China and Malaysia’s cultural bond stretches across millennia, epitomizing the deep-rooted connection between the two nations. Chinese Ambassador to Malaysia, Ouyang Yujing, in a recent discussion, emphasized the richness of this shared history, pointing out that Malaysia remains one of the few nations where Chinese culture has been meticulously preserved.
Historical records capture the essence of this connection. The voyages of Zheng He, the renowned Ming Dynasty navigator, stand out as a testament to their enduring friendship. Zheng He’s fleet, during its seven major expeditions, made five stops in Malacca, a city situated by the Strait of Malacca. Known for its strategic importance, Malacca was a bustling trade hub, acting as a nexus for cultural exchanges between Eastern and Western civilizations.
Reflecting on these historical ties during his visit to Beijing in 2023, Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim emphasized the profound impact of Admiral Zheng’s journeys. As reported by the New Straits Times, Anwar stated that these voyages transcended mere economic interactions, symbolizing the blending of diverse cultures and civilizations.
Ambassador Ouyang expressed similar sentiments. On his visit to Malacca, he felt the palpable influence of Zheng He in the local community. Chinese immigrants, arriving in Malacca in the past, intermarried with locals. This blend of cultures birthed the distinctive Peranakan culture, which today stands as a hallmark of the China-Malaysia friendship.
Ouyang’s role as an envoy has provided him a unique vantage point, allowing him to witness the flourishing of Chinese culture throughout Malaysia. The country proudly boasts a comprehensive Chinese education system, unparalleled in its depth and breadth outside of China, spanning from preschool to higher education levels.
Furthermore, the ambassador noticed a vivid display of “Chinese cultural elements” across Malaysia. The sound of Putonghua (Standard Chinese) fills the air as the local Chinese community, primarily comprising the Minnan, Hakka, Teochew, and Hainanese groups, ensures the continuity of Chinese languages, lifestyles, and traditions. This rich cultural fabric is especially prominent during significant festivals such as the Spring Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Dragon Boat Festival, where family gatherings and celebratory activities resonate with Chinese traditions.
Emphasizing the harmony that can exist amidst diversity, Ouyang remarked on Malaysia’s multiculturalism. He stressed that a spirit of inclusivity, mutual respect, and understanding can allow diverse cultures to thrive within a single nation. This philosophy can also extend globally, where different civilizations can coexist, highlighting shared values while respecting individual differences.
In conclusion, Ambassador Ouyang pledged China’s commitment to deepening its relationship with Malaysia. Through the Global Civilization Initiative, the nations plan to foster closer ties between Chinese and Islamic civilizations, broadening cooperation in domains like culture, tourism, education, and sports. This initiative aims to intertwine their shared past with a collaborative future vision, enhancing the China-Malaysia cultural community for generations to come.
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