In the past, Chen Yuzhang, chairman of the Financial Supervisory Commission (FSC), was regarded by the industry as a “silent aide” who seldom spoke out. Unlike some government officials who enjoy making bold statements, the Virgo-born Chen has always given people the impression of being conservative and a homebody since he entered politics. Yesterday, in an exclusive interview with this newspaper, Chen defended himself: “I’m not conservative, I’m practical, and I’m not a homebody!”
Chen Yuzhang said that since taking office at the FSC, he had never given a public speech, but he emphasized that it wasn’t because he didn’t want to speak publicly or promote policies, but rather that he was “too busy.”
He stated that he had served as chairman of First Financial Holding Co., and understood that the goal of business operations is to make profits, but this does not entirely conflict with regulatory directions, because the government also hopes that businesses can be profitable so they can contribute to Taiwan’s economic growth. Therefore, since taking office, he has also widely solicited opinions from all sides, and any suggestions that can protect investors and consumers are taken into consideration. Therefore, if he really had to describe himself with one word, Chen Yuzhang believes it should be “practical.”
Regarding the label of “homebody,” Chen Yuzhang laughed and said that he actually isn’t one. He stated that, in terms of work, he is out and about every day and rarely stays in the office; and on holidays, he also enjoys nature a lot and dislikes staying at home, with hiking being his favorite activity. “I’ve climbed Yushan, Xueshan, and Dabajianshan.”
Because he enjoys hiking, Chen Yuzhang even knows more about plants and animals than the average person. “I can name many of the plants and animals on the mountains!” Chen Yuzhang said.
However, now that he is busy with official duties at the FSC, he has fewer opportunities to go hiking, but Chen Yuzhang still insists on jogging for an hour every week, covering 10 kilometers at a time. When he has time, he also participates in 21-kilometer marathon races—not only to stay in shape, but also as a good way to relieve stress.
Because of his love for nature, over the years Chen Yuzhang has also discovered quite a few “hidden hiking routes.” “Do you know where the most phytoncide-rich place in Taiwan is? It’s inside Wulai Neidong!” Chen Yuzhang shared. “Along Wulai Neidong, you can walk to Tonghou Stream and Xiaoyi. The path is flat or even downhill, very easy to walk, and you can breathe in lots of phytoncide along the way. The whole route is 13 to 14 kilometers, and takes about five hours to complete. If you still have energy, you can keep going all the way to Yilan.” Whenever he talks about nature, Chen Yuzhang becomes especially talkative, showing a side of him that is different from his usual reserved personality.
Chen Yuzhang started his career at the Securities and Futures Commission (SFC). Although he later transferred to work in Taipei City Government for eight years, and then briefly stayed at First Financial Holding for a year, he has now returned to the financial regulatory body—essentially coming full circle back to his familiar field. In the future, he hopes to truly fulfill the role of a public servant, achieving the goals of sustainable management and consumer protection.