Singer: China’s censorship of Tiananmen remarks underscores Taiwan’s value

Taipei, June 30 (CNA) Taiwanese singer and activist Panai Kusui said Saturday that China’s censorship of her remarks about the 1989 Tiananmen Square massacre at the Golden Melody Awards ceremony instead highlighted Taiwan’s value.

“(China’s) actions have further underlined Taiwan’s precious freedom,” Panai’s agent quoted her as saying after the ceremony.

The Golden Melody is one of the most prestigious entertainment awards in Taiwan.

“The value of freedom is palpable in this moment,” she said. “I hope everyone will appreciate what we have now.”

The indigenous singer, who won the award for best Taiwanese album with “Iā-Pô” (夜婆), urged people in her acceptance speech not to forget China’s bloody crackdown on pro-democracy protesters in Tiananmen Square in 1989, in which hundreds, if not more than 1,000 people, were killed.

Panai pointed out that it was the 35th anniversary of the awards ceremony and said in her speech: “It was also the 35th anniversary of the Tiananmen Square incidents. Let us not forget that.”

Her remarks, works and related discussions disappeared from the Internet in China shortly after the event.

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