International conference explores Chinese cultural and historical contributions

The International Conference titled “The Malaysian Connection: A Cultural Exploration,” held from 15 to 16 March 2025 at New Era University College, brought together 26 distinguished scholars to discuss the history, literature, and cultural identity of the Malaysian Chinese community, as well as Malaysia’s ties with Singapore and China.

Organised by New Era University College (NEUC), the conference was supported by the NEUC Institute of International Education and co-organised by several prominent institutions, including the NEUC Tan Lark Sye Institute, Universiti Malaya (UM) Department of Chinese Studies, UTAR Tun Tan Cheng Lock Institute of Social Studies (TCLI), Tunku Abdul Rahman University of Management and Technology (TAR UMT) Institute of Social Economic Research and the Centre for Malaysian Chinese Studies (CMCS).

The conference centred on Malaysian Chinese history, literature, and culture, as well as Malaysia-Singapore and Malaysia-China relations. It featured insightful discussions on the Malaysian Chinese diaspora’s contributions to nation-building, cultural preservation, and international relations.

The opening ceremony included distinguished speakers such as NEUC President Prof Mok Soon Chong, conference organiser Dato’ Sri Dr Hou Kok Chung, and Tan Sri Dato’ Koo Yuen Kim, who officiated the event.

In his speech, Dato’ Sri Hou explained that the theme, ‘The Malaysian Connection,’ was inspired by Tan Sri Koo Yuen Kim, whom he described with the words “dedication, diligence, and compassion.” He highlighted Koo’s strategic thinking, unwavering commitment to business, and deep dedication to philanthropy, emphasising the significant impact of his contributions.

Tan Sri Koo, in his speech, emphasised that a true entrepreneur is not just a businessman but someone who shoulders social responsibility. He remarked, “A businessman only focuses on profit, but an entrepreneur builds a lasting enterprise and contributes to society. Wealth is temporary, but the impact we make on the community is everlasting.”

The opening ceremony also included the launch of Dato’ Sri Hou’s new books, “Rain and Snow” (《雨雪霏霏》) and “Hidden Mountains, Hidden Cities” (《隐山隐市》). The book launch was attended by Tan Sri Koo, Prof Mok, NEUC Board of Directors Acting Chairman Mr Lim Joo, TAR UMT Vice President Prof Dr Loke Chui Fung, Universiti Malaya Department of Chinese Studies Head Assoc Prof Dr Fan Pik Wah, TCLI Director Assoc Prof Dr Chin Yee Mun and CMCS Chairman Mr Yau Teck Kong.

The conference welcomed leading experts and researchers, including UTAR Hospital Board Chairman Ir Academician Emeritus Prof Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Dr Chuah Hean Teik, CMCS Honorary Chairman Prof Dato Dr Tan Chong Tin, NEUC Academic Director Prof Dr Voon Phin Keong, Huaqiao University academic Prof Dr Zhuang Guotu, UTAR Faculty of Arts and Social Science (FAS) Adjunct Prof Dr Tan Chee Beng, UTAR Institute of Chinese Studies (ICS) Adjunct Prof Datuk Dr Lim Chooi Kwa, Nanyang Technological University Division of Chinese Founding Head Prof Dr Lee Guan Kin and many more.

Several UTAR academics also participated in presentations and moderations, including Dr Chin Yee Mun, ICS Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, Deputy Dean (R&D and Postgraduate Programmes) Assoc Prof Dr Chin Chong Foh, Deputy Dean (Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes) Assoc Prof Dr Wong Wun Bin and TCLI academic Dr Tan Sing Pei.

Additionally, several UTAR academics contributed through presentations and moderations, including Dr Chin Yee Mun, ICS Dean Assoc Prof Dr Chong Siou Wei, Deputy Dean (R&D and Postgraduate Programmes) Assoc Prof Dr Chin Chong Foh, Deputy Dean (Academic Development and Undergraduate Programmes) Assoc Prof Dr Wong Wun Bin, and TCLI academic Dr Tan Sing Pei.

These scholars presented their latest findings on topics such as Chinese Malaysian youth’s perceptions of national identity, the historical roles of Chinese business leaders in Malaya, and the development of Confucianism in Malaysia. Additionally, discussions on Malaysia’s diplomatic and economic ties with Singapore and China provided valuable insights into regional relations.

The conference concluded with a strong commitment to continued research collaborations and academic exchanges, ensuring that the history, culture, and contributions of the Malaysian Chinese community remain well-documented and appreciated.