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Letter: Simple isn't better

The UN plans to use only simplified Chinese characters on its Web sites and documents starting in 2008. Since many countries see China as a potential superpower, the decision is understandable. But traditional Chinese characters are symbols of the Chinese arts and culture and should be respected by the world, regardless of whether the UN uses them or not.

As China becomes more influential, a larger number of people will learn Chinese. Under this circumstance, simplified Chinese characters will gradually become the standard. China has spent US$200 million over the past two years to promote its "Confucius Institute" around the world, but I bet Confucius would not comprehend simplified characters. Even scholars in China are urging the restoration of traditional Chinese. Although more people use simplified Chinese characters, they are incomparable to the traditional Chinese characters, which truly demonstrate the beauty and essence of Chinese culture.

If I'm not mistaken, there exists an organization called UNESCO.

Its function is to protect cultural diversity through actions involving sites that bear witness to multiple cultural identities, that are representative of minority cultural heritages or are in imminent danger of destruction. Traditional Chinese is a relic of ancient times, the legacy of a broad and profound history.

I sincerely expect the whole world to pay increased attention to the preservation of traditional Chinese, the goal that we are striving toward in Taiwan.

Cecilia Ma
Taipei

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