No longer passing through: Jewish life takes root across Asia

Jewish life is taking root across Asia, transforming communities previously focused on travelers into permanent settlements with established infrastructure. This shift, highlighted at a regional Chabad summit in Taipei marking 40 years since Chabad sent its first emissary to the region, reflects a growing desire for lasting Jewish presence.

• Communities are building schools, mikvahs, and cemeteries, such as Taiwan's first dedicated Jewish cemetery established in June. Rabbi Shlomi Tabib noted, "Beyond logistics, a cemetery signals permanence and dignity."
• The number of Jews in Taiwan has grown from approximately 70 in 2011 to an estimated 1,500 today, including professionals, academics, and diplomats.
• The October 7th Hamas massacre accelerated this trend, prompting many Jews in Asia to seek out organized Jewish life and enroll their children in Hebrew schools and youth programs.
• To support this expansion, the Jeffrey D. Schwartz Asia Fund was created to provide seed funding for new emissary couples, youth centers, and other essential services.