Dr Chong
Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, Dean
of the UTAR Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS), Director of the UTAR
Confucius Institute (Malaysia), and Director of the UTAR Mencius Institute,
was invited to give a talk and participate in a roundtable discussion on
“China Now” (这就是中国), a China TV
programme on 27 May 2024. The programme, which is known for its engaging
political commentary, was broadcast by the Radio and Television Station of
Shanghai (上海广播电视台).
Co-produced by Dragon TV, the
China Institute of Fudan University, Guan Video Studio, and Guancha.cn., the
main speaker of the show was Prof Zhang Weiwei, Dean of the China Institute
of Fudan University.
In episode 235 of “China Now” the
production team celebrated the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic
relationship between China and Malaysia by highlighting the struggles and
narratives of overseas Chinese in Malaysia. The episode was significant as
it was the first time the programme was recorded abroad. The filming took
place at Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR
UMT).
The programme started with a talk
by Prof Zhang, who emphasised the contributions of overseas Chinese to the
development of mainland China, particularly those from Malaysia, such as Tan
Kah Kee and Wu Lien-Teh. Following this, Dr Chong shared the story of Cheong
Fatt Tze, a renowned Chinese tycoon in the early 20th century. He explained
that Cheong Fatt Tze, along with other Chinese merchants from Malaya,
invested in China to revitalise the industries, significantly contributing
to China’s economic development.
After the talks, Mr Koh King Kee,
President of the Centre for New Inclusive Asia (CNIA), joined Prof Zhang and
Dr Chong for a roundtable discussion, hosted by Ms He Jie, an anchor from
the Radio and Television Station of Shanghai. The roundtable discussion
continued in episode 236, which aired on 3 June 2024.
Dr Chong remarked, “Since the
discussion focused on the history and figures of Chinese and overseas
Chinese, which is my area of expertise, the organisers invited me to
participate as one of the speakers and panellists.” He added, “I am grateful
for this opportunity, not only to highlight the participation and
contribution of overseas Chinese in the development of China’s industry
during the late Qing Dynasty, but also to share the mission and efforts of
Malaysian Chinese in preserving traditional Chinese culture, and to raise
awareness about the struggles of the Chinese community in Malaysia.”
UTAR congratulates Dr Chong on his
contributions and for representing the University on an international
platform. His participation in “China Now” not only highlights his expertise
but also brings pride to our institution.
The programme employs an innovative format and international perspective to challenge Western discourse dominance by presenting the Chinese miracle through a uniquely Chinese narrative. Its goal is to provide sharp and insightful global affairs analysis to the younger generation. By expanding its broadcasting channels, “China Now” has reached a wider audience, offering a more informed and rational viewpoint on daily international events.
From left: Ms He,
Prof Zhang, Dr Chong and Mr Koh
China Now, EP 235:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=50LtmCPZFxg
China Now, EP 236:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=spUbrF14okM
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