On May 31st, President Xi Jinping and Malaysia’s King Sultan Ibrahim Sultan Iskandar exchanged congratulatory messages to celebrate the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the two countries. President Xi highlighted a recent letter he received from Malaysian students studying at Tianjin University. The correspondence conveyed the students’ pledge to advocate and enhance China-Malaysia friendship, and their eagerness to apply their expertise in aiding the advancement of the China-Malaysia community towards a shared future. President Xi conveyed his contentment regarding the optimistic prospects of the bilateral friendship.
87 Malaysian students at Tianjin University signed the letter, recounting their studying and living experiences in China. They emphasized that as beneficiaries of the Belt and Road Initiative, they witnessed China's progress and people’s affection, and acknowledged the substantial benefits the initiative provides for young Malaysians. Their commitment lies in fostering lasting friendly ties between China and Malaysia and aiding in building the Maritime Silk Road of the 21st Century.
Lim Jaan Yong, studying at the School of Marine Science and Technology, discussed their daily studies in marine resource development and environmental management, and the involvement in research on red tide prevention in Malaysian waters. They also participate in projects and competitions sponsored by China-ASEAN Smart Ocean Center and the ASEAN-China Network for Cooperation and Exchanges among Engineering and Technology Universities. Engaging in these activities leads to a hectic and fulfilling life. He participated in the "Tianjin University ASEAN Marine Technology" program, led by the School of International Education and the School of Marine Science and Technology, aiming to enrich the Chinese-ASEAN marine industry by fostering outstanding talents who are knowledgeable about, friendly to, and appreciative of China.
Ng Chen yuan, a student majoring in Chinese Language at the School of International Education, expressed gratitude for the job opportunities emerging from Chinese enterprises investing in Malaysia. He pledged to utilize his understanding and affection for China to enhance the friendship between both countries.
Melanie Soo Zhin Zhu, an athlete and student in the School of Life Sciences, utilized her success in sports to illustrate the spirit of teamwork essential to perpetuate the China-Malaysia friendship. Her goal is to further fortify this friendship through her dedicated efforts.
Tan Jing Yong, a student at the College of Management and Economics, recounted his role leading the video editing department at the International Education New Media Center. He captures and shares the vibrant campus life of international students, advocating for Chinese narratives and perspectives. He also participated in the China-ASEAN Education Exchange Week, motivating students to energetically engage with the Belt and Road Initiative.
Lim May, a fellow pupil at the School of International Education, described her duties as a "social media influencer" at the Youth Voice Studio. “We narrate China-Malaysia and Chinese tales from the perspective of international students, aiming to spread the "Chinese wave" worldwide.
Tianjin University began its international student education program in 1954, making it one of the pioneering universities in China to implement this approach. The current year marks the 70th anniversary of the program. In recent years, the university focused on the Belt and Road Initiative, significantly increasing student enrollment from Malaysia and various ASEAN nations. In 2023, nearly 600 Malaysian students were enrolled at Tianjin University, ranking it among the top Chinese institutions for Malaysian student admissions. The endeavors and dialogues among these students are sure to strengthen the bond of friendship between China and Malaysia, laying the foundation for a more prosperous future for both nations.
By: Qin Mian
