise with local cultural heritage. The “Historical Banquet” series, led by Professor Chi-Lin Lee, Chair of the Department of History and Principal Investigator of the project, uses refined dining experiences to guide participants through the local history and religious stories of Tamsui. This particular event was intentionally held at the historic site of the 1884 Battle of Huwei during the Sino-French War, integrating cuisine with historical storytelling. Hsu also noted that as Tamkang University celebrates its 75th anniversary, its connection with Tamsui remains profound. “Huwei Banquet 1002” is not only intended to promote local tourism but also serves as a demonstration of the university’s gratitude toward alumni, local communities, and corporate partners who have jointly supported the preservation and promotion of local cultural values.

Since its founding, Tamkang University has maintained a close relationship with Tamsui. Since launching the “University Social Responsibility Practice Program” in 2019, the university has further strengthened its engagement with the local community through various development projects. On October 18, 2020, the USR projects “Tamsui–Yilan Coastal and Mountain Light Tourism: Smart Interactive Travel” and “Tamsui–North Coast Cultural e-Link and Collective Intelligence Initiative” jointly organized the “USR Local Cultural and Creative Special Exhibition.” Featured exhibits included the “Kun-Huang Tsai Photography VR Interactive Zone,” the “Battle of Huwei during the Sino-French War” exhibition area, and a “Greater Tamsui Cultural Board Game Showcase.” Then Vice President Lai Ching-te personally visited the Hobe Mackay Hospital Historical Site in Tamsui to tour the exhibition and experience VR recreations of “Old Tamsui,” praising the achievements of faculty and students in integrating local culture with technology and industry-academia collaboration.

The “Sino-French War Huwei Banquet” was originally launched on October 8, 2020, as part of Tamkang University’s USR project “Tamsui–Yilan Coastal and Mountain Light Tourism: Smart Interactive Travel,” in collaboration with the Red Castle Chinese Restaurant in Tamsui. Inspired by the 1884 Battle of Huwei during the Sino-French War, the banquet features 11 culturally creative dishes designed to narrate the story and historical context of the battle. The project pioneered the concept of “creative storytelling cuisine,” using innovative dishes to spark public interest in Tamsui’s history and culture while promoting the idea that “dining is also listening to stories.” The project has received multiple honors, including the Model Award in the Industry Co-Creation Category at the 5th Global Views Monthly University Social Responsibility Awards.