Taipei, April 21 -- Taiwan's Mainland Affairs Council (MAC) Minister Chiu Chui-cheng has announced that a new "long-term residency" category for applicants from Hong Kong and Macau would require an extended national security observation period, Taipei Times reported.

The move, aimed at tightening oversight, reflects growing concerns over China's political influence and population manipulation in the region.

Speaking on Sunday at the Taipei Technology Run hosted by the Taipei Neihu Technology Park Development Association, Chiu explained that Taiwan is revising its policies for Hong Kong and Macau residents seeking to reside or settle in Taiwan.

Under the updated system, those from the two regions will have the option to apply for long-t...