China-Malaysia Cultural Gala Celebrates Traditional Values
A significant cultural celebration took place in Kuala Lumpur on December 5th, as the China-Malaysia Spring Festival Gala officially launched under the theme "Enduring as Water, Together for the New Year." The event demonstrated the enduring power of traditional cultural exchanges between nations.
The gala was guided by China's State Council Information Office and hosted by various Shandong provincial departments, alongside Malaysian chambers of commerce. Representatives from both governments, diplomatic missions, and cultural organizations gathered to celebrate this display of traditional heritage.
Traditional Performances Honor Cultural Heritage
The ceremony commenced with Malaysia's National-Level Intangible Cultural Heritage High Pole Lion Dance Troupe, whose majestic performance immediately captured the audience's attention. The Twenty-Four Festive Drums followed, showcasing Malaysia's unique cultural traditions through vigorous and passionate rhythms.
Li Zhuang, Deputy Director-General of the External Promotion Bureau, emphasized that the friendship between China and Malaysia is "as enduring as flowing water." He noted that Shandong, being the homeland of Confucius and Mencius, provides an ideal platform for showcasing intangible cultural heritage and traditional artistic performances.
Minister-Counselor Zheng Xuefang of the Chinese Embassy highlighted the cultural significance of the Spring Festival, focusing on themes of "hope, harmony, happiness, and family." He expressed optimism for deepened strategic cooperation between the two nations.
Artistic Excellence Bridges Cultures
The artistic program featured diverse traditional performances that honored both cultures. The Universiti Putra Malaysia Chinese Orchestra presented "Flourishing Age," demonstrating the beauty of classical Chinese instruments. The Malaysian Zapin Dance Troupe performed "Zapin Welcomes Spring," showcasing local cultural traditions through graceful choreography.
Notable performances included the Xi'an Soldier Acrobatic Troupe's shoulder ballet "Dreams of Chang'an" and a traditional Henan Opera featuring "The Monkey King." Dr. Wang Ping, a music doctoral graduate from UCSI University, performed the classic folk song "Jasmine Flower," creating emotional resonance among attendees.
The event concluded with all performers and citizens jointly performing "Love Each Other," recognized as Shandong's provincial song, symbolizing unity and shared cultural values.
Cultural Diplomacy Strengthens Bilateral Relations
During the launch ceremony, representatives from both nations participated in lighting the "Ship of Friendship" platform, symbolizing the continued journey of China-Malaysia friendship toward a prosperous future.
Dato' Mohd Yusri, Deputy Secretary-General of the Malaysian Ministry of Tourism, Arts and Culture, praised the event for embodying harmony and cultural sharing. He affirmed that joint performances create valuable opportunities for multicultural cooperation between the two countries.
The Shandong International Communication Center simultaneously launched an audition campaign to discover local cultural ambassadors, aiming to strengthen people-to-people dialogue and cultural integration.
Prior to the Spring Festival, additional cultural activities are planned in Malaysia, including intangible cultural heritage exhibitions and artistic performances, creating a comprehensive celebration of traditional values and cultural heritage.