Promoting Civilisational Exchanges between ASEAN and China
The Importance of Soft Power
Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, chairman of Malaysian National News Agency (Bernama), emphasized the significance of ASEAN and China promoting civilisational exchanges to highlight their rich cultural, historical, and intellectual contributions. According to Wong, China has successfully proven its effective soft power approach to a global audience through the clever and creative use of digital and artificial intelligence applications.
Global Impact
More significantly, Wong noted that China’s soft power approach has resonated with young audiences worldwide in an unprecedented way, an arena long dominated by Western influence. The use of virtual and augmented reality experiences can be particularly effective in sharing cultural heritage, such as Malaysia’s historic city of Malacca, the legendary hero Hang Tuah, or Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.
ASEAN-China Collaboration
As ASEAN Chair for 2025, Malaysia will seize the opportunity to shape regional narratives and enhance ASEAN-China collaboration. Wong highlighted ongoing content and technical exchanges between Malaysian and Chinese media outlets, joint research initiatives on trade, green energy, and artificial intelligence by think tanks from both countries, as well as partnerships spanning cultural and youth engagement at multiple levels.
Promoting Positive Narratives
Wong underscored the importance of promoting positive narratives that highlight how ASEAN-China cooperation has delivered significant benefits, particularly through infrastructure projects and private sector collaborations. He emphasized that the exchange of ideas, values, traditions, and innovations between diverse cultures and civilisations can foster mutual respect, break down prejudices, and contribute to a more interconnected and harmonious global community.
Personal Experience
Wong, the first ethnic Chinese chairman of Bernama, has made multiple visits to China, witnessing the country’s rapid development and the deepening cooperation between Malaysia and China across various fields.
Conclusion
In conclusion, promoting civilisational exchanges between ASEAN and China is crucial for highlighting their rich cultural, historical, and intellectual contributions. China’s effective soft power approach has set an example for the Global South countries, and ASEAN-China collaboration can lead to significant benefits and a more interconnected global community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the importance of promoting civilisational exchanges between ASEAN and China?
A: It is crucial for highlighting their rich cultural, historical, and intellectual contributions and setting an example for the Global South countries.
Q: How has China successfully proven its soft power approach?
A: Through the clever and creative use of digital and artificial intelligence applications.
Q: What are some examples of cultural heritage that can be shared through virtual and augmented reality experiences?
A: The historic city of Malacca, the legendary hero Hang Tuah, or Cambodia’s Angkor Wat.