Experts emphasized the importance of cultural exchange and education in strengthening China-Malaysia ties during the 2025 Kuala Lumpur Dialogue held Thursday in the Malaysian capital Kuala Lumpur.

A panel discussion is held during the 2025 Kuala Lumpur Dialogue in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, April 17, 2025. [Photo courtesy of ACCWS]

The forum highlighted historical and cultural connections between the two countries and outlined plans to enhance collaboration in education, technology and media.

Wang Xiaohui, editor-in-chief of China.org.cn and a special research fellow at the Academy of Contemporary China and World Studies (ACCWS), observed that current conditions present a prime opportunity to enhance bilateral cultural exchange and economic cooperation. Noting the two nations' thousand-year historical connections and the longstanding Mandarin language presence in Malaysia, he acknowledged persistent gaps in mutual understanding that require dedicated efforts to address.

"Last year marked 50 years of Malaysia-China cooperation," Wang said. "As Confucius said, 'At 50, one knows the mandate of heaven.' Our task now is to strengthen high-level strategic development — enhancing cultural diplomacy, expanding trade and economic participation and addressing challenges like U.S. tariffs. Through deeper cultural exchange and mutual understanding, we can build prosperity for both nations."

He also referenced Chinese Admiral Zheng He's historic voyage to "Nanyang," a historical Chinese term for Southeast Asia used during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644). The admiral's fleet visited Malacca (Malaysia), Java (Indonesia) and Siam (Thailand), facilitating cultural exchange by introducing foreign cultures to China while sharing Chinese culture abroad. He noted that language barriers remain the "last mile" of cultural exchange, and that translation is the cornerstone of understanding and connection.

Wang mentioned that China International Communications Group publishes Chinese cultural content in multiple languages, while China.org.cn delivers stories in 10 languages to promote global understanding. 

"With modern tools like DeepSeek and other digital platforms, there are now unprecedented opportunities to enhance media, broadcasting and cultural exchange efforts for Malaysia and China," he said.

Xiong Chengyu, professor at the Communication University of China and dean of the School of Cultural Development and Communications, also noted that Malaysia and China have a long and rich history of cultural exchanges. Now, the two countries are jointly applying to UNESCO to recognize and protect their shared cultural assets. Additionally, China and Malaysia have made commitments to cooperation in education. These steps represent a move toward a more integrated future.

"People-to-people connections form the bedrock of meaningful cultural exchange," Xiong said. "At its core, this work is about touching hearts. We must prioritize grassroots, lived experiences — even the most fundamental human interactions, like smiling at each other, create the foundation for true understanding."

Onn Huann Jan, professor at the Department of Chinese Language and Literature of New Era University College, noted that Eastern civilization is characterized by Islam and Confucianism, concepts that intertwine in various philosophical and cultural ways. He cited Zheng He's voyages, where the admiral built memorials utilizing Islamic elements, highlighting the cultural intersection and commonalities between Confucianism and Islam.

In terms of cultural exchange, Onn emphasized the role of translation, adding that academic translations between Chinese, Malaysian and English are crucial. Meanwhile, translating Malay documents into Chinese allows more people to understand the Malay world, helping address today's problems and find solutions, he said.

"Cultural exchanges come in many forms, including art and food," Onn explained. "In Malaysia, the mainstream culture serves as a bridge between us and China, fostering trust and understanding between the two countries. Misunderstandings and miscommunications, often rooted in colonization, can lead to negative perceptions. By promoting accurate translations and cultural understanding, we can build a stronger foundation for cooperation and mutual respect."

Chin Chong Foh, deputy dean and associate professor at the Institute of Chinese Studies of Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman, raised the importance of people-to-people bonds in cultural exchange.

"Malaysia and China's relationship dates back over 1,000 years, highlighting the harmonious bond between the two countries. The vision is for harmony, security and prosperity," Chin said. "As a fourth-generation Malaysian Chinese, I advocate for more free interaction between the two countries to avoid extremism and promote bicultural understanding."

Wang Dong, professor and executive director of the Institute for Global Cooperation and Development at Peking University, echoed that people-to-people exchanges promote regional peace and harmony, which is crucial. Realizing heart-to-heart connectivity enhances cultural understanding and respectful communication, as reflected in China-Malaysia development and prosperity in education and cooperation, he said.

"There have been many translations of classic literature in recent years. Our media products, including movies, have received top ratings in Malaysia and Singapore, helping to boost exchanges and enhance mutual understanding," Wang noted.