Xu Junhao, a former singing idol with Taiwan-based Comic Boys, was recently a hot topic of discussion on social networking sites. Not for his singing career, but for his new role as a dentist in Chengdu.

After an accident in 2003, Xu was forced to leave Comic Boys, with whom he belted out several hit albums. He then decided to study on the Chinese mainland. In 2004, Xu got admission to the West China School of Stomatology of Sichuan University in Chengdu, Sichuan province, where he studied for seven years.

After graduating in 2011, Xu pursued a master's degree in Germany. In 2015, he qualified as a certificated dentist on the mainland, and returned to Chengdu to set up his own dental clinic. Today, he runs three reputable dental clinics in the city.

Xu said he returned to Chengdu because he believes the metropolis of 20 million residents has great potential.

Besides, it has favorable policies for Taiwan residents, making it convenient for youngsters from Taiwan to start their career. Now a doctor registered in Taiwan can also register for practice in the city.

What Xu went through in his professional life shows his determination to pursue his dreams. And it is also an example of how youngsters from Taiwan can create a bright future on the mainland, thanks to the favorable policies for Taiwan residents.

Xu encourages other youngsters from Taiwan to pursue their dreams on the mainland, and it is hoped that more local governments will follow the example of Chengdu, and more Taiwan residents will follow Xu's.

— WANG YIQING, CHINA DAILY