By KHT Staff – CNA image shows former Kaohsiung mayor Chen Chu in 2008, answering the first call to the 1999 hotline.
KAOHSIUNG — The Kaohsiung City Government has officially upgraded its 1999 text-based online customer service into a permanent public service, expanding how residents can contact city departments beyond traditional phone calls.
Available on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., the platform allows users to submit inquiries, complaints, and service requests through computers or mobile devices. Residents can also upload photos and videos, making it easier to report problems accurately and speeding up case handling.
City officials say the move reflects changing communication habits, as more people rely on messaging and digital platforms instead of voice calls. Real-time chat reduces misunderstandings and allows staff to gather clearer information, improving overall response efficiency.
The city’s Research, Development, and Evaluation Commission noted that the service also helps reduce congestion on the 1999 phone hotline, giving residents more flexible contact options, and is especially useful for those who cannot easily make calls.
Kaohsiung officials say they will continue improving the 1999 system across multiple channels, using technology to build a more convenient, user-friendly smart city service network.
