UTAR hosts international conference on Malaysian Chinese studies

Front row, from left: Prof Tan, Prof Dato’ Ewe and Mr Yau with participants

The Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) of UTAR, in collaboration with the Centre for Malaysian Chinese Studies (CMCS), organised the 6th Biennial International Conference on Malaysian Chinese Studies from 14 to 15 October 2023 at Sungai Long Campus. The event was also co-organised by the New Era University College and the Malaysia Chinese Studies Centre of Universiti Malaya. The conference drew an impressive gathering of over 200 participants.

Present at the opening ceremony were UTAR President Ir Prof Dato’ Dr Ewe Hong Tat, CMCS Chairman Mr Yau Teck Kong, UTAR Adjunct Professor for the Faculty of Arts and Social Science (FAS) Prof Dr Tan Chee Beng, New Era University College Vice-Chancellor Prof Mok Soon Chong, CMCS Honorary Chairman Prof Tan Chong Tin and Malaysian Chinese Research Centre of Universiti Malaya Director Dr Ngu Ik Tien.

Prof Dato’ Ewe said, “This year, we are deeply honoured to serve as the host of this conference alongside the esteemed Centre for Malaysian Chinese Studies (CMCS). We view this conference as the commencement of a fruitful collaboration between UTAR and CMCS, and we eagerly anticipate further opportunities for academic partnership and research in the future. With our combined efforts, we aim to make substantial contributions to the Chinese community in Malaysia.”

Prof Dato’ Ewe delivering his speech

Mr Yau said, “The International Biennial Conference on Malaysian Chinese Studies stands as a unique and enduring international conference in the area of Chinese studies throughout Southeast Asia. The CMCS has been the driving force behind five successive editions, and this year’s event marks the sixth conference. It’s a rare occurrence to hold an in-person international conference since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, making it all the more special. We are truly privileged to have garnered support from various sectors and received enthusiastic responses from scholars worldwide. The seamless organisation of today’s conference is an immensely exciting achievement.”

Mr Yau delivering his speech

From left: Prof Fan, Prof Tan, Mr Yau, Prof Dato’ Ewe, Dr Wong and Prof Chiang

Following the opening ceremony, the conference themed 'Chinese Communities and Chinese Studies: New Directions, New Horizons, New Trends', started with a keynote speech by a renowned anthropologist, Prof Tan Chee Beng, titled “Chinese Community and Chinese Studies: Review, Theory and Research Horizons”.  Prof Tan provided a comprehensive overview of the historical progression within the field of Malaysian and Singaporean Chinese studies. The evolution of the research focus was delineated from initial concerns pertaining to cultural preservation and assimilation to contemporary emphasis on shifts in local Chinese identity. Moreover, Prof Tan prompted contemplation by addressing the potential implications of Western-led anti-China narratives and policies on the landscape of overseas Chinese studies. In closing, Prof Tan duly acknowledged the valuable contributions made by Malaysian Chinese studies while astutely acknowledging the various challenges that the field will likely encounter in the times ahead.

Prof Tan sharing his view on Malaysian Chinese Studies

Another three renowned scholars in Chinese Studies were also invited to give keynote speeches. They were Taiwan Normal University Department of East Asia Studies academic Prof Chiang Bo-wei, Sun Yat-sen University School of International Relations academic Prof Fan Ruolan and National University of Singapore (NUS) Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences academic Assoc Prof Wong Sin Kiong. The event was enriched by the presentation of 79 articles and research findings, which spanned across a wide spectrum of topics including Chinese Education, Sino-Malaysia Relations, Chinese Politics, Literature, Religions and Beliefs, etc. These presentations were thoughtfully organised over the course of two days, making for a comprehensive and insightful exploration of diverse subjects within Chinese Studies.

 

Three keynote speakers, from top left: Prof Chiang, Prof Fan and Dr Wong

Speakers and participants at the conference

During the closing ceremony, the Chairman of the Organising Committee, Dr Khoo Kiak Uei, provided a comprehensive summary of the conference, emphasising the exceptional depth and richness of the topics and contents presented. CMCS Honorary General Secretary Mr Tan Choong Cheng expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the diligent efforts of the organising committee in ensuring the seamless execution of the conference. He also extended his gratitude to all the scholars for their invaluable support. UTAR ICS Dean and Organising Committee Chairman Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei expressed his pleasure at witnessing the active participation of numerous young scholars, underscoring the importance of their role in perpetuating the future of Malaysian Chinese Studies. Dr Chong also extended his thanks to all the attendees for their contributions to the event.

Clockwise, from top left: Dr Khoo, Mr Tan and Dr Chong