Literary Exchanges between China and Malaysia Foster Cross-Cultural Connections

Strengthening Cultural Ties through Literature

In a beautifully curated bookstore located in Langyuan Vintage, an engaging literary event recently captured the attention of numerous young readers. They gathered to listen to four talented women authors share insights about their journeys in writing and the art of storytelling. This gathering became even more significant as it celebrated the artistic ties between China and Malaysia, marking a pivotal moment in the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two nations.

Notable Malaysian-Chinese author Li Zishu, along with Chinese writer Qiao Ye, represented their countries in this enriching exchange. Their recent reciprocal visits in 2024 aimed to strengthen the connection between these two diverse literary communities. The event was organized under the auspices of a cooperative mechanism established in May 2023, connecting the Beijing Publishing Group (BPG) with Dewan Bahasa dan Pustaka, Malaysia's Institute of Language and Literature. This partnership opened new avenues for cultural exchange and collaborative literary efforts.

Li Zishu's literary journey took her on an extensive tour across China, where she spent 52 days connecting with readers in cities like Beijing, Chengdu, and Hohhot. With a warm reception, Li promoted her acclaimed works and engaged with enthusiastic fans who were eager to learn from her experiences. "The success of my novels in China exceeded my expectations. It shows a strong cultural synergy between our peoples," Li remarked during an interview.

Her novel, titled Liusudi (Worldly Land), has notably won the prestigious Huazong Literary Award, celebrating the voice of Malaysian-Chinese literature on the international stage. Li stresses that the shared cultural values rooted in Confucianism aid in bridging the gap between her readers and her narratives. The life and experiences depicted in her stories resonate with an audience that shares a similar cultural heritage, fostering understanding despite geographical distances.

Li’s earlier life in China inspired a unique perspective that deeply influenced her writing. Having first arrived in Beijing in 2007 and experienced the cultural shifts, she noted that her time in the capital played a crucial role in shaping her literary voice. This authentic cross-cultural interaction introduced her to a blend of local experiences, illuminating her stories with richness and diversity.

Furthermore, the literary dialogue is not one-sided. Li expressed her hope that Malaysian-Chinese literature could also offer fresh insights to writers within China, creating a bilateral exchange that enriches both literary landscapes. Her upcoming adaptation of Worldly Land into a film highlights the desire to share these narratives with a broader audience, unveiling the evolution of the Malaysian-Chinese community over the decades.

Qiao Ye, awarded the prestigious Mao Dun Literary Prize, also made her mark during a significant visit to Malaysia. Over 15 days, she explored cultural corridors in Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Ipoh, engaging with local writers, officials, and residents. The experience was riveting, filled with heartfelt interactions rooted in a shared heritage. "I had an exceptionally warm experience surrounded by the Malaysian-Chinese community, uncovering the manifold aspects of our intertwined cultures," she reflected.

Her visit allowed her to witness firsthand the preservation of Chinese traditions by the local populace, nurturing an emotional connection that transcends generations. She acknowledged the intricate balance between the shared cultural threads and the unique experiences that shape both Chinese and Malaysian-Chinese identities. Thus, encouraging a narrative enriched by different perspectives brings forth a dynamic, evolving relationship that benefits both literary traditions.

The bridge created by such literary exchanges is vibrant and resilient, laying the groundwork for ongoing collaborations. Both Li and Qiao emphasize the importance of establishing literary platforms that encourage continued engagement and mutual inspiration, ensuring that the bond remains strong into the future.

Ultimately, these interactions are more than just literary gatherings; they symbolize a cultural dialogue that celebrates diversity and bridges gaps, highlighting how literature can serve as a universal language. The exchanged stories and experiences lay the foundation for a deeper understanding between China and Malaysia, showcasing the power of literature in fostering cultural ties and promoting empathy across borders.