CURRUMBIN MP Jann Stuckey has returned from a trip to Taiwan impressed by the efficiency of its government and the success of its economy.

The trip was funded by the Taiwanese community in Brisbane, which sponsors two opposition members each year to explore the country.

Ms Stuckey said she was most impressed by the motivation of the Taiwanese government to create a strong position for the country on a global stage.

“I think in their favour they have really set their own identity and are embarking on a path to prove they are a powerful economy working under a democratic system,” Ms Stuckey said.

She complimented Taiwan's rapid transit system, business and technology centre and use of police resources.

“We nearly cried with envy at their rapid transit system, they decided they were going to build it and they managed 30km in three years,” Ms Stuckey said.

“Not only that, the whole operation was profitable.

“We have poor planning and a lack of action and our public transport system is running at a loss.”

Ms Stuckey said as a small country with a large population the Taiwanese had learnt to operate well within small spaces.

“They are mindful of space being very important,” she said.

“They have been very successful in creating a big business and technology centre bigger than a suburb.”

She said it was also common to see civilians in police uniforms directing traffic and conducting other light police duties in order to allow trained officers to combat crime.

“You've got this little country that's got a sensational rail system that pays for itself, the fastest elevator in the world, the tallest building in the world and a healthy economy,” Ms Stuckey said.